Southern District of Mississippi
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Jackson Man Sentenced under Project EJECT to nearly Two Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Mackee Donell Jefferson, 38, of Jackson, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Tom S. Lee to 21 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Michelle A. Sutphin, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Mississippi.
On September 14, 2018, Jefferson was waiting in a drive-through line of a fast food restaurant in Jackson. After a long wait, Jefferson became irritated. In an apparent attempt to accelerate his order, Jefferson approached the drive-thru window and tapped on the window with a handgun. A restaurant employee called the Jackson Police Department and officers responded. The officers approached Jefferson’s vehicle and questioned Jefferson while he was in his car. Jefferson admitted to possessing a gun. Jefferson has prior felony convictions for auto burglary in Rankin County and auto theft in Hinds County.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Bert Carraway.
This case is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for "Empower Justice Expel Crime Together." PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Former Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
Choctaw Man Pleads Guilty to Sexual Abuse of a MinorRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Daniel S. Dixon Jr. Tubby, 39, a member of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, pled guilty Thursday before Chief United States District Judge Daniel P. Jordan III to sexual abuse of a minor. The crime occurred within the Pearl River Community of the Choctaw Indian reservation.
Judge Jordan will sentence Tubby on December 13, 2019, at 9:00 a.m. in Jackson. He faces a maximum penalty of 15 years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.
This case was investigated by the Choctaw Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kimberly Purdie.
After Being in the Country Illegally on Four Separate Occasions, Illegal Alien is Caught Again and Pleads Guilty to Unlawfully Reentering the U.S.Read the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Zenon Carbajal-Osorio, an illegal alien from Mexico, pled guilty today before Senior U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr. to unlawful reentry by an alien after removal, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, and Jere Miles, Special Agent in Charge of Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in New Orleans.
Carbajal-Osorio will be sentenced by Judge Guirola, on December 10, 2019, at 10:00 a.m. He faces a maximum penalty of 2 years in prison followed by one year of supervised release and a maximum $250,000 fine. He also faces being removed from the United States following the completion of any prison sentence.
On July 17, 2019, the Homeland Security Investigations office in Gulfport received a complaint that Carbajal-Osorio was physically present at the Jackson County Circuit Court in Jackson County Mississippi, after having previously been deported from the United States. Agents made contact with Carbajal-Osorio, who provided a Mexican passport as his means of identification. Agents questioned Carbajal-Osorio regarding his legal status to reside in the United States, which he did not deny being in the country without legal status, and in fact admitted to having been previously removed from the United States to Mexico. Further investigation revealed that Carbajal-Osorio had unlawfully entered the United States, and been lawfully removed from the United States, on multiple occasions.
On December 5, 2007, Carbajal-Osorio was encountered by Border Patrol Agents in o Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Agents determined that he was in the country illegally. He was granted a Voluntary Return to Mexico and he departed the United States through Hidalgo, Texas, on December 21, 2007.
On April 4, 2011, Mr. Carbajal-Osorio was encountered by an ICE Agent at the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison, having been arrested by local authorities for Domestic Abuse Battery (a local misdemeanor charge for which he was convicted and sentenced to 6 months in jail). Carbajal-Osorio was issued a Warrant of Removal/Deportation on November 1, 2011, and was physically removed from the United States, pursuant to the lawful removal order.
On October 18, 2012, Carbajal-Osorio was again encountered by Border Patrol Agents in the Southern District of Texas. He was issued an Order to Reinstate his lawful removal order from 2011, and he was returned to his home nation of Mexico from Laredo, Texas. At the time of his most recent removal, Carbajal-Osorio was prohibited from entering, attempting to enter, being in the United States or even lawfully applying to reenter the U.S. for a period of 20 years.
U.S. Attorney Hurst praised the cooperation exhibited by the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Stan Harris is the prosecutor for the case.
Jackson Man Sentenced under Project EJECT to over Two Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Mark Cassity, 22, of Jackson, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge Daniel P. Jordan III to 30 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for possessing a firearm as 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 (ATF).
On June 8, 2018, Cassity was arrested by an officer of the Jackson Police Department during a traffic stop for providing false information. During the arrest, a brief struggle ensued between the officer and Cassity. Once the officer gained control, the officer discovered a handgun in Cassity’s front pocket. During booking, the officer learned Cassity had been previously convicted of auto burglary.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Bert Carraway.
This case is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for "Empower Justice Expel Crime Together." PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Former Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
Jackson Man Pleads Guilty under Project EJECT to Possessing a Firearm as a Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss – Braxton Dontrel Burns, 33, of Jackson, pled guilty Friday before Chief U.S. District Court Judge Daniel P. Jordan III to possessing a firearm as 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 May 5, 2018, a Jackson Police officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for speeding. Before the vehicle stopped, the driver tossed a handgun from the vehicle. The driver was identified as Braxton Burns. The officer determined that Burns had a prior conviction for auto burglary in Madison County, Mississippi. On February 20, 2019, Burns was charged in a federal indictment with being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.
Burns will be sentenced on December 12, 2019, by Judge Jordan, and faces a maximum penalty of ten years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Bert Carraway.
This case is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for "Empower Justice Expel Crime Together." PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Former Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
Georgia Man Sentenced to Almost 30 Years in Federal Prison for Carjacking and RobberiesRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Jalen Sean Benton, 19, of Georgia, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge Daniel P. Jordan III to 358 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for carjacking, two business robberies, and using a firearm to commit each offense, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, FBI Jackson Division Special Agent in Charge Michelle A. Sutphin, and Warren County Sheriff Martin Pace. Benton was also ordered to pay a $1,500 fine.
On March 25, 2019, Benton robbed the Jimmy Johns Restaurant in Meridian, the McDonalds in Brandon, and carjacked a vehicle in Vicksburg. Benton used pistols in committing each offense. The Warren County Sheriff’s Office arrested Benton in Vicksburg after shooting at law enforcement and subsequently committing the carjacking.
On April 16, 2019, Benton was charged in a federal criminal indictment with carjacking, two business robberies, and using a firearm to commit each offense. He pled guilty before Judge Jordan on June 12, 2019.
"Because of the courage and bravery of our law enforcement, this criminal’s rampage of terror is over. He will now spend the next three decades of his life repaying a debt to society for the harm he has caused others. I want to sincerely thank our law enforcement for literally putting themselves in harm’s way in order to stop this violent criminal from harming anyone else," said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
"The crime spree that this individual went on put the innocent lives of citizens across Central Mississippi in danger," said FBI Special Agent in Charge Sutphin. "Without the assistance and quick actions of Sheriff Pace and his deputies, this individual could have committed more violent crime. Cooperation with all levels of law enforcement is essential in cases like these to bring justice to the affected victims and communities."
"The excellent cooperation between the FBI, the U.S. Attorney's Office and the Warren County Sheriff's Office has made our community a safer place and made certain this violent offender will serve a very long time in federal prison," said Warren County Sheriff Martin Pace.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn Murray.
This case is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for "Empower Justice Expel Crime Together." PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Former Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
Tennessee and Alabama Women Sentenced for Bank and Mail FraudRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. –Shakedra Verleece Smith, of Nashville, Tennessee, and Sheri Youse a/k/a Sheri Johnson, of Birmingham, Alabama, were sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Judge Tom S. Lee for their roles in a conspiracy to commit bank and mail fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Jere T. Miles, Special Agent in Charge of Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans, and Shawn Wolfe, Resident Agent in Charge of the United States Secret Service in Mississippi.
Smith and Youse were each sentenced to 60 months’ probation with 6 months of home confinement. Smith was ordered to pay $40,000 in restitution and Youse was ordered to pay $55,000 in restitution.
Smith and Youse conspired with each other to apply for fraudulent automobile loans at Magnolia Federal Credit Union in Hinds County, Mississippi. The conspiracy spanned from March 2017 through October 2018. The fraudulent loan applications contained false information to include computer-generated numbers in lieu of their legitimate social security numbers and places of employment. Magnolia Federal Credit Union relied on the information provided in the automobile loan applications and processed loans in each of the defendant’s names. The false representations caused Magnolia Federal Credit Union to mail checks in amounts from $25,000 to $55,000 to what was later determined to be a fictitious automobile dealership. The defendants never intended to purchase or take possession of the vehicles that were referenced in the fraudulent loans.
The defendants were indicted on October 24, 2018. Youse pled guilty before Judge Lee on February 7, 2019, and Smith pled guilty on February 28, 2019.
“Those who defraud our financial institutions are defrauding all American taxpayers. I appreciate our law enforcement partners and prosecutor for catching these criminals and ensuring that our victims and taxpayers are protected,” said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
“This case makes clear that scammers who believe they can avoid accountability for their financial schemes are mistaken," said Jere T. Miles, Special Agent in Charge of ICE, Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans. "HSI is committed to using its broad investigative authorities to investigate financial crimes and seek prosecution of offenders. We are appreciate of our partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and U.S. Secret Service to successfully prosecute this case and will continue to work with our partners to identify and stop these crimes.”
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the United States Secret Service. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Erin Chalk.
Lumberton Man Sentenced to over 15 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Geroyce Dewayne Sibley, 25, of Lumberton, was sentenced Tuesday by Senior U.S. District Judge Keith Starrett to 189 months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced U. S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Sibley was also ordered to pay a $5,000 fine.
In July and August 2017, in Pascagoula, a confidential informant purchased 200 grams of crystal methamphetamine and eight firearms from Sibley.
Sibley was indicted on November 27, 2018, and pled guilty before Judge Starrett on April 24, 2019 to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Annette Williams.
Clinton Woman Pleads Guilty to Attempting to Acquire a Firearm by FraudRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Yolunda Shaunderes Walker, 36, of Clinton, pled guilty today before Senior U.S. District Judge Tom Lee to attempting to purchase a firearm by making false statements on a federal background check form, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Kurt Thielhorn, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
On June 6, 2019, Walker attempted to purchase a 9mm pistol from a pawn shop in Jackson by completing ATF Form 4473, a federal background check form required for all firearms purchases from firearms dealers. On the form, Walker falsely stated that she was not a habitual user of controlled substances.
In, 2017, Walker was charged with possession of marijuana after calling the Clinton Police Department to report that she was holding burglars at gunpoint in her home. Officers investigated and determined there were no burglars in the home and no evidence that a burglary had taken place. The officers found marijuana and a firearm in the home. There were also bullet holes inside the home where it was apparent that Walker had discharged her firearm several times inside the residence. Walker was interviewed by an officer and admitted that she smoke marijuana almost daily. As a habitual user of controlled substances, Walker is legally prohibited from purchasing a firearm.
Walker will be sentenced by Judge Lee on December 12, 2019, and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000.00 fine.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Charles W. Kirkham.
Clinton Man Pleads Guilty Under Project EJECT to Illegally Possessing a GunRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Jeremie Markell Torrey, 29, of Clinton, pled guilty today before Senior U.S. District Judge Tom Lee to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Michelle A. Sutphin, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi.
On June 1, 2018, Torrey was a passenger in a vehicle that was stopped by Jackson Police Department officers. When the officer spoke with the driver, he smelled marijuana in the vehicle. Marijuana was found in the vehicle, along with baggies for packaging and a digital scale.
Torrey was sitting in the back seat of the car, and a Glock pistol was found on the rear passenger armrest just next to where he was sitting. A Smith & Wesson pistol was also found under the front passenger side seat where another passenger, Clifton Horton, was sitting.
During interviews by the FBI, Torrey admitted to possessing the Glock pistol and Horton admitted to possessing the Smith & Wesson pistol. Both Torrey and Horton are convicted felons and it is illegal for them to possess firearms. Horton is being prosecuted in a separate criminal case by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Torrey will be sentenced on December 12, 2019, by Judge Lee, and faces a maximum penalty of ten years in prison and a $250,000.00 fine.
The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. 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). EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for "Empower Justice Expel Crime Together." PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Former Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
Un hombre de Mississippi condenado a 11 años por quemar una cruzRead the Press Release
El Honorable Juez Keith Starrett, del Tribunal Federal de Distrito para el Distrito Sur de Mississippi, condenó al acusado Louie Bernard Revette, de 38 años de edad, a 11 años de cárcel por cargos federales que se basan en su quema de cruces del 24 de octubre del 2017 en Seminary, Mississippi. Previamente, Revette se había declarado culpable el 12 de abril del 2019 a un cargo de interferencia al derecho a la vivienda, lo que es una vulneración de derechos civiles, y un cargo de confabulación a emplear un incendio para cometer un delito federal grave. Revette, junto con un coconspirador que él había reclutado, construyó y quemó una cruz de madera cerca de la casa de la víctima, M.H., un menor de edad que vivía en una zona residencial de Seminary habitada principalmente por afroestadounidenses. Quemó la cruz para amenazar, asustar e intimidar a M.H. y a otros residentes afroestadounidenses por motivos de su raza y color de piel y por vivir en y ocupar residencias en esa zona de Seminary.
«El acusado aterrorizó a miembros comunitarios sencillamente por motivos de su raza y el lugar donde vivían», afirmó el Fiscal General Auxiliar de la División de Derechos Civiles, Eric Dreiband. «El Departamento de Justicia no tolerará estos actos de odio y seguiremos enjuiciando delitos de odio como este en la medida que lo permita la ley».
«Cualquier individuo que infunda temor y terror en nuestros vecinos y conciudadanos por motivos del color de su piel se les aplicará, desde la Fiscalía Federal, todo el peso de la ley», declaró Mike Hurst, el Fiscal Federal para el Distrito Sur de Mississippi. «No hay un lugar en nuestra sociedad o nación para este tipo de comportamiento, y haremos todo lo posible por prevenir estos actos racistas y enjuiciar a aquellos que estén decididos a cometer estos delitos».
«Todo vecino de Mississippi tiene derecho a sentirse seguro en su comunidad, pero delitos como este no hacen más que reabrir viejas cicatrices que todavía se están curando», dijo Michelle A. Sutphin, la Agente Especial Encargada del FBI en Mississippi. «El FBI, junto con nuestros socios, no tolerará delitos motivados por el odio y perseguiremos activamente a cualquiera que los cometa».
Este caso fue investigado por la Oficina Local del FBI en Jackson, Mississippi, incluyendo el Equipo de Trabajo del FBI para promover las Calles Seguras y el Equipo de Trabajo de Jackson contra la Corrupción Pública. Julia Gegenheimer, Consejera Especial de Litigios de la División de Derechos Civiles del Departamento de Justicia, y Candace Mayberry, Fiscal Federal Auxiliar para el Distrito Sur de Mississippi, enjuiciaron el caso.
Previously Convicted Cocaine Trafficker Sentenced to Four Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing FirearmsRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss. – Joe Lamont Gholar, 46, formerly of Jefferson Davis County, Mississippi, was sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Judge Keith Starrett to 48 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and Special Agent-in-Charge Brad L. Byerley with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
On June 9, 2015, agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration Hattiesburg High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) team served a search warrant at a residence where Gholar was living. Gholar was present during the search, and 35 rounds of .380 ammunition were found in his room. A .380 caliber pistol was found in a vehicle for which Gholar was the only driver, and a shotgun and rifle belonging to Gholar were also found on the premises. Gholar was previously convicted in the Western District of Texas for possession with intent to distribute cocaine.
Gholar was indicted on October 18, 2017 for being a felon in possession of a firearm. He pled guilty before Judge Starrett on February 1, 2018.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Administration. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan Harris.
National, State, Local and Tribal Government Officials Announce New Statewide Mississippi Human Trafficking CouncilRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division joined U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, Southern District of Mississippi, U.S. Attorney Chad Lamar, Northern District of Mississippi, Commissioner Marshall Fisher, Mississippi Department of Public Safety, and Philip Gunn, Speaker of the Mississippi House of Representatives, today to announce the creation and launch of a new, statewide Mississippi Human Trafficking Council.
Building on the foundation established byGovernor Phil Bryant’s Human Trafficking Task Force Report from 2015, as well as task forces from around the country, the Mississippi Human Trafficking Council’s mission will be to prevent trafficking, protect victims, and prosecute criminals using a victim-centered, collaborative, and multi-disciplinary model. The Council will be led by three Co-Chairs: (1) Susan Bradley, Assistant U.S. Attorney, Northern District of Mississippi; (2) Kathlyn Van Buskirk, Assistant U.S. Attorney, Southern District of Mississippi; and (3) Ashlee Lucas, Mississippi Human Trafficking Coordinator, Mississippi Department of Public Safety.
"The Department of Justice is proud to announce the formation of the Mississippi Human Trafficking Council, which will serve as a crucial component to ongoing efforts to secure justice for victims of sex and labor trafficking crimes," said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Civil Rights Division. "This is the first statewide trafficking council, and it will help law enforcement more effectively prosecute criminals and protect the rights of victims. This is another strong step in the Department of Justice’s commitment to fighting violent crime and protecting the most vulnerable in our society."
"Human trafficking is a crime against humanity, and the monsters who commit these crimes against our children and our fellow human beings will continue to face swift and certain justice in our district," said U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst. "This Council will coordinate multiple entities and agencies, and help our citizens effectively battle this growing epidemic in our state. I want to thank our law enforcement, our prosecutors, and our governmental and non-governmental partners for stepping up to take this fight to the traffickers. At the end of the day, this is all about protecting victims, preventing trafficking and prosecuting the criminals."
"We are so pleased to announce the launching of multiple regional human trafficking task forces throughout the state, Northern and Southern Districts," said U.S. Attorney Lamar. "Not only are these task forces collaborative efforts by federal, state and local law enforcement, but also state service agencies and non-government service providers. The Human Trafficking Council and its committees, comprised of members from both Districts, will provide valuable direction and support."
"The Mississippi Department of Public Safety is dedicated to building an effective Human Trafficking Division to combat those who prey upon, victimize and traffic others for sexual or labor purposes," said Commissioner Marshall Fisher. "With the aid of the Human Trafficking Council, MDPS’s Human Trafficking Division has access to a team of state and federal resources to thwart these threats to our communities."
"Strengthening and improving Mississippi’s human trafficking laws has been and continues to be one of my top priorities," said Mississippi House Speaker Philip Gunn. "It’s important to me that we make the process work for these victims while we support those law enforcement personnel on the ground across our state who are on the front lines fighting human trafficking. I envision the Mississippi Human Trafficking Council being an important resource to complement our state’s five existing regional task forces by collaborating and offering assistance when and where needed," said Mississippi House Speaker Philip Gunn.
I. Steering Committee
The Council will have a Steering Committee, overseen by the Council Co-Chairs, and will be made up of the five subcommittee chairpersons along with the Council Co-Chairs. The Steering Committee will serve as the primary policy making body of the Council. The Steering Committee will discuss and propose recommendations for the Council, upon which the Co-Chairs will vote to approve or disapprove of such recommendations.
II. Subcommittees
The Council will consist of five subcommittees and will focus on all forms of domestic and international human trafficking, to include commercial sex trafficking and labor trafficking, for the protection of both adult and minor victims. Each subcommittee chairperson will oversee the operation of each subcommittee, arranges logistics for meetings, keeps records of activities and issues, serves as a member of the Steering Committee and performs other duties as necessary for the efficient and productive operation of the Council.
The five subcommittees and chairpersons are:
1. Outreach and Public Awareness Subcommittee
Chair: Mandy Davis, Mississippi Department of Public Safety
2. Strategic Planning and Trafficking Protocol Subcommittee
Chair: Dr. Tamara Hurst, University of Southern Mississippi
3. Policy and Legislation Subcommittee
Co-Chairs: Angela Cockerham, Mississippi House of Representatives
Lora Hunter, Mississippi Department of Public Safety
4. Training Subcommittee
Chair: Paula Broome, Mississippi Attorney General’s Office
5. Victim Service Subcommittee
Co-Chairs: Hollie Jeffery, Children’s Advocacy Center of Mississippi
Heather Wagner, Mississippi Department of Health
III. Task Forces
The Council will also consist of small, regional Task Forces, made up of local, state, federal and tribal law enforcement, local prosecutors, and victim service providers, and will be led by an Assistant U.S. Attorney. These Task Forces will meet monthly and will share information, coordinate investigations, and discuss potential matters and active cases in preparation for prosecution.
The Department of Justice continues to fight human trafficking through investigating and prosecuting traffickers, dismantling transnational human trafficking networks, enhancing victim identification and protection of all victims of trafficking, and funding and providing domestic and international anti-trafficking programs. Information on the Department of Justice’s efforts to combat human trafficking can be found here. An update on human trafficking prosecution statistics can be found here.
Mississippi Man Sentenced to 11 Years in Prison for CrossburningRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Honorable Judge Keith Starrett, of the United States District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi, sentenced defendant Louie Bernard Revette, 38, to serve 11 years on federal charges for his commission of a crossburning on Oct. 24, 2017, in Seminary, Mississippi. Revette previously pled guilty on April 12, to one count of interference with housing rights, a federal civil rights violation, and one count of using fire to commit a federal felony. Revette, along with a co-conspirator whom he recruited, built and burned a wooden cross near the home of a juvenile victim, M.H., who lived in a predominantly African-American residential area of Seminary. He burned the cross to threaten, frighten, and intimidate M.H. and other African-American residents because of their race and color, and because they lived in and occupied residences in that area of Seminary.
“The defendant terrorized members of a community simply because of their race and where they lived,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Civil Rights Division. “The Department of Justice will not tolerate these acts of hate, and we will continue to prosecute hate crimes like these to the fullest extent of the law.”
“Those who instill fear and terror into our neighbors and our fellow citizens because of the color of their skin will face the full weight and force of the law from the U.S. Attorney’s Office,” said U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst of the Southern District of Mississippi. “There is absolutely no place in our society or our country for this type of behavior, and we will do all that we can to prevent these racist acts and bring to justice those who are intent on committing these crimes.”
“All Mississippians have the right to feel safe in their communities, but crimes like these only tear open wounds that are still healing,” said Michelle A. Sutphin, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Mississippi. “The FBI and our partners will not tolerate crimes motivated by hate, and we will vigorously pursue those that commit them.”
This case was investigated by the FBI’s Jackson, Mississippi Field Office, including the FBI Safe Streets Task Force and the Jackson Public Corruption Task Force. Special Litigation Counsel Julia Gegenheimer of the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Candace Mayberry of the Southern District of Mississippi prosecuted the case.
Mississippi Man Sentenced to 11 Years for CrossburningRead the Press Release
The Honorable Judge Keith Starrett, of the United States District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi, sentenced defendant Louie Bernard Revette, 38, to serve 11 years on federal charges for his commission of a crossburning on Oct. 24, 2017, in Seminary, Mississippi. Revette previously pled guilty on April 12, to one count of interference with housing rights, a federal civil rights violation, and one count of using fire to commit a federal felony. Revette, along with a co-conspirator whom he recruited, built and burned a wooden cross near the home of a juvenile victim, M.H., who lived in a predominantly African-American residential area of Seminary. He burned the cross to threaten, frighten, and intimidate M.H. and other African-American residents because of their race and color, and because they lived in and occupied residences in that area of Seminary.
“The defendant terrorized members of a community simply because of their race and where they lived,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Civil Rights Division. “The Department of Justice will not tolerate these acts of hate, and we will continue to prosecute hate crimes like these to the fullest extent of the law.”
“Those who instill fear and terror into our neighbors and our fellow citizens because of the color of their skin will face the full weight and force of the law from the U.S. Attorney’s Office,” said U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst of the Southern District of Mississippi. “There is absolutely no place in our society or our country for this type of behavior, and we will do all that we can to prevent these racist acts and bring to justice those who are intent on committing these crimes.”
“All Mississippians have the right to feel safe in their communities, but crimes like these only tear open wounds that are still healing,” said Michelle A. Sutphin, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Mississippi. “The FBI and our partners will not tolerate crimes motivated by hate, and we will vigorously pursue those that commit them.”
This case was investigated by the FBI’s Jackson, Mississippi Field Office, including the FBI Safe Streets Task Force and the Jackson Public Corruption Task Force. Special Litigation Counsel Julia Gegenheimer of the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Candace Mayberry of the Southern District of Mississippi prosecuted the case.
Hattiesburg Woman Sentenced to 4 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss. – Lydia Walters, 34, of Hattiesburg, was sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Judge Keith Starrett to 48 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and Special Agent in Charge Brad Byerley with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Walters was also ordered to pay a $5,000 fine.
Beginning in July 2016, ATF agents received information that Adrian Parker was distributing ounce quantities of methamphetamine at an apartment complex in Hattiesburg. On October 17, 2016, a confidential informant purchased 13.19 grams of methamphetamine from Parker at an apartment in Hattiesburg.
Further investigation revealed that Parker’s girlfriend, Lydia Walters, was also involved in distributing methamphetamine. On December 22, 2016, a DEA confidential informant purchased 17.3 grams of methamphetamine from Walters in the parking lot of a business on Highway 49 in Hattiesburg.
Walters was subsequently indicted for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and pled guilty before Judge Starrett on June 6, 2019.
Adrian Parker was indicted for his role and pled guilty before Judge Starrett to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine on July 1, 2019. He will be sentenced by Judge Starrett on October 2, 2019 at 10:00 a.m.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Administration. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shundral H. Cole.
Illegal Alien Arrested with Enough Fentanyl to Kill 500,000 People Sentenced to over Six Years in Federal Prison for Heroin TraffickingRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Pablo Vega-Ontanon, 53, an illegal alien from Mexico who was living in Georgia, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to 74 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute heroin, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Jere T. Miles with Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans.
On November 6, 2018, Vega-Ontanon and two co-defendants arrived in Gulfport to sell heroin to a confidential informant. They claimed to have ten kilograms of heroin hidden in a compartment of their vehicle. All three were arrested shortly thereafter. The substance was eventually tested and found to contain nine kilograms of heroin and one kilogram of fentanyl.
One kilogram of fentanyl can produce half a million fatal doses.
Vega-Ontanon was indicted on November 27, 2018 along with co-defendants Eder Ortega- Casarrubias and Eric Estudillo-Carrazco.
Co-defendant Eder Ortega-Cassarubias pled guilty and was sentenced on June 26, 2019, by Judge Ozerden, to 127 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release.
Co-defendant Estudillo-Carrazco pled guilty on August 28, 2019, and will be sentenced by Judge Ozerden on November 27, 2019. He faces a maximum penalty of life in prison and a $10,000,000 fine.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John Meynardie.
Methamphetamine Trafficker in Hattiesburg Sentenced to over 21 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss. – Isaiah Longino, 38, of Hattiesburg, was sentenced yesterday by Senior U.S. District Judge Keith Starrett to serve 262 months in federal 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). Longino was also ordered to pay a $5,000 fine.
An investigation by the DEA revealed that Longino was a distributor of methamphetamine in the Forrest County area. On January 25, 2018, in Hattiesburg, Longino sold 445 grams of methamphetamine to a DEA confidential source for $5,500. Longino pled guilty on April 12, 2019, to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shundral H. Cole.
Harrison County Man Sentenced to over Five Years in Prison for Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss – William Lance Chaney, 27, of Biloxi, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to 63 months in 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. Chaney was also ordered to pay a $5,000 fine.
During the course of an investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives discovered that Chaney was buying and selling firearms to known felons and Simon City Royals gang members. Agents determined that Chaney offered at least three firearms for sale in March, 2018. Chaney has a previous conviction for possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance in Harrison County in 2010 and is pending trial on a new drug charge in Harrison County. He was on parole with MDOC at the time of the federal charge.
Chaney pled guilty before Judge Ozerden on May 31, 2019 to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Annette Williams.
Hinds County Man Pleads Guilty Under Project EJECT to Illegal Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Herbert Thomas, 41, of Jackson, pled guilty today before Chief U.S. District Judge Daniel P. Jordan 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 January 23, 2018, Thomas fled from Jackson Police Department officers, first in his vehicle and then on foot, before ultimately being subdued by law enforcement. Upon a subsequent inventory of his vehicle, a firearm was located. When interviewed, Thomas admitted to knowingly possessing the firearm and being a convicted felon. He was previously convicted of felonious motor vehicle theft and felony fleeing from a law enforcement officer in Hinds County in 2009
Thomas will be sentenced by Chief Judge Jordan on January 6, 2020 at 9:00 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 and the Jackson Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Lynn Murray and 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). EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for “Empower Justice Expel Crime Together.” PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Former Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
Vancleave Woman Sentenced to Almost Three Years in Federal Prison for Credit Union TheftRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Merrideth Christina McMillian, 46, of Vancleave, Mississippi, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to 33 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for credit union theft, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and and Michelle A. Sutphin, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi. Judge Ozerden further ordered that $376,152.60 in restitution be paid to the victims.
While employed as the vice president of Singing River Federal Credit Union’s Moss Point branch, McMillian stole more than $350,000 from the credit union. The fraud was discovered after an audit in August 2018 showed suspicious transactions.
McMillian carried out the fraudulent scheme by going into the bank’s computer system and releasing collateral that was used for other loans. Once the collateral was released, she used that collateral to borrow money. Agents also uncovered that in 2017, McMillian used a customer’s information, without her consent, to take out several unsecured loans. The loans ranged from $5,000.00 to $60,000.00. On another occasion, McMillian used a friend’s name and a customer’s money market account information to take out a fraudulent loan of $47,500. In total, McMillian stole more than $350,000.00.
The case was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathlyn R. Van Buskirk.
Hattiesburg Man with Multiple Felony Convictions Pleads Guilty under Project EJECT to Illegally Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Jordan Reshard Poole, 29, of Hattiesburg, pled guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Keith Starrett to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Kirk Thielhorn with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
On July 17, 2017, Poole was involved in a high speed car chase in Lamar County that ultimately resulted in a car crash. Jumping from the car after the collision, Poole attempted to flee and was quickly apprehended by Hattiesburg Police officers. While running, Poole attempted to hide a firearm by throwing it under a parked vehicle. The firearm was recovered and Poole admitted to possessing it. Poole was previously convicted of multiple felonies, including arson and burglary, and prohibited from possessing a firearm.
Poole will be sentenced by Judge Starrett on December 10, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
This case is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for “Empower Justice Expel Crime Together.” PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Former Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Hattiesburg Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew W. Eichner.
Georgia Man Pleads Guilty to Heroin TraffickingRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Eric Estudillo-Carrazco, 28, of Norcross, Georgia, pled guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, 400 grams or more of fentanyl and 5 kilograms or more of cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Jere T. Miles, Special Agent in Charge of Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans.
On November 6, 2018, Estudillo-Carrazco and two co-defendants arrived in Gulfport to sell heroin to a confidential informant. They claimed to have ten kilograms of heroin hidden in a compartment of their vehicle. All three were arrested shortly thereafter. The substance was eventually tested and found to contain nine kilograms of heroin and one kilogram of fentanyl.
That amount of fentanyl is enough to kill half a million people.
Estudillo-Carrazco will be sentenced by Judge Ozerden on November 27, 2019, and faces a maximum penalty of life in prison and a $10,000,000 fine.
Co-defendant Pablo Vega-Ontanon pled guilty and will be sentenced on September 23, 2019. He faces a maximum penalty of life in prison and a $10,000,000 fine.
Co-defendant Eder Ortega-Cassarubias pled guilty and was sentenced by Judge Ozerden on June 26, 2019, to 127 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John Meynardie.
U.S. Attorneys Present Statewide Human Trafficking TrainingRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss. – U.S. Attorneys Mike Hurst of the Southern District of Mississippi and Chad Lamar of the Northern District of Mississippi announced today an Anti-Human Trafficking Training that their offices are sponsoring on the campus of the University of Southern Mississippi to train law enforcement, governmental agencies, and non-profits on combatting this growing threat to our communities.
"Human trafficking is a crime against humanity. This training seeks to educate stakeholders throughout the state to combat this modern day form of slavery and oppression. Sadly, this is a growing problem throughout our state and our nation, and through this training, we are seeking to help people understand this scourge that is plaguing our communities, our citizens and our children. In the coming months, you will see more being done to address this issue as our offices prepare to launch a statewide human trafficking coordination council with our federal, state, and local partners. I want to thank USM President Rodney Bennett for hosting us today and for being a partner in this worthy effort," said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
U.S. Attorney Chad Lamar, Northern District of Mississippi, also stressed the importance of this training and this issue in our communities. "The investigation and prosecution of human trafficking cases remains a priority for our office. Those engaged in these offenses prey on the victims, many of whom are young, vulnerable, and subjected to repeated abuse. Many of these victims lack the knowledge, education and resources to escape their unfortunate situations. We must train our law enforcement agencies, social service providers and citizens to recognize the signs of human trafficking if we are to help prevent future occurrences and hold accountable those who choose to engage in such reprehensible conduct." Lamar stated.
Presenters at the training event include Ashlee Lucas, the new Mississippi Human Trafficking Coordinator, the Mississippi Center for Violence Prevention, the Gulf Coast Center of Non-Violence, the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Mississippi Department of Child Protective Services, Children’s Advocacy Centers, the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office, and the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Northern and Southern District of Mississippi.
Hattiesburg Felon Pleads Guilty under Project EJECT to Illegally Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Sacory Brown, 28, of Hattiesburg, pled guilty today before Senior U.S. District 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 March 8, 2018, Brown was found in possession of a firearm during a traffic stop. He was previously convicted of burglary of a dwelling in Forrest County in 2012. He was on state parole at the time of his 2018 arrest.
Brown will be sentenced by Judge Starrett on November 21, 2019 at 10:30 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 and the Hattiesburg Police Department. It 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). EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for "Empower Justice Expel Crime Together." PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Former Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
Bank Robber from Hattiesburg Pleads Guilty After Multistate Bank Robbery SpreeRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Clifford Randell Montague, 53, of Hattiesburg, pled guilty Friday before U.S. District Sul Ozerden to bank robbery, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Michelle A. Sutphin, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi.
On February 23, 2019, Montague robbed a credit union in Gautier, Mississippi, by handing a teller a note threatening to shoot if she did not put money in a bag. Montague went on to rob a bank in Pace, Florida, on March 4, and another bank in Ellisville, Mississippi on March 18. Each time, Montague used a note. He was stopped in Memphis, Tennessee, driving a stolen car from Florida and confessed to FBI agents.
Montague will be sentenced by Judge Ozerden on November 25, 2019, at 10:00 a.m. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation Safe Streets Task Force investigated the case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Annette Williams.
Previously Convicted Armed Carjacker Pleads Guilty under Project EJECT to Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Vincent Taylor McGee, 32, of Raymond, Mississippi, pled guilty today before District Judge Henry T. Wingate to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Michelle A. Sutphin, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
On September 7, 2016, while fleeing from officers attempting to conduct a traffic stop, McGee tossed a Ruger .22 caliber pistol from his vehicle. Officers recovered the pistol after the vehicle lost a tire and the chase ended. McGee was previously convicted of armed carjacking and armed robbery in Hinds County, possession of a cell phone by an offender in Lauderdale County and Sunflower County, and conspiracy in Sunflower County. Last December, he was also convicted of conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a detectable amount of methamphetamine, and sentenced by then-Senior U.S. District Judge William H. Barbour, Jr. to serve 120 months in federal prison.
McGee will be sentenced by Judge Wingate on November 5, 2019, 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 the Jackson Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kimberly T. Purdie.
This case is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for "Empower Justice Expel Crime Together." PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Former Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
Moss Point Man Pleads Guilty to Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss – LaRobert Kadarius Hollins, 19, of Moss Point, pled guilty today before U.S. District Sul Ozerden to possession of a firearm by an unlawful user of a controlled substance, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn with the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives.
On February 8, 2019, Hollins was in a car stopped by the South Mississippi Metropolitan Enforcement Team for an illegal turn. Officers found a bag of marijuana in Hollins’ pocket and a loaded 9mm pistol under the seat of the car. Hollins admitted to agents with ATF that he smoked marijuana on a regular basis and that the gun was his.
Hollins will be sentenced by Judge Ozerden on November 25, 2019 at 9:30 a.m. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The South Mississippi Metropolitan Enforcement Team and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Annette Williams.
Illegal Alien from Mexico Pleads Guilty to Unlawful Reentry After RemovalRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Jose Guadalupe Perez-Velasquez, 29, an illegal from Mexico, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr. to “time served,” effectively 121 days in federal prison, and one year of supervised release, for the crime of unlawful reentry by an alien after removal, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, and Scott Sutterfield, Acting Field Office Director of Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE), Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) in New Orleans.
Upon release from his federal prison sentence, Guadalupe Perez-Velasquez will remain in the administrative detention custody of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration & Customs Enforcement. He will face removal proceedings to remove him from the United States back to his home nation of Mexico. As a result of this felony conviction, if Perez-Velasquez were to unlawfully return to the United States, he could face up to ten years in federal prison. Further, if he were to unlawfully return again to the United States during his 1-year term of supervised release, he could face separate penalties consecutive to imprisonment from additional prosecution.
On March 25, 2019, the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office notified ICE that Perez-Velasquez had been arrested for misdemeanor offenses of domestic disturbance of family and false information to law enforcement. Harrison County officials said Perez-Velasquez had confessed to being an illegal alien from Mexico. Perez-Velasquez was arrested by ICE and transported to the Gulfport ICE Office.
Further investigation revealed that Perez-Velasquez was originally removed from the United States to his home nation of Mexico on November 2, 2009. Subsequently, Perez-Velasquez illegally reentered the United States and was removed again. On August 16, 2010, he was encountered by ICE officials near Milledgeville, Georgia, and was again removed to Mexico on September 4, 2010.
U.S. Attorney Hurst praised the cooperation exhibited by the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration & Customs Enforcement, Enforcement Removal Operations, and the Harrison County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant United States Attorney Stan Harris is the prosecutor for this case.
Illegal Alien Pleads Guilty to Possession of Counterfeit or Unauthorized Access DevicesRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Duniesky Vizcay De La Cruz a/k/a Vizcay Delacruz Duniesky, 34, an illegal alien from Cuba, pled guilty Wednesday before U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden, to knowingly possessing 15 or more counterfeit or unauthorized access devices, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Shawn Wolfe, Resident Agent in Charge of the United States Secret Service in Mississippi.
On December 6, 2017, the South Mississippi Metro Enforcement Task Force conducted a traffic stop on Interstate I-10 in Jackson County. Duniesky Vizcay De La Cruz, a passenger in the car, was found to be in possession of approximately 528 “Vanilla MasterCard” pre-paid gift cards in his luggage. An inventory determined the value of the gift cards, purchased with victims’ money, was $89,900. The investigation revealed that the 528 gift cards had been purchased at wholesale club stores in Georgia and Florida a few days prior to this traffic stop in Mississippi.
Vizcay De La Cruz was charged on March 5, 2019 in a federal criminal indictment. He pled guilty before Judge Ozerden on August 21, 2019. He will be sentenced by Judge Ozerden on November 21, 2019 at 9:00 a.m. in Gulfport, and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The case was investigated by United States Secret Service, with assistance from the South Mississippi Metro Enforcement Task Force. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Jones.
D’Iberville Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison for Illegal GunRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss – Anh Viet Quach, 42, of D’Iberville, was sentenced yesterday by Senior U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr. to five years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Michelle A. Sutphin, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi. Quach was also ordered to pay a $15,000 fine.
The Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, working with the FBI Safe Streets Task Force, obtained information that an individual in D’Iberville was selling large quantities of high grade marijuana. Following surveillance, agents approached Quach and obtained a search warrant for his home. They found approximately 42 pounds of high grade marijuana, $7,200 in cash, a currency counter, and a Berretta 9mm handgun. Quach admitted he received 420 pounds of marijuana by mail from California, which he sold for $2,800 per pound. Quach has prior gang-related felony convictions from California.
Quach’s federal sentence will be served consecutive to his sentence in Harrison County Circuit Court on the drug charges.
This case was investigated by the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Annette Williams.
Minnesota Man Sentenced under Project EJECT to Almost 3 Years in Prison for Illegal Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Bobby Joseph Stallworth, 59, of Minneapolis, Minnesota, was sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Judge David C. Bramlette III to 35 months in 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 Michelle A. Sutphin with the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Stallworth was also ordered to pay a $1500 fine.
On October 9, 2017, Stallworth was found in possession of a firearm in Jackson, after law enforcement intervened in a domestic dispute with his then-girlfriend. Stallworth had previously been convicted of approximately twenty felony offenses out of Escambia County, Florida over the past thirty years, most of which involved theft or forgery.
On April 3, 2019, Stallworth was indicted for being a felon in possession of a firearm. He pled guilty before Judge Bramlette on May 16, 2019.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Jackson Police Department investigated the case. It was 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). EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for “Empower Justice Expel Crime Together.” PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Former Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
Illegal Alien from Mexico Sentenced for Unlawfully Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Federico Hernandez-Rios, 33, an illegal alien from Mexico, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Carlton W. Reeves to time served (13 months in federal custody), followed by immediate deportation to Mexico, for illegally reentering the United States after his prior deportation, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Jere T. Miles, Special Agent in Charge with Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans.
According to testimony provided in open court and court filings, Hernandez-Rios had been charged in 2010 in Florida, and pled guilty to, the state felony offense of possession of cocaine with intent to sell or deliver. Thereafter, in October 2010, immigration authorities deported Hernandez-Rios to Mexico. On August 2, 2018, Brandon police officers made a traffic stop of a vehicle carrying six passengers, all of whom, including the driver, were aliens illegally present in the United States. Hernandez-Rios was one of those passengers, and he was detained by Homeland Security Investigation agents. Hernandez-Rios had not requested or received permission of United States Immigration authorities to reenter the United States, as required by federal law. Reentry by an alien, who had previously been convicted of an aggravated felony before he was deported, is a felony punishable by up to twenty years imprisonment under federal law.
The case was investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Rankin County Sheriff’s Office, the Brandon Police Department, and the U.S. Marshals Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Glenda Haynes and Theodore M. Cooperstein.
Chinese National Indicted in Southern District of Mississippi Designated by U.S. Treasury Department as Significant Foreign Narcotics TraffickerRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst announced today that Xiaobing Yan, a Chinese National indicted in the Southern District of Mississippi, has been designated by the U.S. Department of the Treasury as a significant foreign narcotics trafficker pursuant to the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act (Kingpin Act).
The Department of the Treasury announced yesterday it is identifying two Chinese nationals and a China-based Drug Trafficking Organization as significant foreign narcotics traffickers pursuant to the Kingpin Act and designated one associate and a China-based entity for being owned or controlled by one of the Chinese nationals.
Xiaobing Yan was indicted in the Southern District of Mississippi on September 7, 2017. He is the first manufacturer and distributor of fentanyl and other opiate substances to be indicted in the history of the United States while being designated as a Consolidated Priority Organization Target (CPOT). CPOT designations are those who have "command and control" elements of the most prolific international drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and are considered by DEA to be some of the most significant drug trafficking threats in the world.
Yan is charged in the Southern District of Mississippi with two counts of conspiracy to manufacture and distribute multiple controlled substances, including fentanyl and fentanyl analogues, and seven counts of manufacturing and distributing the drugs in specific instances. According to the indictment, Yan, a distributor of a multitude of illegal drugs, used different names and company identities over a period of at least six years and operated websites selling acetyl fentanyl and other deadly fentanyl analogues directly to U.S. customers in multiple cities across the country. He also operated at least two chemical plants in China that were capable of producing ton quantities of fentanyl and fentanyl analogues. Yan monitored legislation and law enforcement activities in the United States and China, modifying the chemical structure of the fentanyl analogues he produced to evade prosecution in China. Over the course of the investigation, federal agents identified more than 100 distributors of synthetic opioids involved with Yan’s manufacturing and distribution networks. Federal investigations of the distributors are ongoing in 10 judicial districts, and investigators have traced illegal proceeds of the distribution network. In addition, law enforcement agents intercepted packages mailed from Yan’s Internet pharmaceutical companies, seizing multiple kilograms of suspected acetyl fentanyl, potentially enough for thousands of lethal doses. If convicted, Yan faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a $1 million fine and three years of supervised release. The public is reminded that an indictment is merely a charge and should not be considered as evidence of guilt. A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The White House, through the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP), unveiled a series of private-sector advisories yesterday to help domestic and foreign businesses better protect themselves and their supply chains from inadvertent fentanyl trafficking, explain how fentanyl traffickers exploit their businesses and their supply chains to move and market deadly drugs, and foster deeper public-private collaboration to curb the production and sale of illicit fentanyl, fentanyl analogues, and other synthetic opioids. To see the announcement from the White House, click HERE.
The ONDCP advisories are focused on four facets of the trafficking of illicit fentanyl, fentanyl analogues, and synthetic opioids destined for the United States: manufacturing, marketing, movement, and money. Links to each of the advisories, along with a summary can be accessed below.
• Manufacturing: Describes the unique characteristics of manufacturing illicit synthetic opioids to assist stakeholders in combating the scourge of fentanyl and other synthetic opioids.
• Marketing: Raises awareness about the marketing and sale of illicit fentanyl via vulnerable and unsuspecting private-sector digital platforms, including social media, e-commerce sites, and online forums.
• Movement: Increases awareness about the entities at each stage of the illicit fentanyl and synthetic opioids supply chain, including information that can help identify and prevent the movement of these deadly drugs into the United States and during domestic distribution.
• Money: Alerts financial institutions to help them detect and report on illicit financial schemes and money laundering mechanisms related to the trafficking of fentanyl, fentanyl analogues, and other synthetic opioids.
To access a one-page summary of the 21st Century Drug Trafficking: Advisories on Fentanyl and Other Synthetic Opioids, click HERE.
To view past press releases from our office relating to Xiaobing Yan, see:
• Justice Department Announces First Ever Indictments Against Designated Chinese Manufacturers of Deadly Fentanyl and Other Opiate Substances, October 17, 2017
• First in the Nation Criminal Indictment of a Chinese National for Manufacturing and Distributing Fentanyl and Other Opiates, October 19, 2017
Illegal Alien from Mexico Being Smuggled Through Mississippi Sentenced to 15 Months in Federal Prison for Unlawfully Reentering United StatesRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Jose Valdez-Santana, 46, an illegal alien from Mexico, was sentenced yesterday by Senior U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr. to 15 months in federal prison, followed by one year of supervised release, for unlawful reentry by an alien after removal, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, Jere T. Miles, Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement's Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in New Orleans, and Gregory K. Bovino, Chief Patrol Agent of the U.S. Border Patrol’s New Orleans Sector.
Upon release from his federal prison sentence, Valdez-Santana will remain in the administrative detention custody of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration & Customs Enforcement. Valdez-Santana will face removal proceedings to remove him from the United States back to his home nation of Mexico. As a result of this felony conviction, if Valdez-Santana were to unlawfully return to the U.S., he could face up to ten years in federal prison. Valdez-Santana pled guilty before Judge Guirola on May 9, 2019.
On April 4, 2019, a Biloxi Police officer conducted a traffic stop on a Dodge Caravan on I-10. The officer encountered the driver who was a citizen of Honduras and was illegally present in the United States. The officer observed seven Hispanic passengers, five males and two females. Since the officer did not speak Spanish, he contacted the Department of Homeland Security’s Blue Lightning Operations Center, and two Homeland Security Investigations Special Agents responded to the traffic stop. All occupants of the vehicle were determined to be illegally present in the U.S. and were transported to the U.S. Border Patrol office in Gulfport, for further processing. After interviewing all occupants, it was determined that they were being smuggled from Houston, Texas to Maryland. Further investigation revealed that three of the passengers, including Valdez-Santana, were aliens who had unlawfully returned after they had been formally removed from the United States.
Valdez-Santana was first encountered by federal officials in 2009, near Joliet, Illinois, where he was serving a 3-year prison sentence with the Illinois Department of Corrections for a state offense of “Aggravated Driving Under the Influence.” An immigration detainer was placed on Valdez-Santana pending completion of his state prison sentence. In 2011, he was removed from the United States. He was encountered again by federal officials in 2017, and again removed from the United States.
The other two illegal aliens who had returned to the United States, after having been formally removed, were separately prosecuted, convicted and given prison sentences, to be followed by Immigration & Customs Enforcement removal proceedings.
The driver of the vehicle pled guilty and was convicted of unlawful transportation of an alien within the United States. He is awaiting sentencing on that charge.
U.S. Attorney Hurst praised the teamwork and cooperation exhibited by the Biloxi Police Department, the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration & Customs Enforcement, Customs & Border Protection, the U.S. Border Patrol, and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Stan Harris was the prosecutor for the case.
Brandon Man Sentenced to 12 Months and a Day in Prison Under Project EJECT for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Ryan Storm Irwin, 26, of Brandon, was sentenced today by U.S. District Court Judge Carlton W. Reeves to 12 months and a day in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Kirk Thielhorn, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Irwin was also ordered to pay a $1,000.00 fine.
On February 18, 2018, special agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives encountered Irwin alone in a vehicle in Jackson. As a result of a consent search, a shotgun was found in the vehicle. Irwin has a prior felony conviction for grand larceny.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn Murray.
This case is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for "Empower Justice Expel Crime Together." PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Former Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
Picayune Man Pleads Guilty under Project EJECT to Illegal Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Dewayne Yates, 28, of Picayune, pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge Henry T. Wingate to 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.
On March 31, 2017, Yates was found in possession of a firearm during an administrative checkpoint in Jackson. He was previously convicted of felonious aggravated assault with a gun in Hinds County. On March 5, 2019, Yates was charged in a federal criminal indictment with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Yates will be sentenced by Judge Wingate on November 21, 2019 at 9:00 a.m. He 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 the Jackson Police Department. It 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). EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for “Empower Justice Expel Crime Together.” PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Former Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
Jackson Man Pleads Guilty under Project EJECT to Illegally Possessing a GunRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Bernard Lavon Woofter, 43, of Jackson, pled guilty today before Chief U.S. District Court Judge Daniel P. Jordan III to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Michelle A. Sutphin, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi.
On February 13, 2018, Woofter was arrested by an officer with the Jackson Police Department following a pat down search wherein the officer discovered he was carrying a Rossi .38 Special revolver in his waistband. Woofter had previously been convicted of felony theft in Knox County, Tennessee.
Woofter will be sentenced by Judge Jordan on November 22, 2019 at 9:00 a.m. He 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 the Jackson Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kimberly T. Purdie.
This case is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for "Empower Justice Expel Crime Together." PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Former Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
Jackson Man Found Guilty by Federal Jury under Project EJECT for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. –Otha Ray Flowers, 37, of Jackson, was found guilty this afternoon by a federal jury for illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, Special Agent in Charge Michelle A. Sutphin with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Special Agent in Charge Kirk Thielhorn with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
At approximately 8:30 pm. on February 18, 2017, an officer with the Jackson Police Department initiated a field interview of two men sitting in a parked vehicle outside of Big Boys Groceries on Road of Remembrance. Upon approaching the vehicle, the officer smelled the odor of marijuana. After asking the driver, later identified as Flowers, for his driver’s license, another officer observed the passenger appearing to put something in his mouth. Both Flowers and the passenger were ordered out of the vehicle. Flowers had been sitting on a .32 silver colored revolver, which the officer saw in plain view when Flowers exited the vehicle. The pistol was loaded with five live rounds and two spent shell casings. A records check revealed that Flowers had multiple felony convictions in Mississippi, Louisiana and Texas. Flowers also had outstanding warrants for his arrest. Officers recovered marijuana from Flowers’ pocket in addition to the loaded firearm.
Flowers was previously convicted in St. Bernard Parish, Louisiana, for attempted armed robbery; in Hinds County, Mississippi for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon; and in Guadalupe County, Texas for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Flowers will be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Henry T. Wingate on November 22, 2019, 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, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Jackson Police Department. It was prosecuted and tried by Assistant United States Attorneys David Fulcher and Chet 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). EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, reentry and awareness. EJECT stands for "Empower Justice Expel Crime Together." PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Former Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
Miami Man Sentenced to Two Years in Federal Prison for Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Jorge Alberto Perez, 57, of Miami, Florida, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to 24 months in federal prison, followed by one year of supervised release, for aggravated identity theft, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Jere. T. Miles, Special Agent in Charge of Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans. Perez was also ordered to pay a $1,000 fine.
On February 17, 2018, Perez was detained by the Gulfport Police Department on suspicion of credit card fraud. During the course of the investigation, it was discovered that Perez was in possession of illegally obtained credit card account information.
On April 30, 2019, Perez was charged in a criminal information with aggravated identity theft. He pled guilty before Judge Ozerden the same day.
The Gulfport Police Department and Department of Homeland Security investigated the case. It was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Paul Fortenberry.
Jury Finds in Favor of FBI in Civil Lawsuit Brought by Former Special AgentRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss. – Earlier today, a federal jury in Hattiesburg found that Plaintiff Warren Flowers, a former Special Agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation who had been fired by the agency, failed to prove that his termination was the result of retaliation for filing a claim of discrimination against his supervisors, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office represented the FBI at trial and, during the trial, introduced evidence that the FBI had fired Flowers for his repeated lack of candor. For example, Flowers admitted in a signed, sworn statement that he had knowingly falsified a FBI form seeking approval to use a confidential human source. When confronted by his supervisor, Flowers falsely claimed he had received approval when he knew he had not.
"The FBI did the right thing with regard to Warren Flowers and a jury of his peers agreed," said U.S. Attorney Hurst. "I want to commend our attorneys who defended the FBI in this suit. We as citizens expect nothing less from our law enforcement officers than honesty and candor, and those who cannot simply tell the truth should not expect to remain in this honored profession."
The suit was filed by Flowers in 2017 against the United States Attorney General. Prior to trial, the Court dismissed Flowers’ claims of race discrimination and hostile work environment.
Hurst applauded the excellent legal work in defending the FBI performed by Assistant United States Attorneys Angela Givens Williams and Kristi Johnson. The cases is captioned Flowers v. Attorney General Barr, 2:17-cv-118-KS-MTP.
Woodville Man Sentenced to Prison for Conspiracy to Steal and Sell FirearmsRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Shawnveon Holiday, 21, of Woodville, Mississippi, was sentenced Tueseday by Senior U.S. District Court Judge David C. Bramlette III to 33 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for conspiring to violate federal firearms laws, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Kirk Thielhorn, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Holiday was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $40,803.56 and a special assessment of $100.
On December 11, 2018, Holiday and co-defendant Kelandrix Lushaw were charged in a federal indictment with stealing multiple firearms from two federally licensed firearms dealers in Natchez, Mississippi. The defendants stole 13 firearms from Natchez Pawn & Jewelry on April 27, 2018, and 34 firearms from the Sports Center Sporting Goods Store on April 28, 2018. Earlier, on April 26, 2018, they had crossed the border into Louisiana to attempt to rob a gun dealer in Ridgeville, Louisiana. They proceeded to sell the stolen firearms in Wilkinson County on April 28 and 29, 2018. Holiday pled guilty before Judge Bramlette on April 11, 2019.
Co-defendant Kelandrix Lushaw pled guilty to the same charge and was sentenced by Judge Bramlette to 33 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Wilkinson County Sheriff’s Office, the Natchez Police Department, and the U.S. Marshals Service. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Theodore M. Cooperstein.
Gulfport Man Sentenced to Almost Six Years in Federal Prison for Accessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Michael Alex Miller, 19, of Gulfport, was sentenced Tuesday by U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to 70 months in federal prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, for accessing with intent to view visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Michelle A. Sutphin, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in Mississippi.
Judge Ozerden also ordered Miller to pay $5,000 under the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act of 2015 and $3,000 under the Amy, Vicky, and Andy Child Pornography Victim Assistance Act of 2018, in addition to $18,000 in restitution.
In February 2019, the FBI received information that a specific Internet Protocol (IP) address associated with a Gulfport residence had previously accessed a website used to access child pornography. On February 8, 2019, agents went to that Gulfport address and Michael Alex Miller answered the door. Miller agreed to voluntarily speak with the agents who conducted a non-custodial interview with Miller. Miller admitted to looking at child pornography on his cellular telephone and viewing or accessing multiple images of the same. Forensic examination of Miller’s cellular devices confirmed Miller accessed multiple images of minors engaging in such conduct. A review of the images by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children also confirmed that the images included known minors.
Miller was indicted on February 20, 2019, for accessing the images of the minors. He pled guilty before Judge Ozerden on April 25, 2019.
The case was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Jones. 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.
United States Attorney’s Office to Host Re-entry Services Fair in Meridian Under Project EJECTRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – United States Attorney Mike Hurst announced today that the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi will host a Re-entry Services Fair in Meridian under Project EJECT in order to provide vital services, information, and assistance to previously incarcerated individuals who are re-entering society.
The Re-entry Services Fair will be held on Wednesday, August 14, 2019, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Velma Young Community Center, 2400 16th Avenue, in Meridian.
"Re-entry is an integral part of Project EJECT and a vital component to reducing violent crime. Most prisoners today will one day be released back into our communities. We as a people must do all that we can to empower these individuals with the tools they need to be law-abiding and productive citizens. I want to personally thank these agencies, non-profits, and volunteers for coming together and helping folks get back on their feet. By working together, we are making our neighborhoods safe and secure for everyone," said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
"Working together we can and are making a difference in the lives of our returning citizens," said Mississippi Department of Corrections Commissioner Pelicia E. Hall. "Events such as these expose them to resources and job opportunities. I encourage formerly incarcerated persons to take advantage of this re-entry services fair. The fair is also available to the general public. Similar events have been successful. We hope we can say the same about Wednesday’s event. And, we would like to hold a resource fair in south Mississippi in the near future."
The goal of the fair is to help previously incarcerated individuals overcome obstacles often faced by those who are trying to re-enter society. Participating agencies will set up booths to provide resources in a variety of areas such as assistance with obtaining personal identification documents, housing information, educational assistance, legal information, and guidance for seeking and obtaining employment.
Agencies participating in the Re-entry Services Fair include the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Social Security Administration, Mississippi Department of Public Safety, Mississippi Department of Human Services, Mississippi Department of Corrections, U.S. Probation Office, Mississippi Community College Board, and the Governor’s Job Fair Network of Mississippi.
This event is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, reentry and awareness. EJECT stands for "Empower Justice Expel Crime Together." PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Former Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
Numerous Previously Detained Aliens with Small Children Released on Humanitarian GroundsRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – As part of an immigration enforcement operation throughout central Mississippi yesterday, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) concluded their processing of detained aliens last night and followed their procedures by releasing many on humanitarian grounds, announced Jere Miles, HSI Special Agent in Charge in New Orleans, and Mike Hurst, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Mississippi.
Preliminarily, it appears that approximately 30 detained aliens were released yesterday on humanitarian grounds at the individual sites where they were initially encountered, and another 270 detained aliens were released after being processed by HSI at the National Guard base in Pearl and returned to the place where they were originally encountered.
Pursuant to HSI procedures as part of this operation, all those detained yesterday were asked when they arrived at the processing center whether they had any children who were at school or childcare and needed to be picked up. In order to make it possible for detained aliens to contact family members and address childcare issues, HSI made cell phones available for use by detained aliens to make arrangements for the care of their children or other dependents. In addition, HSI had liaison officers working with the school districts to facilitate this process.
As part of HSI procedures pursuant to this operation, if HSI encountered two alien parents with minor children at home, HSI released one of the parents on humanitarian grounds and returned that individual to the place from which they were arrested. HSI similarly released any single alien parent with minor children a home on humanitarian grounds and physically returned that person to the place where he or she was originally detained. Based on these procedures, it is believed that all children were with at least one of their parents as of last night.
If there are children who are without parents, individuals are required by state law to contact Mississippi Child Protective Services ("CPS") at 1-800-222-8000. CPS will assist in taking care of that child and placing the child in a safe foster care home or licensed facility.
Family members of those detained can call ICE’s toll-free detainee locator hotline for information about an individual’s detention location and status, as well as information about the removal process. This hotline operates in English and Spanish. The phone number is 1-888-351-4024.
This operation is part of multiple ongoing criminal investigations and these investigations continue.
Picayune Man Pleads Guilty to Producing Images of a Minor Engaged in Sexually Explicit ConductRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Dannie Curlee, Jr., 46, of Picayune, pled guilty today before Senior U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola Jr. to producing images of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Jere T. Miles, Special Agent in Charge of Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans.
In February 2017, Curlee produced images of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Curlee was identified by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Attache Vancouver, and HSI in Mississippi, as an individual, with a specific user name, involved with numerous individuals posting images and videos depicting the sexual exploitation of children utilizing a Canadian company’s instant messaging mobile app “Kik”.
Subsequent investigation and the identification of an internet protocol or “IP” address linked to Curlee led to the execution of a federal search warrant in July of 2018 at Curlee’s Picayune residence and his subsequent arrest. Curlee admitted when interviewed that he had produced images of a minor child. He was charged in a federal indictment in April, 2019.
Curlee will be sentenced by Judge Guirola on November 14, 2019, at 10:00 a.m. in Gulfport. He faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations Border Enforcement Security Task Force with assistance from the Pearl River County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Jones.
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.
Largest Single-State Worksite Enforcement Action in Nation’s History Conducted by ICE and DOJ at Various Sites Across MississippiRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), in partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi, executed multiple federal criminal search warrants this morning for evidence relating to various federal crimes, as well as administrative search warrants searching for individuals illegally present in the United States, at seven sites across the State of Mississippi, announced Acting Director of U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement Matthew Albence, Jere Miles, HSI Special Agent in Charge in New Orleans, and Mike Hurst, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Mississippi.
“HSI’s worksite enforcement efforts are equally focused on aliens who unlawfully seek work in the U.S. as well as the employers who knowingly hire them,” said HSI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Miles.
“The execution of federal search warrants today was simply about enforcing the rule of law in our state and throughout our great country. I commend these federal agents, our state and local law enforcement partners, and our federal prosecutors for their professionalism and dedication to ensure that those who violate our laws are held accountable. We are a nation of laws, and we will remain so by continuing to enforce our laws and ensuring that justice is done,” said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
As a result of today’s operation, approximately 680 aliens were detained by HSI special agents. Some are being identified as being eligible for an alternative to detention based on humanitarian reasons. These individuals will be physically returned by HSI to their original place of detention and will still be required to appear before a federal immigration judge who will ultimately determine whether or not they will be deported. Currently, all cases are being handled via administrative law procedures at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Family members of those detained can call ICE’s toll-free detainee locator hotline for information about an individual’s detention location and status, as well as information about the removal process. This hotline operates in English and Spanish. The phone number is 1-888-351-4024.
All of those detained are being interviewed, fingerprinted and photographed by ICE agents, processed for removal from the United States, and transported to an ICE facility in Jena, Louisiana.
This operation is part of multiple ongoing criminal investigations.
Mississippi Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Hate Crime for CrossburningRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Department of Justice announced that Graham Williamson pleaded guilty yesterday to federal charges related to the commission of a crossburning on Oct. 24, 2017, in Seminary, Mississippi. Specifically, Williamson, 38, pleaded guilty to one count of interference with housing rights, a federal civil rights violation, and one count of conspiring to use fire to commit a federal felony.
In his plea, Williamson admitted that he and a co-conspirator planned and carried out a racially motivated crossburning in a predominantly African-American residential area of Seminary, Mississippi. Specifically, Williamson admitted that he and the co-conspirator constructed a cross using materials from in and around the co-conspirator’s residence, placed the cross near the home of African-American residents of that area, including the home of a juvenile victim identified as M.H., and lit the cross on fire. Williamson further admitted that he built and burned the cross to threaten, frighten, and intimidate M.H. and other African-American residents because of their race and color of their skin, and because those individuals lived in the Keys Hill area of Seminary, Mississippi. Williamson acknowledged that he knew burning crosses have historically been used to threaten, frighten, and intimidate African-Americans.
Williamson faces a maximum total sentence of 30 years in prison and a $500,000 fine on the two charges. Sentencing has been scheduled for Nov. 5.
“The defendant used a violent symbol of racial intimidation to threaten these victims and inspire fear, while they resided in the security of their own homes,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Civil Rights Division. “The Department of Justice does not tolerate these hateful and historically egregious acts, and will continue to vigorously prosecute criminals who violate the civil rights of peaceful community members.”
“Those who commit criminal acts based on race to intimidate and scare our fellow citizens will face swift and certain justice from this U.S. Attorney’s Office. These types of hateful actions have no place in our communities, and we will continue to fight for and uphold the civil rights of all throughout our State,” said Mike Hurst, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Mississippi.
“Crimes motivated by hate are intended to intimidate their victims and spread fear in the community, undermining societal values,” said FBI Jackson Division Special Agent in Charge Michelle A. Sutphin. “The FBI will continue its aggressive investigations of acts like these in pursuit of justice for the victims and the integrity of civil rights for all.”
This case was investigated by the FBI Jackson Division’s Hattiesburg Resident Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Candace Gregory Mayberry for the Southern District of Mississippi and Trial Attorney Julia Gegenheimer from the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division are prosecuting the case.
Mississippi Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Hate Crime for CrossburningRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice announced that Graham Williamson pleaded guilty yesterday to federal charges related to the commission of a crossburning on Oct. 24, 2017, in Seminary, Mississippi. Specifically, Williamson, 38, pleaded guilty to one count of interference with housing rights, a federal civil rights violation, and one count of conspiring to use fire to commit a federal felony.
In his plea, Williamson admitted that he and a co-conspirator planned and carried out a racially motivated crossburning in a predominantly African-American residential area of Seminary, Mississippi. Specifically, Williamson admitted that he and the co-conspirator constructed a cross using materials from in and around the co-conspirator’s residence, placed the cross near the home of African-American residents of that area, including the home of a juvenile victim identified as M.H., and lit the cross on fire. Williamson further admitted that he built and burned the cross to threaten, frighten, and intimidate M.H. and other African-American residents because of their race and color of their skin, and because those individuals lived in the Keys Hill area of Seminary, Mississippi. Williamson acknowledged that he knew burning crosses have historically been used to threaten, frighten, and intimidate African-Americans.
Williamson faces a maximum total sentence of 30 years in prison and a $500,000 fine on the two charges. Sentencing has been scheduled for Nov. 5.
“The defendant used a violent symbol of racial intimidation to threaten these victims and inspire fear, while they resided in the security of their own homes,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Civil Rights Division. “The Department of Justice does not tolerate these hateful and historically egregious acts, and will continue to vigorously prosecute criminals who violate the civil rights of peaceful community members.”
“Those who commit criminal acts based on race to intimidate and scare our fellow citizens will face swift and certain justice from this U.S. Attorney’s Office. These types of hateful actions have no place in our communities, and we will continue to fight for and uphold the civil rights of all throughout our State,” said Mike Hurst, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Mississippi.
“Crimes motivated by hate are intended to intimidate their victims and spread fear in the community, undermining societal values,” said FBI Jackson Division Special Agent in Charge Michelle A. Sutphin. “The FBI will continue its aggressive investigations of acts like these in pursuit of justice for the victims and the integrity of civil rights for all.”
This case was investigated by the FBI Jackson Division’s Hattiesburg Resident Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Candace Gregory Mayberry for the Southern District of Mississippi and Trial Attorney Julia Gegenheimer from the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division are prosecuting the case.
For more information about Department of Justice’s work to combat and prevent hate crimes, visit www.justice.gov/hatecrimes: a one-stop portal with links to Department of Justice hate crimes resources for law enforcement, media, researchers, victims, advocacy groups, and other organizations and individuals.
Vicksburg Man Pleads Guilty to Health Care Fraud, Money Laundering, Aggravated Identity Theft, Mail Fraud, and Contempt of CourtRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Laron Evans, 34, of Vicksburg, pled guilty yesterday before U.S. District Court Judge Henry T. Wingate to conspiring to commit wire fraud, mail fraud and health care fraud; money laundering; aggravated identity theft; mail fraud; and contempt of court, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Michelle A. Sutphin, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi.
"We in the U.S. Attorney’s Office will remain steadfast in bringing these swindlers to justice, while the public must remain vigilant to such schemes that seek to defraud us of our identities and our money. I commend the FBI agents and our federal prosecutors for doggedly pursuing these fraudsters and putting an end to their criminal enterprise," said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
"Health care fraud is a systemic issue nationwide, costing our country tens of billions of dollars each year," said SAC Sutphin. "The FBI will continue to pursue those that prey on our health care system and investigate these types of schemes."
Laron Evans conspired with co-defendant Travious Quinshad Jackson and others to execute a health care fraud scheme involving Health Savings Accounts ("HSA’s"), using interstate wire communications and the U.S. postal system. The scheme used interstate wire communication via the Internet to send Personal Identification Information (PII) of 57 actual people, pretending that they were employees of an imaginary company, to a third party administrator company located in Maryland.
The third party administrator company used the stolen PII to create individualized HSA accounts, and corresponding debit cards, for all 57 employee names, and sent debit cards for each employee name in the mail to Vicksburg addresses. The third party administrator advanced and credited funds to each HSA account created for the supposed employees, which money could then be spent through the debit card at designated retail stores. The third party administrator funded approximately $317,000 to these HSA accounts.
Evans, assisted by Jackson and others, spent down the debit cards in various stores throughout April and May 2018, buying gift cards, debit cards, and other consumer goods to deplete the HSA accounts. The third party administrator in the meantime had learned that there was no money in the bank account that Evans had identified for his fake company, when the company sought reimbursement for the HSA accounts.
On July 10, 2018, using proceeds gained from the health care fraud scheme, Evans bought a 2018 Chevrolet Suburban SUV in Forrest County, Mississippi, for $44,335 in cash plus a trade-in vehicle. The Chevy Suburban was titled in Mississippi in Evans’s name and remained under that title through and beyond February 2019.
On February 13, 2019, Evans appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Linda Anderson for his initial appearance and arraignment in this case. Judge Anderson entered an Order permitting Evans to be released on bond pending trial, subject to conditions forbidding travel without prior permission of the Court before leaving the Southern District of Mississippi. Between April 16 and April 20, 2019, Evans travelled outside the State of Mississippi without permission of the Court. Also during April and May 2018, while outside the State of Mississippi and on his return to Vicksburg, Evans continued to execute health care fraud schemes using the Internet and the U.S. Mails.
Evans falsely represented himself as leader and manager of an Orlando, Florida, business, seeking to establish health care benefits including HSA accounts for its purported employees. Evans submitted over the Internet to a third party administrator company located in Minnesota, bank account information for drawing reimbursement, plus employee information for creation of HSA debit cards. The Minnesota company sent some of the debit cards, during the period April 16-25, 2019, to Evans at his Vicksburg home address through the U.S. Mail. Evans had requested that the Minnesota administrator fund those HSA accounts up to $91,000.
Evans will be sentenced on January 31, 2020, by Judge Wingate. He faces maximum penalties of 20 years in prison as to the conspiracy charge, 10 years in prison as to the money laundering charge, a mandatory consecutive 2 year sentence for the aggravated identity theft, a possible maximum sentence of 30 years for the mail fraud charge, and up to 5 years in prison for the contempt of court offense. Evans also faces maximum fines of $250,000.00 on each charge.
Co-defendant Travious Quinshad Jackson has already pled guilty and will be sentenced by Judge Wingate on September 16, 2019.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Social Security Office of Investigator General, Vicksburg Police Department and Warren County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Theodore M. Cooperstein.