Southern District of Mississippi
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Hattiesburg Felon with Extensive Criminal History Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison for Possessing Firearm under Project EJECTRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss. – Jermaine Brown, 36, of Hattiesburg, was sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Court Judge Keith Starrett to 60 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Brown was also ordered to pay a $3,000 fine.
On October 11, 2019, Brown was found in possession a firearm during a safety checkpoint being operated in Forrest County. Brown was previously convicted of multiple felonies, including drug trafficking and robbery.
Brown was originally indicted for this offense on November 19, 2019. He pled guilty on June 11, 2020.
This case is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and Project Guardian. EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for “Empower Justice Expel Crime Together.” PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.
The Hattiesburg Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew W. Eichner.
Hattiesburg Felon Sentenced to 15 Months in Prison for Possessing Firearm under Project EJECTRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss. – Michael Bounds, 30, of Hattiesburg, was sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Court Judge Keith Starrett to 15 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Bounds was also ordered to pay a $3,000 fine.
On August 24, 2019, Bounds was found in possession of two firearms, including a 12-gauge shotgun, during a traffic stop in Forrest County. Bounds was previously convicted of multiple felonies.
Bounds was originally indicted for this offense on January 29, 2020. He pled guilty before Judge Starrett on August 18, 2020.
This case is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and Project Guardian. EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for “Empower Justice Expel Crime Together.” PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.
The Hattiesburg Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew W. Eichner.
Gulf Coast Gang Member Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Joseph Benjamin Posey, II, 19, of Biloxi, pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to being an unlawful user of a controlled substance in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Michelle Sutphin, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi.
On September 2, 2020, law enforcement officers with the Biloxi Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in which Posey was a passenger. As a result of the stop, officers located two loaded handguns, one of which was stolen. Posey subsequently admitted that he obtained the guns three days before the traffic stop, and that he and the other occupant of the vehicle were on their way to speak to another individual about a series of shootings in Biloxi. Posey also admitted that he was a member of local gang and that he used marijuana daily.
Posey was indicted on October 6, 2020. He will be sentenced on March 11, 2021, at 9:30 a.m. and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Biloxi Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan Buckner.
Former Convicted Human Trafficker Pleads Guilty under Project EJECT to Illegally Possessing a Firearm as a Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Christopher Michael Cockrell, 45, of Bentonia, pled guilty today before U.S. District Court Judge Carlton W. Reeves to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Kurt Thielhorn, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
On September 2, 2020 the United States Probation Office discovered that Cockrell had possession of cell phone which contained a video showing a firearm in a hunting blind. Cockrell had been previously convicted in federal court in the Western District of Missouri for a Human Trafficking Offense. After having served a lengthy prison sentence, Cockrell was released from prison and came to live in Mississippi. Cockrell was then placed under the supervision of the United States Probation Office in the Southern District of Mississippi.
The United States Probation Office informed the ATF that they believed there was evidence that Cockrell had possessed a firearm. As a convicted felon, it is against federal law for the Cockrell to possess a firearm. ATF agents conducted an investigation and Cockrell eventually admitted that he had possessed firearms for hunting purposes.
Cockrell was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 17th of 2020. He is currently in custody and will be sentenced on March 9, 2021 by Judge Reeves. Cockrell faces a maximum penalty of ten years in prison and a $250,000 fine. He also faces additional penalties for violating the conditions of his supervised release.
The case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Charles W. Kirkham.
This case is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and Project Guardian. EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for “Empower Justice Expel Crime Together.” PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.
Former Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians Tribal Council Member Pleads Guilty to Wire FraudRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Randy Lamar Anderson, 46, of Conehatta, a former elected member of the Tribal Council for the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, entered a plea of guilty Thursday before Chief U.S. District Judge Daniel P. Jordan III to federal wire fraud, announced United States Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Michelle A. Sutphin of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi.
A Federal Grand Jury originally indicted Anderson on February 6, 2019, charging him with one count of theft and two counts of wire fraud for defrauding the Choctaw Tribal government. Between August 2016 and November 2018, Anderson forged hotel bills and receipts and submitted those documents to the Tribal government in claims for reimbursement for official business travel. Since the original indictment issued, Anderson’s term on the Tribal Council expired, and Anderson did not run for reelection to the Council.
Chief Judge Jordan will sentence Anderson on March 3, 2021 at 9:30 a.m., at the Thad Cochran United States Courthouse in Jackson, Mississippi, Anderson faces a potential maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a possible fine of up to $250,000.
U.S. Attorney Hurst commended the work of the Special Agents with the FBI’s Jackson Division who investigated the case. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Theodore Cooperstein.
Jackson Man Pleads Guilty to Narcotics TraffickingRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Gregory Wayne Haygood a/k/a “Big”, 48, of Jackson, pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge Henry T. Wingate to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Acting Special Agent in Charge Gilbert Trill of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans.
On February 8, 2017, Haygood was charged in a multi-count indictment with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, and maintaining a place for distributing or using controlled substances. Haygood conspired to distribute cocaine by receiving the cocaine and selling it to others in Jackson and in Biloxi, Mississippi. Haygood remained at large until he was arrested in September 2019.
Haygood is scheduled for sentencing on March 4, 2021 at 9:30 a.m. and faces a maximum penalty of 40 years in prison and up to a $5,000,000 fine.
This OCDETF operation is the result of an extensive investigation targeting illegal narcotics distribution in central Mississippi involving the distribution of cocaine and marijuana. The distribution network encompassed the states of California, Texas and Mississippi.
The OCDETF program is a joint federal, state and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations, and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
The case was a joint investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Mississippi Highway Patrol, Jackson Police Department, and the Hinds County Sheriff’s Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Erin Chalk.
Former Meridian Police Officer Pleads Guilty to Federal ExtortionRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Former Meridian Police Officer Royric “Roy” Benamon, 27, pled guilty yesterday before Chief U.S. District Judge Daniel P. Jordan III to one count of federal extortion under color of right, announced United States Attorney Mike Hurst and Michelle A. Sutphin, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi.
“There is almost no greater threat to our society than when public servants, especially law enforcement, betray the trust of the people and abuse their authority for their own personal gain. Bringing corrupt officials to justice is one of the highest priorities of this office, and we will continue to ensure that the public is protected and that criminals answer for their crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst.
In April 2020, Officer Benamon pulled over a driver at night in Lauderdale County, and solicited and received from the driver a cash payment in exchange for not issuing the driver a ticket.
Benamon was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 28, 2020, charging him with two counts of extortion under color of right, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1951(a).
Sentencing has been set for March 3, 2021 before Judge Jordan in Jackson. Benamon faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
U.S. Attorney Hurst commended the work of the Special Agents with the FBI’s Jackson Division and the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office who investigated the case. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Theodore Cooperstein.
Illegal Alien from Mexico Indicted for Attempted Federal BriberyRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Jesus Christian Miranda-Alcantar, 33, an illegal alien from Mexico, has been charged in a federal indictment with attempted bribery of a federal officer and illegal reentry following deportation from the United States, announced United States Attorney Mike Hurst, Gilbert Trill, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans, and Diane Witte, Field Office Director of ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO).
The indictment, returned by a federal grand jury on November 17, 2020, charges Miranda-Alcantar with one count of attempted bribery of a federal officer, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 201, and one count of illegal reentry to the United States following deportation, in violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1326.
In September 2020, Miranda-Alcantar was found in Hinds County, following his arrest on a domestic violence charge, present without necessary permission to be in the United States since ICE had removed him from the United States in 2013. While being transported to jail from immigration processing at the ERO offices in Pearl, Miranda-Alcantar offered to pay the federal officer transporting him a bribe of $8,000, if the officer would stop, let Miranda-Alcantar out of the vehicle by the side of the road, and let Miranda-Alcantar escape.
On December 1, 2020, Miranda-Alcantar appeared for arraignment on the indictment before United States Magistrate Judge Linda Anderson in Jackson. The Court ordered Miranda-Alcantar detained in U.S. Marshals custody while awaiting trial.
Miranda-Alcantar faces maximum penalties of 15 years in prison for the count charged for bribery, and two years in prison on the immigration charge. Each count also can merit a fine of up to $250,000.
Trial has been set for February 1, 2021, before U.S. District Judge Carlton W. Reeves in Jackson.
U.S. Attorney Hurst commended the work of the Special Agents with the Department of Homeland Security’s ICE and ERO who investigated the case. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Theodore Cooperstein.
The public is reminded that an indictment is merely a charge and should not be considered as evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Marijuana User Sentenced for Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Johnathan J. Quarles, 26, of Gulfport, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to 30 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for possession of a firearm by an unlawful user of marijuana, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Michelle Sutphin of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi. Quarles was also ordered to pay a $3,000 fine.
On December 26, 2019, Biloxi Police officers executed a search warrant on a Biloxi residence. Just outside the residence, they observed Johnathan Quarles, who was seated in his vehicle. Quarles saw officers and threw a bag of marijuana out of the car window. When the officers spoke with Quarles, they observed an unsheathed .9mm in his pocket. Quarles is an active user of narcotics and therefore not permitted to be in possession of a firearm.
Quarles was indicted on May 12, 2020 and he pled guilty before Judge Ozerden on August 27, 2020.
The case was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Erica Rose.
Jackson Man Sentenced to over 3 Years in Prison Under Project EJECT for Illegally Possessing a GunRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Jeffery Allen York, 50, of Jackson, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Henry T. Wingate to 30 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release for illegally possessing a gun, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and U.S. Marshal Mark Shepard. York was also sentenced to pay a $1,000 fine.
On May 21, 2019, U.S. Marshals Service task force agents arrested York at an address in Jackson on an outstanding warrant. During the arrest, a firearm was found in York’s possession. York has a 2017 felony conviction in Hinds County for possession of methamphetamine. As a convicted felon, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm.
York was charged in a criminal indictment on July 24, 2019 and pled guilty before Judge Wingate on January 9, 2020.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn Murray.
This case is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and Project Guardian. EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for “Empower Justice Expel Crime Together.” PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.
Biloxi Man Sentenced to over 3 Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing a Firearm as a Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Demontra Tucker, 23, of Biloxi, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr. to 41 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Michelle Sutphin with the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi. Tucker was also ordered to pay a $5,000 fine.
On April 14, 2020, Biloxi police officers responded to the burglary of an unmarked police vehicle in Biloxi. They learned that two Glock pistols, a Taser, and a radio had been stolen from the vehicle. On April 15, 2020, an investigation led to information that Demontra Tucker had possession of the stolen Taser and had attempted to sell it.
Officers went to Tucker’s apartment and observed him walking away from a vehicle holding a small pistol bag in front of his chest. They gave him verbal commands to stop but Tucker fled on foot. The officers gave chase and Tucker ran through a thickly wooded area where the law enforcement officers lost sight of him. With assistance from witnesses, Tucker was soon apprehended. The wooded area was searched, and the pistol bag Tucker was seen carrying was located. Inside the bag, law enforcement located the stolen Taser as well as a silver and black Smith and Wesson. The firearm was loaded with one magazine holding ten .40 caliber cartridges of ammunition and one .40 caliber round in the chamber.
Tucker had previous convictions for burglary and robbery in the Circuit Court of Harrison County and was prohibited from possessing a firearm. Tucker was charged in a federal indictment on May 12, 2020 and he pled guilty before Judge Guirola on September 2, 2020.
The case was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Erica Rose.
Pascagoula Man Sentenced to over 3 Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Walter Edward Bohl, 64, of Pascagoula, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to 37 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for knowingly possessing a firearm after having been committed to a mental institution, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (“ATF”).
On May 20, 2020, ATF agents executed a federal search warrant at Bohl’s residence in Pascagoula, where Bohl was found to be in possession of a Smith and Wesson, Model M&P 15, 5.56 caliber Rifle. Bohl was prohibited by law from possessing a firearm, having been previously committed to a mental institution.
Bohl was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 23, 2020. He pled guilty before Judge Ozerden on August 27, 2020.
This case was investigated by The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Jones.
Louisiana Man Pleads Guilty to Multistate Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Montrecus Jaworski Campbell, 40, of Ville Platte, Louisiana, pled guilty today before Senior U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr. to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a substance containing methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Brad L. Byerley, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”).
According to the investigation, Campbell received shipments of methamphetamine at his home in Louisiana before providing the methamphetamine to co-conspirators to distribute throughout the Southern District of Mississippi. Agents intercepted one package that contained nearly 3 kilograms of 99% pure methamphetamine.
Campbell was indicted on August 11, 2020. He will be sentenced on March 2, 2021 at 1:30 p.m. At sentencing, he faces a minimum sentence of 10 years and a maximum of life.
This case was investigated by the DEA with assistance from the Louisiana State Police. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan Buckner.
Meridian Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison Under Project EJECT for Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Marquis Howard McNeely, 38, of Meridian, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge Daniel P. Jordan III to two 120-month sentences, with the second sentence to be served concurrently with the first sentence, for two counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Kurt Thielhorn, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. McNeely was also ordered to pay a $1,500 fine.
On July 24, 2019 at approximately 4:00 a.m., a Lauderdale County Sheriff’s deputy was on patrol on Highway 19 when the deputy encountered McNeely in a vehicle parked in the wrong lane of traffic. McNeely was found to be intoxicated and placed under arrest. A stolen pistol was recovered from the vehicle. McNeely was charged and released on bond.
On October 8, 2019 McNeely drove up to a traffic safety checkpoint being conducted by the Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Office at the intersection of State Boulevard and Chandler Road. A deputy approached McNeely’s car and immediately saw that McNeely had an assault rifle style pistol held between his right knee and the center console. McNeely was again arrested and charged.
McNeely was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 19, 2019 for being a previously convicted felon in possession of firearms. McNeely has prior felony convictions for felony DUI, aggravated assault and manslaughter. He pled guilty before Judge Jordan on September 1, 2020.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Charles W. Kirkham.
This case is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and Project Guardian. EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for “Empower Justice Expel Crime Together.” PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.
Jackson Man Pleads Guilty under Project EJECT to Illegally Selling a GunRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Michael Mays a/k/a Michael Mayes, 35, of Jackson, pled guilty today before U.S. District Tom S. Lee to knowingly selling a firearm to a felon, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Michele Sutphin with the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi.
On July 19, 2018, agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation observed Mays sell a firearm in Jackson to a convicted felon, and upon questioning, Mays admitted to knowing the person to whom he sold the firearm was a convicted felon. It is illegal for a person to sell a firearm to a person he knows or has reasonable cause to believe is a convicted felon.
Mays was indicted on August 11, 2020. He will be sentenced by Judge Lee on March 18, 2021.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn Murray.
This case is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for "Empower Justice Expel Crime Together." PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Former Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
Firearms Thief in Harrison County Sentenced to over 5 Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing FirearmsRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Casey Lee Gilmer, 34, of Harrison County, Mississippi was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr. to 70 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for being an unlawful user of a controlled substance in possession of multiple firearms, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Kurt Thielhorn, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (“ATF”). Gilmer was also ordered to pay a $5,000 fine.
In September 2019, Gilmer stole ten firearms from a residence where he was working in Jackson County, Mississippi. Gilmer then pawned the firearms at multiple pawnshops along the Mississippi Gulf Coast in order to feed his drug addiction. After the firearms were reported stolen, law enforcement officials were able to identify Gilmer, locate the firearms, and successfully return the firearms to their rightful owner.
Gilmer was indicted on June 23, 2020 and he pled guilty before Judge Guirola on August 27, 2020.
This case was investigated by the ATF and Jackson County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan Buckner.
Louisiana Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Trafficking MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Shawn Louis Romero, 47 of Lafayette, Louisiana, was sentenced yesterday by Chief U.S. District Judge Daniel P. Jordan III, to 180 months in federal prison and 5 years of supervised release for conspiring to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Brad L. Byerley with the Drug Enforcement Administration. Romero was also ordered to pay a $1,500 fine.
In November 2017, during an extensive investigation targeting illegal methamphetamine distribution in central Mississippi, DEA agents learned that Romero was transporting large amounts of methamphetamine to the Jackson area. On November 20, 2017, federal agents and local law enforcement set up surveillance to intercept a suspected drug transaction involving Romero. Romero was pulled over while traveling on Interstate 20. Officers searched his vehicle and found approximately 5 pounds of methamphetamine with a purity level of 98%.
Romero was charged in a superceding indictment on September 10, 2019 and pled guilty before Judge Jordan on March 5, 2020.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, U.S. Marshals Service, Hinds County Sheriff’s Office, Jones County Sheriff’s Office, Jackson Police Department, Richland Police Department, Warren County Sheriff’s Office, Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics and the Internal Revenue Service. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Chris Wansley and Keesha Middleton.
Jackson Man Sentenced under Project EJECT to over 10 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss – Cedrick Tillman, 35, of Jackson, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Henry T. Wingate to 121 months in prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, for possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Michelle A. Sutphin, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi. Tillman was also ordered to pay a $1,500 fine, and will serve his federal sentence consecutively to the state sentence he is currently serving.
Between January and March 2019, Tillman sold methamphetamine to an individual on multiple occasions. He was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 6, 2019, and he pled guilty before Judge Wingate on June 24, 2020.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Bert Carraway.
This case is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and Project Guardian. EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for “Empower Justice Expel Crime Together.” PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.
U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst Appoints New Civil Division Chief in United States Attorney’s Office for Southern District of MississippiRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – United States Attorney Mike Hurst announced today that Assistant U.S. Attorney Angela Givens Williams will serve as the new Chief of the Civil Division in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi. The change comes in the wake of the departure of former Civil Division Chief Marc Perez, who accepted a position as the Investigative Counsel for the Office of Inspector General of the Environmental Protection Agency in Seattle, Washington.
“Angela has long been a respected leader in our office, and I am excited that she has accepted this new challenge of leading this important division in our office. Angela is well-respected by her peers locally and nationally, and her experience, intellect, and work ethic will be invaluable in leading our Civil Division to new heights. I also want to thank former Civil Chief Marc Perez for his service to this office, his fortitude in always striving for justice, and his hard work in making our Civil Division and our office better than he found it,” said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
Ms. Williams received her undergraduate degree from Tougaloo College and graduated with honors from the George Washington University School of Law in 2000. After graduating from law school, Ms. Williams served as a law clerk for Judge Eric Clay of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit, and later for U.S. District Judge Henry T. Wingate of the Southern District of Mississippi. In 2002, she began work for the law firm Arnold and Porter in Washington D.C., where she remained for 4 years before returning to Mississippi and joining the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Civil Division in 2006 as an Assistant U.S. Attorney.
As an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Civil Division, Ms. Williams has handled many large and complex affirmative and defensive cases on behalf of the United States. Since February 2016, she has served as the Civil Division’s Senior Litigation Counsel, and has also served as the Ethics Advisor for the office. In 2018, Ms. Williams received the Robert E. Hauberg Award for Distinguished Public Service, named in honor of the achievements of former U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Mississippi Robert E. Hauberg, the longest serving United States Attorney in the history of our nation. The Award is given annually to an employee who has displayed superior achievement in their assigned duties and who has gone above and beyond the call of duty in some additional public service that makes a significant impact on the community.
The United States Attorney is the Chief Federal Law Enforcement Officer for the United States within his or her particular jurisdiction. There are 93 United States Attorneys stationed throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, Guam, and the Northern Mariana Islands. United States Attorneys are appointed by, and serve at the discretion of, the President of the United States, with advice and consent of the United States Senate. United States Attorneys have three statutory responsibilities: (1) the prosecution of criminal cases brought by the Federal government; (2) the prosecution and defense of civil cases in which the United States is a party; and (3) the collection of debts owed the Federal government which are administratively uncollectible. The Southern District of Mississippi encompasses the lower 45 counties of the State of Mississippi and covers approximately 2 million Mississippians.
Justice Department Files Race Discrimination Lawsuit Against Pearl, Mississippi Property Owners and Rental AgentRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice announced today that it has filed a lawsuit alleging that the owners, operators and rental agent of several apartment complexes in Pearl, Mississippi, violated the Fair Housing Act by discriminating against African Americans based on their race.
The department’s complaint seeks relief against three owners and operators of the properties — SSM Properties LLC; Steven Maulding; and Sheila Maulding — as well as James Roe, who acted as a rental agent for the apartment complexes on behalf of the other defendants. The lawsuit is based on the results of testing conducted by the Louisiana Fair Housing Action Center and a Charge of Discrimination issued by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (“HUD”). Testing is a simulation of a housing transaction that compares responses given by housing providers to different types of home-seekers to determine whether or not illegal discrimination is occurring.
The department’s complaint, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi, alleges that Roe discriminated against prospective renters on the basis of race by treating African Americans who inquired about available apartments differently and less favorably than similarly-situated white persons. The properties are:
- Oak Manor Apartments, located at 2592 Old Country Club Road, Pearl, Miss.;
- Pearl Manor Apartments, located at 200 George Wallace Drive, Pearl, Miss.; and
- 468 Place Townhomes, located at 2932-34 State Highway 468, Pearl, Miss.
“More than a half century ago, Congress enacted the Fair Housing Act to prohibit landlords and others from denying people the opportunity to live where they want because of their race, color, or other protected characteristics,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Civil Rights Division. “Some misguided people unfortunately continue to defy this law by segregating and excluding people because of their skin color. This uncivilized and cruel discrimination hurts people; it must end, now, and the Department of Justice is determined to put a stop to it. All Americans should be free to live anywhere in the United States without regard to the color of their skin. No one’s housing choices should be limited because of race or color or by more subtle differences in the way home-seekers are treated when they ask about available properties. This department is committed to ensuring equal housing opportunities, regardless of race, including by using fair-housing testing to uncover hidden discrimination that might otherwise go undetected.”
“Treating people differently in housing based on the color of their skin is not only morally and ethically reprehensible and incompatible with American principles, but against federal law,” said U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst of the Southern District of Mississippi. “We in the Department of Justice will always strive to ensure that justice is done and that people are treated equitably and fairly, especially when seeking and trying to access such an essential cornerstone of a free society as housing. This lawsuit is just one more step up the long staircase of liberty and justice for all.”
“A person’s race should not be a factor when searching for a place to call home,” said Anna María Farías, HUD’s Assistant Secretary for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity. “HUD applauds today’s action and remains committed to working with the Justice Department to take appropriate action whenever the nation’s fair housing laws are violated.”
According to the department’s complaint, Roe encouraged white testers to rent at Pearl Manor Apartments but discouraged African-American testers from renting there, telling one African-American tester that if he rented to her at this complex, the residents would think he had “let the zoo out.” In addition, Roe told African-American testers about fewer rental units than white testers, allowed white testers to view certain apartments while not offering or allowing African-American testers the same opportunity, and imposed more stringent financial and employment criteria and inquiries on African-American testers than on white testers. The lawsuit alleges that SSM Properties and Steven and Sheila Maulding are legally responsible for Roe’s alleged discrimination because he worked as their rental agent.
Today’s lawsuit seeks monetary damages to compensate victims, civil penalties against the defendants to vindicate the public interest, and a court order barring future discrimination.
Individuals who believe they or someone they know may have been discriminated against at any of these properties should contact the department toll-free at 1-833-591-0291 or by email at [email protected]. Individuals who have information about this or another matter involving alleged discrimination may submit a report online at civilrights.justice.gov.
The federal Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in housing on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, familial status, national origin and disability. More information about the Civil Rights Division and the civil rights laws it enforces is available at www.justice.gov/crt. The complaint contains allegations of unlawful conduct. The allegations in the complaint must be proven in court.
Lauderdale County Man Indicted for Making Threats of Violence over InternetRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Christian Blake Bunyard, 18, of Lauderdale County, Mississippi, has been charged in a federal criminal indictment with two counts of making threats in interstate commerce and one count of making an interstate transmission of an extortionate communication, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Michelle A. Sutphin with the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi.
According to the indictment, in May and July 2020, Bunyard utilized Snapchat to threaten a school shooting, to kill and rape African Americans in Oxford, Mississippi, and to rape another Snapchat user if she did not provide nude photos.
Bunyard appeared for arraignment today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Linda R. Anderson. The case has been set for trial on December 17, 2020 before U.S. District Judge Henry T. Wingate in Jackson.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Department.
The public is reminded that an indictment is merely a charge and should not be considered as evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Mississippi Tax Preparer Sentenced to Prison for False IRS ReturnsRead the Press Release
A Moss Point, Mississippi, resident was sentenced to 22 months in prison for preparing false tax returns, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst for the Southern District of Mississippi.
According to information provided to the court, Talvesha Glaude owned and operated a tax return preparation business under multiple names, including TMG Tax Service and Regional Tax Service. From 2013 through 2019, Glaude prepared tax returns for clients seeking from the IRS inflated refunds based on fraudulent dependents, federal income tax withholdings, and education credits. In addition to preparing false returns for her clients, Glaude also filed false returns for herself for the tax years 2014 through 2018.
In addition to the term of imprisonment, U.S. District Judge Halil Ozerden also ordered Glaude to serve one year of supervised release and to pay restitution to the IRS in the amount of $183,360.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and U.S. Attorney Hurst thanked special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, who are investigating the case, and Trial Attorney Kevin Schneider of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan Harris, who are prosecuting this case.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the division’s website.
Four Southwest Mississippi Men Plead Guilty to Federal Wildlife CrimesRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Kenneth R. Britt, Jr., 51, of Wesson, Tony Grant Smith, 26, of Wesson, Barney Leon Bairfield, III, 28, of Brookhaven, and Dustin Corey Treadway, 28, of Brookhaven, pled guilty today before Senior U.S. District Judge David Bramlette III to federal charges of killing in excess of the legal limit of Kansas wild turkeys while unlicensed and transporting the wild turkeys across state lines to Mississippi, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, Colonel Steve Adcock of the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, and Special Agent in Charge Stephen Clark of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service.
The defendants pled guilty to illegally killing wild turkeys in 2017 and 2018 in Kansas and traveling in interstate commerce with the turkeys to Mississippi. The defendants traveled to Kansas and Nebraska and hunted wild turkeys taking over 25 wild turkeys without the required hunting licenses and in excess of the limit of two per person per season, in violation of Kansas law. They returned to Mississippi with trophy spurs and beards of the illegally-killed turkeys. Under the federal Lacey Act, it is unlawful for any person to transport across state lines any wildlife taken in violation of state law.
Judge Bramlette has scheduled sentencing of the defendants in the United States District Courthouse in Natchez, Mississippi, for February 9, 2021, beginning at 10:00 a.m.
“We take our mission partnering with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks in conserving, protecting, and enhancing fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats very seriously. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement, considers the illegal taking of native wildlife a high priority, and we will continue to work closely with our state agencies to assist them in these important joint investigations,” said Special Agent in Charge Stephen Clark of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
“The fine sportsmen and women of this state can rest assured that, nationwide, conservation enforcement agencies, along with Agents of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, will continue working together to stop the thievery and abuse of our valuable natural resources,” said Colonel Steve Adcock of the Mississippi Department of Wildlife Fisheries and Parks.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement and the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks. It is being prosecuted by First Assistant United States Attorney Darren J. LaMarca.
Meridian Man Sentenced to over 27 Years in Prison for Conspiracy and Cocaine TraffickingRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Daniel Robert, age 43, of Meridian, Mississippi, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge Daniel P. Jordan, III to serve 330 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiracy and narcotics trafficking, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Michelle A. Sutphin, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Robert was also ordered to pay a $1500 fine.
On January 23, 2020, after a three-day jury trial in U.S. District Court, Robert was found guilty of two counts of conspiracy to possess cocaine with intent to distribute, one count of possession of cocaine with intent to distribute and one count of attempted possession of cocaine with intent to distribute. Robert was originally indicted by a federal grand jury on September 3, 2009.
From 2007 through 2009, Robert was being investigated by the FBI along with several other individuals. The FBI’s investigation showed that Robert directed the sale of multiple kilograms of cocaine and took in tens of thousands of dollars. Robert organized the transport of cocaine from Houston, Texas, and sold the narcotics in Lauderdale County, Mississippi. Robert’s criminal organization involved numerous people and utilized vehicles with custom built hidden compartments for transportation of drugs and money.
An undercover operation specifically showed that Robert received $16,000 in exchange for over a kilogram of cocaine. Robert used two different individuals, who were both charged as co-conspirators, to receive money and distribute cocaine.
On June 26, 2009, Robert, along with another co-conspirator, were stopped in Vidor, Texas, driving a truck with a hidden compartment containing almost 8 kilograms of cocaine. Robert was released from custody in Vidor, Texas, and traveled back to Mississippi. With the help of his girlfriend, Robert attempted to reclaim his cocaine, which he believed had not been discovered in the hidden compartment.
Robert believed his girlfriend was arranging to purchase the truck from insurance adjusters who had taken possession of the truck on the basis that it was reported stolen. The insurance adjusters were actually undercover FBI agents with the consent of the insurance company that actually owned the truck. Video recordings and pictures were taken of Robert and his girlfriend when they came to the insurance “sale.” After “purchasing” the truck, Robert returned to Meridian, and proceeded to attempt to recover the cocaine he thought was still inside the hidden compartment.
FBI and SWAT officers descended on the location and arrested most of the organization, but Robert was able to elude capture by fleeing into a nearby field. Robert remained at large for a decade before he was taken into custody by the FBI.
Robert has an additional pending charge for witness tampering in the Federal District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi. Robert also faces charges in Illinois for narcotics distribution and witness tampering.
The OCDETF operation is a result of a joint investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the United States Marshal’s Service.
The OCDETF program is a joint federal, state and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations, and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Erin O. Chalk and Chet Kirkham.
Ridgeland Woman Charged with Unemployment FraudRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Judith Ann Middleton, 70, of Ridgeland, Mississippi, was indicted by a federal grand jury and charged with multiple violations of federal law involving unemployment insurance benefits fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and U.S. Secret Service Resident Agent in Charge Shawn Wolfe.
In May 2020, it was discovered that unemployment insurance benefits from the State of Washington had been deposited into Middleton’s account. Investigation into these benefits revealed that they were deposited under other individuals’ names. The unemployment insurance benefits were federally subsidized through the CARES Act in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
On March 13, 2020, President Trump declared the COVID-19 outbreak a national emergency, and Congress enacted the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (the CARES Act) into law in response to the pandemic to aid those financially affected by the outbreak. This aid included $600 of federal unemployment compensation benefits in addition to those provided by the states.
“Those who blatantly steal taxpayer money by defrauding government programs during a national emergency like the COVID-19 pandemic will soon find themselves standing in a federal court to answer for their crimes. This type of fraud particularly hurts the unemployed, but also our government, our economy, and all Americans. We will continue working with our federal, state and local partners to root out this fraud and protect the public from further financial harm,” said U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst.
“The United States Secret Service is investigating the release of CARES Act relief payments and associated fraudulent schemes that seek to exploit these funds. We have observed a proliferation and diversification of criminal schemes, particularly an increase in targeting various economic relief programs, such as unemployment benefits, the Payment Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) payments. The Secret Service is collaborating closely with other federal, state, and local agencies, and our financial institution partners to detect, investigate, and bring justice to criminals committing financial fraud related to COVID-19,” said Shawn Wolfe, Resident Agent in Charge, United States Secret Service, Jackson Resident Office.
Middleton appeared for arraignment today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Linda Anderson. The case has been set for trial before Senior U.S. District Judge David C. Bramlette III on December 7, 2020. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan M. McCalla is prosecuting the case.
The public is reminded that an indictment is merely a charge and should not be considered as evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Ex-Keesler Airman Sentenced to over Ten Years in Federal Prison for Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Gianluca Quagliaroli, 21, of North Carolina, was sentenced Tuesday by U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to 121 months in prison, followed by 20 years of supervised release, for receipt of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, Acting Special Agent in Charge Gilbert Trill of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in New Orleans, and Special Agent Shannon Robinson, Commander of Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI) Detachment 407 at Keesler Air Force Base. Quagliaroli was ordered to pay $9,000 in restitution to identified victims and $5,100 in special assessment fees. He was also ordered to register as a sex offender.
“I want to commend the work of our law enforcement and military for discovering and bringing this criminal to justice. Those who deal and trade in child pornography perpetuate harm against children and combatting and ending this elicit market of child pornography is a high priority for the Department of Justice,” said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
“Those who serve in trusted public positions are not immune to investigation and prosecution, especially those who participate in the exploitation of children,” said HSI New Orleans acting Special Agent in Charge Gilbert Trill. “HSI is committed to protecting our nation’s children. This sentencing demonstrates the effectiveness our collaborative efforts with civilian and military law enforcement partners.”
Special Agent Robinson stated, “This was a total win coupled with great teamwork. The Office of Special Investigations, Detachment 407, is proud to have uncovered such criminal activity, shedding light on it through persistent and diligent investigative work. We’re thankful to have a great working relationship with the United States Attorney’s Office, who successfully prosecuted this case.”
On March 11, 2019, Quagliaroli received both photographs and videos of child pornography that he solicited through the social media site Instagram. Quagliaroli then stored some of the child pornography on his Google Drive account. Shortly thereafter, the child pornography was identified through the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). The NCMEC tip was ultimately referred to the AFOSI Detachment at Keesler Air Force Base, where subsequent investigation disclosed that then-Airman Quagliaroli had received the child pornography referenced in the tip.
Quagliaroli was originally indicted for this offense on February 12, 2020. With the cooperation of law enforcement partners at Keesler AFB, Quagliaroli was arrested by civilian federal authorities for receipt of child pornography immediately following his discharge from the Air Force. Quagliaroli pled guilty before Judge Ozerden on June 3, 2020.
Homeland Security Investigations and the Air Force Office of Special Investigations investigated the case. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew W. Eichner and Special Assistant United States Attorney Alexxa Pritchett.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst's Statement on Jackson Police Department’s “Operation Unity”Read the Press Release
“Today, Jackson Police Department Chief James E. Davis announced JPD’s ‘Operation Unity’ to saturate the City of Jackson with state and local law enforcement over the next two weeks. I was told about this operation on Friday by one of my federal prosecutors, and I called Chief Davis to advise him against telling criminals in advance about an upcoming law enforcement operation. Chief Davis did not answer nor return my phone call, so I sent him a letter yesterday, imploring him not to hold a press conference before such an operation, as it could put officers’ lives in danger and criminals would simply hide to avoid detection.”
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work closely with JPD and our other partners in order to prosecute violent criminals in Jackson, as we have been doing for the last three years, under Project EJECT. But I pray for our law enforcement and their safety over the next two weeks in Jackson, and I hope that future law enforcement operations will be conducted to have more meaningful, long-term effects.”
U.S. Attorney Hurst’s letter to Chief Davis is attached hereto.
Natchez Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing a Stolen FirearmRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss – Damien Hayes, 25, of Natchez, pled guilty today before Senior U.S. District Judge David Bramlette III to possessing a stolen firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Kurt Thielhorn, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).
On March 22, 2019, ATF agents and state and local law enforcement officers were conducting a detail in Natchez and the surrounding area in response to complaints of criminal activity. Officers smelled burning marijuana and approached Damien Hayes who tossed a marijuana blunt onto the ground. When officers frisked Hayes, they discovered a .45 caliber pistol tucked into his pants. Further investigation revealed the firearm had been stolen from a local firearms dealer. On January 29, 2020, Hayes was indicted for possession of a stolen firearm.
Hayes will be sentenced by Judge Bramlette on January 26, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Natchez Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Bert Carraway.
This case is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and Project Guardian. EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for “Empower Justice Expel Crime Together.” PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.
Meridian Man Sentenced to Five Years in Prison Under Project EJECT for Possession of a Firearm in a School ZoneRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Tirale Orlando Reed, 38, of Meridian, Mississippi, was sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Court Judge David C. Bramlette III to 60 months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for possession of a firearm in a school zone, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Kurt Thielhorn, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
On July 15, 2016, at an apartment complex in Meridian, a confrontation between Reed and another individual turned violent, and Reed shot and killed the individual. Reed fled the scene and, while passing through the grounds of a school, threw his .45 caliber handgun into a creek bed near 44th Avenue. Reed was subsequently charged with murder in the Circuit Court of Lauderdale County, Mississippi, which is still pending.
Reed was charged in a federal Criminal Information with possession of a firearm in a school zone. He pled guilty before Judge Bramlette on August 4, 2020.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Charles W. Kirkham.
This case is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and Project Guardian. EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for “Empower Justice Expel Crime Together.” PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.
Memphis Man Pleads Guilty to Interstate Sex TraffickingRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Terrance Braden, 41, of Memphis, Tennessee, pled guilty on October 27, 2020 before Senior U.S. District Judge Davie Bramlette III to transporting women from Memphis to Jackson to engage in sex with men for money, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Michelle Sutphin with the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi.
On June 25, 2020, Braden drove women from Memphis, Tennessee, to Jackson, Mississippi, and immediately posted advertisements via the Internet of such women. An undercover law enforcement officer posing as a “customer” arranged a date with one of the women on June 26, 2020, at a local motel in Jackson. The officer, along with other law enforcement officers, arrived at the hotel and arrested Terrence Braden and two other women for prostitution. Further investigation revealed that Braden was, in fact, the pimp transporting the women for his prostitution business.
Braden will be sentenced by Judge Bramlette on February 2, 2021 and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The Jackson Division of the Federal Bureau Investigation and the Hinds County Sheriff Department investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Glenda R. Haynes is prosecuting the case.
Perkinston Man Pleads Guilty to Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Edward Lee Thomas, 48, of Perkinston, pled guilty yesterday, before U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden, to producing images of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Gilbert Trill, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in New Orleans.
In March of 2020, HSI Gulfport received 95 images and 2 videos of child sexual abuse from The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). The investigation led agents to a residence in Forrest County, Mississippi, where the sexual abuse images of two minors had been taken. Agents executed a federal search warrant at the residence of Edward Lee Thomas in Perkinston, Mississippi. The seizure and forensic examination of electronic devices taken from Thomas’ residence revealed over 4,000 images and 700 videos of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
Thomas will be sentenced by Judge Ozerden on January 21, 2021, at 10:00 a.m., in Gulfport. He faces a penalty of not less than 15 years and not more than 30 years in prison. However, if Thomas’s 2004 Mississippi state conviction for sexual battery of a child is determined to be a qualifying prior conviction, he faces a maximum penalty of not less than 25 years nor more than 50 years, and a $250,000 fine.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Jones.
Former Gulfport Resident Pleads Guilty to Mail Theft ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Timothy Frank Ross, 54, formerly of Gulfport, pled guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to conspiracy to commit theft of mail, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Chris Cave with the U. S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General, Southern Area Field Office.
From September, 2016, through March, 2017, Ross and co-conspirators stole mail from victims’ residences and their mail boxes in the Gulfport and Bay St. Louis areas. Ross and his co-conspirators cashed checks from the stolen mail and made deposits with stolen checks into a bank account controlled by a co-conspirator.
Ross was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 24, 2019. He will be sentenced by Judge Ozerden on January 22, 2021, at 9:30 a.m., in Gulfport. He faces a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Jones.
Pascagoula Man Pleads Guilty Under Project EJECT to being a Convicted Felon Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Lawrence Lavoy Jackson, 36, of Pascagoula, pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden, to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Kurt Thielhorn, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
On September 2, 2019, Moss Point Police officers encountered Jackson in a vehicle parked in front of a store in Jackson County. The vehicle was running, with the reverse lights on, and Jackson appeared to be asleep at the wheel of the vehicle. The police tapped on the window several times to get Jackson to respond. The officer had Jackson step out of the vehicle and found a 9 mm pistol in his waist band and 7 rounds of ammunition. Jackson had previous felony convictions and was prohibited from possessing a firearm.
On September 2, 2019, Jackson was indicted by a federal grand jury, charging him with illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
Jackson will be sentenced by Judge Ozerden on January 21, 2021, at 9:30 a.m. He faces a maximum penalty of not more than 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The case was investigated by The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Moss Point Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Jones.
This case is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and Project Guardian. EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for “Empower Justice Expel Crime Together.” PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.
Jackson Man Sentenced under Project EJECT for Illegally Possessing FirearmsRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Dallas Smith, 59, of Jackson, was sentenced today by U.S. District Carlton W. Reeves to time-served, or 14 months, and 3 years of supervised release for illegally possessing firearms, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Michele Sutphin with the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Smith was also sentenced to pay a fine of $1,000.
On September 11, 2017, officers with the Jackson Police Department were dispatched to an apartment complex on a shooting complaint. Based upon the statements of eyewitnesses, they stopped a vehicle in which Dallas Smith was a passenger. Upon questioning, Smith admitted to possessing the pistol and rifle found in the vehicle. Smith also admitted to discharging the firearms at the apartment complex.
Smith has a forgery conviction in Madison County and a grand larceny conviction in Rankin County, and it is illegal for him to possess a firearm. He pled guilty before Judge Reeves on January 22, 2020.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn Murray.
This case is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and Project Guardian. EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for “Empower Justice Expel Crime Together.” PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.
Forrest County Man Convicted under Project EJECT for Trafficking MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss. – Oliver McNair, 29, of Hattiesburg, pled guilty today before Senior U.S. District Judge Keith Starrett to possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (“ATF”).
On August 31, 2019, McNair was found in possession of over 60 grams of methamphetamine in Petal. Pursuant to forensic analysis by the DEA, the methamphetamine was determined to be approximately 97% pure.
McNair was indicted for this offense on January 15, 2020. He will be sentenced by Judge Starrett on January 21, 2021 at 10:15 a.m.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Forrest County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew W. Eichner.
This case is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and Project Guardian. EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for “Empower Justice Expel Crime Together.” PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.
U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst Announces over $8.6 Million in Justice Department Grants to Combat Addiction CrisisRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst today announced awards of over $8.6 million in Department of Justice grants to fight drug abuse and addiction in the Southern District of Mississippi. The grants were awarded by the Department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP) and are part of more than $341 million going to communities nationwide.
“The addiction crisis has taken an enormous toll on America’s families and communities, eroding public health, threatening public safety and claiming tens of thousands of lives year after year,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “Through comprehensive measures taken by this administration, we have been able to curtail the opioid epidemic, but new and powerful drugs are presenting exceptional challenges that we must be prepared to meet. The Justice Department’s substantial investments in enforcement, response, and treatment will help us overcome these challenges and work towards freeing Americans from abuse and addiction.”
“I am grateful to the Department of Justice for investing in our communities to help address addiction has adversely affected so many Mississippians and their families. These groups should be commended for stepping up to address these problems in their communities. We have achieved so much in the last three years and we will continue to fight the epidemic of illegal narcotics on multiple fronts in order to make our neighborhoods safer,” said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
Illegal drugs and illicit drug use have claimed the lives of nearly 400,000 Americans since the turn of the century. Powerful synthetic opioids like fentanyl are exacting an enormous toll on families and communities, and an emergence in the use of methamphetamines and other psychostimulants is drawing drug traffickers and driving up overdose rates. Three years ago, President Trump declared a Public Health Emergency and initiated a whole-of-government approach dedicated to ending this national tragedy. The Department of Justice has invested unprecedented levels of funding in combating the addiction crisis. The awards announced today build on those earlier investments.
“If we hope to defeat an enemy as powerful, persistent and adaptable as illicit drugs, we must be at least as determined and versatile, focusing our ingenuity and resources on curbing abuse and fighting addiction,” said OJP’s Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “These grants will enable criminal justice officials and substance abuse, mental health and other medical professionals to pool their assets and bring the full weight of our public safety and treatment systems down on this epidemic that has already caused so much harm.”
Funding is made available through OJP’s Bureau of Justice Assistance, National Institute of Justice, Office for Victims of Crime and Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention.
The following organizations received funding:
- The Mississippi State Department of Health - $6,000,000 under Category 2 of the Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Abuse Site-based Program.
- The Harrison County Board of Supervisors - $827,963 under the Family Drug Court Program.
- The County Court of Hancock County - $742,462 under the Family Drug Court Program.
- The Lamar County Board of Supervisors - $599,981 under Category 1 of the Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Abuse Site-based Program.
- Mississippi Division of Public Safety Planning - $434,114 under the Residential Substance Abuse Treatment for State Prisoners Program
- Jackson County, Mississippi - $94,328 under the Adult Drug Court and Veterans Treatment Courts Discretionary Grant Program.
For a complete list of individual grant programs, award amounts, and jurisdictions that will receive funding, click here. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years
- The Mississippi State Department of Health - $6,000,000 under Category 2 of the Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Abuse Site-based Program.
Pass Christian Man Sentenced to over 4 Years for Selling FentanylRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss – Carter Tranh Tran, 42, of Pass Christian, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to 50 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for selling fentanyl, announced U. S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Brad L. Byerly with the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Starting in February 2018, Tran sold narcotics on numerous occasions, including fentanyl that he represented as Adderall. In February 2020, following additional sales of marijuana at Tran’s convenience store, Gulfport Police Department officers executed search warrants on Tran’s store and home. Law enforcement recovered 14 pounds of marijuana from Tran’s home and an additional 13 pounds from the convenience store on Pass Road in Gulfport.
The Gulfport Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the case. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Annette Williams.
Ocean Springs Woman Sentenced to 3 Years in Federal Prison for Knowingly Filing False Tax ReturnRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss – Lisa Gordon-Scruggs, 53, of Ocean Springs, Mississippi, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to 36 months in prison, followed by one year of supervised release, for filing a false tax return, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Acting Special Agent in Charge Andrew M. Thornton of IRS Criminal Investigation. Gordon-Scruggs was also ordered to pay restitution of $593,379.42 to the Internal Revenue Service.
Gordon-Scruggs was the Chief Operating Officer and office manager of Highside Chemicals, Inc. (“Highside”) in Gulfport, Mississippi during the investigative period, from 2013 through 2018. Based on her position and access to the bank account of Highside, Gordon-Scruggs embezzled over $2 million, which she funneled into accounts she owned, and used to pay off credit cards in her name and a family member.
Gordon-Scruggs pled guilty to one count of knowingly filing a false income tax report for tax year 2014 when she reported taxable income of $34,907, but did not include the $446,423 she had embezzled from Highside that year.
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John Meynardie.
Meridian Man Sentenced to 21 Years in Prison Under Project EJECT for Possessing Ammunition and a Firearm as a Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Dominique Dontona Ashford, 36, of Meridian, was sentenced yesterday by Senior U.S. District Court Judge Tom S. Lee, to two concurrent 262 month sentences in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, as well as a $1,500.00 fine, for being a convicted felon in possession of ammunition and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
On March 18, 2019, officers with the Meridian Police Department responded to a 911 call reporting a domestic disturbance. Upon arriving at the residence, the officers spoke with the complainant who told them she wanted her boyfriend, Ashford, out of her house. Officers spoke with Ashford and told him they would need to pat him down for weapons. Ashford was found to be in possession of suspected narcotics during the pat down search.
When officers searched his pockets, three .38 caliber bullets were found in Ashford’s left front pants pocket. The complainant told officers that she did not own any firearms and that she wanted all of Ashford’s belongings out of her house. The complainant testified at trial that Ashford threatened to beat her with a handgun earlier that day.
Meridian Police officers searched the house and located a .38 caliber Taurus revolver, loaded with five .38 caliber bullets, in a closet in a back bedroom. The complainant identified the revolver as the pistol with which she had been threatened. Officers with the Meridian Police Department, the Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Office and an ATF agent testified at trial in addition to Ashford’s ex-girlfriend.
Ashford was found guilty by a jury on March 3, 2020 following a one-day trial in U.S. District Court before Judge Lee. Ashford has previous convictions for robbery, possession of cocaine, burglary and sale of cocaine within 1,500 feet of a church. Due to the number and nature of Ashford’s prior convictions, he faced a minimum of fifteen years in prison, and a maximum potential sentence of life in prison, as to each of the two counts.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Charles W. Kirkham.
This case is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and Project Guardian. EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for “Empower Justice Expel Crime Together.” PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.
Illegal Alien Pleads Guilty to Unlawful Reentering United States Again, After Having Been Deported Seven Times BeforeRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Wilson Orlando Hercules, 33, an illegal alien from Honduras, pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden, to Unlawful Reentry by an Alien Removed After Conviction of a Felony, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, and Diane Witte, Field Office Director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement & Removal Operations in New Orleans.
Hercules is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Ozerden on January 15, 2021. He faces a potential maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment, in addition to 3 years of supervised release and a $250,000 fine.
On February 22, 2020, Bay St. Louis Police stopped Hercules' vehicle after a citizen complaint regarding narcotics. Hercules, who was driving a van, was charged with simple possession of a state misdemeanor amount of crack cocaine and a paraphernalia pipe. He later was arrested by Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE), Enforcement Removal Operations (ERO), who positively identified Hercules through DHS computerized record checks (including fingerprints and photographs) at the Gulfport ICE Office.
In 2019, Hercules was previously convicted of the federal felony of Unlawful Reentry Into the United States by an Alien After Removal. Hercules had been sentenced in 2019 to time-served plus one year of supervised release and was surrendered to ICE for removal from the United States. Thereafter, he was removed by ICE to his home nation of Honduras.
Hercules has been lawfully removed from the U.S. to Honduras on seven occasions starting in 2011, and this is his eighth illegal reentry after removal. Until his earlier prosecution in Mississippi, Hercules had never been prosecuted for Unlawful Reentry After Removal.
U.S. Attorney Hurst praised the work of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration & Customs Enforcement, Enforcement Removal Operations; the City of Bay St. Louis Police Department; and the Hancock County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant United States Attorney Stan Harris is the prosecutor for the case.
Hancock County Man Pleads Guilty to Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss – Joshua Rain Collins, 29, of Hancock County, entered a guilty plea today before U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Kurt Theilhorn, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Judge Ozerden will sentence Collins on January 15, 2021 at 9:30 a.m. He faces a minimum of 5 years in prison on the charge. He further faces fines up to $250,000 and 5 years of supervised release.
On September 26, 2019, Harrison County Sheriff’s Deputies received information that Collins and a female were in possession of narcotics and a firearm at a hotel on Hwy 49 in Gulfport. They found Collins with a backpack containing approximately 17 grams of methamphetamine and a Smith & Wesson handgun. Collins admitted the handgun was protection. DEA lab reports document the methamphetamine had a purity level of 99% for 16.58 grams of pure methamphetamine.
The Harrison County Sheriff’s Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Forearms and Explosives investigated the case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Annette Williams.
Biloxi Man Pleads Guilty to Escape from Federal CustodyRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – David Eugene Bangs, 56, of Biloxi, pled guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden, to escape from federal custody, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Mark Shepard, U.S. Marshal for the Southern District of Mississippi.
On January 27, 2020, Bangs was being transported by bus from a federal facility in Jesup, Georgia, to Dismas Charities Community Corrections Center in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, where he would have completed the last months of his incarceration there. However, on January 28, 2020, when the bus made a stop in Biloxi, Bangs escaped from custody. He was subsequently arrested on January 29, 2020 by the U. S. Marshals Service Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force.
Bangs was indicted by a Federal Grand Jury on February 25, 2020. He will be sentenced by Judge Ozerden on January 14, 2021 at 9:30 a.m. in Gulfport. He faces a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The case was investigated by the U. S. Marshals Service. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Jones.
Ocean Springs Man Sentenced to 8 Years in Prison for Selling Sawed Off ShotgunRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss – Shiloh Kalani Pisarich, 29, of Ocean Springs, Mississippi, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to 96 months in prison for selling an illegal sawed-off shotgun, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Brad L. Byerley of the Drug Enforcement Administration. Pisarich was also ordered to serve 3 years of supervised released following his prison sentence and pay a $5,000 fine.
In March 2019, Pisarich sold methamphetamine on two separate occasions. In addition, on March 29, 2019, Pisarick sold a shotgun that had been modified to have a barrel length less than 18 inches, which is illegal under federal law.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Annette Williams.
Former Gulfport Woman Pleads Guilty to Mail Theft ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Sabrina Nicole Cooper, a/k/a Sabrina Cooper Morrison a/k/a Sabrina Nicole Morrison a/k/a Niki Morrison, 37, formerly of Gulfport, pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden, to conspiring to commit theft of mail, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Chris Cave with the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General, Southern Area Field Office.
From September 2016 through March 2017, in Harrison and Hancock Counties, Cooper and co-conspirators stole mail from victims’ residences and mail boxes in the Gulfport and Bay St. Louis areas. Cooper and her co-conspirators cashed checks from the stolen mail matter and made mobile deposits with stolen checks into a bank account controlled by a co-conspirator.
Sabrina Nicole Cooper will be sentenced by Judge Ozerden on January 7, 2021 at 9:30 a.m. in Gulfport. She faces a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Jones.
Former Bay Springs City Administrator Pleads Guilty to Federal Criminal Charges Related to Embezzlement of City FundsRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss. – Randy James, 56, the former City Clerk of Bay Springs in Jasper County, pled guilty today before Senior U.S. District Judge Keith Starrett, to money laundering and making false statements on a federal tax return, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, Special Agent-in-Charge James E. Dorsey of the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), Atlanta Field Office, and Mississippi State Auditor Shad White.
“One of the highest priorities of this office is bringing to justice corrupt officials who betray our public trust. I commend local bank employees who spotted this criminal activity, as well as our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners and prosecutors who were diligent in catching this crook and holding him accountable. We will continue to do all that we can to root out criminality and corruption in all forms of government,” said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
“Today’s guilty plea sends a clear message that public officials, whether elected or appointed, hold positions of trust in the eyes of the public. This trust is broken when these officials commit crimes,” said Demetrius Hardeman, Assistant Special Agent in Charge, IRS CI Atlanta Field Office. “No public official gets a free pass to ignore the tax laws, and IRS-CI works diligently, in concert with state and local partners, to ensure everyone pays their fair share.”
“This loss is massive for a town the size of Bay Springs – over 10% of their annual budget. Our small towns cannot afford to lose a single penny right now,” stated State Auditor White. “My office will work to hold fraudsters like Randy James, who knowingly steal your money, accountable with zero tolerance for this kind of theft.”
James is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Starrett on January 12, 2021, at 10:30 a.m. in Hattiesburg.
At sentencing, James will face up to 10 years in federal prison, a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release for money laundering. Additionally, James faces up to three years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and one year of supervised release, making false statement on a Federal Income Tax Return.
During 2017 and 2018, Randy James was employed by the City of Bay Springs, Mississippi, as City Clerk, and had control over certain financial aspects of the city. During this time, James embezzled just over $300,000 from Bay Springs between August 2017 and April 2018 by creating fraudulent invoices from fictitious companies for the costs of false services that were never approved or incurred by the city. James diverted city funds by obtaining checks from the City of Bay Springs, cashing the checks at a local bank, and wiring those funds overseas to international scammers in the hope of winning money in a lottery scheme.
According to the Criminal Information filed in this case, James also made false statements on his personal 2018 Federal Income Tax Return by under-reporting gross receipts by $193,331.00.
The State Auditor’s Office previously issued a demand letter to James for $325,562 which included the amount of his embezzlement, plus interest and investigative costs. In his publicly filed plea agreement with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, James agreed to pay a total of $420,562 in restitution.
U.S. Attorney Hurst commended the federal, state and local law enforcement cooperation displayed in this case. The case was investigated by the Mississippi State Auditor’s Office and by agents for the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan Harris.
Diamondhead Man Sentenced to Almost Five Years in Prison for Bank FraudRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss – Louis Joseph Normand, Jr., 60, of Diamondhead, was sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola Jr. to 57 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for bank fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Michelle A. Sutphin with the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi. Norman was also ordered to pay over $1.6 million in restitution.
Normand owned businesses involved in the sale of trucks called National Truck Funding and American Truck Group. From 2013 until 2017, he purchased well over 100 18-wheeler trucks for resale. During that time, he received financing from a local bank, as well as private lenders, for 80% of the sales price. In order to increase the amount of the loan and decrease the amount of his down payment, he created false invoices inflating the sales price and, therefore, the amount of the loans he received. Over this period, he was loaned almost $5,000,000, which was approximately 130% of the actual purchase price of the vehicles.
Normand pled guilty on July 7, 2020 to a Criminal Information charging him with bank fraud.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John Meynardie.
Federal Jury Finds Jackson Man Guilty of Illegally Possessing Firearm as a Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Maurice Dent, 34, of Jackson, was found guilty Thursday, October 1, 2020, of possessing a illegally possessing a firearm after having previously been convicted of a felony crime, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Kurt Thielhorn, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives for Jackson. The jury returned the verdict following a four-day trial before U.S. District Judge Henry T. Wingate in Jackson.
On January 27, 2016, a Jackson police officer attempted to stop a car driven by Dent. Refusing to pull over, Dent led police on a short pursuit through Jackson before losing control and coming to a stop on Sonny Guy Golf Course. Dent got out of the car, threw a Glock handgun onto the golf course, and ran about twenty feet before he was apprehended. It was then determined that Dent had been convicted previously of multiple auto burglaries.
Dent will be sentenced on January 8, 2021, at 9:30 A.M. by Judge Wingate. He faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine.
This case was investigated by the Jackson Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Dave Fulcher, Lynn Murray, and Bert Carraway.
This case is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and Project Guardian. EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for “Empower Justice Expel Crime Together.” PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.
Meridian Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison Under Project EJECT for Illegally Possessing Firearms in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking CrimeRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Roderick Dunshaw Tingle, 38, of Meridian, Mississippi, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Carlton W. Reeves to 10 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Kurt Thielhorn, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Tingle was also ordered to pay a $1,000.00 fine.
On March 22, 2019, Meridian Police Department officers responded to a residential burglary alarm at a house on 23rd Avenue in Meridian, Mississippi. Officers found that a window in the back door had been broken and the back door was open. When the officers entered the house to see if anyone was inside, they found marijuana on the kitchen counter along with baggies and scales. A search warrant was obtained for the home and three pounds of marijuana was found along with six firearms. The firearms consisted of four pistols and two assault-style rifles.
Various pieces of identifying evidence, such as family pictures and birth certificates, lead officers to believe that the house was occupied by Roderick Dunshaw Tingle. Various neighbors gave statements indicating they believed that drug sales might be occurring at the house, due to the large number of cars stopping by very frequently. A neighbor also identified Tingle as the resident of the house. When interviewed by law enforcement officers, Tingle denied that the guns or the marijuana belonged to him. Tingle gave a name and telephone number for a person he said owned the guns. A records check showed that account for that phone number was in the name of Roderick D. Tingle.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Meridian Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Charles W. Kirkham.
This case is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and Project Guardian. EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for “Empower Justice Expel Crime Together.” PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.
Second Man Pleads Guilty for Role in 2016 Killing at Hattiesburg RestaurantRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss. – Demethius Dixon, also known as “Deezy,” 28, of Louisiana, pled guilty today before Senior U.S. District Court Judge Keith Starrett for carrying and using a firearm during a drug trafficking crime, resulting in the firearm being discharged, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Brad Byerley with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
On June 26, 2016, Dixon and his co-defendant, James Windham, met with a third party at a Hattiesburg Mugshots restaurant in order to sell two ounces of marijuana. Dixon was brought along by Windham as an armed enforcer and as backup in case the drug deal turned sour. During the drug transaction, Dixon discharged a firearm multiple times, ultimately resulting in the death of the third party.
Following the shooting, Dixon and Windham fled from the scene, at which time they discarded the marijuana and all firearms associated with the shooting. Due to the diligent police work of Hattiesburg Police Department, the marijuana and all firearms were all recovered shortly after the shooting.
Dixon and Windham were originally indicted for this offense on June 25, 2019. Sentencing for Dixon is set on January 12, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. Windham pled guilty to the same charge on September 24, 2020. Sentencing for Windham is set on January 12, 2021 at 9:30 A.M.
This case is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and Project Guardian. EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for “Empower Justice Expel Crime Together.” PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, Hattiesburg’s High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Post of Duty, and Hattiesburg Police Department investigated the case. District Attorney Hal Kittrell and the 15th Circuit District Attorney’s Office were instrumental in guiding early investigative steps in the matter and involving federal partners. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew W. Eichner.
Hattiesburg Man Pleads Guilty under Project EJECT to Violent Robbery of BusinessRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss. – Kedrick Lee, 23, of Hattiesburg, pled guilty today before Senior U.S. District Judge Keith Starrett to violently robbing a business in Hattiesburg, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
On March 31, 2019, Lee and a criminal associate, D’Andre Garry, robbed a Family Dollar store located in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. As Lee held the cashier at gunpoint, his co-defendant emptied the cash register. The robbery was captured by store surveillance and Garry was quickly apprehended by Hattiesburg Police Department officers.
Lee will be sentenced by Judge Starrett on January 12, 2021, at 9:45 a.m. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Co-defendant Garry pled guilty on January 9, 2020, and was sentenced on August 18, 2020, to 50 months in federal prison followed by 3 years of supervised release
This case is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and Project Guardian. EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for “Empower Justice Expel Crime Together.” PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Hattiesburg Police Department investigated the case. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew W. Eichner.