Southern District of Mississippi
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Law Enforcement Partners Announce Expansion of “Project EJECT” to City of GulfportRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Today, Mike Hurst, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Mississippi, along with Gulfport Mayor Billy Hewes, Gulfport Police Chief Chris Ryle, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Special Agent in Charge Kurt Theilhorn, Drug Enforcement Administration Resident Agent in Charge Chris Daniels, and other law enforcement agencies, announced the expansion of an initiative to combat violent crime called “Project EJECT” into the City of Gulfport.
Launched by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi in December 2017 in the City of Jackson under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (“PSN”) initiative, Project EJECT is an enhanced violent crime reduction program that incorporates decades of experience in bringing various levels of law enforcement together with stakeholders in the community, with the overall goal of producing a long-term, meaningful reduction in and prevention of violent crime. Project EJECT stands for: “Empower Justice Expel Crime Together.”
Joined by law enforcement at the Gulfport Police Department, U.S. Attorney Hurst described the project as a multi-disciplinary, holistic approach that combines law enforcement arrests and prosecutions of violent criminals with prevention efforts, rehabilitation and reentry, educational initiatives, and improved communication.
“Project EJECT has been incredibly successful in every city where it has been deployed, and we are excited to partner with Gulfport to make this great city even safer. Through close collaboration among our federal and local prosecutors, prevention efforts for our young people, reentry services for recently-released offenders, and input from the community, we will be able to effectively prevent and reduce violent crime throughout our neighborhoods. The overarching goal is to make the City of Gulfport safer for everyone,” said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
“The key to having a safe city is strong partnerships. The City of Gulfport has a top-notch police force. Collaboration can only help strengthen our community policing efforts. We look forward to working with U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst’s office,” said Mayor Billy Hewes
"As violent crimes have increased within our community, I am committed to utilize every available resource to address this issue. It is with great pleasure that the Gulfport Police Department is able to partner with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies to bring the quality of life to our citizens which they so deserve, “ said Chris Ryle, Gulfport Chief of Police.
“ATF is proud to be a partner in Project EJECT. We have had success investigating armed violent offenders in other cities with Project EJECT, and will continue to do so in Gulfport,” said ATF New Orleans Field Division Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn. “ATF remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners to remove the most violent criminals from our communities.”
“The men and women of DEA are proud to join with the US Attorney’s Office, the ATF and the Gulfport Police Department to make Project EJECT as successful in Gulfport, as it has been in multiple cities across Mississippi,” said Kevin J. Gaddy, Assistant Special Agent in Charge for the State of Mississippi.
The mission of PROJECT EJECT is to reduce violent crime and make Gulfport neighborhoods safer for all to enjoy. Part of the project will include discussions with the public and encouraging communities to help law enforcement in this effort, as well as communicating to the criminals that they will be prosecuted and punished for gun crimes and violent crimes. The Project will also seek to support locally-based efforts to stop violence and crimes before they occur and to help those whom have been punished to reenter society as law-abiding citizens.
Project EJECT is comprised of a number of federal law enforcement agencies, as well as task force officers from various state and local investigative agencies, who will interact regularly with the Gulfport Police Department and District Attorney’s Offices to identity and respond to violent crimes when they occur. Cases arising from these crimes will then be presented to the local District Attorney’s Offices and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for prosecution.
For the first time ever, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is specifically dedicating two Assistant United States Attorneys to prosecute violent crime in the City of Gulfport under this project.
Project EJECT follows a directive from former U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions to the U.S. Department of Justice to reinvigorate DOJ’s Project Safe Neighborhoods with the intent to reduce the rising tide of violent crime in America. Project EJECT is the Southern District of Mississippi’s PSN initiative specifically tailored to address violent crime in throughout the district.
In December 2018, at the 2018 Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) National Conference, Acting Attorney General Matthew Whitaker presented the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi and its law enforcement partners with the award for Outstanding Overall Partnership/Task Force for Project EJECT. Only 16 awards were given during the annual PSN National Conference, which recognize individuals and groups for their dedication and contribution to the success of PSN. Project EJECT was one of only two recognized as the best partnerships or task forces in the nation.
In expanding Project EJECT into Gulfport, the U.S. Attorney’s Office continues to lead the Project, with Assistant U.S. Attorneys Erica Rose and Jonathan Buckner in Gulfport serving as the primary prosecutors for violent cases under Project EJECT in Gulfport, long-time Assistant U.S. Attorney John Merynardie in Gulfport serving as a senior advisor and prosecutor, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Wansley in Jackson serving as the Project Safe Neighborhoods Coordinator for the entire Southern District of Mississippi.
Project Safe Neighborhoods is an initiative by the U.S. Department of Justice to bring 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.
Pass Christian Man Pleads Guilty to Trafficking over 100 Pounds of Pure MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss – Aaron Conrad Whavers, 50, of Pass Christian, pled guilty today before Senior U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr. to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, Special Agent in Charge Michelle A. Sutphin of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics Director Steve Maxwell.
“I commend our federal and state partners for their incredible work in catching this drug dealer and seizing these massive quantities of illegal drugs, saving countless lives in the process. We will continue this important work with our partners in battling the scourge of meth, fentanyl and other illegal narcotics that destroy lives, tear apart families, and kill our people every single day,” said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
“Working in partnership with local, state, and federal authorities to improve the quality of life for the citizens of Mississippi is a priority for MBN,” said Colonel Steven Maxwell, Director of the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics. “Thus, the removal of drug traffickers and violent offenders from our businesses and residential communities is imperative."
"Partnerships between law enforcement agencies is essential to identify, investigate and prosecute the illegal distribution of narcotics," said FBI Special Agent in Charge Sutphin. "Criminal activity has no place in our society, and law enforcement throughout Mississippi will continue working together to make our communities safer."
Whavers was arrested November 4, 2019, at his home in Pass Christian following an investigation into methamphetamine trafficking from California to Mississippi. Starting in July 2019, during an investigation by Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics and FBI Safe Streets Task Force, agents seized approximately 3 kilograms of pure methamphetamine in Pascagoula. In August, agents purchased approximately 3 kilograms of pure methamphetamine in Pass Christian. In November, agents learned the source of supply had traveled to Mississippi from California at which time they executed search warrants on Whavers’ home and a tractor trailer. They recovered over 37 kilograms of methamphetamine, 988 grams of fentanyl and a hand gun. The DEA lab confirmed most of the methamphetamine was 100% pure.
Whavers faces not less than 10 years or up to life in prison. He further faces fines up to $10,000,000 and at least 5 years of supervised release. Sentencing is set for January 5, 2021, at 1:30 PM.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation Safe Streets Task Force and the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics investigated the case. The FBI Safe Streets Task Force is a Gulf Coast High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) initiative and receives funding from the Office of National Drug Control Policy in Washington, D.C. It is made up of Special Agents from the FBI and law enforcement officers from the Pascagoula, Moss Point, Gautier and Ocean Springs Police Departments, Jackson County Sheriff's Office, MBN, and U.S. Border Patrol. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Annette Williams.
U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, ATF, Hattiesburg Police Department, Forrest County Sheriff’s Office, and Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics and Others Announce Significant Operation in Pine Belt Under Project EjectRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss. – This week, federal, state and local law enforcement in the Pine Belt executed arrest warrants in and around Hattiesburg and Forrest County, including a number of individuals indicted and arrested on federal criminal charges.
Over the past year, under the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Project EJECT and led by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew W. Eichner, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (“ATF”), the Hattiesburg Police Department, the Lamar County Sheriff’s Office, Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Forrest County Sheriff’s Office, the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics and others have focused investigations on career criminal offenders, armed narcotics traffickers, and documented gang members in and around Hattiesburg and throughout Forrest County. These investigations involved controlled purchases of illegal narcotics, targeted follow ups and interviews driven by and based upon intelligence and evidence gathered, and coordination amongst prosecutors and officers to prioritize and marshal resources towards the worst criminal offenders throughout the Pine Belt.
“Under Project EJECT, we are taking drug dealers and violent criminals off our streets and making our communities safer. Today’s announcement of the indictment and arrest of 7 prominent drug dealers in the Pine Belt is a result of the important work that these brave men and women in law enforcement have been doing to clean up our streets, make our neighborhoods safe, and protect our citizens. I want to thank our agents, officers, deputies and prosecutors for their hard work in bringing these criminals to justice,” said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
”ATF remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners to remove violent drug dealers from our communities,” said ATF New Orleans Field Division Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn. “We are proud to be a member of Project EJECT and will continue to do our part to help reduce firearm violence.”
“U.S. Attorney, Mike Hurst, you and your staff have been a tremendous asset in our crime reduction plan. Through Project EJECT you have helped us remove some of the most violent offenders from the streets of Hattiesburg. I want to thank, U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and staff, by combining our resources as a team, it provides us an avenue for continued success in our fight against crime,” said Hattiesburg Police Department Chief Anthony Parker.
“Today’s arrests are a culmination of hard work, collaboration, and cooperation between multiple agencies to make our communities safer. Crime and drugs have no jurisdictional boundaries and coordinated efforts and information sharing always produces superior results. I want to personally thank all of the agencies involved for a successful operation,” said Charlie Sims, Forrest County Sherriff.
“Working in partnership with local, state, and federal authorities to improve the quality of life for the citizens of Mississippi is a priority for MBN,” said Colonel Steven Maxwell, Director of the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics. “Thus, the removal of drug traffickers and violent offenders from our businesses and residential communities is imperative."
This collaborative effort has resulted in the indictment by the U.S. Attorney’s Office of 7 defendants on federal drug charges, one of whom has already pled guilty.
- In January 2020, Shane Ware trafficked over 200 grams of methamphetamine with 100% purity into Hattiesburg.
- On two separate occasions in January 2020, Bradford Mark sold almost half a kilogram of methamphetamine with purity levels ranging up to almost 90%.
- In February 2020, Alfred Richards sold over 100 grams of methamphetamine in Hattiesburg with 99% purity.
- On two separate occasions in February 2020, Demetric Evans sold a total of over 200 grams of methamphetamine with 100% purity.
- On two separate occasions in March 2020, Kevin Taylor trafficked almost half a kilogram of methamphetamine into Hattiesburg, which was 99% pure, extremely deadly.
- Earlier this year, Amos Blanks was indicted federal for having trafficked meth in Hattiesburg in 2017 and 2019. Mr. Blanks pled guilty to one count of methamphetamine trafficking on July 23, 2020 and will be sentenced before Senior U.S. District Judge Keith Starrett on November 18, 2020 at 9:30 am.
- Georgio R. Scott was indicted for being a felon in possession of ammunition.
These cases are a 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.
Owner of Tax Preparation Business Sentenced to Prison for Filing False ReturnsRead the Press Release
A former Gulfport, Mississippi, tax return preparer was sentenced to 46 months in prison today for aiding and assisting in the preparation of false returns, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst for the Southern District of Mississippi.
According to documents and information provided to the court, Alvin Mays owned and operated City Tax Service, a return preparation business in the Gulfport, Mississippi, area. From 2012 through 2017, Mays prepared – and trained his employees to prepare – false tax returns. To fraudulently inflate client refunds, the returns claimed false education credits and losses from fictitious business. Mays charged his clients exorbitant preparation fees, sometimes as high as $1,600 per return. In all, Mays’s conduct caused a tax loss to the United States of more than $900,000.
In addition to the term of imprisonment, U.S. District Judge Halil S. Ozerden ordered Mays to serve one year of supervised release and to pay $321,605 in restitution to the United States.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and U.S. Attorney Hurst thanked special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Trial Attorney Kevin Schneider of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Stanley Harris, who prosecuted the case.
Illegal Alien from Mexico Sentenced to over 16 Years in Prison for Drug Conspiracy Involving Drugs Sold Near Children’s HospitalRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Edgar Leonel Soto-Leon, 32, an illegal alien from Mexico, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Henry T. Wingate to serve 195 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for conspiracy to distribute 2.6 pounds of methamphetamine and 2.1 pounds of heroin, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Brad L. Byerley, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
In May, 2019, Soto-Leon and his co-defendant Matthew Williams, reached an agreement to distribute heroin and methamphetamine. To assist Soto-Leon, Williams made contact with one or more individuals in order to find a buyer for illegal drugs in the possession of Soto-Leon. Through these contacts by Williams, a buyer was identified. Williams spoke directly to the buyer and stated that Soto-Leon was in possession of approximately 3 pounds of methamphetamine known as “ICE” and one kilogram of heroin that he was trying to sell. Williams connected the buyer to Soto-Leon, who began communicating directly with the buyer. Soto-Leon and the buyer reached an agreement on the price for all of the methamphetamine and heroin.
Unknown to either Williams or Soto-Leon, the buyer was actually an undercover agent.
On May 2, 2019, Soto-Leon and the buyer met at a location near the Blair E. Batson Hospital in Jackson where Soto-Leon provided the buyer with methamphetamine and heroin. Williams had assisted the buyer and Soto-Leon by giving them directions to the place where they met. Lab tests later confirmed that Soto-Leon had provided 414.7 grams of methamphetamine which was 99% pure and 424.2 grams of heroin.
On May 3, 2019, Soto-Leon and the buyer met again at a location in Pearl, Mississippi, where Soto-Leon again gave the buyer methamphetamine and heroin. Lab tests later confirmed that Soto-Leon had provided 772.4 grams of methamphetamine which was 98% pure and two containers of heroin containing 344.6 grams heroin and 228.8 grams of heroin. Once the second batch of controlled substances were given to the buyer, law enforcement immediately arrested Soto-Leon. Williams was arrested a few days later.
In total, Soto-Leon and Williams conspired to sell and sold 2.6 pounds of methamphetamine and 2.1 pounds of heroin to the undercover DEA officer. The methamphetamine sold is a type of methamphetamine known as “ICE” due to its purity.
The defendants were indicted and both pled guilty before Judge Wingate on October 18, 2019. Williams was sentenced by Judge Wingate on July 2, 2020 to 146 months in prison.
The case was investigated by the DEA, the Hinds County Sheriff’s Department, the Jones County Sheriff’s Department, the Pearl Police Department, and the Richland Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dave Fulcher.
Petal Man Pleads Guilty to Role in 2016 Killing at Hattiesburg Mugshots RestaurantRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss. – James Windham, 24, of Petal, pled guilty today before Senior U.S. District Court Judge Keith Starrett to aiding and abetting the carrying and use of 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, Windham and a co-defendant met with a third party at a Hattiesburg Mugshots restaurant in order to sell two ounces of marijuana. Windham brought his co-defendant along as an armed enforcer and as backup in case the drug deal turned sour. During the drug transaction, at least one firearm was discharged between Windham and his co-defendant, resulting in multiple rounds being fired and, ultimately, the death of the third party.
Following the shooting, Windham and his co-defendant 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 the Hattiesburg Police Department, the marijuana and all firearms were recovered shortly after the shooting.
Windham and his co-defendant were charged in a federal criminal indictment on June 25, 2019. Windham will be sentenced by Judge Starrett on January 12, 2021 at 9:30 a.m. He faces a minimum of ten years and a maximum of life in prison.
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 Task Force, 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.
Pearl River County Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Nathanael Cecil Hall, III, 38, of Pearl River County, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to 6 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for failing to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA), also known as the Adam Walsh Act, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and U.S. Marshal Mark Shepherd for the Southern District of Mississippi. Hall was also ordered to pay a $3100 fine and special assessment. Hall pled guilty before Judge Ozerden on June 18, 2020.
In 2006, Hall was convicted of “Possession of Photographs, Film or other Representation that Knowingly Includes Sexual Conduct of a Child” in Hillsborough County, Florida. As part of his sentence, Hall was required to register as a sex offender. He also was required to notify/register with Florida officials if he moved away from the State of Florida.
In March 2020, Hall, did not appear in person for his scheduled sex offender registration in Florida. In April 2020, the U.S. Marshals obtained information showing Hall had been in Picayune, Mississippi, during January and February 2020. On May 8, 2020, the United States Marshal’s Service Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force arrested Hall in Picayune.
U.S. Attorney Hurst commended the coordinated investigation conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service, the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, the Pearl River County Sheriff’s Department, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Department in Florida. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan Harris.
Moss Point Man Sentenced to 7 Years in Prison for Brandishing a Firearm During RobberyRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss – Travis Marshawn Jones, Jr., 20, of Moss Point, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to 84 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for brandishing a weapon in connection with a crime of violence, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
On January 7, 2020, Jones attempted an armed robbery of a Hardees Restaurant in Pascagoula, Mississippi. After Pascagoula Police officers responded to the robbery, Jones was taken into custody without incident.
Jones was charged in a federal criminal indictment and pled guilty before Judge Ozerden on June 18, 2020.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John Meynardie.
Louisiana Man Sentenced to 3 Years in Prison for Conspiracy to Commit Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Joseph L. Wiley, II, 51, of West Monroe, Louisiana, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Keith Starrett to 36 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to commit health care fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, Special Agent in Charge Michelle Sutphin with the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi, Acting Special Agent in Charge Andrew M. Thornton of IRS Criminal Investigation’s New Orleans Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Cynthia Bruce of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service’s Southeast Field Office, and Director Steven Maxwell with the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics.
Wiley was also ordered to pay a $500,000 fine and forfeit $300,000 to the government.
In April 2019, Wiley pled guilty to helping Mississippi pharmacies submit millions worth of fraudulent claims to government health care programs through the use of his business, Affordable Medication Solutions, LLC (AMS). Wiley used AMS to create a program that allowed compound pharmacies to provide healthcare benefit programs documents showing co-payments had been paid on prescription medications when in fact, AMS did not make payments to the pharmacies for the co-payments. When a few of the compound pharmacies were audited, Wiley assisted those pharmacies by providing fictitious documents, including explanations of benefits and fake checks. Through AMS, Wiley facilitated the concealment of at least $56 million in fraudulent billings to health care benefit programs.
This case was investigated by FBI’s Jackson Field Office, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Defense Criminal Investigation Service, and the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics. It was prosecuted by Assistant Chief Dustin M. Davis and Trial Attorney Sara E. Porter and Katherine Payerle of the DOJ Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathlyn R. Van Buskirk of the Southern District of Mississippi.
Jefferson Davis County Man Sentenced to over 10 Years in Prison for Drug DistributionRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss – Melvin “Dogman” Fairman, 36, of Prentiss, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Keith Starrett to 121 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Brad Byerley with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Judge Starrett also ordered Fairman to pay a $9,000 fine.
On July 11, 2019, Fairman sold almost a half kilogram of methamphetamine in Jefferson Davis County, Mississippi for $3,300. The methamphetamine was sent to the DEA laboratory in Miami, Florida where the results revealed the methamphetamine was 89% pure.
Fairman pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine before Judge Starrett on June 22, 2020.
The case was investigated by the DEA and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shundral H. Cole.
Jackson County Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison for Dealing in Firearms Without a LicenseRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Waso Nam Flanagan, 53, of Jackson County, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to 60 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for dealing in firearms without a license, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, and Special Agent-in-Charge Kurt Thielhorn with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). Flanagan was also ordered to pay $3100 fine and special assessment as well as $220 in restitution.
Flanagan pled guilty before Judge Ozerden on June 15, 2020.
On September 27, 2019, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office investigators arrested Flanagan on an outstanding felony warrant for possession of stolen firearms. Flanagan was on bond for an aggravated assault charge at the time. When investigators found and arrested Flanagan, they also found baggies of marijuana and methamphetamine.
The ATF adopted the case for federal prosecution and determined that Flanagan, who was a regular user of narcotics, had been selling firearms and drugs. Flanagan used multiple pawn shops in Jackson and Harrison counties to pawn or sell firearms he bought “off of the street,” and the ATF learned that two of the firearms he purchased on the street, and then sold, had been stolen.
ATF examined firearms pawned by Flanagan to local area pawn shops. When Flanagan pawned firearms, he did not go back to redeem the pawns and was effectively selling the firearms. ATF also obtained transaction documents and, determined that the firearms had traveled in interstate commerce, and were in good condition. The ATF also researched official records and confirmed that Flanagan had never had a license to deal in firearms.
U.S. Attorney Hurst praised the cooperation of the ATF and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant United States Attorney Stan Harris was the prosecutor for the case.
Gulfport Man Sentenced to over 15 years in Prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss – Xzavier Earl Damon Wilson, 24, of Gulfport, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr., 188 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Kurt Theilhorn, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Wilson was also ordered to pay a $5,000 fine and forfeit two firearms.
The Harrison County Sheriff’s Department Narcotics Unit was investigating a heroin overdose and received information that Wilson was the source of supply. On September 30, 2019, during a traffic stop of Wilson, deputies found 55.15 grams of 100% pure Methamphetamine, a small amount of marijuana and a Schedule I controlled substance, synthetic cannabinoid. A search of a car belonging to Wilson produced 27.873 grams of Heroin and 375.9 grams of pure Methamphetamine.
Wilson was charged in a federal criminal indictment and pled guilty before Judge Guirola on June 25, 2020.
The Harrison County Sheriff’s Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Annette Williams.
Covington County Felon Sentenced to 16 Months in Prison Under Project EJECT for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss. – Alexander Knight, 32, of Seminary, was sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Court Judge Keith Starrett to 16 months in prison, a $3000 fine, and three years of supervised release for being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Michelle A. Sutphin with the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi.
On November 19, 2019, during the execution of an arrest warrant for Knight, Covington County Sheriff’s deputies and members of the U.S. Marshal’s Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force found a firearm on Knight’s person. Following his arrest, but before the execution of the warrant associated with his federal indictment, Knight also managed to escape the Covington County Jail with two other inmates. He remained at large for more than two weeks before being recaptured and transferred into federal custody.
Knight was originally indicted for this offense on January 29, 2020. He pled guilty on June 10, 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 Covington County Sheriff’s Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew W. Eichner.
Texas Woman Sentenced to over Nine Years in Prison for Trafficking over 3 Kilograms of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss – Courtney Lynell Johnson, 29, of Houston, Texas, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to 115 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Brad Byerley with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Judge Ozerden also ordered Johnson to pay a $5,000 fine.
On October 21, 2019, a Harrison County Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Johnson near the 45 mile marker of I-10 east bound. Upon questioning, Johnson stated that she was driving from Houston, Texas to pick up her sister in Gautier, Mississippi. A number of other incidents and factors made law enforcement suspicious, and the deputy subsequently asked Johnson for permission to search the vehicle. Johnson agreed and gave consent. A duffle bag, which Johnson claimed ownership of, was located in the trunk. A subsequent search of the bag’s contents revealed 100% pure methamphetamine (ICE) weighing 3,001.6 grams.
Johnson was arrested, advised of her Miranda rights, and agreed to answer questions. DEA agents learned that Johnson was transporting the methamphetamine from the Houston, Texas area to Gautier, Mississippi.
Johnson was charged in a federal criminal indictment and pled guilty before Judge Ozerden on February 28, 2020.
The case was investigated by the DEA and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shundral H. Cole.
Department of Justice Announces over $6 Million in Grant Funding to Assist Victims of Domestic and Sexual Violence in MississippiRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – U.S. Attorneys Mike Hurst of the Southern District of Mississippi and William C. “Chad” Lamar of the Northern District of Mississippi announced today that Justice Department’s Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) will direct over $6 million in grant funding to Mississippi to bolster efforts throughout the state to curb domestic violence.
With domestic violence continuing to proliferate throughout Mississippi, affecting not only victims but also their families and friends, U.S. Attorney Hurst is also announcing a new initiative entitled “Operation Pheonecia,” in honor of a local victim of domestic violence, Pheonecia Ratliff of Canton, Mississippi, to combat this growing threat.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men will experience physical violence by their intimate partner at some point during their lifetimes. About 1 in 3 women and nearly 1 in 6 men experience some form of sexual violence during their lifetimes. Intimate partner violence, sexual violence, and stalking are high, with intimate partner violence occurring in over 10 million people each year.
“These grants will help victims escape abuse, seek justice, and rebuild their lives,” said OVW Principal Deputy Director Laura Rogers. OVW’s current and forthcoming investments in Mississippi foster coordinated responses to violence against women, making resources available to local and tribal communities for investigation and prosecution, transitional housing, and culturally specific victim services, and training for professionals who respond to these crimes.
“Today, we are recommitting to do even more to combat the scourge that is domestic violence. These grants and Operation Pheonecia will go a long way in making our homes, our families and our communities safer,” said U.S. Attorney Hurst. “By bringing together law enforcement, victim advocates, our courts, attorneys, and the general public, we can effectively fight domestic violence and get victims the help they so desperately need.”
“There are far too many Mississippians and Americans who fall victim to domestic violence at the hands of an intimate partner, family member or parent. For many of these victims, home is a place for fear and pain rather than a refuge or safe place. Our office is committed to working alongside state and local partners to combat this problem and these grants will significantly aid in ongoing efforts to combat domestic violence across our state and nation,” remarked U.S. Attorney Lamar.
I. Grant Awards
Among the more than $6 million in awards that will be issued to organizations and government agencies in Mississippi are:
- The Mississippi State Department of Health will receive $2,271,297 in formula funds to support law enforcement, prosecutors, victim services providers, and courts in working collaboratively to respond to domestic and sexual violence.
- The Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians is receiving four awards, totaling $2,149,722, to: fund a cross-deputized tribal prosecutor to pursue cases involving domestic violence, sexual assault, and other serious crimes in tribal court, federal court, or both; bolster coordinated community responses to violence against women; strengthen the tribal criminal justice system in preparation for exercising special domestic violence criminal jurisdiction under the Violence Against Women Act; and provide services specifically for sexual assault victims.
- The Mississippi Coalition Against Sexual Assault is receiving $152,345, and the Mississippi Coalition Against Domestic Violence is receiving $91,274, to coordinate victim services and training, and collaborate with federal, state, and local entities across the state.
- The Mississippi Coalition Against Sexual Assault is also being awarded an additional $500,000 to provide training and technical assistance to colleges and universities throughout the nation to address violence against women on campus.
- Care Lodge Domestic Violence Shelter, Inc., in Meridian, is receiving a grant of $550,000 to provide transitional housing for domestic violence victims.
- Our House, Inc., in Greenville, is receiving $288,300 to provide services tailored to the needs of Black survivors of sexual assault in rural areas.
Mississippi’s grant recipients will also have access to training and technical assistance to help them implement effective strategies for keeping victims safe and holding offenders accountable. One example is OVW’s Stalking Prevention, Awareness, and Resource Center, a project of the Washington, DC-based Aequitas: The Prosecutor’s Resource on Violence Against Women, which is receiving $1.5 million this year to continue providing training and other resources to law enforcement, prosecutors, and victim services providers to combat stalking. Stalking is a crime that often occurs alongside domestic violence and is associated with a higher risk of domestic violence-related homicide, so equipping justice and victim services professionals with tools for responding to stalking can help them reach victims before it is too late.
II. "Operation Pheonecia”
Named in honor of Pheonecia Ratliff of Canton, Mississippi, who lost her life on May 14, 2020, due to domestic violence, “Operation Pheonecia” is a new initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi to directly combat domestic violence with the intent to prevent harm and loss of life before they occur. The presence of a gun in a domestic violence situation increases the risk of homicide by 500%, and with intimate partner violence accounting for 15% of all violent crime and with almost 20% of domestic violence incidents involving a weapon, the U.S. Attorney’s Office knew it had to act.
Under this initiative, and by working with federal, state and local law enforcement and nonprofit entities, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is making the investigation and prosecution of federal domestic violence crimes a priority. In addition, “Operation Pheonecia” will involve a campaign to put domestic abusers on notice of their prohibition to possessing firearms, train law enforcement on how to investigate federal domestic violence crimes, provide education for local judges as to the impact of their orders on potential federal criminal prosecutions, and bring awareness to local bar associations and the public on how to report domestic violence crimes to and work with federal authorities, with the overarching goal to reduce domestic violence, save lives and assist victims.
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The Office of Justice Programs provides federal leadership in developing the nation’s capacity to prevent and control crime, administer justice and assist victims. OJP has six bureaus and offices: the Bureau of Justice Assistance; the Bureau of Justice Statistics; the National Institute of Justice; the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention; the Office for Victims of Crime; and the Office of Sex Offender Sentencing, Monitoring, Apprehending, Registering and Tracking. More information about OJP and its components can be found at: www.ojp.gov.
The Office on Violence Against Women provides federal leadership in developing the national capacity to reduce violence against women and administer justice for and strengthen services to victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking.
Anyone affected by abuse and wishes to seek support should please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text LOVEIS to 22522.
Jackson Man Sentenced to 30 Months in Federal Prison under Project EJECT for Illegally Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Donald Lewis, 43, of Jackson, was sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Judge David C. Bramlette III to 30 months in federal prison, followed by three 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. Lewis was also ordered to pay a $1,500 fine.
Lewis was previously convicted of aggravated assault with a weapon in Hinds County in 1996. On August 28, 2018, in responding to a complaint from a local convenience store, officers observed Lewis with a firearm.
A superseding indictment was filed in his case on July 24, 2019. Lewis pled guilty before Judge Bramlette on June 4, 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Jackson Police Department investigated the case. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew W. Eichner.
U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst Announces Almost $1.5 Million in Awards to Improve School Safety in the Southern District of MississippiRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst announced today that the Holmes County Consolidated School District, the Pearl River County School District, and the Covington County School District received awards totaling $1,475,000 from the Department of Justice’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP). Nationally, the COPS Office SVPP awarded nearly $50 million in school safety funding. SVPP provides up to 75% funding for school safety measures in and around primary and secondary schools and school grounds.
“Protecting the most vulnerable among us is one of the most sacred and solemn responsibilities that we have. Personally, as a father, I am excited to see these awards to our school districts, as it demonstrates our continuing commitment in the Department of Justice to invest in the protection of our schools and the safety of our children,” said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
“With the new school year underway, the safety of our nation’s students remains paramount,” said COPS Office Director Phil Keith. “Although this school year may look different at the start, now is the ideal time to make preparations to enhance school safety for when all of our children are back in the classroom.”
Holmes County Consolidated School District and the Pearl River County School District each received $500,000, while the Covington County School District received $475,805. The three awards announced today can be used for coordination with law enforcement; training for local law enforcement officers to prevent student violence; metal detectors, locks, lighting, and other deterrent measures; technology for expedited notification of local law enforcement during an emergency; and other measures that provide a significant improvement in security. The full list of SVPP awards can be found here: https://cops.usdoj.gov/pdf/2020AwardDocs/svpp/Award_List.pdf.
The Students, Teachers, and Officers Preventing School Violence Act of 2018 (STOP School Violence Act of 2018) gave the COPS Office authority to provide awards directly to states, units of local government, Indian tribes, and public agencies (such as school districts and law enforcement agencies) to improve security at schools and on school grounds in the jurisdiction of the grantee through evidence-based school safety programs.
In addition to the school safety grants announced today, the COPS Office School Safety Working Group, which is composed of representatives from eight national law enforcement organizations, has identified 10 essential actions that can be taken by schools, school districts, and law enforcement agencies to help prevent critical incidents involving the loss of life or injuries in our nation's schools and to respond rapidly and effectively when incidents do occur. The Ten Essential Actions to Improve School Safety are applicable to school shootings as well as to other areas of school safety, including natural disasters and traumatic events such as student suicide. Adopting policies and practices based on the recommendations in this publication can help make school communities safer and save lives.
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The COPS Office is the federal component of the Department of Justice responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. Since 1994, the COPS Office has invested more than $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of more than 134,000 officers and provide a variety of knowledge resource products including publications, training and technical assistance.
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.
Vicksburg Man Pleads Guilty to Making False Statements in an Attempt to Purchase a FirearmRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss – Dvonte Amir King, 23, of Vicksburg, pleaded guilty today before Senior U.S. District Court Judge Tom S. Lee to making a false statement to a licensed firearms dealer and putting false information on an official form while attempting to purchase a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Kirk Thielhorn, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives in New Orleans.
On June 4, 2018, King attempted to purchase a firearm from a local Vicksburg retailer. King filled out and signed ATF Form 4473, the standard form for background checks. On the form, King marked that he had never been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, whereas in truth and in fact, he had been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence. Approximately six months prior, on November 28, 2017, King had pled guilty to misdemeanor domestic assault in the Municipal Court of the City of Vicksburg. Persons convicted of misdemeanor crimes of domestic violence are prohibited from purchasing firearms under federal law and it is a federal offense to put false information on the firearm form.
King will be sentenced on November 19, 2020, at 9:00 a.m. by Judge Lee. He faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Bert Carraway.
Tennessee Attorney Charged with Conspiracy, Federal Bribery, and Interstate Transportation in aid of BriberyRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Errol Harmon, 47, of Memphis, Tennessee, has been charged in a federal indictment with conspiracy, bribery, and interstate transportation in aid of bribery, announced United States Attorney Mike Hurst, Michelle A. Sutphin, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi, Special Agent in Charge Neil Sanchez with the U.S. Department of Education, Office of the Inspector General, and Mississippi State Auditor Shad White.
The indictment, returned by a federal grand jury on August 25, 2020, and unsealed by the federal court on September 9, 2020, alleges that Errol Harmon, a Tennessee attorney, conspired with Cerissa Renfroe Neal, the former Executive Director of the Mississippi Department of Education (“MDOE”), to defraud the State of Mississippi and the United States, along with three Tennessee businessmen, Joseph B. Kyles, David B. Hunt, and Lambert Martin. Neal, Hunt, Kyles, and Martin have all been separately indicted and charged with federal crimes for their roles in the scheme, in which Neal used her position in the Mississippi Department of Education to steer contract awards to Kyles and his co-conspirators’ companies in return for bribery and kickbacks paid to Neal.
According to the indictment, Cerissa Neal was the Executive Director of the Mississippi Department of Education during 2013-2016, when she conspired with Kyles, Harmon and the two other conspirators, to defraud the State of Mississippi and the United States by bid-rigging, false quotes, and altered purchase orders, in order to make money and profit by defrauding the Mississippi Department of Education into awarding contracts and purchase orders at inflated prices, directed to co-conspirators and their businesses.
The indictment alleges that Neal, using her position within the Mississippi Department of Education, would split contract requests from one contract into multiple, smaller contracts, in order to avoid threshold amounts that would trigger a formal, competitive bidding process. Neal would entertain and advocate for a bid for the contract from one of the three conspirators’ businesses, including The Kyles Company in Memphis, Tennessee (Joseph Kyles), Doc Imaging (also d/b/a as “Hunt Services”) in Jackson, Tennessee (David Hunt), and Educational Awareness in Memphis, Tennessee (Lambert Martin). To meet the Department of Education requirement that such an informal bid have at least two competing vendor quotes for comparison, Neal would obtain false and inflated quotes, by herself and from the other co-conspirators, designed to make the intended co-conspirator’s business the lower bid, and to guarantee the award of the contract.
The indictment alleges that conspirators coordinated their submissions to the Department of Education as well as the sharing of the resulting contract payments. After the Department of Education made payment on the rigged contract to the co-conspirator-owned business, the winning bidder shared some of the money with co-conspirators, in return for their assistance in rigging the bid and winning the Department of Education contract. Kyles, Hunt, and Martin, through their respective businesses, garnered over $650,000 from the State of Mississippi, including federal funds granted by the U.S. Department of Education to Mississippi.
As alleged in the indictment, Errol Harmon’s role in the scheme was to receive money from Kyles and convey that money as payments to Neal. In multiple instances, Kyles gave cash or wrote a check to Harmon. On or about the same day, Harmon then wrote a check to Neal for substantially the same sum and caused that check to be delivered to Neal. In this manner, Neal received more than $42,000 directly or indirectly from her co-conspirators.
Harmon will appear for arraignment September 24, 2020, before United States Magistrate Judge Linda Anderson in Jackson at 1:30 p.m. Neal, Hunt, Kyles and Martin have each appeared in court for arraignment earlier in August and September, and were all released on conditions of bond pending trial.
If convicted, Harmon faces maximum penalties of 5 years in prison for the count of conspiracy, 10 years in prison for the count of bribery, and 5 years in prison for the count of interstate transport in aid of bribery. Each count also can merit a fine of up to $250,000.
The case has been assigned to Senior U.S. District Judge David C. Bramlette III for trial.
U.S. Attorney Hurst commended the work of the Special Agents with the FBI’s Jackson Division and with the Office of the Inspector General, United States Department of Education, the Mississippi Auditor’s Office and the Mississippi State Attorney General’s Office, 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.
Former Executive Director and Three Contractors of the Mississippi Department of Education Charged with Conspiracy, Federal Bribery, Wire Fraud and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Cerissa Renfroe Neal, 45, of Madison County, David B. Hunt, 54, of Jackson, Tennessee, Joseph Kyles, 51, of Memphis, Tennessee, and Lambert Martin, 59, of Memphis, Tennessee, have been charged in a federal indictment with conspiracy, wire fraud, money laundering and bribery, announced United States Attorney Mike Hurst, Special Agent in Charge Michelle A. Sutphin with the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi, Special Agent in Charge Neil E. Sanchez with the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Inspector General, and Mississippi State Auditor Shad White.
The indictment, returned by a federal grand jury on February 25, 2020, and recently unsealed by a federal court, charges Cerissa Renfroe Neal, the former Executive Director of the Mississippi Department of Education (“MDOE”), along with her co-defendants Joseph B. Kyles, David B. Hunt, and Lambert Martin, with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and seven counts of wire fraud. The indictment also charges Neal and Kyles with one count of money laundering. Finally, Neal and Kyles are each also charged with three counts of bribery.
“Those who defraud the public’s trust will find themselves standing before a court of law to answer for their wrongs. Public corruption erodes faith in our democracy and decays the very soul of our form of government. Bringing to justice corrupt public officials has always been and remains a high priority of this office, and a personal mission of mine, and we will continue to pursue corruption wherever it may lead,” said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
According to the indictment, Cerissa Neal was the Executive Director of the Mississippi Department of Education during 2013-2016, when she conspired with the three named defendants and other conspirators, to defraud the State of Mississippi and the United States by bid-rigging, false quotes, and altered purchase orders, in order to make money and profit by defrauding the Mississippi Department of Education into awarding contracts and purchase orders at inflated prices, directed to conspirators and their businesses.
The indictment alleges that Neal, using her position within the Mississippi Department of Education, would split contract requests from one contract into multiple, smaller contracts, in order to avoid threshold amounts that would trigger a formal, competitive bidding process. Neal would entertain and advocate for a bid for the contract from one of the three conspirators’ businesses, including The Kyles Company in Memphis, Tennessee (Joseph Kyles), Doc Imaging (also d/b/a as “Hunt Services”) in Jackson, Tennessee (David Hunt), and Educational Awareness in Memphis, Tennessee (Lambert Martin). To meet the Department of Education requirement that such an informal bid have at least two competing vendor quotes for comparison, Neal would obtain false and inflated quotes, by herself and from the other conspirators, designed to make the intended conspirator’s business the lower bid, and to guarantee the award of the contract.
The indictment alleges that conspirators coordinated their submissions to the Department of Education as well as the sharing of the resulting contract payments. After the Department of Education made payment on the rigged contract to the conspirator-owned business, the winning bidder shared some of the money with conspirators, in return for their assistance in rigging the bid and winning the Department of Education contract. In this manner, Neal received more than $42,000 directly or indirectly from her conspirators. Kyles, Hunt, and Martin, through their respective businesses, garnered over $650,000 from the State of Mississippi, including federal funds granted by the U.S. Department of Education to Mississippi.
Hunt, Kyles and Martin will appear for arraignment September 10, 2020, before United States Magistrate Judge F. Keith Ball in Jackson at 2:30 p.m. Neal appeared in court for her arraignment on August 19, 2020, and was released on conditions of bond pending trial.
If convicted, each defendant faces maximum penalties of 20 years in prison for each count charged for conspiracy and wire fraud, and 10 years in prison for each count of money laundering and bribery. Each count also can merit a fine of up to $250,000.
The case has been assigned to Senior U.S. District Judge Tom S. Lee for trial.
U.S. Attorney Hurst commended the work of the Special Agents of the FBI’s Jackson Division and the Office of the Inspector General, United States Department of Education, as well as the Mississippi State Auditor’s Office and the Mississippi State Attorney General’s Office, 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.
Hattiesburg Felon Pleads Guilty under Project EJECT to Illegally Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss. – Michael Bounds, 30, of Hattiesburg, pled guilty today before Senior U.S. District Court Judge Keith Starrett to 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.
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 will be sentenced on December 8, 2020 at 9:45 a.m.
The Hattiesburg Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives 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.
Gulf Coast Business Owner Pleads Guilty to Illegal Interstate Seafood ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. - Khiem Dinh Vh, 56, of D’Iberville, Mississippi, an unlicensed wholesale seafood dealer who operated a business known as “Gulf Coast Seafood” in Jackson County, pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act, which makes it unlawful to sell in interstate commerce any fish taken in violation of state law, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, Deputy Special Agent in Charge Manny Antonaras of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and Acting Chief Kyle Wilkerson of the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources, Office of Marine Patrol.
Vu made his initial appearance and waived indictment earlier today before the Honorable Robert P. Myers, Jr., United States Magistrate Judge, at the federal courthouse in Gulfport.
Pursuant to the Criminal Information, Vu pled guilty to conspiring to violate the Lacey Act by selling fish to seafood markets in the Atlanta, Georgia metropolitan area. Vu bought the seafood from commercial fishermen and other seafood dealers in Biloxi and Pass Christian, and then transported the seafood to the Atlanta area for resale without having a wholesale seafood dealer license, as required by Mississippi law. As administered by the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources, Mississippi regulates the seafood industry to preserve fish stocks and protect the local fishing market.
For the conspiracy charges, Vu faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. He will be sentenced by Judge Ozerden on December 3, 2020 at 10:00 a.m.
United States Attorney Hurst praised the efforts of the federal and state investigative agencies for their diligent work in the investigation of this matter. The case was investigated by NOAA Office of Law Enforcement and Mississippi Department of Marine Resources, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Gaines Cleveland.
Meridian Man Pleads Guilty under Project EJECT to Illegal Possession of Multiple FirearmsRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Marquis Howard McNeely, 38, of Meridian, pled guilty today before U.S. Chief District Court Judge Daniel P. Jordan III to 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.
On July 24, 2019, at approximately 4:00 a.m., a Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Office deputy was on patrol on Highway 19 when the deputy encountered McNeely parked in the wrong lane of traffic. He was found to be intoxicated and he was placed under arrest. A search of McNeely’s vehicle found a stolen pistol. 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 is currently in custody and will be sentenced on November 20, 2020 by Judge Jordan. He faces a maximum penalty of ten years in prison and up to $250,000 in fines on each count.
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.
Illegal Alien Pleads Guilty to Fraud Regarding Identification DocumentsRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Darling Antonio Ordenana-Rosales, 24, an illegal alien from Nicaragua, pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to the crime of fraud regarding visas, permits, or other immigration document, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Gilbert Trill, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans.
On July 23, 2020, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Special Agent, who also is a Task Force Agent for Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), encountered Ordenana-Rosales working for a contractor at the Mississippi State Port at Gulfport. The federal agent was accompanied by another HSI Task Force Officer who also is a Harrison County Sheriff’s Office Deputy. It was determined that Ordenana-Rosales was fraudulently working under the name and Social Security Number of a U.S. Citizen from Puerto Rico.
With assistance from the contractor and the Port of Gulfport, HSI obtained a copy of the I-9 form and documents used by Ordenana-Rosales to gain employment. The I-9 form contained copies of a Social Security card and a Louisiana identification card. Both documents were found to be fraudulent. Ordenana-Rosales was arrested, and it was learned that he had illegally entered the U.S.
Ordenana-Rosales is scheduled to be sentenced on December 3, 2020 at 9:30 a.m. He faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release and up to a $250,000 fine.
U.S. Attorney Hurst commended the work and coordination of Homeland Security Investigations, Customs and Border Protection, the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office and the Port of Gulfport. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan Harris is the prosecutor for the case.
Harrison County Man Pleads Guilty to Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Mississippi – Casey Lee Gilmer, 34, of Harrison County, Mississippi pled guilty yesterday before Senior U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr. to being an unlawful user of a controlled substance in possession of firearms, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Kurt Thielhorn, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (“ATF”).
In September 2019, Gilmer took ten (10) firearms from a residence where he was working. Gilmer then pawned the firearms at multiple pawnshops located 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 original owner.
This case was investigated by Special Agents of the ATF and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan Buckner.
Pascagoula Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Walter Edward Bohl, 64, of Pascagoula, pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge Halil S. Ozerden, to knowingly possessing a firearm after having been committed to a mental institution, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Kurt Thielhorn, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
On May 20, 2020, when agents executed a federal search warrant at Bohl’s residence in Pascagoula, 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 possession a firearm as he had been previously committed to a mental institution.
Walter Edward Bohl was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 23, 2020. He will be sentenced by Judge Ozerden on November 30, 2020, at 10:00 a.m., in Gulfport. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The case was investigated by The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Jones.
Gulfport Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of a Firearm by an Unlawful Drug UserRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Johnathan Quarles, 25, of Gulfport, pled guilty today before U.S. District U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to one count of possession of a firearm by an unlawful user, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Michelle Sutphin, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi.
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. He told officers that he smokes 3-4 ounces of weed a day and that he has smoked regularly since he was 13 years old.
Quarles will be sentenced by Judge Ozerden on November 30, 2020 at 9:30 a.m. and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Erica Rose.
Four Southwest Mississippi Men Charged with 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, 27, of Brookhaven, have been charged in a criminal indictment by a federal grand jury with killing in excess of the legal limit of Kansas and Nebraska wild turkeys while unlicensed in those states, and transporting the wild turkeys across state lines to Mississippi, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Colonel Steve Adcock of the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP)
According to the indictment, in the spring of 2017 and 2018, 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.
The indictment also charges Kenneth R. Britt, Jr. with the federal felony of lying to a federal law enforcement officer, and Tony Grant Smith with killing red-shouldered hawks in violation of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
The defendants appeared for arraignment today before U.S. Magistrate Judge F. Keith Ball in Jackson. The case has been set for trial before Senior United States District Judge David C. Bramlette III on November 2, 2020.
If found guilty of all charges, Britt faces a total of 7 years in prison and a $450,000 fine; Smith faces a total of 2 years and 6 months in prison and a $215,000 fine; Bairfield faces a total of 3 years in prison and a $300,000 fine; and Treadway faces 1 year in prison and a $100,000 fine.
“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 MDWFP Colonel Steve Adcock.
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.
The public is reminded that the indictment is merely an allegation of wrongdoing and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Career Criminal Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss – Elbert James Carter, 38, of Bay St. Louis, was sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr. to 180 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Brad Byerley with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Judge Guirola also ordered Carter to pay a $3,500 fine.
Beginning in late 2017, DEA agents received information that Carter was involved in distributing methamphetamine in the McClain, Mississippi area. On June 21, 2018, an individual purchased 54.9 grams of methamphetamine from Carter for $1,000. The DEA Crime lab determined that the methamphetamine was 100% pure. On July 11, 2018, an individual purchased methamphetamine from Carter for $1,000. The DEA crime lab determined the methamphetamine weighed 52.5 grams and was 98% pure.
Carter was charged in a federal criminal indictment and pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine before Judge Guirola on January 28, 2020. Carter has two prior felony drug convictions and was sentenced as a career offender.
The case was investigated by the DEA and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shundral H. Cole.
Moss Point Man Sentenced to over 17 Years in Federal Prison under Project EJECT for Heroin and Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss – Raphael Donzell Johnson, Jr., 40, of Moss Point, was sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr, to 210 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute heroin and methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Michelle Sutphin with the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi. Johnson was also ordered to pay a $9,000 fine.
In May 2019, Johnson sold heroin and methamphetamine to an individual on two separate occasions. In June, agents executed a search warrant on Johnson’s home where they found over 400 grams of heroin, methamphetamine and two firearms.
Johnson was charged in a federal criminal indictment and pled guilty before Judge Guirola on January 29, 2020.
The Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Annette Williams.
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 from Honduras Sentenced for Human SmugglingRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Selvin Geovani Velazquez-Villanueva, 33, an illegal alien from Honduras, was sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr., to 24 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for smuggling other illegal aliens, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, and Gilbert Trill, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge of U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement's Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans.
On February 11, 2020, a Harrison County Sheriff’s Deputy was patrolling Interstate 10 and observed a Chevrolet Trailblazer driving recklessly. The deputy initiated a traffic stop of the vehicle and a U.S. Border Patrol Agent arrived on the scene to assist. The deputy and the Border Patrol Agent encountered the driver, Selvin Geovani Velazquez-Villanueva, and detected numerous signs of smuggling. They determined that Velazquez-Villanueva and his five passengers did not have proper documents to be legally in the U.S., and all vehicle occupants were transported to the Border Patrol station in Gulfport for processing.
Velazquez-Villanueva and each of his five passengers had their fingerprints scanned into a U.S. Department of Homeland Security computerized records database which automatically matches fingerprints from prior immigration encounters. Velazquez-Villanueva was positively identified as an adult alien to the United States, who had been previously deported or removed from the U.S. Additionally, three of his passengers were confirmed to be illegal aliens who had been previously deported or removed from the U.S. and had knowingly returned without lawful permission.
Velazquez-Villanueva pled guilty before Judge Guirola on June 10, 2020. The three previously-deported illegal alien passengers being smuggled by Velazquez-Villanueva pled guilty and were sentenced for unlawful return by an alien after removal: Martinez-Torres, 32, of Mexico, pled guilty on July 23, 2020, and was sentenced to “time served;” Gerver Gudiel Vicente-Perez, 23, of Guatemala, pled guilty on June 29, 2020, and was sentenced to “time served;” and Jonathan Alexander Zamora-Amaya, 21, of El Salvador, pled guilty on June 4, 2020 and was sentenced to “time served.” All three of the passengers were also sentenced to a term of 1 year of supervised release and will undergo Department of Homeland Security removal proceedings to remove them back to their home nations.
U.S. Attorney Hurst praised the cooperation exhibited by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the U.S. Border Patrol, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Harrison County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan Harris is the prosecutor for the case.
Harrison County Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison on Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss – Benjamin Joseph Butler, 39, of Gulfport, was sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr. to 60 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Kurt H. Thielhorn, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Butler was also ordered to pay a $5,000 fine.
Between August and October 2019, Butler sold marijuana to an individual on four separate occasions. Agents executed a search warrant on Butler’s home where they found marijuana, LSD, THC oil, Psilocybin mushroom, methamphetamine, 17 firearms, multi rounds of ammunition and two silencers.
Butler was charged in a federal criminal indictment and he pled guilty before Judge Guirola on June 4, 2020.
The Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Annette Williams.
Drug-Using Gang Member Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Joshual Tyrik Richburg, 21, of Biloxi, Mississippi, pled guilty today before U.S. District U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to one count of possession of a firearm by an unlawful user of a controlled substance, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and FBI Special-Agent-in-Charge Michelle Sutphin.
On September 20, 2019, Joshual Richburg sold a firearm to an individual. During the course of an investigation, it was determined that Richburg had been smoking marijuana every day for several years. Richburg is a known member of a local Biloxi gang that is part of the Gangster Disciples.
Richburg will be sentenced by Judge Ozerden on November 19, 2020 at 9:00 a.m. and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Erica Rose.
Petal Woman Sentenced to 12 Months for Theft or Receipt of Stolen MailRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss. – Angelia Dawn Sanford, 36, of Petal, Mississippi, was sentenced today by Senior U. S. District Judge Keith Starrett to serve 12 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for theft or receipt of stolen mail matter, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Inspector in Charge Chris Cave with the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General Southern Area Field Office. Sanford was also ordered to pay restitution to a victim and a $1,000 fine.
On April 3, 2017, Forrest County Sheriff’s Office investigators were executing a search warrant at the Petal residence of Sanford and co-defendant Booker Tallieferro Hilton. During the search, investigators recovered multiple pieces of mail matter not belonging to Sanford or Booker. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service was contacted and their investigation determined that the mail matter was stolen. Sanford and Booker also confessed to stealing the mail matter found at their residence.
A federal grand jury returned an indictment against Sanford and Hilton on July 24, 2019. Sanford pled guilty on May 12, 2020. Hilton pled guilty on June 17, 2020, and will be sentenced on September 24, 2020 at 11:15 a.m. by Judge Starrett in Hattiesburg. The maximum penalty faced by each defendant for Theft or Receipt of Stolen mail is not more than 5 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The case was investigated by the Forrest County Sheriff’s Office and the U. S. Postal Inspection Service. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Jones.
Hattiesburg Man Sentenced to over 4 Years in Prison Under Project EJECT for Violent Robbery of BusinessRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss. – D’Andre Garry, 23, of Hattiesburg, was sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Judge Keith Starrett to 50 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for committing Hobbs Act Robbery, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Garry was also ordered to pay a $3,250 fine.
On March 31, 2019, Garry and a criminal associate robbed a Family Dollar store located in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. As Garry’s associate held the cashier at gunpoint, Garry emptied the cash register. The robbery was captured by store surveillance and Garry was quickly apprehended by Hattiesburg Police Department officers.
Garry was indicted for this offense on September 25, 2019. He pled guilty before Judge Starrett on January 9, 2020.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Hattiesburg Police Department investigated the case. The case was 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.
Meridian Woman Sentenced Under Project EJECT for Making False Statements to Federal InvestigatorsRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Kadesha Dashanae Houston, 25, of Meridian, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Court Judge Daniel P. Jordan, III, to 36 months’ probation for making false statements to a federal officer during the course of a federal investigation, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Kurt Thielhorn, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
On March 22, 2019, the Meridian Police Department began investigating a case involving a convicted felon in possession of several pounds of marijuana and multiple firearms. During the course of the investigation, it was discovered that Kadesha Dashanae Houston had purchased one of the firearms, a Romarm/Cugir, Draco Model, 7.62x39mm caliber AR style pistol.
ATF agents became involved in the investigation and interviewed Houston in an attempt to find out how a firearm she purchased ended up in the possession of a convicted drug dealer just fifteen days after she purchased it. Houston gave false statements regarding who she purchased the firearm for and why she bought it. When given a chance to retract her false statements in light of other evidence gathered by the ATF, she maintained her false story. It was later discovered that Houston was in a romantic relationship with the convicted felon drug dealer. It is a felony crime to make false statements to a federal law enforcement officer during the course of a federal investigation.
Houston was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 6, 2019. She pled guilty before Judge Jordan on May 21, 2020.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and 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.
Biloxi Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing Firearm as Drug UserRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Anthony T. Smith, Jr., 20, of Biloxi, pled guilty today before U.S. District U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to one count of possession of a firearm by an unlawful drug user, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Michelle Sutphin of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Mississippi Field Office.
On December 26, 2019, Biloxi Police officers executed a search warrant on the Biloxi residence of Anthony Smith, Jr. Once inside the residence, the investigators made contact with Smith who was in a bedroom. They also found a large quantity of marijuana and three firearms, including one sawed-off shotgun. Smith was interviewed by investigators and asked about the large quantity of marijuana found in his bedroom. He admitted that he was a daily marijuana user and that he had been smoking every day for the last five to six years.
Anthony Smith, Jr. will be sentenced on November 19, 2020 by Judge Ozerden, and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The case was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Erica Rose.
Former Meridian Police Officer Charged Federally with ExtortionRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – A former member of the City of Meridian Police Department has been charged in a federal indictment with extortion under color of official right, announced United States Attorney Mike Hurst and Michelle A. Sutphin, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi.
The indictment returned by a federal grand jury on July 28, 2020, and unsealed today, charges former Meridian Police Officer Royric “Roy” Benamon, 27, with two counts of extortion under color of official right, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1951(a).
“Fighting public corruption is a top priority of this office, as our society is undermined when those in positions of power become corrupted and abuse the public trust for personal gain. We will continue to root out corrupt officials who endanger our communities and tarnish the reputation of our law enforcement who serve and protect us so honorably,” said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
According to the indictment, in April 2020, then-Officer Benamon on two separate occasions pulled over drivers in the middle of the night in Lauderdale County, and received from each of them cash payment in exchange for not issuing the driver a ticket. Benamon resigned from the Meridian Police Department immediately following public disclosure of the alleged incidents.
FBI Agents and Task Force Officers arrested Benamon on Wednesday without incident. Benamon appeared for arraignment today before United States Magistrate Judge Linda Anderson in Jackson. The Court released Benamon on bond, subject to conditions including that he refrain from violations of state or federal law while awaiting trial.
Trial has been set for October 5, 2020 before Chief U.S. District Judge Daniel P. Jordan, III in Jackson.
If convicted Benamon faces maximum penalties of 20 years in prison for each count charged for extortion under color of official right. Each count also can merit a 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 with assistance from the Mississippi Attorney General’s office. 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.
Managers, Supervisors, and Human Resource Personnel Indicted for Immigration Crimes and other Federal Crimes Stemming from Largest Single-State Worksite Enforcement Action in Nation’s HistoryRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, joined by Acting Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Matt Albence, ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New Orleans Acting Special Agent in Charge Gilbert Trill, and U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General Special Agent in Charge Rafiq Ahmad announced today the unsealing of indictments returned by a Federal Grand Jury in the Southern District of Mississippi against four individuals who were managers, supervisors, or human resources personnel at companies where criminal and administrative search warrants were executed in August 2019 and 680 illegal aliens were detained.
“This office has a successful history of prosecuting employers for violating our immigration laws, and today marks another step in ensuring that justice is fairly and impartially done, no matter the law-breaker. I want to thank our partners at ICE Homeland Security Investigations and our office’s federal prosecutors for doggedly pursuing these criminal violations. The indictments unsealed today mark the beginning, not the end, of our investigations and prosecutions. Rest assured that we will continue to pursue criminal wrongdoers and enforce our criminal laws wherever the evidence may take us,” said U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst.
“The results of this ongoing criminal investigation illustrate the importance of strong interior enforcement. The arrests made last year pursuant to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s execution of more than a dozen search warrants, have thus far yielded 126 indictments, 117 criminal arrests and 73 convictions. In total, more than 403 individuals falsified social security information in order to gain illegal employment in the United States,” said acting ICE deputy director and senior official performing the duties of the director Matthew T. Albence. “Companies who intentionally or knowingly base their business model on an illegal workforce deprive law abiding citizens and lawful immigrants of employment opportunities, which are especially critical as our economy looks to recover from the challenges faced by the COVID-19 pandemic. ICE Homeland Security Investigations will continue its commitment to uphold the laws Congress has passed. These laws protect jobs for the legal workforce, reduce incentives for illegal migration, and eliminate unequitable financial advantages for businesses employing illegal immigrants.”
INDICTMENT OF SALVADOR DELGADO-NIEVES OF A&B, INC.:
According to the indictment, Salvador Delgado-Nieves, 57, of Pelahatchie, Mississippi, was charged with three counts of harboring illegal aliens, three counts of assisting illegal aliens in falsely representing themselves to be United States citizens, three counts of assisting illegal aliens in obtaining false Social Security cards, and one count of making a false statement to law enforcement officials when he denied having hired illegal aliens at A&B, Inc. in Pelahatchie.
Delgado-Nieves faces up to 74 years in federal prison and $2.5 million in fines for these criminal violations, as Counts 1-6 carry a maximum of ten years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each violation, Counts 7-9 carry a maximum of three years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each count, and Count 10 carries a maximum of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
INDICTMENT OF IRIS VILLALON OF A&B, INC.:
According to the indictment, Iris Villalon, 44, of Ocean Springs, Mississippi, was indicted on one count of harboring an illegal alien, and one count of making false statements when she denied that she had hired illegal aliens for employment with A&B, Inc., in Pelahatchie, and one count of causing false employer quarterly wage reports to be filed when she knew the Social Security number represented in such reports was not assigned by the Social Security Administration to that specific illegal alien employee listed therein.
Villalon faces up to 20 years in prison and $750,000 in fines for these criminal violations, as Count 1 carries a maximum of ten years in prison and a $250,000 fine, and Counts 2-3 carry a maximum of up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine on each count.
INDICTMENT OF CAROLYN JOHNSON AND AUBREY “BART” WILLIS OF PEARL RIVER FOODS LLC:
According to the indictment, Carolyn Johnson, 50, of Kosciuskio, Mississippi, was a Human Resource Manager and Aubrey “Bart” Willis, 39, of Flowery Branch, Georgia, was the Manager at Pearl River Foods LLC in Carthage, Mississippi. Johnson was indicted on six felony counts of harboring an illegal alien as well as one count of wire fraud and two counts of aggravated identity theft. Willis was indicted on five counts of harboring an illegal alien.
The indictment charges both defendants with harboring illegal aliens following the execution of federal warrants at the Pearl River Foods facility on August 7, 2019. Johnson was also indicted for fraud and aggravated identity theft in connection with a grant from the State of Mississippi for reimbursement for on the job training for employees of Pearl River Foods. As set forth in the indictment, Johnson submitted claims for reimbursement for on the job training that never occurred.
If convicted, Johnson faces a maximum of up to 84 years in prison and $2.25 million in fines, with Counts 1-6 carrying a maximum of ten years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each violation, Count 7 carrying a maximum of twenty years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each violation, and Counts 8-9 carrying a mandatory minimum of 2 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each violation.
If convicted, Willis faces a maximum of up to 50 years and $1.25 million in fines, Counts 1-5 carrying a maximum of ten years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each violation.
Villalon, Johnson and Willis will appear for arraignment before United States Magistrate Judge Linda R. Anderson today at 1:30 p.m. Delgado-Nieves will appear before U.S. Magistrate Judge Keith Ball at 2:30 pm today for his arraignment. The case against Johnson and Willis has been assigned to Chief U.S. District Judge Daniel P. Jordan III. The cases against Villalon and Delgado-Nieves have been assigned to U.S. District Judge Carlton Reeves.
These cases were investigated by ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations and are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn Murray.
On August 7, 2019, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations, in partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi, executed multiple federal criminal and administrative search warrants at seven sites across central Mississippi. This was the largest single-state worksite enforcement operation in our nation’s history, resulting in the detention of 680 illegal aliens and the prosecution of 119 illegal aliens for stealing the identities of American citizens, falsifying immigration documents, fraudulently claiming to be United States citizens, and illegal re-entering the country after have been deported, among other federal crimes.
The investigations of federal criminal violations continue.
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.
Diamondhead Man Sentenced to over 14 Years in Prison for Possessing Massive Amount of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Mississippi. – Taryn Goin Naidoo, 41, of Diamondhead, Mississippi, was sentenced yesterday by Senior U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr., on three separate counts, to 170 months in prison on each count, each to run concurrently, for a total of 170 months, followed by 15 years of supervised release for each count, also to run concurrently, for knowingly possessing images of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, announced Acting Assistant Attorney General Brian C. Rabbitt of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Acting Special Agent in Charge Gilbert Trill with Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans.
From July 2017 through October 2018, HSI conducted an investigation with the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office and the Diamondhead Police Department which resulted in the seizure and forensic examination of multiple electronic devices found at Naidoo’s residence, to include Micro SD cards, laptop computers, notepads or tablets, and hard drives. The evidence found on the electronic devices and the timeline of that evidence proved Naidoo knowingly possessed over 70,000 images and videos of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, to include images of minors under the age of 12.
Naidoo was charged in a federal criminal indictment on September 7, 2018, and in a superseding indictment on May 29, 2019. He was found guilty by a federal jury on January 10, 2020, after a five-day trial in U.S. District Court in Gulfport.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Jones and Ralph Paradiso of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS).
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Byram Man Sentenced to over 20 Years for Methamphetamine Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Timothy Griffin, 44 of Byram, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge Daniel P. Jordan III, to 262 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. Griffin was also ordered to pay a $1,500 fine.
In June 2018, during an extensive investigation targeting illegal methamphetamine distribution in central Mississippi, DEA agents learned that a drug transaction was going to occur at a location on Raymond Road in Jackson. Agents observed a truck pull in to the location. The driver of the vehicle was identified as Timothy Griffin. After searching the truck, agents found approximately 425 grams of actual methamphetamine intended for distribution.
Griffin was charged in a federal criminal indictment with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. He pled guilty before Judge Jordan on March 17, 2020.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Hinds County Sheriff’s Office, the Jones County Sheriff’s Office, the Jackson Police Department, the Richland Police Department, the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics and the Internal Revenue Service. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Chris Wansley and Keesha Middleton.
U.S. Attorney and ICE Director to Give Update and New Announcements on One-Year Anniversary of August 2019 Immigration Operations in MississippiRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. - United States Attorney Mike Hurst, Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Matt Albence, and ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New Orleans Acting Special Agent in Charge Gilbert Trill will hold a press conference on Thursday, August 6, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. at the Federal Courthouse in Jackson to give an update and make new announcements on investigations and prosecutions arising from the August 2019 execution of criminal and administrative search warrants at multiple locations throughout central Mississippi.
WHEN: THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2020 - 10:00 A.M.
WHERE: THAD COCHRAN U.S. COURTHOUSE - SECOND FLOOR EXTERIOR COURTYARD
501 E. COURT STREET, JACKSON, MS 39201
NOTE:
- If you are sick, show any signs or symptoms of COVID-19, or have tested positive for COVID-19 (or anyone in your household) and you have not yet completed a 14-day quarantine after testing positive, do not come to the Courthouse.
- Everyone entering the courthouse must wear a mask while in any common area of the courthouse, unless speaking publicly or asking a question during the press conference.
- Everyone must also observe physical distancing requirements, maintaining at least 6 feet between others.
Doors open to press at 9:30 a.m. All cameras must be preset by 9:45 a.m. All media must RSVP to Sheila Wilbanks at [email protected] and present government-issued photo identification and valid media credentials. This event in limited to only members of the media.
Illegal Alien Sentenced Regarding Smuggling of Illegal AliensRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Jose Ramon Hernandez-Reyes, 33, an illegal alien from Mexico, was sentenced yesterday to 18 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for illegal transportation or moving of an alien, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Gilbert Trill, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans. Hernandez-Reyes pled guilty to the federal felony offense before Judge Guirola on June 4, 2020.
Additionally, upon completion of his prison sentence, Hernandez-Reyes will face removal proceedings by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE). If he were to unlawfully return to the United States within his term of supervised release, he would be subject to a separate prison sentence that could run consecutive to other penalties he could receive from additional prosecution. As a result of this felony conviction, and as an illegal alien to the United States, who had been formally removed in the past, Hernandez-Reyes could be subject to up to 10 years in prison were he to unlawfully return to the United States.
Hernandez-Reyes’ co-driver, Modesto Alvarado, 18, a United States citizen living in Houston, Texas, also pled guilty in connection with illegal alien smuggling in Harrison County. Alvarado pled guilty and was convicted on June 17, 2020, for the crime of misprison of felony. He is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Guirola on September 15, 2020, at 10:00 a.m., and faces up to 3 years in federal prison, as well as 1 year of supervised release and up to a $250,000 fine.
Additionally, three illegal aliens who had been passengers of Hernandez-Reyes and Alvarado pled guilty and were sentenced for unlawful return of an alien after deportation or removal. Elias Delgado-Ortiz, 19, a citizen of Mexico; Jose Ernaides Aldana-Hernandez, 42, a citizen of El Salvador, and Orbin Noel Gomez-Suarez, 24, a citizen of Honduras, all pled guilty before Judge Guirola. Delgado-Ortiz was sentenced on June 2, 2020, to “time served” (or effectively 6 months and 1 day); and both Aldana-Hernandez and Gomez-Suarez were sentenced on June 3, 2020, to “time served” (or effectively 6 months and 2 days).
The three illegal alien passengers each also were sentenced to a term of 1 year of supervised release, and were to face Department of Homeland Security removal proceedings to remove them back to their home nations. If any of the three men were to unlawfully return again to the United States, during their term of supervised release, the offender could face separate penalties consecutive to imprisonment from additional prosecution. As a result of their felony convictions, if Delgado-Ortiz, Aldana-Hernandez or Gomez-Suarez were to unlawfully return again to the United States, the offender could face up to 10 years in federal prison.
On December 4, 2019, an agent of the South Mississippi Metro Enforcement Team (SMMET) conducted a traffic stop on Interstate 10 eastbound in Jackson County. The SMMET is a federal, state, local law enforcement task force that among its partner agencies, includes the United States Border Patrol, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department and the City of Gautier Police Department. After making the traffic stop, the SMMET agent found that the driver, Modesto Alvarado, was a U.S. citizen who spoke fluent English, but did not have a valid driver’s license.
Including the driver, nine people were in the minivan, which was more than the vehicle was designed to carry or had seat belts to secure. The agent believed a smuggling event was taking place, and notified the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Blue Lightening Operations Center, in Gulfport, and all occupants were transported to the Gautier Police Department for initial processing.
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agents and task force agents responded to Gautier to interview the occupants. None of the nine minivan occupants had proper identification documents and eight were found to be illegally present in the United States. After interviewing all occupants, it was determined that seven passengers were being smuggled from Houston, Texas, to different locations throughout the United States. One of the two drivers (who rented the minivan) was Hernandez-Reyes who was determined to be the brother-in-law of Modesto Alvarado. Three of their passengers, Delgado-Ortiz, Aldana-Hernandez, and Gomez-Suarez were determined to have been lawfully deported or removed from the United States, and to have unlawfully returned to the U.S. after their removal.
U.S. Attorney Hurst praised the cooperation exhibited by the Department of Homeland Security, United States Border Patrol, Homeland Security Investigations, South Mississippi Metro Enforcement Team, Jackson County Sheriff’s Department, and the City of Gautier Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Stan Harris is the prosecutor for the case.
U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst Announces Award to Provide Housing to Victims of Human Trafficking in MississippiRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. - U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst announced today that the state of Mississippi received $379,996.00 from the Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs and its component, the Office for Victims of Crime, to provide safe, stable housing and appropriate services to victims of human trafficking.
“Human trafficking is a barbaric criminal enterprise that subjects its victims to unspeakable cruelty and deprives them of the most basic of human needs, none more essential than a safe place to live,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “Throughout this Administration, the Department of Justice has fought aggressively to bring human traffickers to justice and to deliver critical aid to trafficking survivors. These new resources, announced today, expand on our efforts to offer those who have suffered the shelter and support they need to begin a new and better life.”
“We have made fighting human trafficking a priority in this office, and this grant to one of our nonprofit partners on the Mississippi Human Trafficking Council will go a long way in providing necessary, life-saving services to human trafficking victims,” said U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst. “We will continue to do all that we can to protect victims, prevent trafficking, and prosecute criminals.”
The grant, awarded to the Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence, will provide six to 24 months of transitional or short-term housing assistance for trafficking victims, including rental, utilities or related expenses, such as security deposits and relocation costs. The grant will also provide funding for support needed to help victims locate permanent housing, secure employment, as well as occupational training and counseling.
The Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence is a member of the Mississippi Human Trafficking Council, which is a comprehensive group of stakeholders from throughout Mississippi created in September 2019 by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Southern and Northern Districts of Mississippi and the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, taking a victim-centered, collaborative, and multi-disciplinary approach to fighting all forms of domestic and international human trafficking throughout Mississippi.
The Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence is among 73 organizations receiving more than $35 million in OVC grants to support housing services for human trafficking survivors.
“Human traffickers dangle the threat of homelessness over those they have entrapped, playing a ruthless game of psychological manipulation that victims are never in a position to win,” said OJP Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Kathrine T. Sullivan. “These grants will empower survivors on their path to independence and a life of self-sufficiency and hope.”
Human trafficking offenses are among the most difficult crimes to identify, and the scope of human trafficking victimization may be much greater than the limited data reflect. A new report issued by the National Institute of Justice, another component of the Office of Justice Programs, found that the number of human trafficking cases captured in police reports may represent only a fraction of all such cases. Expanding housing and other services to trafficking victims remains a top Justice Department priority.
The Office for Victims of Crime, for example, hosted listening sessions and roundtable discussions with stakeholders in the field in 2018 and launched the Human Trafficking Capacity Building Center. From July 2018 through June 2019, 118 OVC human trafficking grantees reported serving 8,375 total clients including confirmed trafficking victims and individuals showing strong indicators of trafficking victimization.
For a complete list of individual award amounts and jurisdictions that will receive funding, visit: https://www.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh241/files/media/document/htvictimsfactheet.pdf
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The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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.
Madison Business Owner and Company Plead Guilty to Immigration CrimesRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Rui Ping Lin, and his company, Red Samurai Sushi, Inc., of Madison, Mississippi, pled guilty today before Senior U.S. District Court Judge David M. Bramlette III to harboring illegal aliens at the Red Samurai restaurant, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, Homeland Security Investigations Acting Special Agent in Charge Gilbert Trill and U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General Special Agent in Charge Rafiq Ahmad. As part of its guilty plea, Red Samurai agreed to two years' probation and an immigration compliance program, in addition to forfeiture and a $100,000 fine.
The Defendants will be sentenced by Judge Bramlette on October 27, 2020 at 10 a.m.
From March 2014 through February 2017, Rui Ping Lin was the owner of a restaurant in Madison named Red Samurai Sushi, Inc. During this time, the Defendant hired and employed illegal aliens, whose initials were “A.D.S.,” “D.G.P.,” “J.C.P.,” “J.S.L.,” knowing or in reckless disregard of the fact that these illegal aliens had come to, entered and remained in the United States in violation of law.
On February 22, 2017, HSI agents executed a search warrant at Red Samurai and encountered these illegal aliens. The investigation revealed that none of these illegal aliens had been required to complete any paperwork or show any documents or identification when they were hired as employees, nor had they been asked about their immigration status. The investigation further revealed that Defendant managed the restaurant, hired these employees without valid documentation, housed many of the illegal alien employees at a home in Madison, made the schedules for these illegal alien employees, and transported these illegal alien employees to and from the restaurant. When interviewed by HSI agents, Defendant admitted to paying these employees in cash. The Defendants also failed to withhold and pay federal income taxes on these illegal aliens, failed to prepare I-9 Forms, and failed to report wages to the Mississippi Department of Employment Security or the Internal Revenue Service.
By not requiring such illegal alien employees to fill out employment applications, not requiring illegal alien employees to submit valid identification, not paying illegal alien employees via check, not withholding taxes from such gross income, allowing illegal alien employees to live in company-provided housing, and transporting illegal alien employees to and from the restaurant, the Defendants harbored these illegal aliens and substantially facilitated their remaining in the U.S. illegally.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Department of Labor Office of Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Glenda Haynes and Dave Fulcher and United States Attorney Mike Hurst.
Jones County Man Convicted for Unlawful Possession of an Unregistered Destructive DeviceRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss. – Brian Richard Sanders, 66, of Laurel, pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge Keith Starrett, to the unlawful possession of an explosive destructive device not registered in the national firearms registration and transfer record, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent-in-Charge Kurt Thielhorn with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Sanders is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Starrett on November 18, 2020, at 11:00 a.m. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
On January 17, 2020, the ATF and the Jones County Sheriff’s Office received information that Sanders had manufactured and possessed an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) in his home in Laurel. The Sheriff’s Office obtained a search warrant for his home. ATF agents and members of the City of Biloxi Police Department Bomb Squad assisted in the search. Agents seized a pipe bomb, two bottles of black powder, a roll of red hobby fuse, several firearms, and ammunition. Additionally, they found a rifle that had what appeared to be a silencer attached.
An ATF Explosive Specialist/Bomb Technician, and Biloxi Bomb Squad members successfully disassembled the device in a safe area near the home, and were able to recover all pieces including the pipe with end-caps, red fuse, suspected black powder, and nails. As a destructive device, the pipe bomb was considered a firearm as defined within the National Firearms Act (NFA).
A query was conducted with the ATF National Firearms Act Division, which confirmed that both the pipe bomb explosive destructive device and silencer were not registered. A laboratory verified that the pipe bomb was in fact an explosive destructive device that was or readily could be made operable. The ATF also confirmed that the homemade silencer was a functioning silencer.
U.S. Attorney Hurst commended the coordinated investigation by the ATF, the Jones County Sheriff’s Office and the City of Biloxi Police Department Bomb Squad. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan Harris.
Gautier Man Charged with Assault on U.S. Marshals Service Task Force OfficersRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss – Joseph D. Sonnier, 31, of Gautier, Mississippi, has been charged in an indictment, returned by a Federal Grand Jury on July 28, 2020, with four counts of assault on an officer or employee of the government, one count of felon in possession of a firearm and four counts of discharging a firearm in connection with a violent crime, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Michelle Sutphin with the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi.
Sonnier will have his initial appearance before United States Magistrate Judge John Gargiulo in Gulfport on Thursday, August 6, 2020, at 10:00 a.m.
According to Count 1 of the indictment, Sonnier is alleged to have fired a firearm at J.M., a U.S. Marshals Service Task Force officer, in the course of his duties as he attempted to execute a search warrant, striking J.M. in the neck. According to Counts 2-4 of the indictment, Sonnier is alleged to have used a deadly weapon to assault, impede or otherwise restrict three other officers as they attempted to execute the same search warrant. According to Count 5 of the indictment, Sonnier is alleged to have been in possession of a firearm even though he is prohibited as a convicted felon. According to Counts 6-9 of the indictment, Sonnier is alleged to have discharged a firearm in the commission of a crime of violence.
If convicted, Sonnier faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on each count of assaulting a federal officer, a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm, and 10 years on each count of discharging a firearm in connection with a violent crime.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Erica Rose.
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.
Pass Christian Man Pleads Guilty to being an Unlawful Narcotics User in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Travis W. Fennel, 32, of Pass Christian, Mississippi, pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to one count of possession of a firearm by an unlawful user of illegal narcotics, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and ATF Special-Agent-in-Charge Kurt Thielhorn.
On October 14, 2019, a Harrison County Sheriff’s Deputy initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Fennel for speeding and following too closely. The Deputy recovered a Rock Island M1911 .45 caliber semi-automatic handgun from Fennel who later admitted to being an unlawful user of illegal narcotics. On May 12, 2020, Fennel was charged in a federal criminal indictment.
Fennel will be sentenced by Judge Ozerden on October 29, 2020 at 9:30 a.m. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Erica Rose.
Bay St. Louis Man Sentenced to 8 Years in Federal Prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss – Rico Laneaux, 38, of Bay St. Louis, was sentenced yesterday by Senior U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr. to serve 96 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Brad Byerley with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Judge Guirola also ordered Laneaux to pay a $15,000 fine.
On February 8, 2018, Bay St. Louis Police Department officers and DEA agents responded to the Hollywood Casino Hotel in Bay St. Louis regarding a narcotics complaint. A casino staff member located a large amount of suspected methamphetamine in the safe of a hotel room rented by Laneaux. Laneaux was held by casino security in the lobby of the casino prior to the arrival of law enforcement officers, but he fled from security and left the property before officers arrived. The suspected methamphetamine and a scale were found in Laneaux’s hotel room safe. The DEA crime lab determined that the methamphetamine weighed 26.78 grams and was 95% pure.
Laneaux pled guilty before Judge Guirola on September 3, 2019.
The case was investigated by the DEA and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shundral H. Cole.
Jefferson Davis County Man Pleads Guilty to Heroin and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Mississippi – Adonis Edwards, 31, of Carson, Mississippi, pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge Keith Starrett to possession with intent to distribute heroin and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Brad Byerley with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
On January 29, 2020, a federal grand jury indicted Edwards for the sale of heroin and a Smith & Wesson .357 revolver.
Edwards will be sentenced on November 18, 2020 by Judge Starrett, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.
The case was investigated by the DEA and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shundral Cole.