Southern District of Mississippi
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Jackson Men Sentenced to Federal Prison under Project EJECT for Illegally Possessing FirearmsRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Cleveland Ellis, 30, and Joshua Hamilton, 29, both of Jackson, were sentenced yesterday by Chief United States District Judge Daniel P. Jordan III for illegally possessing firearms as felons, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Dana Nichols with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (“ATF”).
Ellis was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison, while Hamilton received a 64 month prison sentence. Each must pay a $1,500 fine and serve three years of supervised release after his release from prison.
In November 2017, Ellis and Hamilton were sitting in a parked car after midnight in a dark alley of an apartment complex in Jackson. The men were smoking marijuana, drinking, and waiting for an unnamed “friend” to come home. When an officer asked if they needed assistance, she learned that Ellis had a 9mm semi-automatic pistol under his seat and Hamilton was sitting on a .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol, which was stolen. Both men were convicted felons. Ellis has a prior conviction for manslaughter, and Hamilton has a prior conviction for aggravated assault.
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 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.
U.S. Attorney Hurst commended the work of the Jackson Police Department and their cooperation with ATF agents and Project EJECT task force members in the investigation of this case.
Federal Inmate Sentenced to over 6 Years in Prison for Assaulting Correctional Officer at Federal Correctional Institution in Yazoo CityRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Brandon Lee Wright, 33, a federal inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution in Yazoo City (FCI Yazoo), was sentenced on Friday by U.S. District Judge Henry T. Wingate to 78 months in federal prison for assaulting a corrections officer at the Bureau of Prisons facility, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Christopher Freeze.
Wright was found guilty of this criminal offense by a jury on July 2, 2018. He was already serving time at FCI Yazoo for unrelated misconduct when he assaulted the corrections officer in the facility. The evidence at trial proved that Wright struck the officer with a closed right fist to the officer’s left eye, leaving abrasions on the officer.
Commenting on the gravity of the offense and referencing the defendant’s extensive criminal history, Judge Wingate sentenced Wright to 78 months of confinement to run consecutive to the remainder of his undischarged prison time from his earlier offense. The maximum penalty under the law for this criminal offense was eight years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Abe McGlothin Jr. and Andrew W. Eichner and Special Assistant United States Attorneys Woelke Leithart and Joshua Robles.
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Federal Inmate Sentenced to over 6 Years in Prison for Vicious AssaultRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Curtis Pixley, 39, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced today by United States District Judge Daniel P. Jordan III to 78 months in prison for intentionally assaulting another person, and 60 months for possessing a shank in prison, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst. The sentences will run concurrently.
On September 7, 2017, Pixley, a federal prisoner at the federal penitentiary in Yazoo City, Mississippi, retrieved a 9-inch shank from his cell, walked to a table where prisoners were seated and, as another prisoner got up from the table, began stabbing the victim repeatedly.
Pixley pled guilty on October 17, 2018 to a Criminal Information charging him with intentionally assaulting another person and possessing a shank in prison.
The maximum penalty for intentionally assaulting another person in prison is 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The maximum penalty for possession of a shank in prison is 5 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
Jackson County Man Pleads Guilty to Illegal Possession of Firearm by a Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss – Ronreco Lashawn Broughton, 38, of Moss Point, Mississippi, pled guilty today before Senior U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr. 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.
From December 2017 through February 2018, Broughton sold small quantities of drugs, including methamphetamine, Xanax bars, and marijuana, along with 8 firearms to the Jackson County MET Team and ATF. He was previously convicted of felony possession of a controlled substance in Pearl River County and felony possession of a controlled substance in Jackson County.
Broughton will be sentenced by Judge Guirola on April 23, 2019, at 1:30 p.m. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a 250,000 fine.
This case was investigated by the Jackson County MET Team and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Annette Williams.
Jackson County Gang Member Sentenced to 10 Years for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss – James Edward Hays, 36, a Simon City Royals gang member from Pascagoula, Mississippi, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to 120 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Dana Nichols with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Hays was also ordered to pay a $5,000 fine.
On April 25, 2018, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department responded to a call of a person passed out behind the wheel of a running car at a gas station. Deputies found Hays, a felon with multiple convictions, with methamphetamine, heroin and a loaded gun. Less than one month later, Hays was found in a motel room with a stolen gun and methamphetamine.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Annette Williams.
Former State Criminal Investigator Pleads Guilty to ExtortionRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Frank Saddler, 52, of Ridgeland, Mississippi, pled guilty today, before United States District Judge Henry T. Wingate, to extortion under color of official right, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, FBI Special Agent in Charge Christopher Freeze, and Dax Roberson, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General - Southwest Regional Office.
Saddler was a Branch Director with the Mississippi Department of Human Services (“MDHS”), which has oversight of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (“SNAP”) of the United States Department of Agriculture in Mississippi. Saddler’s duties included investigating violations of the SNAP regulations and pursuing criminal charges against violators.
In entering his guilty plea, Saddler admitted that he extorted money from convenience store owners who had been charged with criminal violations relating to SNAP in exchange for not pursuing the criminal charges against them. Saddler told the store owners that they were paying restitution to the State of Mississippi when in fact they made payments to Saddler which he deposited into his personal bank account.
“Public corruption erodes confidence in our democracy. This defendant put his own greed above the interests of the people he was entrusted to serve. This type of abuse of power will continue to be doggedly investigated and prosecuted by this office. Credit belongs to the FBI and USDA agents and our prosecutors who brought this criminal to justice,” said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
“I want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Office of Inspector General Special Agents, and our law enforcement partners for their hard work on this investigation. The Office of Inspector General is committed to protecting the integrity of United States Department of Agriculture programs,” said USDA OIG Special Agent in Charge Dax Roberson.
Saddler will be sentenced before Judge Wingate on April 16, 2019. He faces a maximum penalty of twenty years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and supervised release of up to three years.
The case was investigated by the FBI and the Office of the Inspector General of the United States Department of Agriculture. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dave Fulcher.
Louisiana Woman Pleads Guilty to Faking Her Own KidnappingRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Sharday Monique Thomas, 32, of Hammond, Louisiana, pled guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge Daniel P. Jordan, III, to one count of wire fraud for her scheme to fraudulently obtain money by faking her own kidnapping, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) Special Agent in Charge Christopher Freeze.
On November 27, 2018, FBI Special Agents in Jackson, Mississippi, were contacted by FBI Agents in Monroe, Louisiana, regarding allegations that an individual by the name of Sharday Thomas had been kidnapped and would be killed if a ransom was not delivered to a location in Jackson, Mississippi. The purported kidnapper had contacted a former employer of Thomas by way of text messages from Thomas' cell phone. The text messages stated that Thomas was being held against her will and instructed the former employer to bring $4,500.00 cash to an address in Jackson or Thomas would be killed.
The text messages included specific threats such as, "No cops or she die," "I'm tired of waiting my trigger finger is itching," "Now or I'll blow her head off," and "I want my money now or she dies," among others. The former employer, who was also being assisted by the Louisiana State Police, requested proof of life and spoke to Thomas on two instances. Thomas told him that she would be killed if the ransom money was not delivered as instructed.
With the assistance of the FBI in New Orleans, FBI Special Agents in Jackson were able to determine that Thomas was actually at an address near the location in Jackson where the money was to be delivered. The agents located Thomas and quickly determined that she had not actually been kidnapped. Thomas was found in possession of the cell phone from which the phone calls and texts had been sent. After being advised of her rights, Thomas confessed to staging the kidnapping on her own and to sending text messages and phone calls in order to fraudulently obtain money from her former employer. Thomas consented to the search of her phone's contents, and agents observed the text message chain used to stage her kidnapping.
Thomas will be sentenced by Judge Jordan on April 18, 2019, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Louisiana State Police. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dave Fulcher.
Venezuelan Pleads Guilty to Possessing Device Making EquipmentRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Roger Solorzano, 33, a legal permanent resident and native of Venezuela, pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge Carlton Reeves to one count of possession of device making equipment, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and U.S. Secret Service Resident Agent in Charge Shawn Wolfe.
In June 2018, Solorzano and Jonas Francisco placed skimmers and cameras on Automated Teller Machines at banks in Brandon, Pearl, and Flowood, Mississippi. Solorzano and Francisco were found to be in possession of glue, skimming devices, ATM false fronts, a soldering iron, double sided tape, and other electronic devices.
Solorzano and Francisco were indicted by a federal grand jury on August 7, 2018. Francisco pled guilty on September 21, 2018, to possession of device making equipment, and was sentenced on December 21, 2018.
Solorzano will be sentenced by Judge Reeves on April 10, 2019, at 9:00 a.m. He faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service, Brandon Police Department, Pearl Police Department, and Flowood Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Purdie.
Jackson Woman Sentenced to over 9 Years in Federal Prison for Drug Conspiracy and Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss – Erica Leigh Wooldridge, 44, of Jackson, Mississippi, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to 51 months in federal prison for conspiring to possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, followed by a consecutive sentence of 60 months for possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge Derryle Smith. Wooldridge was also ordered to pay a $7,500.00 fine.
On July 6, 2018, Biloxi police responded to a call regarding Wooldridge attempting to pass a $100.00 counterfeit bill at Walmart. When officers arrived, they stopped the van driven by Wooldridge. Another individual, Howard Lee Walker III, was in the passenger seat of the vehicle. Wooldridge agreed to let officers search the van, and upon searching it, officers located a loaded 9mm pistol under the front console. They also located 2 grams of methamphetamine and over 500 pills concealed in various locations in the van. A cooperating source notified agents that Wooldridge drove to Biloxi to sell the pills. The investigation revealed text messages between Wooldridge and several individuals discussing selling the pills. Wooldridge admitted to owning the gun and possessing it for protection. The pills looked exactly like Percocet pills. However, after sending the pills to the Mississippi Crime Laboratory, analysts discovered the pills were manufactured on the street and pressed with various drugs, including heroin and trace amounts of fentanyl.
Wooldridge pled guilty on October 4, 2018. Walker pled guilty on December 4, 2018, and will be sentenced on March 7, 2019.
This case was investigated by the Biloxi Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathlyn R. Van Buskirk.
Jackson Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Kelvin Roy Thompson a/k/a “HOT” a/k/a “OLD SCHOOL,” 60, pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge David C. Bramlette III to distribution of actual methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, Director John Dowdy with the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, Assistant Special Agent in Charge Derryle Smith with the Drug Enforcement Administration, and Special Agent in Charge Dana Nichols with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives.
As part of his guilty plea, Thompson admitted to selling methamphetamine to a Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics Confidential Informant at his residence located in Jackson, Mississippi, on or about January 31, 2018. The transaction involved the sale of approximately 26.9 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride with 98% purity.
Thompson will be sentenced by Judge Bramlette on April 11, 2019, and faces a maximum penalty of 40 years in prison and a $5,000,000 fine.
The case is the result of an investigation by the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Jackson Police Department and the Ridgeland Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Keesha Middleton.
Forest Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Jimmie Terrell Harrison, 43, of Forest, Mississippi, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Carlton W. Reeves, to 240 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, 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. Harrison was also ordered to pay a $5,000 fine.
On March 2, 2018, a box shipped via Fed Ex to an address in Forest, Mississippi, was found to contain nearly 10 pounds of methamphetamine. The box was delivered to the house next door to Harrison’s. The box was then picked up and brought to Harrison’s house. Agents searched Harrison’s home and found cocaine and two firearms. The methamphetamine recovered was to be distributed in the central Mississippi area. Harrison pled guilty on September 26, 2018, to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
This case is the result of an extensive Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation, dubbed "Operation Highlife", which began as an operation targeting illegal narcotics distribution in the east central Mississippi area that involved the distribution of methamphetamine, cocaine and marijuana. The distribution network encompasses the States of California, Tennessee, Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi.
The OCDETF program is a joint federal, state and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations, and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
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 included the 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 the United States Marshal Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Erin Chalk prosecuted the case.
Moss Point Man Sentenced to 4 Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing Unregistered FirearmRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – James Hurshell Dugger, 78, of Moss Point, was sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola to 48 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for possession of an unregistered 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 11, 2017, deputies with the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office responded to Dugger’s home after Dugger shot a man during an altercation. Upon searching Dugger’s home, deputies found 65 firearms, including silencers, a sawed-off rifle a firearm with an obliterated serial number, and firearms that were not registered in the National Firearms Registry. He also had over 6,000 rounds of ammunition.
Dugger has prior felony convictions for possession with intent to distribute marijuana and possession of unregistered firearms.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Annette Williams.
Jackson Man Sentenced under Project EJECT to over Three Years in Prison for Illegally Possessing a GunRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Randy Williams, 47, of Jackson, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Henry T. Wingate to 43 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Dana Nichols with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Williams was also ordered to pay a $1,500 fine.
On November 6, 2016, officers with the Jackson Police Department initiated a traffic stop of a black Nissan Sentra at the intersection of Ellis Avenue and Highway 80 for disregarding a traffic device. During the stop, the driver, Randy Williams, was found to be in possession of a .38 caliber revolver. Williams has three prior felony convictions in the Circuit Court of Hinds County, which include sexual battery, possession of cocaine, and delivery of cocaine.
This 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.
The 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 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.
Jackson Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing a Firearm under Project EJECTRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Christopher Younger, 37, of Jackson, entered a guilty plea today before U.S. District Judge Henry T. Wingate to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Dana K. Nichols with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Younger was previously convicted of multiple felonies, including house burglary, embezzlement, and auto burglary. On January 31, 2018, Younger was found in possession of a firearm when members of the U.S. Marshals’ Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force went to arrest him for violating his parole from the Arkansas Department of Corrections.
Younger will be sentenced by Judge Wingate on April 4, 2019 at 9:30 a.m. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Lynn Murray and Andrew W. Eichner.
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 Jackson 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.
Canton Woman Sentenced to 7 Years in Prison Under Project EJECT for Illegally Possessing a Firearm as a Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss – Angela Maxine Lee, 41, of Canton, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Henry T. Wingate to 84 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for being a convicted 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. Lee pled guilty to the charge on October 3, 2018.
On March 8, 2018, Jackson Police officers conducted a traffic stop of a black Infiniti on Cooper Road in Jackson, Mississippi. Lee was a passenger in the vehicle and was directed to exit the vehicle. She was arrested for possession of marijuana and the purse she was holding was searched incident to the arrest. In her purse was a Rossi revolver containing two live rounds of ammunition. Lee has prior felony convictions for grand larceny in Pike County, Mississippi in 2001; for robbery in Pike County, Mississippi in 2003; and for felon in possession of a firearm in Hinds County, Mississippi in 2012.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Jackson Police Department investigated the case. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn Murray.
It 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 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.
Brandon Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing a Firearm Under Project EJECTRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Donovan Scott Flaherty, 28, of Brandon, pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge Henry T. Wingate to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Dana Nichols with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
On January 16, 2018, Jackson Police officers were dispatched to the intersection of Prentiss Street and Capers Avenue in Jackson. Flaherty had arrived at the location as a passenger in a truck. Following interaction with the officers, Flaherty was taken into custody for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. Flaherty had prior felony convictions in Rankin County for grand larceny and auto burglary in 2011, and for grand larceny in 2016.
Flaherty will be sentenced by Judge Wingate on March 15, 2019, at 9:30 a.m. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Jackson Police Department investigated the case. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn Murray.
This case is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime in Jackson through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for "Empower Jackson 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.
Jasper County Man Sentenced to 7 Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing Unregistered Machine GunRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss. – James Christopher Varner, 39, of Stringer, Mississippi, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Keith Starrett to 84 months in prison for illegally possessing a machine gun that was not registered, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Dana Nichols with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
On January 22, 2018, deputies with the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office responded to a domestic violence call at a home in Stringer, Mississippi. Once there, they found a female who had been injured, along with several firearms. When Deputies tracked down Varner, they found additional firearms, along with controlled substances, a KKK robe, hood and literature. With the assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, a total of 46 firearms were seized, including 4 machine guns, 2 sawed-off rifles, multiple silencers, multi-round magazines, machine gun conversion kits, and other weapons.
Hurst commended the incredible work of the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives who investigated the case. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Annette Williams.
Jackson Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing a Firearm under Project EJECTRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Christopher Younger, 37, of Jackson, entered a guilty plea today before U.S. District Judge Henry T. Wingate to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Dana K. Nichols with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Younger was previously convicted of multiple felonies, including house burglary, embezzlement, and auto burglary. On January 31, 2018, Younger was found in possession of a firearm when members of the U.S. Marshals’ Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force went to arrest him for violating his parole from the Arkansas Department of Corrections.
Younger will be sentenced by Judge Wingate on April 4, 2019 at 9:30 a.m. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Lynn Murray and Andrew W. Eichner.
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 Jackson 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.
Texas Couple Sentenced to over 21 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Alfonso Fonty Jaimes, 37, and his wife, Maria Teresa Duarte Godinez, 29, both of Bastrop, Texas, were each sentenced yesterday by Senior U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr. to 262 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 Christopher Freeze with the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Jaimes was also ordered to pay a $25,000 fine and Godinez was ordered to pay a $7,500 fine. Jaimes pled guilty before Judge Guirola on August 1, 2018 and Godinez pled guilty on July 26, 2018.
On December 19, 2016, Tiffany Snodgrass was arrested following a traffic stop in Jackson County, Mississippi, in which she was found to be in possession of 6 kilograms of methamphetamine. Following her arrest, she was interviewed by the FBI Pascagoula Safe Streets Task Force. Snodgrass admitted to being a courier for a drug trafficking organization that operated out of Texas. Snodgrass admitted to making the drug shipments for a Hispanic female she knew as "Tere," (later identified as Godinez) and a Hispanic male she knew as "Tere’s husband" (later identified as Jaimes). Snodgrass admitted to having made approximately 25 total methamphetamine trafficking trips in for Godinez and Jaimes and she was paid approximately $1,500 to $3,000 in cash for each trip.
During the course of the investigation, FBI agents searched Snodgrass’s cell phone which revealed phone numbers for "Tere2" and "Tere husband." Cell phone subscriber information revealed that "Tere husband" was Jaimes. Agents were able to determine that several vehicles were co-registered to Jaimes and Godinez. Photo line-ups of Jaimes and Godinez were shown to Snodgrass and she positively identified the couple as her sources of supply for methamphetamine.
Snodgrass pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and was sentenced on June 7, 2017, to serve 270 months in federal prison.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shundral H. Cole.
Moss Point Man Sentenced to over Nine Years in Federal Prison for Crack and Cocaine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Thomas Earl Armstrong, 42, of Moss Point, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr. to 109 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Christopher Freeze with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in Mississippi. Armstrong was also ordered to pay a $5,000 fine. He pled guilty before Judge Guirola on July 31, 2018.
The FBI Safe Streets Task Force in Pascagoula started investigating Armstrong after learning he was involved with selling narcotics in Jackson County. Among other things, the FBI used a confidential informant to purchase cocaine and crack from Armstrong on at least three separate occasions. During the investigation, agents learned Armstrong was selling narcotics to numerous individuals. It was also learned that Armstrong instructed individuals to come to his house in Moss Point where he would sell them crack or cocaine.
The case was investigated by the FBI Safe Streets Task Force and the South Mississippi Metro Enforcement Team. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathlyn R. Van Buskirk.
Moss Point Man Sentenced to Nearly 20 Years in Federal Prison for Cocaine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Keith Lavell Brown, 46, of Moss Point, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr. to 235 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiring to possess with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge Derryle Smith, and FBI Special Agent in Charge Christopher Freeze. Brown was also ordered to pay a $35,000 fine.
During his plea on August 15, 2018, Brown admitted to being involved in a conspiracy to bring cocaine to the Mississippi Gulf Coast starting in 2015 until August 2017. On one occasion, in March 2016, Brown’s cousin was stopped in Louisiana and, upon his arrest, Louisiana State Police located 15 kilograms of cocaine inside his vehicle. During the DEA and FBI’s investigation, they determined that Brown had conspired with his cousins and others to have the cocaine brought from Texas to Mississippi. Brown and another individual with Mexican cartel connections actually followed his cousin’s vehicle prior to it being stopped.
After the stop in Louisiana, another individual was stopped in Mississippi driving an RV. During the stop, the RV was searched and law enforcement located 11 kilograms of cocaine hidden inside. During the investigation into the stop of the RV, DEA and FBI agents learned that the kilograms of cocaine were supposed to be delivered to Brown and others in Moss Point. Further information and evidence also showed that the cocaine located in the RV was not the driver’s first time to deliver cocaine to Brown. The driver had previously had a successful delivery of 13 kilograms of cocaine to Brown.
In total, the Court held Brown accountable for 49 kilograms of cocaine during the period of the conspiracy.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathlyn R. Van Buskirk.
Jackson Man Sentenced to over Six Years in Federal Prison under Project EJECT for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Terrence Omar Gates, 32, of Jackson, was sentenced yesterday by Senior U.S. District Judge William H. Barbour, Jr. to 78 months in prison, to run consecutive to his previously imposed 24 month revocation sentence, followed by three years supervised release, for illegal 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.
On June 7, 2017, detectives with the Jackson Police Department stopped Terrence Omar Gates for traffic violations at the corner of Mill Street and Mitchell Street. While running Gates’ driver’s license, one of the detectives observed Gates reaching under the front passenger seat. He was ordered to stop reaching and was removed from the vehicle. Detectives searched the vehicle and recovered a stolen Taurus pistol, a glass mason jar containing approximately 30 grams of marijuana, and a black digital weighing scale. Approximately $6,937.00 wrapped in a rubber band was recovered from Gates’ front left pocket.
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 Keesha D. Middleton.
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 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.
Jackson Man Sentenced to 27 Months in Prison for Commercial Driver’s License FraudRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss –Benjamin James McGrigg, 42, of Jackson, was sentenced on December 14, 2018, by Chief U.S. District Judge Daniel P. Jordan III to 27 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for commercial driver’s license fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Regional Special Agent in Charge Todd Damiani with the U.S. Department of Transportation, Office of Inspector General.
McGrigg was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $13,500 to the Pearl River Water Valley Supply District - Reservoir Police Department. He entered a guilty plea before Judge Jordan on August 17, 2018, to making false and fraudulent material representations.
McGrigg previously worked for a company that provided training and certification to individuals seeking commercial driver’s licenses (“CDLs”). His employment only authorized certification to those that were students of the company. However, McGrigg provided paperwork to those whom wanted a CDL that were not students of his employer. He prepared the paperwork representing that the applicant had taken the road skills test, when in fact the applicant had not. This fraudulent paperwork would be given to an individual seeking to obtain a CDL in exchange for payment to McGrigg. Such fraudulent paperwork would be presented by these individuals to the Mississippi Department of Public Safety in order to secure a commercial driver’s license. A review of the commercial drivers’ paperwork in Mississippi showed that some of the applicants could not have achieved the results on the paperwork. Some Commercial Driver’s License holders were interviewed and said they had never taken the test and just paid McGrigg for the paperwork.
"The sentencing in this investigation underscores the U.S. Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General's commitment to ensuring the integrity of the Department's commercial driver’s license program,” stated Todd Damiani, Regional Special Agent-In-Charge at DOT-OIG. “We remain steadfast in our efforts to prevent and detect CDL fraud schemes which endanger the traveling public in the State of Mississippi and throughout the country.”
The case was investigated by the United States Department of Transportation-Office of Inspector General, Mississippi Department of Public Safety, Mississippi Bureau of Investigation and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Erin Chalk.
Jackson County Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss – Andrew Roy Broughton, 30, of Moss Point, entered a guilty plea today before U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden 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.
Broughton was previously convicted of felony possession of a controlled substance in Pearl River County and felony possession of a controlled substance in Jackson County. On February 28, 2018, Broughton sold three firearms, one reported stolen, to an ATF informant. On March 6, 2018, Broughton sold a fourth firearm to the informant.
Broughton will be sentenced by Judge Ozerden on March 19, 2019 at 9:00 a.m. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The Jackson County MET Team and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Annette Williams.
Illegal Alien Sentenced to over 21 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Manuel De Jesus Pulido-Rodas, 33, of Vera Cruz, Mexico, was sentenced Monday by U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to 262 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 Jere T. Miles, Special Agent in Charge of Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans.
Pulido-Rodas pled guilty on August 7, 2018, to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. On January 30, 2018, Pulido Rodas and three others were stopped in a vehicle in Hancock County traveling from Texas to South Carolina. They were transporting approximately 4 kilograms of 99% pure methamphetamine. Pulido-Rodas’s co-conspirators in the vehicle are awaiting sentencing.
The case was investigated by the Homeland Security Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John Meynardie.
Hancock County Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – William Rex Roderick, Jr., 30, of Hancock County, entered a guilty plea today before U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden 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.
Roderick has previous convictions for possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and transfer of controlled substances in Hancock County in 2015 and 2017. Roderick was on supervised release with MDOC at the time of the current federal charge. As a result of a May 14, 2018, MDOC home visit, Roderick was found in possession of ammunition. A subsequent investigation and search of Roderick’s cell phone by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives discovered that Roderick was buying and selling firearms to known Simon City Royals gang members. Through the investigation, ATF determined Roderick had at least 6 firearms from December 28, 2017, through May 2018, including a .22 caliber assault rifle with 2 thirty round magazines.
Roderick will be sentenced by Judge Ozerden on March 19, 2019 at 9:30 a.m. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. The case is prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Annette Williams.
Gulfport Man Pleads Guilty to Stealing Firearm from Pawn ShopRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss – Aseante Romaree Taylor, 21, of Gulfport, entered a guilty plea yesterday before U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to theft of a firearm from a licensed firearms dealer, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Dana Nichols with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
On September 18, 2018, Gulfport Police Department responded to Dad’s Super Pawn regarding the theft of a firearm. Officers obtained the surveillance video and were able to see the suspect go behind the counter while clerks were busy with customers, take an AK-47 off the shelf and walk out the door. Once out the door, the video showed the suspect running to a car. ATF agents located the car and the identity of the thief. Taylor was apprehended in the U.S. District Courthouse when he attended a sentencing hearing in support of another defendant. When approached by U.S. Marshals, Taylor gave a false name, but was arrested.
Taylor will be sentenced by Judge Ozerden on March 18, 2019 at 9:30 a.m. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine, along with 3 years of supervised release.
The Gulfport Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Annette Williams.
South Carolina Man Sentenced to over 18 Years in Prison for Trafficking MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss – Erick Alejandro Contreras, age 20, of Greenville, South Carolina, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to 223 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 Jere T. Miles, Special Agent in Charge of Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans.
Contreras pled guilty on August 17, 2018, to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. On January 30, 2018, Contreras and three others were stopped in a vehicle in Hancock County traveling from Texas to South Carolina. They were transporting approximately 4 kilograms of 99% pure methamphetamine.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John Meynardie.
Jackson Man Sentenced Under Project EJECT to over Five Years in Prison for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Johnathan Lewis, 27, of Jackson, was sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Judge William H. Barbour, Jr. to 64-months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for illegal 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.
On November 7, 2017, a Jackson Police officer was dispatched to the Studio 7 Hotel on Interstate 55 North for a report of shots fired. Once on the scene, the officer stopped a car driven by Johnathan Lewis. The officer found Lewis in possession of a 9 mm pistol and drugs.
Lewis was previously convicted in 2014 in the Fulton County Superior Court of Atlanta, Georgia, for the felony offenses of robbery, terroristic threats, obstruction and simple battery. He was also convicted in the Circuit Court of Hinds County for felony offenses of possession of counterfeit currency and grand larceny.
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 Attorneys Abe McGlothin, Jr. and Keesha D. Middleton.
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 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.
Jackson County Drug User Pleads Guilty to Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss – Carl Levon Haynes, 26, of Pascagoula, Mississippi, entered a guilty plea today before U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to possession of a firearm by an unlawful user of controlled substances, and to making a false statement on an ATF form to purchase a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Dana Nichols with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Haynes will be sentenced by Judge Ozerden on March 18, 2019, at 9:00 a.m. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison on the possession charge and 5 years in prison for the false statement. He further faces a fine of $250,000 along with 3 years of supervised release.
In May 2018, Jackson County Sheriff’s Department and ATF were conducting undercover purchases of drugs and guns. On May 23, Haynes sold a shotgun that had been stolen from a Pascagoula police car. Haynes admitted to regular use of marijuana and the purchase of a handgun in 2017 at which time he answered "No" to a question about whether he used marijuana or other illegal substances.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Annette Williams.
Jackson Man Sentenced to Three Years in Federal Prison under Project EJECT for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Jerrod Domonique Cowards, 25, of Jackson, was sentenced today by Senior United States District Judge Tom S. Lee to serve 37 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years supervised release, for being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst. Cowards was also ordered to pay a $1,500.00 fine.
On May 1, 2018, officers with the Clinton Police Department were on patrol in the area of Highway 80 and Shaw Road in Clinton, Mississippi. One officer noticed a silver Ford Fusion on the road without the tag illuminated as required by law. The officer stopped the vehicle and noticed an odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. The officer ultimately searched the vehicle and found a firearm underneath the front passenger seat where Cowards was sitting. Cowards admitting to possessing the firearm that was found underneath his seat. Cowards had a prior felony conviction from Rankin County Circuit Court in 2011.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Clinton Police Department, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was 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 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.
Jackson Man Sentenced to Three Years in Federal Prison for Stealing Identity of a Veteran and Theft of Veteran BenefitsRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Tierun Bush, 56, of Jackson, was sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Judge Tom S. Lee to serve 36 months in federal prison for aggravated identity theft and theft of government funds and property, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst. Judge Lee also ordered Bush to pay full restitution to the Department of Veterans Affairs.
From 2005 to 2018, Bush used the name, social security number and other identifiers of a U.S. military veteran to fraudulently receive narcotics, medical care, medical equipment, and financial assistance for the cost of housing from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs. Bush, who is not a military veteran, was a long time patient at the G.V. "Sonny" Montgomery VA Medical Center in Jackson under the name of the victim whose identity he stole. When first approached by agents from the Department of Veterans Affairs, Bush provided the name of the victim as his own but quickly confessed when he was told by agents that they had already interviewed the victim, who lives out of state. By fraudulently using the identity of a veteran, Bush was able to obtain goods and services from government valued at over $133,603.93, which he will be required to pay in restitution as a part of his sentence.
The case was investigated by the Office of the Inspector General of the Department of Veterans Affairs. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dave Fulcher.
California Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for Trafficking Methamphetamine and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Michael Vincent Maes, 30, of Oakland, California, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to life in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, attempt to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, conspiracy to launder money, and five specific acts of money laundering, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, Special Agent in Charge Jere T. Miles with Homeland Security Investigations, and Assistant Special Agent in Charge Derryle Smith with the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Between June 2016 and February 2017, Maes was sending packages of methamphetamine to addresses in Slidell, Louisiana, for distribution throughout the Southern District of Mississippi. The individuals distributing that methamphetamine would then deposit proceeds from those sales into Wells Fargo accounts in Biloxi and Gulfport at Maes’ direction. All of the individuals distributing methamphetamine on the Mississippi Coast have previously pled guilty to their activities. Maes was found guilty on September 21, 2018, after a four-day trial. He was acquitted of one specific act of money laundering.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Drug Enforcement Administration. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John Meynardie and Kathlyn Van Buskirk.
Mexican Man Sentenced for Unlawful Reentry by a Removed Alien Previously Convicted of a FelonyRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Luis Fernando Carrera-Tolentino, age 21, an illegal alien from Mexico, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr., for the crime of unlawful reentry by a removed alien previously convicted of a felony, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Gregory A. Bovino, Chief Patrol Agent of the U.S. Border Patrol’s New Orleans Sector.
Carrera-Tolentino was sentenced to serve 11 months in federal prison, which will be followed by Department of Homeland Security removal proceedings. Additionally, Carrera-Tolentino was sentenced to three years of supervised release during which time he could face additional penalties if he were to unlawfully return to the United States.
As a result of his felony conviction, if he were to unlawfully return again to the United States, he could face up to ten years in federal prison. Carrera-Tolentino was convicted after pleading guilty on October 16, 2018, in Gulfport.
On July 12, 2018, a U.S. Border Patrol agent was observing Interstate 10 as part of the South Mississippi Metro Enforcement Team, an interagency task force in Jackson County. The agent executed a vehicle stop on a Toyota Corolla that had been identified through Border Patrol intelligence. The driver was arrested for transporting illegal aliens, and both passengers, including Carrera-Tolentino, were arrested for being in the United States illegally. At the Border Patrol Station, Carrera-Tolentino was positively identified through his own statement and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) computerized record checks.
Using Homeland Security electronic database queries, agents determined that Carrera-Tolentino was born in Mexico, and is a citizen of Mexico. He had been lawfully ordered removed and was physically removed from the United States in December 2017. It also was documented that Carrera-Tolentino has a felony criminal history including conviction in 2016, for two felony counts of Burglary-First Degree in the State of Georgia.
U.S. Attorney Hurst commended the work of the United States Border Patrol and the South Mississippi Metro Enforcement Team Interagency Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney Stan Harris was the prosecutor for the case.
Jackson Men Sentenced to Prison for their Roles in Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Vincent Taylor McGee, 30, and Jose Pacheco, 41, both of Jackson, were sentenced by U.S. District Judge William H. Barbour, Jr. today for their roles in a methamphetamine trafficking conspiracy, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge Derryle Smith. Both defendants pled guilty before Judge Barbour on June 11, 2018.
McGee was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a detectable amount of methamphetamine. In November 2015, McGee picked up 1 kilogram of a detectable amount of methamphetamine from a Mexican source of supply in Atlanta and delivered it to a co-conspirator in Jackson.
Pacheco was sentenced to 39 months in federal prison, followed by 2 years of supervised release, for conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a detectable amount of methamphetamine. Pacheco assisted co-conspirators in arranging the purchase and delivery of 1 kilogram of methamphetamine from a source of supply in Mexico.
The case is the result of an extensive investigation, dubbed "Rock Bottom", which began as an operation targeting illegal narcotics distribution in central Mississippi that involved the distribution of cocaine, crack and methamphetamine.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, and the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Hinds County Sheriff’s Office, Ridgeland Police Department, Jackson Police Department, U.S. Marshals Service, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Mississippi Highway Patrol, Madison County Sheriff’s Office, Brandon Police Department, Rankin County Sheriff’s Office, Mississippi Department of Corrections, Pearl Police Department, Flowood Police Department, Bureau of Customs and Border Patrol, and the DEA Houston Field Division. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Chris Wansley.
Jackson Man Sentenced to Almost Three Years in Prison under Project EJECT for Illegally Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Michael Handford, 30, of Jackson, was sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Judge William H. Barbour III, to 35 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for illegally possessing a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Dana Nichols with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Handford was also ordered to pay a $1,500 fine.
On October 24, 2017, members of the Jackson Police Department stopped the car in which Handford was a passenger for a traffic violation. Officers saw Handford attempting to hide a handgun under his seat as they approached the car. A records check revealed that Handford was a convicted felon and therefore could not legally possess firearms. Handford pled guilty before Judge Barbour on August 23, 2018, to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
The Jackson Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick Lemon.
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.
Biloxi Resident Sentenced to Almost Nine Years in Prison for Trafficking in Marijuana and Illegally Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Duy-Sang Sam Nguyen, 19, of Biloxi, was sentenced on December 6, 2018, by U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden, to a total of 106 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for attempting to possess with intent to distribute marijuana and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Jere T. Miles with Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans. Nguyen was also ordered to pay a fine in the amount of $7,500.00.
On June 6, 2018, FedEx Corporate Security notified Customs and Border Patrol about a suspicious package emitting a strong smell of marijuana. Upon opening the package, marijuana was located. The package was shipped to a home in Biloxi, Mississippi. On the same date, agents learned about another suspicious package shipping from the same address but destined for another home in Biloxi. Agents were able to intercept the second package and located more marijuana. Agents organized a controlled delivery of one of the packages. A female, later identified as Nguyen’s sister, took the package inside the home. Law enforcement detained Nguyen’s sister and she admitted that she picked up numerous packages for her brother. Upon learning this information, agents went to Nguyen’s home and he confessed to receiving at least four packages every month of marijuana from California. Nguyen further admitted to having an AR-15 in his bedroom and more marijuana. Agents located the AR-15, which was later forfeited. In total, agents determined that Nguyen was involved with at least 150 kilograms of marijuana being shipped to the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
Nguyen was indicted on May 2, 2018. On August 22, 2018, he pled guilty to attempting to possess with intent to distribute marijuana and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, Customs and Border Patrol, Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, and the Biloxi Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathlyn R. Van Buskirk.
Biloxi Man Convicted for Trafficking Methamphetamine and Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Andarius Cordero Thomas, 25, of Biloxi, pled guilty on December 4, 2018, before Senior U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr., to possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and possession of a firearm by an unlawful user of a controlled substance, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent-in-Charge Dana Nichols with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The Biloxi Police Department conducted three undercover controlled buys of methamphetamine from Thomas on April 20, 2017, April 26, 2017, and May 18, 2017. A search of Thomas’ residence revealed 3 grams of methamphetamine, 1,300 grams of marijuana, 3 digital scales, 6 boxes of small plastic baggies, 2 partially smoked marijuana cigarettes, and a loaded 9mm pistol with ammunition, which Thomas used during his drug distribution.
Additionally, Thomas was stopped by Biloxi police on April 4, 2018, where he was the sole occupant in the vehicle and marijuana smoke was emanating from the vehicle. A search of the vehicle revealed marijuana, a digital scale, and a loaded 40 caliber pistol which had been stolen. A search of the area next to Thomas’ bed at his mother’s home revealed another 8 grams of marijuana.
Thomas will be sentenced by Judge Guirola on March 5, 2019, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine for the drug charge and a maximum of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for the firearm charge.
U.S. Attorney Hurst commended the coordinated investigation by the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and by the City of Biloxi Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan Harris.
Two Illegal Aliens Plead Guilty to Unlawful Reentry After RemovalRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss. – Juan Gaspar-Adan, age 24, a citizen of Mexico, and Bartolo Lopez-Garcia, age 25, a citizen of Guatemala, pled guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Keith Starrett, to the crime of unlawful reentry by an alien after removal, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Mr. Trey Lund, Acting Field Office Director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations in New Orleans.
Gaspar-Adan and Lopez-Garcia are both scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Starrett on January 11, 2019 in Hattiesburg. They each face a maximum penalty of two years in prison followed by one year of supervised release and a maximum $250,000 fine. They also face being removed from the United States following the completion of any prison sentence.
Lopez-Garcia, who had previously been removed from the United States in 2012, was arrested by Hattiesburg Police on September 25, 2018, for driving under the influence (DUI), and was convicted of DUI in the Hattiesburg Municipal Court. On September 8, 2018, Gaspar-Adan, who had also previously been removed from the United States in 2014, was arrested by the University of Southern Mississippi Police Department, also for DUI.
U.S. Attorney Hurst praised the cooperation exhibited by the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration & Customs Enforcement, Enforcement & Removal Operations; the University of Southern Mississippi Police Department; the City of Hattiesburg Police Department and the Forrest County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan Harris is the prosecutor for both cases.
Southern District of Mississippi and Partners Receive National Project Safe Neighborhoods AwardRead the Press Release
Kansas City, Missouri – Today, 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.
"Project Safe Neighborhoods is making our prosecutions more targeted and more effective—and that makes the American people safer," said Acting Attorney General Whitaker. "Today the Department recognizes 16 examples of those who go above and beyond the call of duty in using PSN to reduce violent crime. We had a lot of impressive nominees, but even with tough competition, these 16 stood out. I want to thank each one of them for their service and congratulate them on a job well done."
When specifically referring to Project EJECT, Acting Attorney General Whitaker stated, "They’re hitting violent crime from every angle—and it shows."
"Just one year ago, we launched Project EJECT with the intent of making our Capital City safer for everyone. I’m incredibly proud of what our partners, our office and our prosecutors have been able to accomplish in such a short period of time. By empowering our citizens and working together, and doing more than just prosecute crimes, we are reducing overall violent crime in the City of Jackson and making our communities safer. I look forward to continuing this important work in Jackson and expanding it throughout the Southern District in the coming year" said U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst.
In December 2017, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi launched its PSN task force to combat violent crime occurring in Jackson, Mississippi. The United States Attorney’s Office, ATF, DEA, FBI, and U.S. Marshals Service joined forces with Homeland Security Investigations, the Jackson Police Department, Hinds County District Attorney’s Office, Mississippi State Crime Laboratory, state law enforcement, Jackson city council members, community leaders, business leaders, non-profits, and faith leaders to form Project EJECT, a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to combating violent crime. EJECT stands for "Empower Jackson Expel Crime Together," Project EJECT employs four platforms: prevention; prosecution; reentry and rehabilitation; and awareness. In addition to undertaking significant enforcement efforts, members of the task force conduct prevention activities at schools and non-profits, and engage the community through regular town hall meetings. This coordinated and comprehensive approach helped reduce violent crime in the City of Jackson by over 7% since this time last year.
"Just over a year ago, this initiative was only a concept aimed at using the assets and resources of the whole community to make Mississippi safer, and I am proud of the work that has been done by all of the agencies and partner organizations involved in the endeavor," said Christopher Freeze, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Mississippi. "From the initial proposals and discussions about the objective of the project, to numerous investigations and successful prosecutions, our Special Agents, Task Force Officers, Intelligence Analysts and Professional Support staff have worked countless hours to reduce violent crime and make our communities safer, no matter who gets the credit. Although this is the only narrative most people hear, the center focus of our involvement is the culture our children and their children will face in the coming years. We hope that this initiative will continue to build a culture and community for today, for our children and for their children."
"Project Eject is another example of the commitment of the ATF, the US Attorney’s Office and all of our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to impact and reduce violent crime in the city of Jackson," said Dana K. Nichols, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives New Orleans Field Division. "With the inclusion of the community and community leaders in Project EJECT, we have created a truly unique strategy and partnership that will pay dividends for the citizens of Jackson for not only this year, but for years to come. We are "ALL" committed to making our neighborhoods safer."
"Project EJECT inflicted a debilitating blow to the network of drug traffickers and violent criminals in the city of Jackson and beyond," said DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge J. Derryle Smith. "This project continues a deliberate and strategic effort to cut off and shut down the supply of drugs and guns entering our cities and is a milestone in our tireless assault on these violent drug traffickers. The results of Project EJECT clearly demonstrate DEA’s commitment, along with the combined strength that federal, state, and local agencies, both in law enforcement and civilian, bring to bear in the battle to keep our neighborhoods safe. U.S. Attorney Hurst and his entire staff are to be commended for their continuing efforts into battling violent crime in the city of Jackson."
Attending the PSN National Conference on behalf of Project EJECT is U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, First Assistant U.S. Attorney Darren LaMarca, U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Chief Courtney Coker, Jackson Police Department Assistant Chief Ricky Robinson, and Hinds County Assistant District Attorney Pat McNamara.
Pearl Man Pleads Guilty to Heroin ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss – Howard Lee Walker, 30, of Pearl, Mississippi, pled guilty today, before U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden, to 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.
On July 6, 2018, Biloxi police responded to a call about a female attempting to pass a $100 counterfeit bill at Walmart. When officers arrived, they stopped a van driven by the female, who they identified as Erica Wooldridge of Jackson, Mississippi. Walker was a passenger in Wooldridge’s vehicle. Officers were notified that both individuals had warrants for their arrest.
Upon receiving consent to search Wooldridge’s vehicle, officers located a loaded 9mm pistol under the front console and numerous pills throughout the vehicle. Walker admitted to riding with Wooldridge from Jackson to Biloxi to sell the pills. Wooldridge and Walker thought they were selling Percocet, or Oxycodone; however, after testing, analysts determined the pills actually contained heroin and aspirin.
Walker will be sentenced by Judge Ozerden on March 7, 2019, and faces a maximum penalty of twenty years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.
Wooldridge pled guilty on October 4, 2018, and will be sentenced on January 10, 2019. She faces a maximum penalty of 25 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.
The case was investigated by DEA and the Biloxi Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathlyn R. Van Buskirk.
Jackson Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Keith Mullen, 46, of Jackson, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William H. Barbour, Jr. to 180 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge Derryle Smith. Mullen was also ordered to pay a $1,500.00 fine.
From November 2015 to February 2016, and while in federal prison, Mullen assisted co-conspirators in arranging the purchase and delivery of 30 kilograms of methamphetamine from a source of supply in Mexico. The drugs were intended for distribution in central Mississippi. The case is the result of an extensive investigation, dubbed ARock Bottom,@ which began as an operation targeting illegal narcotics distribution in central Mississippi that involved the distribution of cocaine, crack and methamphetamine.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, and the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Hinds County Sheriff’s Office, Ridgeland Police Department, Jackson Police Department, U.S. Marshals Service, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Mississippi Highway Patrol, Madison County Sheriff’s Office, Brandon Police Department, Rankin County Sheriff’s Office, Mississippi Department of Corrections, Pearl Police Department, Flowood Police Department, Customs and Border Patrol, and the DEA Houston Field Division. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Chris Wansley.
Jackson Man Sentenced to Ten Years in Prison for Cocaine and Crack ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – L.C. Hatfield, Jr., 43, of Jackson, was sentenced Friday, by Chief U.S. District Judge Daniel P. Jordan III, to 120 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute cocaine base ("crack") and cocaine hydrochloride ("powder"), announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Assistant Special Agent in Charge Derryle Smith with the Drug Enforcement Administration. Hatfield pled guilty before Judge Jordan on August 1, 2018.
This case is the result of an extensive Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation, dubbed "Rock Bottom," which began as an operation targeting illegal narcotics distribution in the central Mississippi area. During the investigation, agents found Hatfield was distributing large quantities of cocaine and crack to individuals in Jackson. Based on his role in the conspiracy, Hatfield was held responsible for as much as 3 kilograms of cocaine powder and 6 kilograms of crack.
The OCDETF program is a joint federal, state and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations, and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, and the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Marshals Service, Hinds County Sheriff’s Office, Ridgeland Police Department, Jackson Police Department, Mississippi Highway Patrol, Madison County Sheriff’s Office, Brandon Police Department, Rankin County Sheriff’s Office, Mississippi Department of Corrections, Pearl Police Department, Flowood Police Department, Bureau of Customs and Border Patrol, and the DEA Houston Field Division. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Chris Wansley.
Illegal Alien Sentenced for Access Device Fraud and Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Mississippi. – Ricardo Arcanjo Ramos, 37, an illegal alien from Brazil, was sentenced today in United States District Court to serve 37 months in federal prison for committing access device fraud and aggravated identity theft, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Jere T. Miles, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans. Ramos was also ordered to pay $25,087.50 in restitution to the victim.
In July, 2017, Ramos and another illegal alien, through the use of skimmers and cameras placed on Automated Teller Machines at a credit union in Ocean Springs, obtained and used 15 or more account holders’ unauthorized access devices to obtain money and fund transfers at two banks and a resort in Florida.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Jones.
Sex Trafficker of Minors Found Guilty by Federal JuryRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – After a four-day trial before U.S. District Judge Carlton Reeves, a federal jury in Jackson found Willie Charles Blackmon, Jr., 36, of Jackson, guilty on Thursday of two counts of sex trafficking minors through force, fraud, maintaining and harboring the minors for commercial sex acts, and two counts of advertising and promoting prostitution, announced United States Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Christopher Freeze with the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi.
Beginning in July 2014 and continuing through March 2016, agents with the Jackson FBI, Mississippi Attorney General’s Office, FBI New Orleans Violent Crimes against Children Task Force, Clinton Police Department and Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office investigated Willie Charles Blackmon, Jr.’s prostitution ring. Blackmon purchased a runaway minor for $500 and recruited runaway minors for prostitution. Blackmon knew the minors would engage in commercial sex acts with men for money. Blackmon would rent rooms at local hotels in Jackson and Vicksburg for the minors for days at a time. Blackmon kept most, if not all, of the money earned by the minors from the sex acts. The evidence showed that Blackmon would physically harm the minors and threaten them by holding a gun to their heads if they did not perform or if they disrespected him. He also provided drugs to the minors.
"This criminal deserves the harshest punishment under the law for harming, threatening and drugging children to do unspeakable things for money. I commend our federal, state and local law enforcement partners, as well as our prosecutors and support staff, for bringing this monster to justice and rescuing these victims. I would ask the public to help us by continuing to be vigilant to these crimes that occur all around us and promptly reporting any suspicious activity to law enforcement," said U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst.
Judge Carlton Reeves will sentence Blackmon on March 4, 2019 at 9:00 am. He faces a minimum of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life in prison, and fines of up to $1 million.
This case was investigated by the FBI Jackson Division’s Child Exploitation Task Force, with assistance from the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office, FBI New Orleans Child Exploitation Task Force, Clinton Police Department and Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Glenda R. Haynes and Keith French prosecuted the case.
The case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative by the U.S. Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.
Multi-Kilo Methamphetamine and Heroin Conspiracy Results in Almost Five Years in Federal Prison for Texas WomenRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Trisha Lynne Ibarra, 24, and Arlene Viridiana Moya, 23, both of Texas, were sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William H. Barbour for their roles in a methamphetamine and heroin conspiracy, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Jere T. Miles with Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans.
Ibarra was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 1 kilogram of heroin, and 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. Moya was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for her role in the conspiracy. Ibarra and Moya were also ordered to pay a $1,500.00 fine.
On January 22, 2018, a Rankin County Sheriff Deputy conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle driven by Moya. Ibarra was the registered owner of the vehicle and seated in the passenger seat. Ibarra and the driver gave conflicting statements to the officer for their reason for travel and their final destination. A consensual search of the vehicle resulted in the seizure of approximately 4 kilograms of heroin and 16 kilograms of methamphetamine from the vehicle’s fuel tank.
The case was a joint investigation by the Rankin County Sherriff’s Office, and the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations (ICE/HSI) Jackson office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Chris Wansley.
Jackson Woman Pleads Guilty to Theft of U.S. Mail by a Postal EmployeeRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Kimberly Walker, 37, of Jackson, pled guilty Thursday before U.S. District Judge Tom S. Lee to theft of U.S. mail by a postal employee, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Chris Cave, U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General, Southern Area Field Office.
Walker was employed as a mail handler at the U.S. Postal Service Processing and Distribution Center in Jackson. On February 8, 2018, agents were notified of six rifled Nielsen Rating envelopes that were returned to Nielsen Ratings from the distribution center. Nielson Media Research mails letters and flat sized envelopes to households that participate in surveys in exchange for U.S. currency. On February 15, 2018, using mail pieces and currency provided by Nielsen Ratings, test pieces containing U.S. currency were placed in the prepping area to be processed by the Tour 3 mail handlers, including Walker. Using video surveillance, agents observed Walker open at least one of the test pieces and place something in her pocket. When confronted, Walker admitted she had been rifling Nielson Ratings mail pieces for approximately six months. Agents recovered all the currency from Walker’s wallet and pocket that had been taken from the test pieces.
Walker is currently released on bond and will be sentenced by Senior U.S. District Judge Tom S. Lee on February 28, 2019, at 9:30 a.m. She faces a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The case was investigated by agents from the U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kimberly Purdie.
Jackson Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison under Project EJECT for Being an Armed Career Criminal Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss – Loucious Collins, 37, of Jackson, was sentenced Tuesday, by U.S. District Judge David C. Bramlette III, to 15 years in prison followed by five years of supervised release for being an armed career criminal 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) in Mississippi. Collins was also required to forfeit the firearm.
On June 8, 2017, the FBI assisted the Mississippi Alcohol Beverage Control in executing a search warrant a V Live Club in Jackson. During the search of the business, Collins, an employee of the club, was questioned by a Mississippi Alcohol Beverage Control officer and admitted to being in possession of a firearm and to being a convicted felon. Because Collins has four previous felony convictions for house burglary, one previous conviction for business burglary, and one previous conviction for possession of a deadly weapon while an inmate at the Delta Correctional Facility, he is classified as an Armed Career Criminal under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. On February 6, 2018, he was charged in a federal indictment with being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm in violation of 18 U.S.C. §922(g)(1). He pled guilty on August 28, 2018.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Mississippi Alcohol Beverage Control investigated the case. It 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 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 Sentenced to over 8 Years in Prison for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Jeremy T. Walker, of Jackson, was sentenced today, before United States Senior District Judge William H. Barbour, Jr., to 97 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Dana Nichols, Special Agent in Charge, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives. Walker was also ordered to pay a $1,500 fine.
Walker was previously found guilty following a two day jury trial that began on August 27, 2018, in Jackson.
On February 5, 2013, Deputy Marshals with the United States Marshals Service, Gulf Coast Regional Task Force, were attempting to execute an outstanding arrest warrant for sale of a controlled substance in Hinds County. Deputy Marshals located Walker at his mother’s residence hiding in the attic. While the deputies were apprehending Walker, a Rohm, Draco model, 7.62 x 39mm rifle was recovered from the top of the refrigerator. Walker admitted to purchasing the firearm. Walker has been previously convicted of a felony for possessing a controlled substance in 2010 in Hinds County.
This case investigated by the United States Marshals Service, Gulf Coast Regional Task Force ,the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Hinds County Sheriff’s Department. AUSA Erin Chalk is prosecuting the case.
Woman with Half Pound of Meth in Pants Sentenced to Almost Twelve Years in Prison for Drugs and Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Aaliyah Williamson, 24, of Bay St. Louis, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to serve 143 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine; and 120 months, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for possession of a stolen firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Assistant Special Agent in Charge Derryle Smith with the Drug Enforcement Administration. Judge Ozerden ordered the sentences to run concurrently. Williamson was also ordered to pay a $7,500 fine.
On October 24, 2017, a Mississippi Highway Safety Patrol Trooper observed a 2006 Chevrolet Impala on Interstate 10-East near mile marker 28 following another vehicle too closely. The trooper attempted to conduct a traffic stop on the vehicle, but the vehicle was slow to stop and veered to the right shoulder. The trooper pulled alongside the vehicle, where he observed the female passenger making furtive movements and it appeared she was attempting to conceal items in the front of her pants. The vehicle came to a stop near mile marker 29.
The trooper approached the vehicle and identified the driver as Jonathan Jarvis and the passenger as Aaliyah Williamson. Neither Jarvis nor Williamson possessed a valid Mississippi driver’s license. The trooper could smell the odor of marijuana being emitted from the vehicle. Jarvis and Williamson were asked to exit the vehicle. While exiting the vehicle, Jarvis told the trooper he possessed a weapon in the vehicle. The trooper orderedWilliamson to remove the items from her pants, which was revealed as approximately 247 grams of methamphetamine "ice." A search of the vehicle revealed 29.5 dosage units of Alprazolam, 14 dosage units of Acetaminophen/Oxycodone, approximately 89 grams of marijuana, approximately one ounce of promethazine syrup, digital scales, plastic baggies, two cell phones, and a stolen Smith andWesson pistol. Two and a half grams of methamphetamine was also found in Williamson’s purse.
Williamson pled guilty on May 11, 2018. Jarvis pled guilty on May 5, 2018 to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. On August 21, 2018, he was sentenced by Judge Ozerden to serve 220 months in federal prison.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shundral H. Cole.