Southern District of Mississippi
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Illegal Immigrant and Kosciusko Man Sentenced in Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Jose Luis Solorio Morales, 27, of Mexico, and Lee Morris Wade, Jr., 41, of Kosciusko, were sentenced yesterday by Senior U.S. District Judge David C. Bramlette III for their roles in a conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Assistant Special Agent in Charge J. Derryle Smith.
Wade was sentenced to 292 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $1,500 fine. Solorio Morales was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release.
On December 28, 2017, Wade was sent a shipment of approximately 12 kilograms of liquid methamphetamine. The methamphetamine was transported in the gas tank of a passenger vehicle. Needing somewhere to process and store the liquid methamphetamine, Wade rented a home in Jackson, Mississippi. Solorio Morales, who had been unlawfully living in Texas, traveled to Jackson to assist in converting the liquid methamphetamine to solid form.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Chris Wansley.
Illegal Alien Sentenced to over 27 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss – Erik Betancourt-Olguin, 25, an illegal alien from Mexico, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to 330 months in federal prison followed by 5 years of supervised release for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Jere T. Miles with Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Securities Investigations in New Orleans.
On January 30, 2018, Olguin and three others were stopped in a vehicle in Hancock County traveling from Texas to North Carolina. They were transporting approximately 4 kilograms of 99% pure methamphetamine.
Olguin pled guilty on September 7, 2018 to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. The other occupants of the vehicle have all been sentenced.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John Meynardie.
Former Mississippi Corrections Officer Sentenced to Five Years Imprisonment for Excessive ForceRead the Press Release
The Honorable Chief Judge Daniel P. Jordan III, of the United States District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi, sentenced Defendant Reginald Laterry Brown, 27, a former Mississippi Department of Corrections (MDOC) officer, to serve five years imprisonment for violating the civil rights of an inmate housed at the Central Mississippi Correctional Facility (CMCF). Brown previously pled guilty on Nov. 16, 2018, to assaulting the victim, identified as L.H., by kicking him, stomping on him, and punching him. Brown’s assault resulted in bodily injury to L.H. and involved the use of a dangerous weapon. At the time of the incident, Brown was working as a corrections officer at CMCF in Rankin County, Mississippi.
“A correctional officer who inflicts cruel and unusual punishment on an inmate in his custody betrays the trust placed in those who hold positions of power and authority,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Civil Rights Division. “The Justice Department is committed to protecting the constitutional rights of every person and holding officers who break the law accountable.”
“This office will continue to vigorously prosecute those who betray their sacred oath and violate our criminal laws,” said U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst of the Southern District of Mississippi. “I want to thank our prosecutors, DOJ trial attorneys, and the agents who brought this man to justice. Without their diligent effort, these ugly abuses may never have come to light and this defendant would not have been held accountable. An abuse of power is an abuse of our system, and such abuses will not be tolerated in this district.”
“When correctional officers fail to uphold their oath of office and the rights of those they are sworn to protect, it undermines the criminal justice system as a whole,” said Christopher Freeze, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Mississippi. “This sentencing should send a clear message that the FBI takes these allegations seriously, and that civil rights investigations remain a top priority for the FBI.”
This case was investigated by the FBI’s Jackson, Mississippi Field Office. Trial Attorney Julia Gegenheimer of the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Glenda Haynes of Southern District of Mississippi prosecuted the case.
Former Mississippi Corrections Officer Sentenced to Five Years Imprisonment for Excessive ForceRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Honorable Chief Judge Daniel P. Jordan III, of the United States District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi, sentenced Defendant Reginald Laterry Brown, 27, a former Mississippi Department of Corrections (MDOC) officer, to serve five years imprisonment for violating the civil rights of an inmate housed at the Central Mississippi Correctional Facility (CMCF). Brown previously pled guilty on Nov. 16, 2018, to assaulting the victim, identified as L.H., by kicking him, stomping on him, and punching him. Brown’s assault resulted in bodily injury to L.H. and involved the use of a dangerous weapon. At the time of the incident, Brown was working as a corrections officer at CMCF in Rankin County, Mississippi.
“A correctional officer who inflicts cruel and unusual punishment on an inmate in his custody betrays the trust placed in those who hold positions of power and authority,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Civil Rights Division. “The Justice Department is committed to protecting the constitutional rights of every person and holding officers who break the law accountable.”
“This office will continue to vigorously prosecute those who betray their sacred oath and violate our criminal laws,” said U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst of the Southern District of Mississippi. “I want to thank our prosecutors, DOJ trial attorneys, and the agents who brought this man to justice. Without their diligent effort, these ugly abuses may never have come to light and this defendant would not have been held accountable. An abuse of power is an abuse of our system, and such abuses will not be tolerated in this district.”
“When correctional officers fail to uphold their oath of office and the rights of those they are sworn to protect, it undermines the criminal justice system as a whole,” said Christopher Freeze, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Mississippi. “This sentencing should send a clear message that the FBI takes these allegations seriously, and that civil rights investigations remain a top priority for the FBI.”
This case was investigated by the FBI’s Jackson, Mississippi Field Office. Trial Attorney Julia Gegenheimer of the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Glenda Haynes of Southern District of Mississippi prosecuted the case.
Canton Man Charged as Part of Largest Ponzi Scheme in Mississippi HistoryRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – William B. McHenry, 71, of Canton, has been indicted by a federal grand jury for his role in a multi-million dollar Ponzi scheme that adversely affected hundreds of victims across multiple states over a number of years, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Christopher Freeze with the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi.
McHenry appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Linda R. Anderson today for his initial appearance and arraignment on the Indictment. The case is currently scheduled for trial on April 15, 2019, before U.S. District Judge Carlton W. Reeves in Jackson.
"Those who prey upon and steal from others will soon find themselves on the wrong side of the law. We will continue to investigate this massive scheme wherever the evidence may take us and will vigorously pursue and bring to justice any other wrongdoers who were involved," said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
McHenry is charged with one count of securities fraud and two counts of wire fraud involving a scheme to defraud investors, all in connection with a Ponzi scheme using Madison Timber Properties, LLC, a company wholly owned by Arthur Lamar Adams. Adams has previously been convicted and sentenced for his role in the Ponzi scheme.
As charged in the Indictment, beginning as early as 2008 and continuing through April 2018, McHenry assisted in a scheme to defraud investors by soliciting millions of dollars of funds for Adams under false pretenses, failing to use the investors’ funds as promised, and converting investors’ funds to McHenry’s and Adams’s own benefit without the knowledge of the investors. Instead of investing McHenry’s clients’ money, Adams used the invested funds for
his own personal benefit and for purposes other than those represented to investors, which also included making payments due and owing to other investors, thus perpetuating the Ponzi scheme. During the fraudulent scheme, McHenry recruited investors, and fraudulently obtained well in excess of $18,000,000 from more than 25 investors located in multiple states.
As alleged in the Indictment, as part of the fraudulent scheme, McHenry falsely represented to investors that Madison Timber Properties was in the business of buying timber rights from landowners and then selling the timber rights to lumber mills at a higher price. The object of the scheme was to cause individuals to invest in loans that purportedly were for the purpose of financing contracts for the purchase of timber rights to be sold to lumber mills at a higher price. However, neither McHenry, Adams nor Madison Timber Properties had such timber rights or contracts with lumber mills, except in only a few instances.
McHenry and Adams entered into fraudulent investment contracts with investors, most often in the form of promissory notes on behalf of Madison Timber Properties. The loans typically guaranteed investors an interest rate of 12-13%, with the interest to be repaid to investors over the course of 12-13 months. The monthly payments due on these promissory notes were typically due on either the first or the fifteenth of the month.
McHenry and Adams created false documents causing investors to believe that their investments were secured by sufficient collateral from which they could recover all or part of their investment in the event that Madison Timber Properties defaulted on the loans. Specifically, Adams created false timber deeds purporting to be contracts conveying timber rights from landowners to Madison Timber Properties. Adams forged the signatures of landowners and also created false timber deeds purporting to convey timber rights from Madison Timber Properties to the investors.
To further lull investors, Adams had many of the documents notarized to make the investments appear legitimate. McHenry and Adams also required the investors to agree not to record their timber deeds unless Madison Timber Properties defaulted on the loan agreement by failing to make a payment.
McHenry misled his investors to think that McHenry was a principal officer of Madison Timber Properties and was personally invested with his own funds in the enterprise. Instead, McHenry in fact only received a ten percent commission on all the investments he recruited, which McHenry failed to disclose.
Following the 2018 criminal prosecution of Arthur Lamar Adams, the United States District Court appointed a receiver, who is actively seeking to recover and maximize assets for restitution to investor victims. Information regarding the Receiver’s activities can be found at the receiver’s website, madisontimberreceiver.com.
The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Securities and Exchange Commission. The criminal case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Theodore Cooperstein.
The public is reminded that an indictment is merely a charge and should not be considered as evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Brandon Man Sentenced to Seven Years in Prison Under Project EJECT for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Joel Wendell Beckham, 32, of Brandon, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge David C. Bramlette III to 84 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, FBI Special Agent in Charge Christopher Freeze, and U.S. Marshal Mark Shepherd. Beckham was also ordered to pay a $1,500 fine.
On January 4, 2018, members of the U.S. Marshal Service Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force executed an arrest warrant and apprehended Joel Wendell Beckham at a residence in Jackson on a felony warrant from the Rankin County Sheriff’s Department for failure to appear for a revocation hearing. Upon making entry, task force officers made contact with Beckham in the rear bedroom. A KAHR, .40 caliber, semi-automatic pistol and a clear plastic bag with methamphetamine was found under the desk where Beckham was standing. During an interview, Beckham admitted to possession of the weapon.
Beckham was previously convicted in the Circuit Court of Rankin County for the felony offense of conspiracy to transfer a controlled substance.
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 Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Marshal Service Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Keesha D. Middleton.
Meridian Man Pleads Guilty to Importation of Chemicals to Manufacture Synthetic Cannabinoid and Illegally Possessing FirearmsRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Bilal Hamid Love, 35, of Meridian, was sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Judge David C. Bramlette III, to 168 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for importing the controlled substance AB-PINACA and possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Jere T. Miles, Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in New Orleans.
On March 22, 2015, agents with Homeland Security Investigations and the United States Postal Inspection Service found two packages that were coming from Hong Kong to a resident in Meridian, Mississippi. Inside the packages was AB-PINACA, a powder that is used in making synthetic cannabinoid. Love lives in Meridian and was also the manager at a local sporting goods store in Meridian. Agents searched the sporting goods store and found 3 firearms and numerous packages of synthetic cannabinoid for sale. Agents also searched Love’s home and found numerous items that are used in making synthetic cannabinoid, such as sprayers, AB-PINACA, flavoring, and dryers. Agents also found more firearms, cocaine and marijuana plants.
Love was charged in a multi-count federal indictment on March 7, 2018. He pled guilty on October 16, 2018.
The case was a joint investigation by U.S. Homeland Security Investigations and the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the East Mississippi Drug Task Force, the Mississippi State Crime Laboratory, and the United States Marshal Service. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Erin Chalk.
U.S. Attorney’s Office and Law Enforcement Partners Announce Expansion of “Project EJECT” to NatchezRead the Press Release
Natchez, Miss. - Today, Mike Hurst, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Mississippi, along with the Natchez Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Adams County Sheriff’s Office, the local District Attorney’s Office, and other federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, announced the expansion of an initiative to combat violent crime called "Project EJECT" into Adams County and the City of Natchez.
Launched by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi in December 2017 in the City of Jackson under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods ("PSN") initiative, Project EJECT is designed as an enhanced violent crime reduction program that incorporates decades of experience in bringing various levels of law enforcement together with stakeholders in the community, with the overall goal of producing a long-term, meaningful reduction in and prevention of violent crime.
In expanding the initiative into other parts of the Southern District of Mississippi, Project EJECT now stands for: "Empower Justice Expel Crime Together."
Joined by law enforcement in Natchez, U.S. Attorney Hurst described the project as a multi-disciplinary, holistic approach that combines law enforcement arrests and prosecutions of violent criminals with prevention efforts, rehabilitation and reentry, educational initiatives, and improved communication.
"Project EJECT will serve as a force multiplier in the City of Natchez and Adams County, bringing federal agents, prosecutors, training and additional services to help the citizens of Natchez tackle and prevent violent crime. We have a simple messages to criminals: if you violate our laws and terrorize our neighbors, you will be ejected from our community. But, we also intend to work with offenders to help them get back on their feet before they are released, and we will work with the youth to educate them on making the right choices. At the end of the day, we all want safer communities," said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
The mission of Project EJECT is to reduce violent crime and make Natchez neighborhoods safer for all to enjoy. Part of the project will include discussions with the public and encouraging communities to help law enforcement in this effort, as well as communicating to the criminals that they will be prosecuted and punished for gun crimes and violent crimes. The Project will also seek to support locally-based efforts to stop violence and crimes before they occur and to help those who have been punished to reenter society as law-abiding citizens.
Project EJECT is comprised of a number of federal law enforcement agencies, as well as task force officers from various state and local investigative agencies, who will interact regularly with the Natchez Police Department and the District Attorney’s Offices to identify and respond to violent crimes when they occur. Cases arising from these crimes will then be presented to the local District Attorney’s Offices and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for prosecution.
For the first time ever, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is specifically dedicating an Assistant United States Attorney to prosecute violent crime in the City of Natchez under this project.
Project EJECT follows a directive from former U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions to the U.S. Department of Justice to reinvigorate DOJ’s Project Safe Neighborhoods with the intent to reduce the rising tide of violent crime in America. Project EJECT is the Southern District of Mississippi’s PSN initiative specifically tailored to address violent crime throughout the district.
In December 2018, at the 2018 Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) National Conference, Acting Attorney General Matthew Whitaker presented the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi and its law enforcement partners with the award for Outstanding Overall Partnership/Task Force for Project EJECT. Only 16 awards were given during the annual PSN National Conference, which recognize individuals and groups for their dedication and contribution to the success of PSN. Project EJECT was one of only two recognized as the best partnerships or task forces in the nation.
In expanding Project EJECT into Natchez, the U.S. Attorney’s Office continues to lead the Project, with First Assistant U.S. Attorney Darren LaMarca and Criminal Chief Courtney Coker guiding the task force initially, Assistant U.S. Attorney Bert Carraway serving as the primary prosecutor for violent cases under Project EJECT in Natchez, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Candace Mayberry in Jackson serving as the Project Safe Neighborhoods Coordinator for the entire Southern District of Mississippi.
Mississippi Man Pleads Guilty to Health Care Fraud for His Role in $200 Million Compounding Pharmacy SchemeRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss – Howard Randall Thomley, 60, of Hattiesburg, pled guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Keith Starrett to a Criminal Information charging him with health care fraud for his role in a $200 million scheme to defraud health care benefit programs, including TRICARE, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, Special Agent in Charge Christopher Freeze with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Special Agent in Charge Thomas J. Holloman III of IRS Criminal Investigation’s Atlanta Field Office and Special Agent in Charge John F. Khin of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service’s Southeast Field Office.
Thomley will be sentenced by Judge Starrett on July 2, 2019 and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison.
During his guilty plea, Thomley admitted that, from approximately August 2012 through January 2016, he conspired with others to carry out a scheme to defraud TRICARE, which is a federally funded health care benefit program that serves United States military personnel and their families.
Thomley owned and operated a company called Advantage Marketing Professionals, which marketed medications for Advantage Pharmacy, a compounding pharmacy in Hattiesburg. For each prescription submitted by Thomley, Advantage Marketing Professionals and Thomley would receive a percentage of the revenue that Advantage Pharmacy obtained from TRICARE.
Thomley and others associated with Advantage Marketing Professionals recruited beneficiaries of TRICARE and paid them a percentage of the revenue from each prescription – including refills – that they and their families accepted, in order to induce the beneficiaries to accept millions of dollars of expensive compounded medications that were not medically necessary. In order to obtain prescriptions, Thomley and his co-conspirators filled out pre-printed prescription forms with the beneficiaries’ names, and obtained prescriber signatures, knowing that the medical professional prescribing the medication had not examined the recruited beneficiaries. Sometimes, the prescribers had previously signed blank prescription forms, which were later filled in by Thomley or his co-conspirators.
Advantage Pharmacy, upon receiving prescriptions, filled the prescriptions, dispensed compounded medications, and submitted claims to TRICARE, received reimbursement, and disbursed a portion of those payments to Thomley.
TRICARE paid approximately $3.6 million in reimbursements for medications sent to the beneficiaries recruited by Thomley and his co-conspirators.
"This nefarious and complex health care fraud scheme was one of the largest in Mississippi's history, and possibly one of the largest in our nation's history," said Special Agent in Charge Freeze. "Billions of taxpayer dollars are lost to heath care fraud each year, and conspiracies against Tricare strip benefits directly from our military's brave men and women and their families. This guilty plea brings this case one step closer to justice and shows the unwavering commitment, of all of the partnering agencies, to uncover, investigate and prosecute dishonest and unethical physicians, health care providers and any others associated with America's health care system. The collective resources of law enforcement at all levels will continue to expose these types of corruption and will actively seek justice for those who participate in these schemes."
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation, and the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, among other agencies. It is being prosecuted by DOJ Trial Attorneys Kate Payerle and Jared Hasten of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mary Helen Wall of the Southern District of Mississippi and Sean Welsh of the Western District of Virginia, formerly of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section (MLARS), with the support and assistance of Trial Attorney Amanda Wick of MLARS.
The Fraud Section leads the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which is part of a joint initiative between the Department of Justice and HHS to focus their efforts to prevent and deter fraud and enforce current anti-fraud laws around the country. Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which maintains 14 strike forces operating in 23 districts, has charged nearly 4,000 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for more than 14 billion.
Carriere Man Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Mississippi. – Darryl Wayne Griffin, Sr., 55, of Carriere, Mississippi, pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to one count of accessing with intent to view visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Christopher Freeze, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi.
In January, 2018, an electronic service provider identified internet protocol uploads by an account user of child sexual abuse imagery. After the images were received by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, the FBI conducted an investigation into the email and user name associated with the account. Thereafter, a federal search warrant was executed at the residence of Darryl Wayne Griffin, Sr. A subsequent forensic examination of Griffin’s cell phone revealed the defendant had accessed with intent to view numerous images of minors, to include those under 12 years of age, engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
Griffin will be sentenced on May 24, 2019, at 9:30 a.m., by Judge Ozerden, in Gulfport. The case was investigated by the FBI and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Jones.
Former Postal Employee Pleads Guilty to Stealing MailRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Latoya Rosell, 34, of Flora, pled guilty Wednesday before U.S. District Judge Carlton W. Reeves to embezzling mail matter during the course of her employment with the U.S. Postal Service, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Chris Cave with the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General, Southern Area Field Office.
Rosell was employed as a Rural Carrier Associate at the Ridgeland Post Office in Ridgeland, Mississippi. On August 15, 2018, agents were notified that expected mail matter was not being delivered along Rosell’s route. A subsequent operation run by investigators utilized monitored test pieces to confirm that Rosell was embezzling mail containing gift cards and U.S. currency. When confronted, Rosell admitted she had been embezzling the mail and immediately resigned her position. Agents recovered some but not all of the property embezzled by Rosell.
Rosell will be sentenced by Judge Reeves on May 22, 2019 at 9:30 a.m. She faces a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
This case was investigated by agents from the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew W. Eichner.
U.S. Attorney’s Office and Law Enforcement Partners Announce Expansion of “Project EJECT” to Mississippi Gulf CoastRead the Press Release
Moss Point, Miss. – Today, Mike Hurst, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Mississippi, along with the Moss Point Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, the local District Attorney’s Office, and other federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, announced the expansion of an initiative to combat violent crime called "Project EJECT" into Jackson County and the City of Moss Point.
Launched by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi in December 2017 in the City of Jackson under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods ("PSN") initiative, Project EJECT is designed as an enhanced violent crime reduction program that incorporates decades of experience in bringing various levels of law enforcement together with stakeholders in the community, with the overall goal of producing a long-term, meaningful reduction in and prevention of violent crime.
In expanding the initiative into other parts of the Southern District of Mississippi, Project EJECT now stands for: "Empower Justice Expel Crime Together."
Joined by law enforcement in Moss Point, U.S. Attorney Hurst described the project as a multi-disciplinary, holistic approach that combines law enforcement arrests and prosecutions of violent criminals with prevention efforts, rehabilitation and reentry, educational initiatives, and improved communication.
"We are excited about the potential for this successful crime fighting initiative to help the citizens of Moss Point and Jackson County. By working together with our law enforcement and community partners, Project EJECT will effectively address this increase in violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer. The message to violent criminals is simple - if you violate our laws and terrorize our neighborhoods, you will be ejected from our community. In the federal system, we will immediately lock you up, we will move to detain you without bond, and you will serve a significant prison sentence without parole. But, we will also seek to prevent crimes before they occur and will work with offenders to help them get back on their feet. At the end of the day, we all want safer communities," said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
The mission of Project EJECT is to reduce violent crime and make Moss Point neighborhoods safer for all to enjoy. Part of the project will include discussions with the public and encouraging communities to help law enforcement in this effort, as well as communicating to the criminals that they will be prosecuted and punished for gun crimes and violent crimes. The Project will also seek to support locally-based efforts to stop violence and crimes before they occur and to help those who have been punished to reenter society as law-abiding citizens.
Project EJECT is comprised of a number of federal law enforcement agencies, as well as task force officers from various state and local investigative agencies, who will interact regularly with the Moss Point Police Department and the District Attorney’s Offices to identify and respond to violent crimes when they occur. Cases arising from these crimes will then be presented to the local District Attorney’s Offices and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for prosecution.
For the first time ever, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is specifically dedicating an Assistant United States Attorney in Gulfport to prosecute violent crime in the City of Moss Point under this project.
Project EJECT follows a directive from former U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions to the U.S. Department of Justice to reinvigorate DOJ’s Project Safe Neighborhoods with the intent to reduce the rising tide of violent crime in America. Project EJECT is the Southern District of Mississippi’s PSN initiative specifically tailored to address violent crime throughout the district.
In December 2018, at the 2018 Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) National Conference, Acting Attorney General Matthew Whitaker presented the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi and its law enforcement partners with the award for Outstanding Overall Partnership/Task Force for Project EJECT. Only 16 awards were given during the annual PSN National Conference, which recognize individuals and groups for their dedication and contribution to the success of PSN. Project EJECT was one of only two recognized as the best partnerships or task forces in the nation.
In expanding Project EJECT into Moss Point, the U.S. Attorney’s Office continues to lead the Project, with First Assistant U.S. Attorney Darren LaMarca and Criminal Chief Courtney Coker guiding the task force initially, Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Carter in Gulfport serving as the primary prosecutor for violent cases under Project EJECT in Moss Point, long-time Assistant U.S. Attorney Annette Williams in Gulfport serving as a senior advisor and prosecutor, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Candace Mayberry in Jackson serving as the Project Safe Neighborhoods Coordinator for the entire Southern District of Mississippi.
Pascagoula Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Clynn Partee, 46, of Pascagoula, Mississippi, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr. to a term of 21 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release for failure to register as a sex offender, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst. Partee was also ordered to pay a $2,100 fine. He entered a guilty plea to the charge on November 28, 2018 before Judge Guirola.
In 2006, Partee was convicted in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, of Predatory Criminal Sexual Assault against a 12-year old female victim. He was sentenced to eight years with the Illinois Department of Corrections and deemed a Tier III Sex Offender with a lifetime registration requirement. After he was released from custody in Illinois, Partee moved to Mississippi in 2015. He did not register as required when he departed Illinois, and he did not register within the required time of his arrival in Mississippi.
In September 2018, Pascagoula Police officers responded to a disturbance call at a hotel in Pascagoula and encountered Partee. While Partee was not arrested during that encounter, a National Criminal Information Center database check was conducted regarding him. It was brought to the attention of the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office that Partee was a convicted sex offender and that he had been listed as a non-compliant sex offender in Illinois. The Sheriff's Office contacted the U.S. Marshals Service, which conducted further investigation.
The Marshals Service learned that Partee had never registered as a sex offender in the State of Mississippi and the State of Mississippi had not received a notification from the State of Illinois indicating the Defendant’s intent to relocate to Mississippi. The Marshals Service investigation concluded that Partee’s current residence was at a hotel in Pascagoula that also routinely houses a wide variety of people including children. Partee was arrested by local law enforcement officials as a non-compliant sex offender in September 2018 and subsequent to his federal indictment, Partee was arrested by the U.S. Marshal’s Service in October 2018.
In failing to register as a sex offender when he moved from Illinois to Mississippi, Partee knowingly and willfully violated the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, also known as the Adam Walsh Act.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service, law enforcement officials in the State of Illinois, the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, and the Pascagoula Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan Harris.
Nine Real Estate Investors Sentenced for Rigging Bids at Mississippi Public Foreclosure AuctionsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Nine real estate investors have been sentenced for their role in a conspiracy to rig bids, in violation of the U.S. antitrust laws, at public real estate foreclosure auctions in Southern Mississippi, the Department of Justice announced.
Today, Christopher Vaughan and Jon Gregg Goodhart Jr. were each sentenced to serve four months in prison, with Vaughan receiving a fine of $20,000. Both defendants were ordered to pay restitution. Separately, but as a result of the same investigation, Jason Boykin, Shannon Boykin, Kimberly Foster, Kevin Moore, Chad Nichols, Ivan Spinner, and Terry Tolar were each sentenced to a term of four months in prison on Jan. 17, 2019, and were ordered to pay fines ranging from $20,000 to $48,000 and restitution to victims of their crimes.
At various times between 2009 and 2017, according to court documents, these defendants and others conspired not to bid against each other for properties sold at public real estate foreclosure auctions. Instead, they designated a winning bidder for the property and made and received payoffs in exchange for their agreement not to bid. When properties are sold at these auctions, the proceeds are used to pay off the mortgage and other debt attached to the property, with any remaining proceeds paid to the homeowner. These conspirators paid and received money in connection with their agreement to suppress competition, which artificially lowered the price paid at auction for such homes.
“Those who subvert the competitive process will be held accountable and violations of the nation’s antitrust laws will be taken seriously,” said Assistant Attorney General Makan Delrahim of the Department of Justice’s Antitrust Division. “The Division has prosecuted more than 100 individuals across the country for bid rigging at real estate foreclosure auctions, and we will continue our efforts to prosecute and deter this conduct.”
“These types of crimes affect all Americans, because when individuals rig bids at auction, it ultimately damages our economy and hurts individuals,” said Christopher Freeze, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Mississippi. “We want to send a clear message to those participating in this type of corruption: the FBI and Department of Justice will investigate and prosecute anyone betraying the trust of our country’s economic foundation.”
“There is a simple lesson from these cases – if you rig bids, you will be caught and you will be punished. These are not victimless crimes, as we all suffer when people violate our antitrust laws. I want to thank the FBI and the Antitrust Division for rooting out this corruption in our foreclosure auctions here in Mississippi. We will remain vigilant against these and other types of crimes as we move forward in protecting the public,” said United States Attorney Mike Hurst for the Southern District of Mississippi.
The sentences announced today resulted from an ongoing investigation being conducted by the Antitrust Division’s Washington Criminal II Section and the FBI’s Gulfport Resident Agency, with the assistance of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi. Anyone with information concerning bid rigging or fraud related to real estate foreclosure auctions should contact the Antitrust Division prosecutors in the Washington Criminal II Section at 202-598-4000, or visit https://www.justice.gov/atr/report-violations.
Nine Real Estate Investors Sentenced for Rigging Bids at Mississippi Public Foreclosure AuctionsRead the Press Release
Nine real estate investors have been sentenced for their role in a conspiracy to rig bids, in violation of the U.S. antitrust laws, at public real estate foreclosure auctions in Southern Mississippi, the Department of Justice announced.
Today, Christopher Vaughan and Jon Gregg Goodhart Jr. were each sentenced to serve four months in prison, with Vaughan receiving a fine of $20,000. Both defendants were ordered to pay restitution. Separately, but as a result of the same investigation, Jason Boykin, Shannon Boykin, Kimberly Foster, Kevin Moore, Chad Nichols, Ivan Spinner, and Terry Tolar were each sentenced to a term of four months in prison on Jan. 17, 2019, and were ordered to pay fines ranging from $20,000 to $48,000 and restitution to victims of their crimes.
At various times between 2009 and 2017, according to court documents, these defendants and others conspired not to bid against each other for properties sold at public real estate foreclosure auctions. Instead, they designated a winning bidder for the property and made and received payoffs in exchange for their agreement not to bid. When properties are sold at these auctions, the proceeds are used to pay off the mortgage and other debt attached to the property, with any remaining proceeds paid to the homeowner. These conspirators paid and received money in connection with their agreement to suppress competition, which artificially lowered the price paid at auction for such homes.
“Those who subvert the competitive process will be held accountable and violations of the nation’s antitrust laws will be taken seriously,” said Assistant Attorney General Makan Delrahim of the Department of Justice’s Antitrust Division. “The Division has prosecuted more than 100 individuals across the country for bid rigging at real estate foreclosure auctions, and we will continue our efforts to prosecute and deter this conduct.”
“These types of crimes affect all Americans, because when individuals rig bids at auction, it ultimately damages our economy and hurts individuals,” said Christopher Freeze, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Mississippi. “We want to send a clear message to those participating in this type of corruption: the FBI and Department of Justice will investigate and prosecute anyone betraying the trust of our country’s economic foundation.”
“There is a simple lesson from these cases – if you rig bids, you will be caught and you will be punished. These are not victimless crimes, as we all suffer when people violate our antitrust laws. I want to thank the FBI and the Antitrust Division for rooting out this corruption in our foreclosure auctions here in Mississippi. We will remain vigilant against these and other types of crimes as we move forward in protecting the public,” said United States Attorney Mike Hurst for the Southern District of Mississippi.
The sentences announced today resulted from an ongoing investigation being conducted by the Antitrust Division’s Washington Criminal II Section and the FBI’s Gulfport Resident Agency, with the assistance of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi. Anyone with information concerning bid rigging or fraud related to real estate foreclosure auctions should contact the Antitrust Division prosecutors in the Washington Criminal II Section at 202-598-4000, or visit https://www.justice.gov/atr/report-violations.
Jackson Man Pleads Guilty under Project EJECT to Illegally Possessing a GunRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Tommy Robert Spells, also known as Thomas Spell, 32, of Jackson, pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge Carlton W. Reeves to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Christopher Freeze, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi.
On July 24, 2018, Jackson Police officers conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Spells after he made an illegal U-turn at the intersection of Highway 80 and Robinson Street in Jackson. Spells, a convicted felon, was found to be in possession of a Hi-Point .45 caliber pistol, which was later determined to be stolen. Spells was previously convicted of statutory rape in Hinds County.
Spells will be sentenced on May 24, 2019, by Judge Reeves, and faces a maximum penalty of ten years in prison and a $250,000 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.
Walnut Grove Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing a GunRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Matthew J. Underwood, 45, of Walnut Grove, pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge Carlton Reeves to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Dana Nichols with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
On August 7, 2018, officers were conducting a residence check of Underwood’s home when they discovered a loaded 12 gauge shotgun and a box of 12 gauge shotgun shells. Underwood had previously been convicted of assaulting, resisting, or impeding an officer by use of a firearm and for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm twice. He was on parole for a Scott County conviction when the instant offense occurred.
Underwood will be sentenced on May 22, 2019, at 9:00 a.m. before Judge Reeves, 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, the Sebastopol Police Department, the Mississippi Department of Corrections, and the Leake County Sheriff’s Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kimberly T. Purdie.
Mississippi Woman Pleads Guilty to Health Care Fraud, Money Laundering and Tax Evasion Charges for Role in $200 Million Compounding Pharmacy SchemeRead the Press Release
A Hattiesburg, Mississippi woman pleaded guilty today for her role in a $200 million scheme to defraud health care benefit programs, including TRICARE, which is the program that covers U.S. military service members and their families.
Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst of the Southern District of Mississippi; Special Agent in Charge Christopher Freeze of the FBI’s Jackson, Mississippi Field Division; Special Agent in Charge Thomas J. Holloman III of IRS Criminal Investigation’s (IRS-CI) Atlanta Field Office and Special Agent in Charge John F. Khin of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service’s (DCIS) Southeast Field Office made the announcement.
Hope E. Thomley, 52, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Keith Starrett of the Southern District of Mississippi to one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering and tax evasion. She is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Starrett on July 2. Thomley was charged in May 2018 in a 26-count indictment and had been scheduled to begin trial on March 19.
“Hope Thomley and her co-conspirators stole millions of dollars from a federal health care program that serves our nation’s brave military personnel and their families,” said Assistant Attorney General Benczkowski. “The Department of Justice and our law enforcement partners will continue to target unscrupulous medical professionals, business owners, and pharmacies that steal from our nation’s vital health care programs.”
“Today’s guilty plea in one of the largest health care fraud schemes in Mississippi history brings us one step closer to justice for our veterans, our military and the American taxpayers,” said U.S. Attorney Hurst. “I commend the hard work and dedication of our prosecutors, investigative agents and other law enforcement partners for pursuing this important case. We will not stop until all those who were involved in this despicable scheme have been brought to justice.”
“Hope Thomley was charged in a very complex scheme to launder criminally derived proceeds resulting from a fraud scheme against TRICARE,” said IRS-CI Special Agent in Charge Holloman. “Her efforts to conceal the source of her ill-gotten gains and evade taxes were the precise reason why IRS-CI’s involvement was so essential to unraveling the criminal conspiracies involved in this case. IRS special agents are uniquely equipped to decipher this type of criminal activity, and levy the appropriate charges to address the criminal conduct. As a result of the collaborative efforts of the investigative team, Hope Thomley agreed to accept responsibility for her actions and will now be held accountable for the breadth of her criminal conduct in this matter.”
“The Defense Criminal Investigative Service, with our investigative partners, will thoroughly investigate anyone who defrauds TRICARE, the Department of Defense health care program, and bring them to justice,” said DCIS Special Agent in Charge Khin. “The egregious corruption uncovered in this complex and expansive fraud scheme wasted and diverted millions of dollars in limited taxpayer funds that should have been spent on critical medical care for our military members and their families.”
At her plea hearing today, Thomley admitted her role in a scheme to defraud health care benefit programs, including TRICARE, by marketing medications known as compounded medications, which ordinarily are medications that are specially combined or formulated to meet the individual needs of patients. Thomley owned and operated the exclusive marketing agency for Advantage Pharmacy of Hattiesburg, and in that role, was responsible for obtaining prescriptions for which the pharmacy could obtain reimbursement from health care benefit programs. Thomley’s marketing company received nearly 50 percent of the reimbursements that Advantage Pharmacy obtained from the compounded medications. Thomley admitted that co-conspirators formulated Advantage Pharmacy’s compounded medications without regard to the individual needs of the patients, but instead with the goal of increasing reimbursements paid by health care benefit programs, and that she had contemporaneous knowledge of this. In order to further increase her profit, Thomley admittedly obtained prescribers’ signatures on blank prescription forms, and then filled out those forms with the names of her children and TRICARE beneficiaries that she and her husband recruited from the community to receive these medications. Thomley knew that Advantage Pharmacy would fill and submit claims for those falsified prescriptions to health care benefit programs, including TRICARE, she admitted.
Thomley also admitted her role in a money laundering and tax evasion scheme that she and other co-conspirators used to conceal the fraudulent proceeds and evade taxes. Through the scheme, Thomley evaded paying approximately $6.6 million in income taxes, she admitted. From approximately April 2012 through January 2016, health care benefit programs, including TRICARE, reimbursed Advantage Pharmacy and other pharmacies involved in the scheme at least $200 million.
The government seized more than $15 million in cash and other assets from Thomley, which will be forfeited in connection with her guilty plea.
Since 2017, nine other individuals involved in this scheme have pleaded guilty, and one was convicted at trial.
This case is being investigated by the FBI, IRS-CI and DCIS, among other agencies. Trial Attorneys Kate Payerle and Jared Hasten of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mary Helen Wall of the Southern District of Mississippi and Sean Welsh of the Western District of Virginia, formerly of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section (MLARS), are prosecuting the case, with the support and assistance of Trial Attorney Amanda Wick of MLARS.
The Fraud Section leads the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which is part of a joint initiative between the Department of Justice and HHS to focus their efforts to prevent and deter fraud and enforce current anti-fraud laws around the country. Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which maintains 14 strike forces operating in 23 districts, has charged nearly 4,000 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for more than 14 billion.
Mississippi Woman Pleads Guilty to Health Care Fraud, Money Laundering and Tax Evasion Charges for Role in $200 Million Compounding Pharmacy SchemeRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – A Hattiesburg, Mississippi woman pleaded guilty today for her role in a $200 million scheme to defraud health care benefit programs, including TRICARE, which is the program that covers U.S. military service members and their families.
Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst of the Southern District of Mississippi; Special Agent in Charge Christopher Freeze of the FBI’s Jackson, Mississippi Field Division; Special Agent in Charge Thomas J. Holloman III of IRS Criminal Investigation’s (IRS-CI) Atlanta Field Office and Special Agent in Charge John F. Khin of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service’s (DCIS) Southeast Field Office made the announcement.
Hope E. Thomley, 52, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Keith Starrett of the Southern District of Mississippi to one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering and tax evasion. She is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Starrett on July 2. Thomley was charged in May 2018 in a 26-count indictment and had been scheduled to begin trial on March 19.
“Hope Thomley and her co-conspirators stole millions of dollars from a federal health care program that serves our nation’s brave military personnel and their families,” said Assistant Attorney General Benczkowski. “The Department of Justice and our law enforcement partners will continue to target unscrupulous medical professionals, business owners, and pharmacies that steal from our nation’s vital health care programs.”
“Today’s guilty plea in one of the largest health care fraud schemes in Mississippi history brings us one step closer to justice for our veterans, our military and the American taxpayers,” said U.S. Attorney Hurst. “I commend the hard work and dedication of our prosecutors, investigative agents and other law enforcement partners for pursuing this important case. We will not stop until all those who were involved in this despicable scheme have been brought to justice.”
“Hope Thomley was charged in a very complex scheme to launder criminally derived proceeds resulting from a fraud scheme against TRICARE,” said IRS-CI Special Agent in Charge Holloman. “Her efforts to conceal the source of her ill-gotten gains and evade taxes were the precise reason why IRS-CI’s involvement was so essential to unraveling the criminal conspiracies involved in this case. IRS special agents are uniquely equipped to decipher this type of criminal activity, and levy the appropriate charges to address the criminal conduct. As a result of the collaborative efforts of the investigative team, Hope Thomley agreed to accept responsibility for her actions and will now be held accountable for the breadth of her criminal conduct in this matter.”
“The Defense Criminal Investigative Service, with our investigative partners, will thoroughly investigate anyone who defrauds TRICARE, the Department of Defense health care program, and bring them to justice,” said DCIS Special Agent in Charge Khin. “The egregious corruption uncovered in this complex and expansive fraud scheme wasted and diverted millions of dollars in limited taxpayer funds that should have been spent on critical medical care for our military members and their families.”
At her plea hearing today, Thomley admitted her role in a scheme to defraud health care benefit programs, including TRICARE, by marketing medications known as compounded medications, which ordinarily are medications that are specially combined or formulated to meet the individual needs of patients. Thomley owned and operated the exclusive marketing agency for Advantage Pharmacy of Hattiesburg, and in that role, was responsible for obtaining prescriptions for which the pharmacy could obtain reimbursement from health care benefit programs. Thomley’s marketing company received nearly 50 percent of the reimbursements that Advantage Pharmacy obtained from the compounded medications. Thomley admitted that co-conspirators formulated Advantage Pharmacy’s compounded medications without regard to the individual needs of the patients, but instead with the goal of increasing reimbursements paid by health care benefit programs, and that she had contemporaneous knowledge of this. In order to further increase her profit, Thomley admittedly obtained prescribers’ signatures on blank prescription forms, and then filled out those forms with the names of her children and TRICARE beneficiaries that she and her husband recruited from the community to receive these medications. Thomley knew that Advantage Pharmacy would fill and submit claims for those falsified prescriptions to health care benefit programs, including TRICARE, she admitted.
Thomley also admitted her role in a money laundering and tax evasion scheme that she and other co-conspirators used to conceal the fraudulent proceeds and evade taxes. Through the scheme, Thomley evaded paying approximately $6.6 million in income taxes, she admitted. From approximately April 2012 through January 2016, health care benefit programs, including TRICARE, reimbursed Advantage Pharmacy and other pharmacies involved in the scheme at least $200 million.
The government seized more than $15 million in cash and other assets from Thomley, which will be forfeited in connection with her guilty plea.
Since 2017, nine other individuals involved in this scheme have pleaded guilty, and one was convicted at trial.
This case is being investigated by the FBI, IRS-CI and DCIS, among other agencies. Trial Attorneys Kate Payerle and Jared Hasten of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mary Helen Wall of the Southern District of Mississippi and Sean Welsh of the Western District of Virginia, formerly of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section (MLARS), are prosecuting the case, with the support and assistance of Trial Attorney Amanda Wick of MLARS.
The Fraud Section leads the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which is part of a joint initiative between the Department of Justice and HHS to focus their efforts to prevent and deter fraud and enforce current anti-fraud laws around the country. Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which maintains 14 strike forces operating in 23 districts, has charged nearly 4,000 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for more than 14 billion.
Jackson Man Pleads Guilty under Project EJECT to Illegally Possessing a GunRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Justin Jamal Williams, 29, of Jackson, pled guilty Friday before Chief U.S. District Judge Daniel P. Jordan III to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Dana Nichols with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
On March 17, 2018, a Jackson Police officer conducted a traffic stop on a car with no license plate. The officer noticed that Williams, who was sitting in the back seat of the car, had a suspicious bulge in the leg of his pants and he was moving around nervously. When the officer asked Williams to step out of the car, he attempted to push past the officer and run. He was immediately taken into custody and a firearm was found on him.
Williams was charged in a federal indictment on December 11, 2018, with being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. He has prior felony convictions in Hinds County for burglary, possession of marijuana and possession with intent to distribute marijuana.
He pled guilty before Judge Jordan on Friday, February 15, 2019, and will be sentenced on May 17, 2019. He 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. 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.
Father and Son Sentenced in Large Scale Vehicle Odometer Roll Back SchemeRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Mark Longgrear, 54, of Jackson, was sentenced today to 57 months in prison, and his son, Zachary Longgrear, 29, of Madison, was sentenced to 28 months in prison by United States District Judge Carlton W. Reeves for conspiring to reset and alter the odometers of motor vehicles, to giving or causing to be given false statements relating to odometers, and securities fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent-in-Charge Midwest Region, Kevin L. Porter with the U.S. Department of Transportation, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The Longgrears were also ordered to pay restitution, jointly and severally, in the amount of $1.5 million.
From 2014 through at least February 2018, Mark Longgrear, along with his son, Zachary Longgrear, both individually and under their company Southern Auto Buyers LLC, bought a large number of late model, high mileage vehicles from numerous sources, and thereafter illegally altered the odometers of these vehicles to show lower mileage. The Defendants forged and fraudulently created paperwork to secure new titles showing false lower mileage on these vehicles, and then sold the vehicles directly to individuals and automobile dealerships at much higher prices. Some of these rolled-back vehicles were subsequently sold by the dealerships to consumers in the Mississippi area and elsewhere. Over 200 vehicles have been confirmed with rolled-back odometers.
The case is the result of an investigation by the United States Department of Transportation, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Office of Odometer Fraud Investigation, with assistance from the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the U.S. Marshals Service. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Keesha Middleton.
Odometer fraud is the disconnection, resetting, or alteration of a vehicle’s odometer with the intent to change the number of miles indicated. NHTSA estimates that more than 450,000 vehicles are sold each year with false odometer readings. It costs American consumers more than $1 billion annually.
NHTSA has established a special hotline to handle odometer fraud complaints. Individuals who have information relating to odometer tampering should call (202) 366-4761.
Jackson Man Sentenced to Five Years under Project EJECT for Illegally Possessing a Firearm in Relation to a Drug Trafficking CrimeRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Derrick Deondrey Minor, 42, of Jackson, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge Daniel P. Jordan III to five years in federal 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 Special Agent in Charge Dana Nichols with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Minor was also ordered to pay a $1,500 fine.
On December 8, 2017, officers with the Jackson Police Department initiated a traffic stop which led to Minor’s arrest for possession of a loaded .40 caliber Glock, scales, crack cocaine, methamphetamine, and powder cocaine. Minor was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 7, 2018, and pled guilty before Judge Jordan on November 7, 2018.
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 Jackson Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kimberly T. Purdie.
Convicted Felon Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison Under Project EJECT for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – John Overby, 49, of Brandon, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge Daniel P. Jordan III to 60 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 and Christopher Freeze, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi. Overby was also ordered to pay a $1,500.00 fine.
On March 13, 2018, the Rankin County Sheriff’s Department conducted an undercover operation that resulted in deputies purchasing a firearm from Overby. Overby has a previous felony conviction for theft of a motor vehicle.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Rankin County Sherriff’s Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Chris Wansley.
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.
Saucier Man Sentenced to over Six Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. –Tyler Bachtel, 23, of Saucier, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, to 78 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release for possession of a firearm by a felon, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Dana Nichols with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Bachtel was also ordered to pay a $5,000 fine.
On November 18, 2017, the Harrison County Sheriff’s Department arrested Bachtel after he refused to yield to a deputy who initiated a traffic stop. During the deputy’s pursuit of Bachtel’s vehicle, Bachtel threw a shotgun out of the window. Bachtel jumped out of the vehicle while it was still moving, and was arrested while he attempted to flee. Bachtel had been previously convicted of felony possession of a controlled substance in Harrison County Circuit Court.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case with assistance from the Harrison County Sheriff’s Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily Nobile.
Recently Released Felon Pleads Guilty under Project EJECT to Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Christopher Campbell, 30, of Jackson, pled guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Carlton W. Reeves to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Dana K. Nichols with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
On September 28, 2018, Campbell was found in possession of a firearm after he was stopped by officers for driving under the influence. Campbell was previously convicted of house burglary on April 17, 2014, in Hinds County and was sentenced to serve 25 years in the custody of the Mississippi Department of Corrections, with eight of those years suspended. Campbell was released from MDOC less than one year before being arrested for the current charge.
Campbell will be sentenced by Judge Reeves on May 15, 2019, at 9:30 a.m., where he faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
This case is part of Project EJECT, a nationally-recognized 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 a program 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Jackson Police Department investigated the case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew W. Eichner.
Moss Point Man Sentenced to Nearly 15 Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing Firearm and Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. –Aaron Rouleau, 32, of Moss Point, Mississippi, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola to 178 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine, and 120 months in prison for possession of a firearm by a felon, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Dana Nichols with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The sentences will run concurrently. Rouleau was also sentenced to 5 years of supervised release and ordered to pay a $10,000 fine.
On February 26, 2018, the South Mississippi Metropolitan Enforcement Team (MET) executed a search warrant at a residence in Moss Point, where Rouleau was found in a parked vehicle with 99 grams of methamphetamine and two firearms. Rouleau had been selling methamphetamine from that location during the weeks prior to his arrest.
The Jackson County Metropolitan Enforcement Team and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily Nobile.
Jackson Man Pleads Guilty under Project EJECT to Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss – Rodrecas Tims, 33, of Jackson, pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge Henry T. Wingate to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Dana Nichols, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
On November 1, 2018, Jackson Police officers approached Tims as he was walking away from his car in a Jackson parking lot after the officers smelled, and observed in plain view, marijuana rolled into a “cigar” in an ashtray. Tims was found to have two pistols concealed in the waistband of his pants. One of the pistols was stolen.
Tims was previously convicted of armed robbery in 2000 and again in 2005, and unlawfully possessing a firearm in 2005. On November 27, 2018 he was charged in a federal indictment with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Tims will be sentenced on May 15, 2019, by Judge Wingate, 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. 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.
Pass Christian Convicted Felon Sentenced for Possessing AmmunitionRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss – Cornell Demidridous Smith, 40, of Pass Christian, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr., to 30 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release for being a felon in possession of ammunition, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Dana Nichols with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Smith was also ordered to pay a $5,000 fine.
On February 3, 2018, Pass Christian Police officers executed a search warrant at the home of Smith as part of a homicide investigation. The officers found Smith at a table with bullets. Smith was previously convicted of manslaughter in Walthall County, Mississippi, and is therefore prohibited from having ammunition.
The Pass Christian Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Annette Williams.
Jackson Man Pleads Guilty under Project EJECT to Armed CarjackingRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss – Justin Darby, 37, of Jackson, entered a guilty plea yesterday before U.S. District Judge Henry T. Wingate, to one count of carjacking and one count of using a firearm to facilitate the carjacking, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Christopher Freeze with the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
On December 11, 2017, in Hinds County, officers with the Jackson Police Department were dispatched to the intersection of Lynch St. and Highway 80 in Jackson. Justin Darby had crashed into the rear of another vehicle at the intersection, forced the driver of that vehicle out of her car and fled the scene. He was carrying a military style rifle when he carjacked the vehicle. He later abandoned the vehicle and was subsequently arrested.
Darby will be sentenced by Judge Wingate on May 13, 2019, at 9:30 a.m. He faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for carjacking, and a minimum penalty of not less than 7 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for using a firearm to facilitate the carjacking. The sentences would run consecutively.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Jackson Police Department investigated the case. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Lynn Murray and Bert Carraway.
This case is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). 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 a program 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 Burglarizing Procurement OfficeRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Shelton Shane Chapman, Jr., a member of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge Carlton Reeves, to burglary within the Pearl River Community of the Choctaw Indian reservation, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and FBI Special Agent in Charge Christopher Freeze.
On November 7, 2017, Chapman entered the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians’ Procurement Office and stole a Dell bag and several iPhones and iPads. Chapman sold some of the items to two individuals who then pawned the items at a local pawn shop.
Chapman will be sentenced on May 15, 2019, at 9:00 a.m. before Judge Reeves, and faces a maximum penalty of seven years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Choctaw Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kimberly Purdie and Kevin Payne.
Three Individuals Indicted for Theft and Wire Fraud Committed Against Mississippi Band of Choctaw IndiansRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Randy Lamar Anderson, 46, of Conehatta, Kevin Edwards, 47, of Walnut Grove, and Roderick Bell, 40, of Philadelphia, were recently indicted by a federal grand jury for theft or embezzlement and wire fraud in separate schemes to defraud the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians government with false claims for travel reimbursement payments, announced United States Attorney Mike Hurst and Christopher Freeze, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi.
Anderson and Edwards are each separately charged with one count of theft and two counts of wire fraud. Bell is charged with one count of theft and one count of wire fraud.
According to the indictments, between March 2015 and December 2017, the three men are alleged to have forged hotel bills and receipts and submitted those documents to the Tribal government for reimbursement for official business travel.
Edwards will appear before United States Magistrate Judge Linda R. Anderson in Jackson, Mississippi, today, Tuesday, February 12, 2019, at 1:30 pm for his arraignment. Anderson and Bell will appear before Judge Anderson for their arraignment on February 13, 2019, at 1:30 pm.
Theft or embezzlement from a Tribal Organization carries a maximum sentence of imprisonment of five years. Wire fraud carries a maximum term of imprisonment of twenty years. Each charge can merit a fine of up to $250,000 and up to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Hurst commended the work of the Special Agents with the FBI’s Jackson Division who investigated the case. The Sheriff’s Offices in Leake, Neshoba and Newton Counties assisted with the arrests. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Theodore Cooperstein and Special Assistant United States Attorney Kevin Payne.
The public is reminded that an indictment is merely a charge and should not be considered as evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Petal Man Sentenced to over Five Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing a Firearm as a Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Christopher Columbus Kennedy, 43, of Petal, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to 66 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 and Assistant Special Agent in Charge Derryle Smith with the Drug Enforcement Administration. Kennedy was also ordered to pay a $4,000.00 fine.
On October 1, 2018, a narcotics officer with Gulfport Police Department stopped Kennedy’s car for a traffic violation. Upon approaching the car, the officer smelled marijuana. The officer searched Kennedy’s car and located a handgun with seven rounds of ammunition near the driver’s seat along with marijuana. Kennedy is prohibited from possessing any weapons due to a previous conviction in the Southern District of Mississippi for possessing crack cocaine with the intent to distribute.
Kennedy was indicted on October 23, 2018, for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He pled guilty on November 16, 2018.
The case was investigated by the Gulfport Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathlyn R. Van Buskirk.
Laurel-Based Physicians Group and Neurologist Agree to Pay Almost One Million Dollars to Resolve False Claims Act AllegationsRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. - Jefferson Medical Associates, a now dissolved, multi-specialty medical practice group in Laurel, and Dr. Aremmia Tanious, have agreed to pay the United States $817,635.06 to resolve claims under the False Claims Act arising from Medicare overpayments to Jefferson Medical Associates and Dr. Tanious, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst.
This settlement resolves allegations that from January 1, 2012, through December 31, 2014, Jefferson Medical Associates and Dr. Tanious violated the False Claims Act by failing to return overpayments they received from Medicare on claims. In addition, from February 1, 2013, through June 30, 2017, it was alleged that Jefferson Medical Associates and Dr. Tanious billed Medicare using multiple medical codes when the medical documentation did not support the use of such billing practices.
During the course of the government’s investigation, Jefferson Medical Associates and Dr. Tanious provided assistance through voluntary disclosures to the U.S. Attorney’s Office after they discovered through audits of patient files and claims data that Medicare had been overbilled for certain services.
"This settlement should serve as a reminder to medical providers receiving Medicare funds that they must timely report and return any overpayments owed to Medicare or be subject to liability under the False Claims Act. I applaud our healthcare fraud investigators and prosecutors, as well as agents with the Office of Inspector General for Health and Human Services, for their diligent work in recovering the public’s money," said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
This matter was investigated by the U.S. Attorney’s Office Healthcare Fraud Investigator Ron Jefferson and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristi H. Johnson handled the matter for the United States.
The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of civil liability.
Jackson Man Pleads Guilty under Project EJECT to Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Courtney Kentrell Chapman, 29, of Jackson, pled guilty yesterday 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 Dana K. Nichols with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Chapman was previously convicted of multiple felonies in Hinds County, including being an accessory after the fact to carjacking, felony eluding, and possession of a controlled substance while armed. On August 15, 2018, Chapman was found in possession of a firearm during an administrative checkpoint in Jackson.
Chapman will be sentenced by Judge Wingate on May 13, 2019 at 9:30 a.m. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
This case is part of Project EJECT, a nationally-recognized 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 in Jackson through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for "Empower Justice Expel Crime Together." PSN is a program 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Jackson Police Department investigated the case. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew W. Eichner.
United States Attorney’s Office Hosts Annual Office Awards CeremonyRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. - Yesterday, U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst recognized members of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi and its partners with the presentation of the Southern District’s annual awards for superior performance in 2018.
"These individuals did extraordinary work both inside and outside the U.S. Attorney’s Office last year to further the cause of justice. I am proud not only to present them with these awards but also for the opportunity to work alongside them. Their devotion to duty and call to service have made the lives of Mississippians better, and their work has literally meant that our tax dollars have been rightfully returned and safeguarded. Every American citizen can rest easier knowing that these talented men and women are standing watch on the shores of liberty, ensuring every day that justice is done," said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
Robert E. Hauberg Award for Distinguished Service
This award is named in honor of the achievements of former U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Mississippi Robert E. Hauberg, the longest serving United States Attorney in the history of our nation. The Hauberg Award is presented annually by this District to an employee who has displayed superior achievement in their assigned duties and who has gone above and beyond the call of duty in some additional public service that makes a significant impact on the community.
The 2018 recipient of the Robert E. Hauberg Award is Assistant United States Attorney Angela Williams. Ms. Williams is a talented litigator and tireless worker. She handles affirmative and defensive cases and serves as the Civil Division’s Senior Litigation Counsel and the office’s Ethics Officer. Last year, she handled several employment discrimination cases, including a particularly complex and sensitive case brought by a doctor against the Veterans Affairs Administration.
Ms. Williams also spent considerable time on multiple False Claims Act cases, including one of the largest cases in the District. She successfully defended the United States in a collateral
attack filed by a former mayor in Mississippi, who had previously been criminally prosecuted by this office for bribery.
In her role as the Civil Division’s Senior Litigation Counsel, Ms. Williams developed a training plan for newly hired paralegals, planned and executed a joint civil training with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Mississippi, fielded numerous legal questions from colleagues, reviewed colleagues’ written work product, and updated the mentorship manual for the office.
Finally, Ms. Williams has been extensively involved in her Hattiesburg community, and she volunteers with the book buddy program at Johnson Elementary School in Jackson under our office’s Project EJECT initiative. As part of the Hattiesburg Public School District Foundation, Ms. Williams helped establish a scholarship for low income students. She is also very active in her church and she participates in a number of volunteer programs in the Hattiesburg area.
James B. Tucker Award for Superior Prosecutorial Service in Criminal Justice
This award is named for James B .Tucker, the first person to serve as Chief of the Criminal Division in the Southern District. Mr. Tucker distinguished himself in his position and gained a national reputation as a tough but judicious prosecutor throughout the state and throughout the U.S. Department of Justice. The award is presented each year to the Criminal Assistant United States Attorney having demonstrated superior prosecutorial service in the Criminal Division throughout the year.
The 2018 recipient of the James B. Tucker Award is Assistant United States Attorney Mary Helen Wall.
Ms. Wall is receiving this award for her incredible work in prosecuting and continuing to prosecute the largest Health Care Fraud case in the history of state, which has come to be known as the "Compounding Pharmacy" case in Hattiesburg, involving close to $1 billion in fraud by defendants using pharmacies, doctors and unnecessary compounding prescriptions to drive up prices charged to TRICARE, the healthcare system for the military. In addition to prosecuting these criminals, Ms. Wall has also helped to recover approximately $29 million through forfeiture. Her work on this case has already led to eight guilty pleas, one conviction at trial, and an upcoming trial of three more defendants.
Ms. Wall also helped prosecute violent crime cases in the City of Jackson under our office’s Project EJECT initiative, being personally responsible for the prosecution of 13 Project EJECT cases.
Finally, Ms. Wall’s leadership and initiative in assisting and mentoring new AUSA’s in our office is reminiscent of former Criminal Chief James Tucker and further merits her receiving this award.
Daniel E. Lynn Award for Superior Litigation Service in Civil Litigation
This award is named for Daniel E. Lynn, the first person to serve as Chief of the Civil Division in the Southern District. Mr. Lynn set the highest standards of excellence through selfless competence, integrity, and professionalism. The award is presented each year to the Assistant United States Attorney having demonstrated the most superior litigation service affecting the Civil Division throughout the year.
The 2018 recipient of the Daniel E. Lynn Award is Assistant United States Attorney Kristi Johnson for her affirmative, appellate, and defensive case work.
In her first year as the Affirmative Civil Enforcement attorney, Ms. Johnson recovered $1,056,199.00 on behalf of the United States. From the outset, she worked well with a diverse group of federal agencies, including the Drug Enforcement Administration’s diversion group and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s Office of Inspector General.
Ms. Johnson’s largest single recovery came from a healthcare fraud case involving a group of physicians in Laurel, Mississippi, whereby the group agreed to pay $817,635.00 to resolve the claims under the Federal Claims Act. She also successfully defended two cases on appeal, one involving a medical malpractice case against the United States and one involving a suit brought by a civilian employee against Camp Shelby for wrongful termination.
Ms. Johnson defended several federal agencies against a myriad of claims, including employment actions taken by the Veteran’s Affairs Administration, the United States Air Force and United States Marshals Service. In addition to all of her civil division work, Ms. Johnson also handled three criminal cases involving violent offenders as part of Project EJECT.
Paulette Womack Support Staff Award for Superior Performance
This award was named in honor Paulette Womack, a long-time, much-loved member of the office who served as Secretary to the first Criminal Division Chief and as the Victim Witness Coordinator for the Southern District. She performed her work with tenacity, persistence and professionalism. This award is presented each year to the Support Staff Employee having demonstrated the most superior efforts in support of the mission of the District, whether it be in the area of administration or legal support.
The 2018 recipient of the Paulette Womack Award is Human Resource Specialist Cindy Pittman for her work over the past year during which our office saw an unusually large number of vacancies, new hires and human resource issues.
In 2018, our office has had approximately 22 personnel vacancies. Ms. Pittman worked tirelessly to ensure that all job announcements were posted and that the process complied with all government rules, regulations and guidelines. Because of Ms. Pittman’s knowledge, proficiency, skills and abilities, almost all of these positions have been filled. Hiring this many individuals for a myriad of positions in one year is an incredible achievement and something that this office or an office of our size has probably never seen in its history.
In all interactions, Ms. Pittman conducts herself in a professional and courteous manner. When called upon to perform a task or gather information, she always performed it with lightning speed and in a detailed fashion.
For the incredible work she has done during this very unusual year of vacancies and hiring by our office, Ms. Pittman embodies the work ethic, can-do spirit and tenacious attitude of Paulette Womack and for all of these reasons, she received the 2018 Support Staff Award.
Donald R. Burkhalter Award for Exemplary Leadership
This is a new award established this year, named for longtime First Assistant United States Attorney Donald R. Burkhalter. This award seeks to recognize, via nomination throughout the office, the employee who has demonstrated extraordinary courage and leadership throughout the year, no matter their position in the office. The award seeks to honor those who lead from action, not a title, who exhibits a positive, upbeat attitude that encourages cooperation and teamwork, and who works tirelessly in advancing the mission and goals of the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Department of Justice.
The first ever recipient of the Donald R. Burkhalter Award for Exemplary Leadership is Criminal Division Legal Assistant Robin Fish.
Throughout the year, Ms. Fish has been a beacon of perseverance to her friends and colleagues as she bravely and tirelessly conquers both personal and professional challenges. Robin brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the office along with a positive attitude that makes the work environment better for everyone. She is often seen after hours mentoring both support staff and AUSAs, simultaneously ensuring professional growth of our team and the overall advancement of the office’s mission and goals. Her excellent reputation also extends outside of our office with many members of the court staff relying on her help and expertise. Robin is conscientious, skilled, hardworking and driven. She anticipates what is necessary to ensure the office’s success and takes the initiative to get it done. Her distinctive accomplishments over the past year make her the ideal recipient of this award.
George L. Phillips Distinguished Community Support Award
This award is named for former U.S. Attorney George L. Phillips, who began his service as the youngest U.S. Attorney in the nation, went on to serve under three Presidents for 14 years, and is credited with creating DOJ’s Law Enforcement Coordinating Committee. This award seeks to recognize individuals outside the U.S. Attorney’s Office who have contributed significantly to the increased coordination of law enforcement, who have substantially advanced the goals and mission of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and who have exhibited genuine, consistent support of law enforcement generally and the U.S. Attorney’s Office in particular.
The 2018 recipient of the George Phillips Award is Mississippi Department of Public Safety Commissioner Marshall Fisher.
Commissioner Fisher is a longtime friend of this office, having served as the Agent in Charge of Drug Enforcement Administration operations in Mississippi for a number of years. After retiring from DEA, he served briefly as the state director for the Mississippi Gulf Coast High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area. From 2005-2014, he served as Director of the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, and, in 2015, he was called upon again to serve his state as the Commissioner of the Mississippi Department of Corrections. In January 2017, he was appointed Commissioner of the MS Department of Public Safety, where he serves today.
George Phillips was known nationally for many things as U.S. Attorney, but one of his most prominent accomplishments was creating the DOJ’s Law Enforcement Coordinating Committee. Commissioner Fisher is most deserving of this award because, throughout his career, he has coordinated joint operations involving DEA, Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms, Mississippi Bureau of Investigation, Mississippi Highway Patrol and numerous other federal, state and local law enforcement agencies.
Philadelphia Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine Trafficking and Illegal Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Dijon Jamese Seales a/k/a “DJ,” 28, of Philadelphia, pled guilty today before U.S. Chief District Judge Daniel P. Jordan, III., to possession with intent to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Jere T. Miles, Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans.
On January 22, 2018, members of the U.S. Marshal’s Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force went to arrest Seales pursuant to an arrest warrant issued out of the Northern District of Texas for violating pretrial release conditions in an unrelated case. While executing the warrant, task force members found 16.9 grams of methamphetamine on Seales’ person which the defendant intended to distribute. Additionally, in furtherance of his drug trafficking offense, Seales was found to be in possession of a Glock 43 pistol and a Ruger AR-556 assault-type rifle with an assortment of gun accessories, including a bump stock.
“Methamphetamine has devastated countless communities due to the dramatic health and public safety consequences that typically accompany its introduction into an area,” said Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations New Orleans Jere T. Miles. “Today’s guilty plea stems from an extensive HSI effort with its federal, state and local partners to dismantle a drug trafficking organization that decimated parts of Mississippi and Alabama with methamphetamine smuggled into the U.S. from Mexico. This operation is a testament to the seamless partnership between HSI, the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics and the Drug Enforcement Administration, and we are thankful for their assistance as well as the U.S. Attorneys’ to improve the lives of law-abiding residents throughout Mississippi and Alabama.”
Seales was charged in a three count indictment that was filed on March 7, 2018. He will be sentenced by Judge Jordan on May 10, 2019, at 9:00am and faces a maximum penalty of life in prison and up to a $5,000,000 fine.
The OCDETF program is a joint federal, state and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations, and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
This OCDETF case is a result of a joint investigation by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics. Assisting agencies include the United States Marshal’s Service, the Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force, Philadelphia Police Department, Neshoba County Sheriff’s Department, Neshoba County District Attorney’s Office, Scott County Sheriff’s Office, Flowood Police Department, Rankin County Sheriff’s Department, Hinds County Sheriff’s Department, Carthage Police Department, Union Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Louisville Police Department, Mississippi Highway Patrol, and United States Attorney=s Office Southern District of Mississippi. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Erin Chalk and Drew Eichner are prosecuting the case.
Pass Christian Man Sentenced to over 24 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Randall Galloway, 31, of Pass Christian, Mississippi, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to serve 294 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 Assistant Special Agent in Charge Derryle Smith with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Galloway was also ordered to pay a $10,000 fine.
An investigation by the DEA revealed that from 2014 through 2015, Galloway received approximately 2.3 kilograms of methamphetamine via FedEx. Galloway was responsible for distributing the methamphetamine in the Gulfport area. On two occasions, DEA agents utilized a confidential informant to purchase methamphetamine from Galloway. On October 19, 2018, Galloway pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shundral H. Cole.
Mississippi Accountant Convicted of Tax FraudRead the Press Release
A federal jury today in Hattiesburg, Mississippi convicted certified public accountant Carl Nicholson of conspiracy to defraud the United States, six counts of aiding in the preparation of false tax returns, and four counts of filing false tax returns, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman and United States Attorney Mike Hurst for the Southern District of Mississippi.
“Today, justice prevailed, the rule of law was enforced, and a long-time tax cheat was held accountable for his crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Hurst. “I commend our prosecutors, agents, and state investigators for their tireless work in bringing this individual and others like him to justice. Today’s verdict proves that no one is beyond the reach of the long arm of the law. We will continue to work with our partners and use every resource available to root out fraud and corruption throughout our state.”
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, from 2012 to 2014, Nicholson conspired with a client to falsely classify personal expenses as business expenses and filed false tax returns on the client’s behalf. On one occasion, Nicholson directed that a $250,000 payment to one of the client’s personal trusts be classified as a business expense. Nicholson was also found guilty of filing his own false personal income tax returns for 2012 through 2015. Specifically, he falsely claimed expenses, failed to report income, and under-reported the gain on the sale of his accounting firm Nicholson & Company.
Sentencing has been scheduled for May 23, 2019. At sentencing, Nicholson faces a maximum of five years in prison for the conspiracy charge and three years for each charge of filing false tax returns and aiding in the preparation of false tax returns. He also faces supervised release and restitution.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and United States Attorney Hurst thanked special agents of Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation and investigators with the Mississippi Auditor’s Office, who investigated the case, and Assistant United States Attorney Jay Golden and Trial Attorney Kim Shartar, who are prosecuting the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the division’s website.
Mississippi Accountant Convicted of Tax FraudRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – A federal jury today in Hattiesburg, Mississippi convicted certified public accountant Carl Nicholson of conspiracy to defraud the United States, six counts of aiding in the preparation of false tax returns, and four counts of filing false tax returns, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman and United States Attorney Mike Hurst for the Southern District of Mississippi.
“Today, justice prevailed, the rule of law was enforced, and a long-time tax cheat was held accountable for his crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Hurst. “I commend our prosecutors, agents, and state investigators for their tireless work in bringing this individual and others like him to justice. Today’s verdict proves that no one is beyond the reach of the long arm of the law. We will continue to work with our partners and use every resource available to root out fraud and corruption throughout our state.”
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, from 2012 to 2014, Nicholson conspired with a client to falsely classify personal expenses as business expenses and filed false tax returns on the client’s behalf. On one occasion, Nicholson directed that a $250,000 payment to one of the client’s personal trusts be classified as a business expense. Nicholson was also found guilty of filing his own false personal income tax returns for 2012 through 2015. Specifically, he falsely claimed expenses, failed to report income, and under-reported the gain on the sale of his accounting firm Nicholson & Company.
Sentencing has been scheduled for May 23, 2019. At sentencing, Nicholson faces a maximum of five years in prison for the conspiracy charge and three years for each charge of filing false tax returns and aiding in the preparation of false tax returns. He also faces supervised release and restitution.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and United States Attorney Hurst thanked special agents of Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation and investigators with the Mississippi Auditor’s Office, who investigated the case, and Assistant United States Attorney Jay Golden and Trial Attorney Kim Shartar, who are prosecuting the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the division’s website.
Jackson Man Pleads Guilty under Project EJECT to Illegally Possessing a GunRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Joseph Demond Towers, 37, of Jackson, pled guilty today before Chief U.S. District Judge Daniel P. Jordan III to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, and Special Agent in Charge Christopher Freeze with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
On April 5, 2018, a concerned citizen called 911 to report that a man was sitting outside a residence on a sofa and displaying a weapon. The man had pointed the weapon at a female who drove by the residence. When officers with the Jackson Police Department arrived, Towers admitted to having a gun in his pocket. Towers had several prior felony convictions out of Hinds County.
Towers will be sentenced by Judge Jordan on May 10, 2019, and faces a maximum penalty of ten 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 Mary Helen Wall.
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 in Jackson through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for "Empower Justice Expel Crime Together." PSN is a program 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.
Felon in Possession of a Firearm Sentenced to Five Years in Prison under Project EJECTRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss –Tommy Lee Hunter, Jr., 37, of Jackson, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Carlton W. Reeves to 60 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.
On April 4, 2018, officers with the Jackson Police Department were called to Prentiss Street after reports were received of a person shooting into an occupied vehicle. The reports came from an individual who was assisting someone move out of their home on Henry Street. The individual said that the defendant came outside on Henry Street and began an argument. During the argument, Hunter showed his firearm. The individual left in his vehicle, but Hunter began firing at him. The shots caused damage to the rear bumper of the vehicle as well as breaking the rear glass. Hunter was identified as the shooter and arrested. He had a prior felony conviction for Burglary of a Business and Second Degree Arson from Leflore County in 2005. Hunter was charged in a federal indictment on July 10, 2019 with being a felon in possession of a firearm. He pled guilty on September 5, 2018.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Jackson Police and with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Erin Chalk.
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 in Jackson through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for “Empower Justice Expel Crime Together.” PSN is program 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.
Armed Career Criminal Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison Under Project EJECTRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. - Julian Miller, 52, of Jackson, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge Daniel P. Jordan III to 15 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for being an Armed Career Criminal in illegal possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Dana Nichols, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives.
On November 22, 2017, Jackson police officers executed a search warrant at a residence in Jackson. During the search of the home, Julian Miller was found in possession of a firearm. Because Miller has multiple felony convictions, including armed robbery and two separate convictions for sale of crack cocaine with 1,500 feet of a school, he was classified as an Armed Career Criminal under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. On April 4, 2018, he was charged in a federal indictment with being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. He pled guilty on November 2, 2018.
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 in Jackson through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for "Empower Justice Expel Crime Together." PSN is program 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.
U.S. Attorney Hurst commended the work of the Jackson Police Department and their cooperation with agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, as well as Project EJECT task force members. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristi H. Johnson prosecuted the case.
Shubuta Woman Pleads Guilty to Making a False Statement to a Licensed Firearms DealerRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss – Tamesha Lewis, 36, of Shubuta, Mississippi, pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge Henry T. Wingate, to making a false statement to a licensed firearms dealer in connection with purchasing a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Dana Nichols with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
On March 21, 2018, Lewis tried to purchase a firearm by providing false information on a Firearms Transaction Record, a required form for the purchase of a firearm, at Garrett’s Sports Center in Meridian, Mississippi.
Lewis will be sentenced on May 7, 2019, by Judge Wingate, and faces a maximum penalty of ten years in prison and a $250,000.00 fine.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Bert Carraway.
Jackson Man Pleads Guilty under Project EJECT to Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Charles Brown, Jr. 42, of Jackson, pled guilty yesterday before United States District Judge Carlton W. Reeves to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Dana Nichols, Special Agent in Charge, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives.
On June 25, 2017, Charles Brown, Jr. arrived at the Jackson Police Department ("JPD") with a female identified as "T.W." Brown stated that he was bringing her to JPD because he believed "T.W." had information about a crime that had been committed. Brown was seen wearing a bulletproof vest walking towards a maroon 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee. A JPD officer noticed that the vehicle had police dashboard lights on the front windshield. Brown is not a member of any law enforcement agency. JPD officers asked Brown if he had a firearm inside the vehicle and he responded that he did. An inventory of the vehicle was conducted and a Rohm RG38 .38 caliber firearm and a Winchester box containing 28 rounds of ammunition were found.
On April 4, 2018, an indictment was filed charging Brown with being a felon in possession of a firearm. Brown was previously convicted in Hinds County Circuit Court for shooting into an occupied dwelling.
Brown is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Reeves on May 17, 2019 and faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in federal 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 in Jackson through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for "Empower Jackson Expel Crime Together." PSN is program 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.
U.S. Attorney Hurst commended the work of the Jackson Police Department and their cooperation with agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, as well as Project EJECT task force members. Assistant U.S. Attorney Erin Chalk is prosecuting the case.
Employee of Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians Pleads Guilty to EmbezzlementRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Savannah Galvan, 30, of Philadelphia, a member of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, entered a guilty plea today before U.S. District Judge Henry T. Wingate to embezzlement for her role in the unauthorized use of a tribal-issued fuel credit card to purchase fuel for her personal use, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and FBI Special Agent in Charge Christopher Freeze.
The embezzlement took place at gas stations located in Mississippi, Alabama, and Louisiana, while Galvan was employed with the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians as Recreation Coordinator for the Crystal Ridge Facility Building.
Sentencing has been set for May 7, 2019 at 1:30 p.m. Galvan faces a possible statutory sentence of five years in prison and a fine of $250,000.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Choctaw Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Kevin Payne.
U.S. Attorney’s Office, Law Enforcement Partners, and Community Leaders Announce Expansion of “Project EJECT” into HattiesburgRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss. – Today, Mike Hurst, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Mississippi, along with the Hattiesburg Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, local District Attorneys’ Offices, other federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, community leaders, and many others, announced the expansion of an initiative to combat violent crime called "Project EJECT" into the City of Hattiesburg.
Launched by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi in December 2017 in the City of Jackson under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods ("PSN") initiative, Project EJECT is designed as an enhanced violent crime reduction program that incorporates decades of experience in bringing various levels of law enforcement together with stakeholders in the community, with the overall goal of producing a long-term, meaningful reduction in and prevention of violent crime.
In expanding the initiative into other parts of the Southern District of Mississippi, Project EJECT will now stand for: "Empower Justice Expel Crime Together."
Joined by law enforcement, community, faith-based, non-profit, and business leaders in Hattiesburg, U.S. Attorney Hurst described the project as a multi-disciplinary, holistic approach that combines law enforcement arrests and prosecutions of violent criminals with prevention efforts, rehabilitation and reentry, educational initiatives, and improved communication.
"Today, we are excited about this new partnership with the Hattiesburg Police Department, our local District Attorneys, other law enforcement, our community, and most importantly our citizens, all coming together to combat and prevent violent crime in our Hub City. By empowering our neighbors, our churches, our schools, our businesses, and others, we will achieve justice. By expelling crime, we will make Hattiesburg safer. By working together, we will benefit all.
"The message to violent criminals in Hattiesburg is simple - if you violate our laws and terrorize our neighborhoods, you will be ejected from our community. In the federal system, we will immediately lock you up, we will move to detain you without bond, and you will serve a significant prison sentence without parole," said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
"But, there is also hope. If you break the law and are ejected, there is grace on the other side. After you serve your sentence, choose to be rehabilitated, follow the law, and re-enter society as a law-abiding citizen. The ultimate goal of Project EJECT is a safer Mississippi for everyone."
The mission of Project EJECT is to reduce violent crime and make Hattiesburg neighborhoods safer for all to enjoy. Part of the project will include discussions with the public and encouraging communities to help law enforcement in this effort, as well as communicating to the criminals that they will be prosecuted and punished for gun crimes and violent crimes. The Project will also seek to support locally-based efforts to stop violence and crimes before they occur and to help those who have been punished to reenter society as law-abiding citizens.
Project EJECT is comprised of a number of federal law enforcement agencies, as well as task force officers from various state and local investigative agencies, who will interact regularly with the Hattiesburg Police Department and District Attorneys’ Offices to identify and respond to violent crimes when they occur. Cases arising from these crimes will then be presented to the local District Attorneys’ Offices and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for prosecution.
For the first time ever, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is specifically dedicating an Assistant United States Attorney in Jackson to prosecute violent crime in the City of Hattiesburg under this project.
"When criminals actively engage in violent drug and firearms crime in our communities, ATF will use all its resources to stop them," said Special Agent in Charge Dana Nichols, ATF New Orleans Field Division. "One resource is ATF’s Crime Gun Intelligence Centers. These CGICs, in partnership with law enforcement, help identify active armed violent offenders for investigation to stop the violence. Make no mistake, ATF is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to keep our neighborhoods safe and take those individuals off our streets who would do harm to our citizens."
Today, U.S. Attorney Hurst announced the indictment and arrest of seven defendants under Project EJECT in and around Hattiesburg:
Jerry Ingram, 59, of Hattiesburg - charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon;
Christopher Harper, 40, of Hattiesburg - charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Randy Chavis, 27, of Lumberton - charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and use of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking crime;
Adrian Parker, 37, of Hattiesburg - charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Mike Smith, 41, of Hattiesburg - charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Lydia Walters, 34, of Hattiesburg - charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Jessie Hunter, 29, of Hattiesburg - charged with sale of firearm to a convicted felon.
Project EJECT follows a directive from former U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions to the U.S. Department of Justice to reinvigorate DOJ’s Project Safe Neighborhoods with the intent to reduce the rising tide of violent crime in America. Project EJECT is the Southern District of Mississippi’s PSN initiative specifically tailored to address violent crime throughout the district.
In December 2018, at the 2018 Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) National Conference, Acting Attorney General Matthew Whitaker presented the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi and its law enforcement partners with the award for Outstanding Overall Partnership/Task Force for Project EJECT. Only 16 awards were given during the annual PSN National Conference, which recognize individuals and groups for their dedication and contribution to the success of PSN. Project EJECT was one of only two recognized as the best partnerships or task forces in the nation.
In expanding Project EJECT into Hattiesburg, the U.S. Attorney’s Office continues to lead the Project, with First Assistant U.S. Attorney Darren LaMarca and Criminal Chief Courtney Coker guiding the taskforce initially, Assistant U.S. Attorney Drew Eichner in Jackson serving as the primary prosecutor for violent cases under Project EJECT in Hattiesburg, long-time Assistant U.S. Attorney Annette Williams in Gulfport serving as a senior advisor and prosecutor, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Candace Mayberry in Jackson serving as the Project Safe Neighborhoods Coordinator for the entire Southern District of Mississippi.
California Man Sentenced to Almost 20 Years for Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Juan Pablo Zamora Gomez, 32, of Modesto, California, was sentenced last week by U.S. District Keith Starrett to 235 months in federal prison, followed by 8 years of supervised release, for conspiring to possess with intent to distribute heroin, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Assistant Special Agent in Charge Derryle Smith with the Drug Enforcement Administration. Gomez was also ordered to pay a $20,000.00 fine.
The investigation into Gomez started after agents with the DEA executed a search warrant at Jermaine Newell’s property in Soso, Mississippi. Agents located 951 grams of heroin in Newell’s possession. After Newell’s arrest, agents learned that he received the heroin from Gomez and Vincente Manuel Ruiz. Agents obtained audio recordings of Gomez discussing heroin and setting up a meeting to further the conspiracy. During the investigation, agents also learned that Gomez, Ruiz, and Newell were involved with sending marijuana and methamphetamine from California to Mississippi.
Prior to Gomez’s sentencing, Jermaine Newell and Manuel Ruiz both pled guilty to the conspiracy and were sentenced to serve 60 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $5,000.00 fine.
The case was investigated by the DEA in Gulfport. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathlyn R. Van Buskirk.
Texas Doctor Indicted for Illegally Distributing Opioids and Laundering MoneyRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Dr. Robert A. Wiemer, 72, of Stephensville, Texas, was recently indicted by a federal grand jury in the Southern District of Mississippi, charging him with fifty-one (51) counts of distributing and dispensing controlled substances outside the scope of professional practice, one (1) count of conspiracy to do the same, six (6) counts of money laundering, and one (1) count of maintaining a premises for the purpose of illegally distributing controlled substances outside the scope of professional practice, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge Derryle Smith.
Wiemer was arrested by agents this morning and appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Robert H. Walker in Gulfport this afternoon for his arraignment on the charges.
“Physicians who violate our criminal laws by illegally dispensing dangerous drugs to our colleagues, neighbors and families are literally destroying lives and contributing to the opioid epidemic. One of the primary ways to reverse the opioid crisis is to prosecute those who illegally distribute prescription narcotics. Our office will continue to protect the public by pursuing and prosecuting doctors and others who seek to profit off addiction and the misery of others,” said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
“It is disheartening when trusted medical professionals like Dr. Robert Wiemer are charged with engaging in the diversion of controlled substances,” said DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge Derryle Smith. “Doctors have an obligation to ensure that medications are getting into the hands of legitimate patients. The arrest of Dr. Wiemer is the result of DEA’s continued commitment to hold accountable those who participate in illegally dispensing pharmaceuticals in our communities.”
According to the indictment, Dr. Wiemer was writing prescriptions for opiate pain killers, benzodiazepenes, and carisoprodol without a legitimate medical purpose outside the scope of professional practice. The indictment further alleges that he was laundering the funds derived from his illegal business.
The defendant is scheduled for trial on March 11, 2019, before U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden in Gulfport.
The maximum penalty varies by count from not more than five years to not more than twenty years per count in prison and between a $250,000 fine and $1,000,000 fine per count.
The indictment also contains a forfeiture allegation and seeks to forfeit any proceeds and property involved in or traceable to the criminal activity and any and all property used to facilitate the unlawful activity, if convicted.
The charges are the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration Tactical Diversion Squad. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John Meynardie, Chief of the Narcotics Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
The public is reminded that a criminal indictment is a formal charge against a defendant. It is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Biloxi Man Pleads Guilty to Marijuana Conspiracy and Illegally Possessing a Firearm as a Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Kendell Jerome Smith, 35, of Biloxi, Mississippi, pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to conspiracy to possess marijuana with intent to distribute and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent-in-Charge Dana Nichols with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
In 2017, in the City of Biloxi Police Department Narcotics Division received community complaints about alleged drug activity at a house occupied by Smith and his girlfriend. In July 2017, detectives conducted surveillance on the house. On July 28, 2017, detectives conducted a traffic stop on Smith and found about 30 grams of marijuana.
A search warrant was obtained and a search of the home shared by Smith and his girlfriend revealed several baggies containing marijuana, other items indicating drug trafficking activity, and $2,514 in cash. Two loaded handguns also were found. The investigation revealed that Smith’s participation in the marijuana conspiracy lasted from July 2017 to July 2018. Smith previously had been convicted of a felony drug offense and was on state parole at the time of his arrest in July 2017.
Smith will be sentenced by Judge Ozerden on April 30, 2019. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $500,000 fine for the conspiracy charge, and 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for the firearm charge.
U.S. Attorney Hurst commended the coordinated investigation by the ATF and the Biloxi Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan Harris.
Pelahatchie Man Pleads Guilty to Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Kevin Douglas Jenkins, 35, of Pelahatchie, pled guilty on Friday, before Chief United States District Judge Daniel P. Jordan III, to the production of child pornography and the production of child pornography by a person who has custody of a minor, announced United States Attorney Mike Hurst, FBI Special Agent in Charge Christopher Freeze, and Mississippi Attorney General Jim Hood.
Jenkins was charged after the minor child came forward to disclose Jenkins’ actions. A forensic examination revealed videos of Jenkins engaged in sexually explicit conduct with the minor child. Jenkins was indicted by a federal grand jury in November.
Jenkins will be sentenced by Judge Jordan on April 26, 2019, at 9:00 a.m. The maximum penalties for the crimes charged are 30 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each count.
The case was investigated by the FBI Jackson Division's Child Exploitation Task Force, which is made up of agents from the FBI and the Mississippi Attorney General's Office, and officers from the Prentiss County Sheriff's Office. The Rankin County Sheriff’s Office also assisted with the investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Purdie.