Eastern District of North Carolina
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Medicaid Biller Sentenced to Prison for Medicaid FraudRead the Press Release
NEW BERN – United States Attorney Robert J. Higdon, Jr. announced that yesterday in federal court, United States District Judge Louise W. Flanagan sentenced RENEE CHRISTINE BORUNDA, 36, of Greensboro, North Carolina, to 37 months in federal prison followed by 3 years of supervised release following her prior guilty plea to Conspiracy to Commit Health Fraud Conspiracy and Aggravated Identity Theft. BORUNDA was also ordered to make restitution of $225,399.08 to the North Carolina Medicaid program.
The Criminal Information to which BORUNDA pleaded guilty, as well as information provided at the sentencing hearing, stated that BORUNDA managed a company that offered behavioral health services to Medicaid recipients in Wilson, North Carolina. In 2013 and 2014, BORUNDA used one of the company’s therapist’s personal information to submit fraudulent electronic claims. The claims were submitted from two different companies. The claims falsely represented that the therapist had provided $225,339.08 worth of behavioral services to over 200 different Medicaid recipients who lived in Beaufort, Edgecombe, Greene, Guilford, Lenoir, Mecklenburg, Pitt, and Wilson Counties, when in fact no such services were rendered. The therapist was unaware that her information was being used to commit the fraud.
United States Attorney Robert J. Higdon, Jr. stated, “Fraud in the behavioral health sector is a plague upon our district and the country at large. This case, like several others prosecuted by this office in the last several years, sends a strong message to those who seek to defraud Medicaid and Medicare - programs essential to the wellbeing of the American people. These individuals will be aggressively prosecuted.”
North Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein said, “Cheating Medicaid wastes tax dollars, and it’s unacceptable. My office will continue our work to protect taxpayers and hold the healthcare providers who commit fraud accountable.”
The investigation of this case was conducted by agents of the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (“SBI”) assigned to the Medicaid Investigations Division of the North Carolina Attorney General’s Office (“MID”), Financial Investigators with the MID, and the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation. Assistance was provided by the Office of Compliance and Program Integrity of the North Carolina Division of Health Benefits, EastPointe, Sandhills Center, and Trillium Health Resources. The investigation and prosecution of this matter was handled in a partnership between the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina and the Medicaid Investigations Division of the North Carolina Attorney General’s Office. SBI Assistant Special Agent in Charge Lolita Howell was the lead investigator. Special Assistant United States Attorneys Mike Heavner and John Parris of the Medicaid Investigations Division of the North Carolina Attorney General’s Office represented the United States.
Subury and Elizabeth City Men Sentenced for Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced today, that TERRY LAVELLE INGRAM, 36, of Elizabeth City, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Terrence W. Boyle for possession of a firearm and ammunition by felon. Chief Judge Boyle sentenced INGRAM to 120 months’ imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release.
INGRAM’S co-defendant, CHRISTOPHER OMAR HINTON, 33, of Sunbury, was previously sentenced on August 23, 2018 by Chief United States District Judge Terrence W. Boyle for possession of a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. Judge Boyle sentenced HINTON to 120 months’ imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release.
HINTON and INGRAM were charged in a two-count indictment on February 28, 2018. HINTON pleaded guilty on June 26, 2018, and INGRAM pleaded guilty on April 30, 2018.
On April 7, 2017, HINTON robbed a Lucky City Sweepstakes in Raleigh, North Carolina. After entering the business he broke into the office, held up an employee at gunpoint, and stole about $8,000. On April 23, 2017, HINTON and INGRAM robbed the same business, again at gunpoint. They ordered two employees into a bathroom and blocked the door so the victims could not escape. HINTON and INGRAM then stole $10,302 from the business.
The Raleigh Police Department later located HINTON and INGRAM staying at a hotel in Raleigh. Inside a vehicle registered to HINTON, officers found a stolen Hi-Point 9 mm pistol with an obliterated serial number, a Springfield Armory .40 caliber pistol, ammunition, an extended magazine, cocaine, and drug paraphernalia.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), 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. 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, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
In support of PSN, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina has implemented the Take Back North Carolina Initiative. This initiative emphasizes the regional assignment of federal prosecutors to work with law enforcement and District Attorney’s Offices on a sustained basis in those communities to reduce the violent crime rate, drug trafficking, and crimes against law enforcement.
The investigation of this case was conducted by the Raleigh Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF). Assistant United States Attorney Erin Blondel handled the prosecution of this case for the government.
Seven Aliens Indicted on Illegal Reentry ChargesRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – Robert J. Higdon, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, announces that a federal grand jury in Raleigh has returned indictments charging PRAJEDES AVILA-VALENZUELA, age 50, of Mexico, DANIEL CARDONA-TOMAS, age 23, of Guatemala, GILBERTO CAZAREZ-MONTIEL, age 29, of Mexico, JUVER EDUARDO COREAS-BATRES, age 26, of El Salvador, SANTOS ASISCLO HERNANDEZ-MEJIA, age 31, of Honduras, JUAN PENALOZA-PENALOZA, age 22, of Mexico, and JUAN ANGEL VELASQUEZ-CANALES, age 35, of Honduras, with Illegal Reentry of a Deported Alien.
If convicted of illegal reentry of a deported alien, AVILA-VALENZUELA, previously deported twice and found in Wake County, CARDONA-TOMAS, previously deported twice and found in Sampson County, CAZAREZ-MONTIEL, previously deported twice and found in New Hanover County, COREAS-BATRES, previously deported and found in Wake County, and HERNANDEZ-MEJIA, previously deported twice and found in New Hanover County, would face maximum penalties of two years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and a term of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
PENALOZA-PENALOZA, previously deported and found in Wake County, is alleged to have been previously deported subsequent to a felony conviction (possession of cocaine). Therefore, if convicted, he would face a maximum imprisonment term of 10 years, a $250,000 fine, and a term of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
VELASQUEZ-CANALES, previously deported twice, found in Johnston County, is alleged to have been previously deported subsequent to aggravated felony conviction (grand larceny). Therefore, if convicted, he would face a maximum imprisonment term of 20 years, a $250,000 fine, and a term of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
The charges and allegations contained in the indictments are merely accusations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
The cases are being investigated by ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations and Homeland Security Investigations.
Greenville Man Sentenced for Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
NEW BERN – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that today in federal court, United States District Judge Louise W. Flanagan sentenced DANIEL LEE WADE, JR., 24, of Greenville, North Carolina to 120 months of imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release.
WADE was named in an Indictment filed on December 20, 2017. On March 12, 2018, WADE pleaded guilty to one-count of Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition by a Felon.
On July 16, 2017, two females drove to talk to WADE at his apartment building in Greenville. One of the females and WADE were talking outside when WADE’S mother came out and began arguing with the female. As the argument escalated, WADE’ mother insisted that the female victim stay. The driver urged her friend to get in the vehicle, which she did. WADE’S mother then stepped in front of the vehicle in an apparent effort to block them in. As the vehicle was attempting to drive away, WADE began shooting at it. After realizing her friend had been hit, the driver tried driving to the hospital, but was stopped less than a mile away due to a flat tire, and called 911. The Greenville Police Department (GPD) subsequently responded to a parking lot in Greenville, where the two females were located. The passenger had sustained a gunshot wound to the right hip area and was bleeding significantly. She was transported to the hospital for medical treatment. The victim provided a brief statement wherein she advised that WADE had struck her with a gun just prior to shooting her. Upon examination of the vehicle involved in the shooting, GPD observed a total of nine bullet holes, along with one that pierced the rear tire. Police searched the area in front of WADE’S apartment where they located 7 .40 caliber shell casings. A State arrest warrant was subsequently issued charging WADE with Assault With a Deadly Weapon With Intent to Kill or Inflict Serious Injury and Discharging a Firearm Into Occupied Property Inflicting Serious Injury.
On July 20, 2017, GPD located WADE sitting in the front passenger seat of a vehicle in Greenville. The driver of the vehicle told authorities that a firearm was inside the glove box. A .40 caliber pistol was found loaded with 13 rounds of ammunition. WADE was taken into custody on the outstanding warrant and was also charged with Possession of a Firearm by a Felon. Ballistic testing determined that the firearm matched the casings recovered from the previously mentioned shooting on July 16, 2017. ATF records revealed that driver was the registered owner of the gun; however, forensic analysis later confirmed that WADE’S DNA was present on the firearm and magazine.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), 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. 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.
In support of PSN, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina has implemented the Take Back North Carolina Initiative. This initiative emphasizes the regional assignment of federal prosecutors to work with law enforcement and District Attorney’s Offices on a sustained basis in those communities to reduce the violent crime rate, drug trafficking, and crimes against law enforcement.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, and the Greenville Police Department Gun Violence Reduction Unit conducted the criminal investigation of this case. Assistant United States Attorney James J. Kurosad handled the prosecution of this case for the government.
Alien Sentenced for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm and Judicially Ordered Deported to EgyptRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE – Robert J. Higdon, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, announces that TAMER AHMED QAID SAID RABEH, age 37, of Egypt, illegally present in the United States and residing in Pender County, North Carolina, was sentenced today to 18 months imprisonment, after an August 7, 2018, guilty plea to illegal and unlawful alien in possession of a firearm. According to court records, RABEH overstayed his visitor visa and was encountered by the Pender County Sheriff’s Office in possession of a stolen firearm during a residential breaking and entering investigation.
RABEH was sentenced in Greenville by Senior United States District Court Judge Malcolm J. Howard who in addition to the term of incarceration also issued a judicial order of deportation ordering the defendant’s prompt removal from the United States to Egypt upon release from federal custody.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Pender County Sheriff’s Office.
Wilmington Man Sentenced for Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that today, ANTHONY TYRONE GREENE, 34, of Wilmington, was sentenced by United States Senior District Judge W. Earl Britt for possession of a firearm by felon. Judge Britt sentenced GREENE to 78 months imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release.
GREENE was charged in a one-count indictment on February 15, 2018, and pleaded guilty on April 30, 2018.
One June 10, 2017, a female employee of GoGas in Wilmington, North Carolina, had just locked up the gas station and was walking towards her vehicle. GREENE approached her, pointed a gun in her face, and demanded her purse. After she handed over her purse and bag, GREENE pushed her to the ground and fled.
Shortly after the robbery, the Wilmington Police Department used a phone application to locate the victim’s stolen iPhone. Officers traced the phone to an apartment where GREENE lived. After searching the residence, officers found the victim’s iPhone, wallet, identification, and other personal effects. They also recovered a stolen, loaded 9mm Taurus handgun.
In 2008 GREENE pleaded guilty to accessory after the fact to first-degree murder in the slaying of Lynn Rubei in Wilmington.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), 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. 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, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The investigation of this case was conducted by the Wilmington Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF). Assistant United States Attorney Erin Blondel handled the prosecution of this case for the government.
Raleigh Man Sentenced to More Than 14 Years for Robbery and Carjacking OffensesRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that today, JAMES DANIEL BLOODWORTH, 60, of Raleigh, was sentenced by United States Senior District Judge W. Earl Britt for robbery and carjacking offenses. Judge Britt sentenced BLOODWORTH to 175 months’ imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release.
BLOODWORTH was charged in a six-count indictment on January 31, 2018, and pled guilty on July 9, 2018 to two counts of interference with commerce by robbery and carjacking.
Between June 14 and June 16, 2017, BLOODWORTH committed a series of armed robberies and carjackings in Wake and Durham counties. Specifically, on June 14, 2017, BLOODWORTH entered a CVS in Raleigh, approached an employee at the cash register, brandished a handgun and demanded money. He threatened to shoot her if she did not comply. BLOODWORTH ultimately stole $200. On June 15, 2017 BLOODWORTH entered a Walgreens in Cary, NC, approached an employee and asked for a pack of cigarettes. When the employee reached the cash register, BLOODWORTH retrieved a gun, pointed it at the employee and then stole $400 from the cash register and cigarettes.
On June 16, 2017, BLOODWORTH approached a woman getting out of her vehicle. He pressed a gun to her back, threatened to kill her if she screamed, ordered her to drop her keys, and stole her Toyota Camry. Later that night, BLOODWORTH was caught fleeing the scene of another carjacking in Durham. After a short chase, he crashed the stolen vehicle and was arrested.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), 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. Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The investigation of this case was conducted by the Raleigh Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF). Assistant United States Attorney Erin Blondel handled the prosecution of this case for the government.
2018 Eastern District Election Officer AppointedRead the Press Release
RALEIGH - United States Attorney Robert J. Higdon, Jr. announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Robin Pendergraft, Chief of the Criminal Division will lead the efforts of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 6, 2018, general elections. AUSA Pendergraft has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the Eastern District of North Carolina, and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of any complaints of election fraud or voting rights abuses in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.
“Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted without it being stolen because of fraud,” said United Staes Attorney Higdon. “The Department of Justice is dedicated to protecting the integrity of the election process.”
The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring election fraud and discrimination at the polls, and combating these violations whenever and wherever they occur. The Department’s long-standing Election Day Program furthers these goals, and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the integrity of the election process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible election fraud and voting rights violations while the polls are open on election day.
Federal law protects against such crimes as intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters and provides that they can vote free from acts that intimidate or harass them. For example, actions of persons designed to interrupt or intimidate voters at polling places by questioning or challenging them, or by photographing or videotaping them, under the pretext that these are actions to uncover illegal voting may violate federal voting rights law. Further, federal law protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice.
The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise may exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt the voting process are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of election fraud or voting rights abuses on November 6, 2018, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, United States Attorney Higdon stated that AUSA/DEO Pendergraft will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. She can be reached by the public at the following telephone number: 919-856-4530.
In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The Raleigh FBI field office can be reached by the public at 919-380-4500.
Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division’s Voting Section in Washington, DC by phone at 1-800-253-3931 or (202) 307-2767, by fax at (202) 307-3961, by email to [email protected] or by complaint form at http://www.justice.gov/crt/complaint/votintake/index.php.
United States Attorney Higdon said, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the cooperation of the American electorate. It is imperative that those who have specific information about discrimination or election fraud make that information available immediately to my Office, the FBI, or the Civil Rights Division.”
Wilson County Man Sentenced to 22 Years in Prison for Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – Robert J. Higdon, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, announces that today in federal court, United States District Judge James C. Dever III sentenced ROBERT LEE HOLDEN, JR., 50, of Wilson, to 264 months of imprisonment followed by 5 years of supervised release.
HOLDEN was convicted following a two-day trial on July 9, 2018. The jury found HOLDEN guilty of Possession of a Stolen Firearm and Being a Convicted Felon in Possession of a Firearm.
The evidence at trial showed that on July 5, 2016, Officers of the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office responded to a shots fired call. Officers responded to the scene and discovered HOLDEN on the front porch of his residence. After inviting the officers to search his home for firearms, the officers discovered a .357-caliber revolver on a leather ottoman, only a few feet from where HOLDEN was standing. The revolver had one spent shell casing inside its cylander. Addtionally, officers determined that the firearm was a stolen firearm taken from the home of HOLDEN’S uncle who lived nearby.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), 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. 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.
In support of PSN, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina has implemented the Take Back North Carolina Initiative. This initiative emphasizes the regional assignment of federal prosecutors to work with law enforcement and District Attorney’s Offices on a sustained basis in those communities to reduce the violent crime rate, drug trafficking, and crimes against law enforcement.
The case was investigated by the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF). James J. Kurosad prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
Fayetteville Woman Sentenced for Conspiracy to Commit Bank FraudRead the Press Release
NEW BERN – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that today, in federal court, United States District Judge Louise W. Flanagan sentenced TAMIKA RENEE WILSON, 30, of Fayetteville, to 28 months imprisonment followed by 5 years of supervised release for her participation in a conspiracy to commit bank fraud. She was also ordered to pay $95,000.00 in restitution.
WILSON was one of seven defendants charged in an eighteen-count indictment alleging bank fraud and conspiracy to commit bank fraud. The evidence presented in court established that WILSON was one of two leaders of a widespread bank fraud scheme centered in Fayetteville. Defendants and other co-conspirators stole multiple checks from the United States mail, altered those checks, and deposited them via bank ATMs throughout Fayetteville and other places within North Carolina. In total, these individuals deposited or cashed almost $100,000.00 in stolen and altered checks.
The investigation of this case was conducted by the United States Postal Inspection Service. Assistant United States Attorneys Felice McConnell Corpening and Melissa Belle Kessler represented the United States in this case.
Fayetteville Man Sentenced on Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that in federal court today, United States District Judge Louise W. Flanagan sentenced CHRISTOPHER PARRISH, 33, of Fayetteville, to 74 months imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release. At the time of the instant offense, PARRISH was on federal supervised release for a previous federal conviction thus, PARRISH received an additional consecutive sentence of 42 months imprisonment for violating the term of the federal supervised release. His total sentence of imprisonment is 116 months.
On April 12, 2018, PARRISH pled guilty to two counts: possession with intent to distribute cocaine and marijuana and possession of a firearm by a felon.
The evidence presented in open court established that around 1:30 a.m. on April 5, 2017, law enforcement officers were canvassing the parking lot of Diamonds Strip Club in Fayetteville, North Carolina, when they spotted a handgun and marijuana in the center console of a parked car. Officers determined that the registered owner, PARRISH, was a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing a firearm. When PARRISH returned to his car and entered the driver’s seat, officers approached and attempted an arrest. PARRISH, however, put the car in drive and fled, leading officers on a chase before skidding off the road. He continued on foot into some nearby woods. Officers set up a perimeter and were able to locate PARRISH hiding under a parked car in a nearby hotel parking lot.
Officers searched PARRISH’s car and in the center console found a loaded Smith & Wesson 9mm semi-automatic handgun. In a compartment under the radio, they found a plastic bag containing cocaine and a second bag containing marijuana. Officers also found a digital scale, empty plastic baggies, and four cell phones. They also found $1,733 cash in PARRISH’s pants pocket when he was searched.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), 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. Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The investigation of this case was conducted by the Fayetteville Police Department, the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF). Assistant United States Attorney Jake D. Pugh represented the government in this case.
Wilson Man Sentenced to 16 Years in Prison for Distributing Fentanyl that Resulted in DeathRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – United States Attorney Robert J. Higdon, Jr. announced that today in federal court, United States District Judge James C. Dever III sentenced SHELTON JAMAAL JONES, a/k/a “300,” 32 from Wilson, North Carolina, to 192 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release and $14,549.52 in restitution.
On January 10, 2018, JONES was named in a four-count Second Superseding Indictment filed in the Eastern District of North Carolina. Count One charged Distribution and Possession With the Intent to Distribute a Quantity of a Mixture and Substance Containing a Detectable Amount of Fentanyl, Resulting in Death or Serious Bodily Injury on August 12, 2017. On March 12, 2018, pursuant to a written plea agreement, JONES pled guilty to Count One.
On August 15, 2017, Wilson Police Department (WPD) officers were dispatched to a suspected overdose death on Turner Avenue in Wilson. The victim, age 39, was found unresponsive by a friend. A search of the residence resulted in the recovery of used syringes and empty bags stamped, “Best of Both Worlds.” An autopsy conducted on August 16, 2017, determined the victim’s cause of death to be acute fentanyl, methoxyacetylfentanyl, U-477001, hydrocodone, alprazolam, and diphenhydramine intoxication. As part of the investigation, a cooperating witness reported that they purchased heroin from JONES which was stamped, “Best of Both Worlds.”
On August 16, 2017, detectives established surveillance on JONES’ residence in Wilson. JONES left his residence and drove to a gas station in Wilson where he was observed conducting suspected drug transactions with two subjects. Officers subsequently effected traffic stops and recovered 12 bindles (0.4 gram in total) of fentanyl stamped, “Pink Monkey.” JONES was arrested and had 241 bindles of fentanyl stamped, “Pink Monkey,” in his pocket. Detectives executed a search warrant at JONES’ residence and recovered 140 bindles of fentanyl stamped, “Best of Both Worlds,” and $3,100 in United States currency from a safe in the master bedroom, and a 9mm handgun and two magazines underneath the bed. Subsequently, JONES admitted to the sale of narcotics.
Mr. Higdon commented, “SHELTON JAMAAL JONES has been an active part of in the opioid crisis. Fentanyl and heroin distribution cases are destroying our communities; as the Court stated today, the singular factor motivating defendants like JONES is greed. With the imposition of a 16 year sentence, the people of Wilson can begin to recover from the effects of JONES’ crime. We are very pleased that the United States Department of Justice could play a role in obtaining justice for the family and the community. I want to commend the Wilson Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration for their expedient and excellent work in this case.”
The case is a federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) criminal matter investigated by the Wilson Police Department Narcotics Unit and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant United States Attorney Edward Gray prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
Warrenton Man Indicted for Drug Distribution and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – Robert J. Higdon, Jr., the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, announces that a Federal grand jury in Raleigh has returned a three-count indictment charging ROBERT FULTON BACON, a/k/a “Face,” age 32, of Warrenton, North Carolina, with one count of possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon and two counts of possessing with the intent to distribute cocaine and crack cocaine.
If convicted of these charges, BACON would face maximum penalties of 20 years’ imprisonment, and at least 3 years or up to life of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
The charges and allegations contained in the Indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), 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. Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The case is being investigated by the Warren County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. Dodson is prosecuting the case for the government.
Tarboro Man Sentenced on Charge of Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that in federal court today, United States District Judge James C. Dever III sentenced TYRONE SAVAGE, 21, of Tarboro, to 30 months imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release.
On May 31, 2018, SAVAGE pled guilty to a single-count indictment that charged him with possession of a firearm by a felon.
The evidence established that, during the evening of August 25, 2017, the Tarboro Police Department conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle playing music loudly. The car contained five occupants and smelled of alcohol and marijuana. Officers performed safety pat downs of the vehicle occupants. During the pat down, SAVAGE was found to have a Hi-Point, Model C9, 9mm pistol in his right, front pocket. SAVAGE was subsequently arrested on state charges.
According to law enforcement, and as presented in open court, SAVAGE is a validated gang member. In addition, SAVAGE has previously been convicted of assault with a deadly weapon and felony possession of heroin. SAVAGE was found in possession of the firearm while still serving a term of probation on the felony possession of heroin offense.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), 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. Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The investigation of this case was conducted by the Tarboro Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF). Assistant United States Attorney Melissa Belle Kessler represented the United States in this case.
Lifelong Pedophile and Violent Offender Committed to Federal Custody as a Sexually Dangerous PersonRead the Press Release
NEW BERN – United States Attorney Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that United States District Judge Louise W. Flanagan committed RONALD BAKER, 55, to the custody of the Attorney General as a sexually dangerous person under the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act of 2006.
BAKER has a history of sexually molesting children and engaging in violent assault. In 1982, at age 19, BAKER was convicted in the State of Missouri for First Degree Burglary and First Degree Assault after he burglarized the residence of an adult female and stabbed her numerous times with an ice pick. He was released on parole in January, 1993. In 1994, at age 30, BAKER was convicted in the State of Missouri of Attempted Rape of a Child under 14 years old, two counts of Sodomy of a Child under 14 years old, and six counts of First Degree Sexual Abuse of a Child under 12 years old. These charges related to sexual offenses BAKER committed against a child under the age of 12.
In 2007, at age 44, BAKER was prosecuted federally in the Eastern District of Missouri for Possession of Child Pornography after possessing images of child pornography at an airport chapel. He was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment and lifetime supervised release. BAKER was released from prison in October 2014, but violated the terms of his supervised release on multiple occasions, resulting in his return to federal prison. In August 2015, BAKER was arrested for violating the terms of his supervised release, including conditions prohibiting him from possessing obscene material and possessing or using a device with online access. He was sentenced to additional imprisonment for one year and one day. BAKER was released in August 2016 but was arrested just seven months later in March 2017 for again violating the terms of his supervised release, including conditions prohibiting him from committing another crime, frequenting, loitering, or residing near places frequented by children, possessing obscene material, and possessing or using a device with online access. For these violations, BAKER was sentenced to twenty four months’ imprisonment.
BAKER was scheduled for release from federal prison on December 22, 2018, but the United States certified him as a sexually dangerous person under the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act of 2006. Congress passed that Act in 2006 to provide another powerful legal mechanism for protecting the public from some of the most dangerous sexual offenders. The Act allows the United States to seek civil commitment of sexually dangerous persons who, because of a serious mental illness, abnormality, or disorder, would have serious difficulty refraining from sexually violent conduct or child molestation.
Reviewing those facts and other aspects of this case, three independent psychologists – including BAKER’s own selected examiner – agreed that he met the criteria for civil commitment as a sexually dangerous person. BAKER told one of the psychologists that he can’t control himself and “If I’m out there again, and opportunity showed up I would molest or rape another child.” BAKER told another psychologist that the prior burglary and assault offense “reminds [him] of what [he is] capable of . . . [he] can’t really rule anything out.” He also told that same psychologist that if a child was available to him in the community, he would “get a hold of a little girl and no holds barred – just rape her full throttle.” BAKER also admitted that as a teenager he molested several children for which he was never criminally prosecuted. BAKER’s stipulation to these facts and the experts’ reports were provided to Judge Flanagan who, on October 23, 2018, committed BAKER to the custody of the Attorney General.
“Ronald Baker is an extraordinarily dangerous sexual predator who repeatedly demonstrated he cannot control his deviant sexual urges. He even admitted as much to the psychologists who evaluated him,” said U.S. Attorney Higdon. “His civil commitment is unquestionably necessary to protect our children and communities from the obvious danger he presents.”
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina litigates all Adam Walsh Act cases for the entire country. All sexually dangerous persons who are committed to federal custody are housed in a federal facility in that district, where intensive, residential treatment is offered to them. BAKER is the eighty-second sexually dangerous person committed under the Adam Walsh Act.
Assistant United States Attorney Roberto F. Ramirez and Special Assistant United States Attorney Michael Lockridge represented the government in this case.
Fayetteville Social Security Employee Indicted on Wire Fraud, Aggravated Identity Theft, and Theft of Government Property ChargesRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – Robert J. Higdon, Jr., the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, announces that a Federal grand jury in Raleigh has returned a thirteen-count indictment charging STEPHANIE CHAVIS, age 42, of Saint Pauls, North Carolina, with ten counts of Wire Fraud, two counts of Aggravated Identity Theft, and one count of Theft of Government Property.
The indictment alleges that beginning in or about August 2010, and continuing until in or about April 2018, CHAVIS engaged in a scheme to defraud the Social Security Administration by using her supervisory position to divert more than $700,000 in funds meant for SSI beneficiaries into bank accounts controlled by CHAVIS. The indictment further alleges that CHAVIS advanced this scheme by convincing unsuspecting employees to manually process unauthorized payments on SSI beneficiary accounts using the beneficiaries’ personal identifying information and CHAVIS’s bank account information.
If convicted of all counts, CHAVIS faces a maximum penalty of twenty-four years imprisonment. She also faces a minimum two-year consecutive term of imprisonment on each aggravated identity theft count.
The charges and allegations contained in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
The case is being investigated by the Social Security Administration’s Office of the Inspector General. Special Assistant United States Attorney Tamika Moses is prosecuting the case for the government.
New Charges Filed Against Raleigh Investment Adviser Including Conspiracy to Falsify SEC Records & Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – United States Attorney Robert J. Higdon, Jr. announced that a federal grand jury has returned a Superseding Indictment charging STEPHEN CONDON PETERS, 45, of Raleigh, North Carolina, with four additional charges.
The original Indictment, issued in December of 2017, included one count of Investment Advisor Fraud; one count of Fraud in the Sale of Unregistered Securities; nine counts of Wire Fraud; 4 counts of Engaging in Monetary Transactions in Criminally Derived Property; and one count of Corruptly Endeavoring to Influence a Federal Agency.
The Superseding Indictment includes four additional charges, consisting of Aggravated Identity Theft; Conspiracy to Make False Statements and Documents; Making and Using False Statements and Documents; and Falsifying and Concealing Documents During an SEC Examination. The Superseding Indictment also includes additional assets to be forfeited upon conviction.
The Superseding Indictment alleges that beginning in 2009, and continuing into 2017, PETERS orchestrated the sale of VisionQuest Capital LLC promissory notes (the "Capital LLC Notes"), primarily to Visionquest Wealth Management LLC clients. In exchange for an investment of funds, the Capital LLC Notes purported to promise investors an 8% or 9% annual return on principal over a five year term. In connection with the sale of the Capital LLC Notes, PETERS represented and caused to be represented to investors that the Capital LLC Notes were a low risk investment, and that the note proceeds would be invested into revenue generating or income-producing businesses. In fact, PETERS stole large portions of the investor proceeds and carried out a "Ponzi" scheme on investors.
In terms of new charges, the Superseding Indictment contains additional allegations that PETERS, both directly and through his staff at Visionquest Wealth Management, LLC, forged, fabricated, and concealed documents and records in an effort to thwart an examination by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in late 2016. It is alleged that PETERS forged and backdated a letter to his former compliance officer purporting to place the burden of disclosing PETERS’S conflicts of interest upon the compliance officer. PETERS further directed the fabrication of numerous other records given to the SEC examiners, including client balance sheets, wealth management contracts, outside business activity disclosures, and internal compliance memoranda.
At present, no date has been scheduled for PETERS to appear in court concerning the new charges. PETERS is presently set to be arraigned in December 2018 by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever, III.
In addition to the penalties on previously charged offenses, PETERS now faces the following additional penalties: For Aggravated Identity Theft, not less or more than 2 years imprisonment, consecutive to any other sentence imposed; for Falsifying and Concealing Documents During an SEC Examination, not more than 20 years imprisonment; for Conspiracy to Make False Statements and Documents, not more than 5 years imprisonment; for Making False Statements and Documents, not more than 5 years imprisonment. PETERS also faces up to $1 Million in additional fines, as well as further forfeiture of property.
An indictment is an allegation of a crime. The defendant is presumed under the law to be innocent until proven guilty.
The investigation of this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney William M. Gilmore represents the United States.
Alien Indicted on Illegal Reentry ChargeRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – Robert J. Higdon, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, announces that a federal grand jury in Raleigh has returned an indictment charging ELIMAS MENDEZ-ROBLERO, age 33, of Mexico, with illegal reentry of a deported alien.
If convicted of illegal reentry subsequent to an aggravated felony conviction (conspiracy to commit possession with intent to sell or deliver a Schedule II controlled substance), MENDEZ-ROBLERO, previously deported and found in Wake County, would face maximum penalties of 20 years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and a term of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
The charges and allegations contained in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
The case is being investigated by ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations.
Wilmington Man Sentenced to More Than 10 Years for Heroin DistributionRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that Chief United States District Judge Terrence W. Boyle sentenced DAVID ANDREW KIRTON, JR. 25, of Wilmington, North Carolina to 100 months of imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release and a consecutive sentence of 24 months for a supervised release violation. The total active sentence imposed was 124 months, followed by 3 years of supervised release.
On May 1, 2018, KIRTON entered a plea of guilty to distribution and possession with intent to distribute a quantity of heroin. KIRTON admitted a supervised release violation for a prior federal conviction for Conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and distribute more than five grams of cocaine base and a quantity of heroin at the time of his sentencing.
A joint investigation between the Wilmington Police Department Gang Unit and the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Safe Streets Task Force revealed that between October 2016 and April 2017, KIRTON, and others were responsible for the distribution of significant amounts of heroin in the Wilmington area. During this period of time, several undercover purchases of heroin were made from KIRTON at the direction of law enforcement. These occurred while KIRTON was on federal supervised release for a previous conviction for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and distribute cocaine base (crack) and heroin.
This case is part of the Take Back North Carolina Initiative of United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina. This initiative emphasizes the regional assignment of federal prosecutors to work with law enforcement and District Attorney’s Offices on a sustained basis in those communities to reduce the violent crime rate, drug trafficking, and crimes against law enforcement.
This investigation was conducted by the Wilmington Police Department Gang Unit and the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Safe Streets Task Force, and the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Severo handled the prosecution of this case for the government.
Wilmington Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Cocaine DistributionRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that Chief United States District Judge Terrence W. Boyle sentenced WILLIAM POLLOCK 31, of Wilmington, North Carolina to 120 months of imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release.
On June 26, 2018, POLLOCK entered a plea of guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute 28 Grams or More of Cocaine Base (Crack) and 500 Grams or More of Cocaine.
On January 18, 2018, the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office (NHCSO) Narcotics Detectives conducted a traffic stop of a car leaving a drug stash house in which Pollock was a passenger. Law enforcement discovered items in the car that led to a search warrant of POLLOCK’S residence. NHCSO officers found more than 350 grams of cocaine and 50 grams of crack cocaine in the residence.
During the course of the investigation it was discovered that POLLOCK had been purchasing cocaine since July 2017. This included the several ounces of cocaine purchased just two days prior to his arrest.
POLLOCK’S self-described philosophy is summed by a tattoo on his body which reads, “Port City Menace” said investigators.
This case is part of the Take Back North Carolina Initiative of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina. This initiative emphasizes the regional assignment of federal prosecutors to work with law enforcement and District Attorney’s Offices on a sustained basis in those communities to reduce the violent crime rate, drug trafficking, and crimes against law enforcement.
This investigation was conducted by the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Vice Unit and the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Costal Career Criminal Enterprise Unit. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Severo handled the prosecution of this case for the government.
Wilmington Gang Members Sentenced for Heroin DistributionRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that yesterday, United States District Judge James C. Dever III sentenced DEANDRE SWEET, 27, of Wilmington to 105 months of imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release. Additionally, yesterday, KYERIC SWEET, 25, of Wilmington was sentenced to 90 months of imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release.
On September 19, 2016, in a joint investigation, the FBI Safe Streets Task Force Gang Unit and the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office Vice Division arranged an undercover purchase of heroin from DEANDRE SWEET. When DEANDRE SWEET arrived in a parking lot in Wilmington to complete the sale, law enforcement stopped his rental car and found 500 bags of heroin during a search of the vehicle. DEANDRE SWEET was then arrested.
According to the investigation, DEANDRE SWEET imported more than 500 grams of heroin from New York and New Jersey for distribution. A portion of this heroin was provided to gang members in the Wilmington area.
In the same joint investigation, law enforcement conducted several undercover purchases from KYERIC SWEET between June and October 2017. On October 12, 2017, law enforcement arrested KYERIC SWEET in possession of a quantity of heroin and more than $2,500. According to law enforcement, KYERIC SWEET is a validated gang member.
These cases are part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Investigation entitled Tooth Fairy targeting gangs and heroin distribution in southeast North Carolina. This investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Safe Streets Task Force, Wilmington Police Department Gang Unit and the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Severo handled the prosecution of this case for the government.
Notorious Pedophile Committed to Federal Custody as a Sexually Dangerous PersonRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – United States Attorney Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that Chief United States District Judge Terrence W. Boyle committed KELLY GERALD CROSBY, 35, to the custody of the Attorney General as a sexually dangerous person under the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act of 2006.
CROSBY has a history of sexually molesting children and engaging in threatening behavior. CROSBY admitted that he sexually molested 15 minors ages 2-13 years old. He also persuaded a 13-year-girl to email him nude photographs. During his incarceration for a probation violation related to that offense, CROSBY wrote to the victim, threatening to rape her. In a separate letter to his sentencing judge, CROSBY threatened to rape the judge’s wife as the judge watched and then kill the judge himself. CROSBY also wrote to a female probation officer and threatened to rape her, too.
CROSBY was prosecuted federally for those threatening letters and ultimately sentenced to additional imprisonment in a federal institution. In March 2018, and while CROSBY was serving that federal sentence, the United States certified him as a sexually dangerous person under the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act of 2006. Congress passed that Act in 2006 to provide another powerful legal mechanism for protecting the public from some of the most dangerous sexual offenders. The Act allows the United States to seek civil commitment of sexually dangerous persons who, because of a serious mental illness, abmnormality, or disorder, would have serious difficulty refraining from sexually violent conduct or child molestation.
CROSBY admitted to his sexual misconduct and sexually violent threats in writing during his civil commitment proceeding. Reviewing those facts and other aspects of this case, four independent psychologists – including CROSBY’s own selected examiner – agreed that he met the criteria for civil commitment as a sexually dangerous person. CROSBY’s stipulated facts and the experts’ reports were provided to Chief Judge Boyle who, on October 16, 2018, committed CROSBY to the custody of the Attorney General.
“Kelly Crosby’s record of child molestation and sexually violent threats is undeniably heinous,” said U.S. Attorney Higdon. “He is a dangerous predator who exemplifies the need for the Adam Walsh Act. This Office will continue to vigorously pursue civil commitment of sexually dangerous persons like Crosby. Our communities, our families, and our children deserve nothing less.”
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina litigates all Adam Walsh Act cases for the entire country. All sexually dangerous persons who are committed to federal custody are housed in a federal facility in that district, where intensive, residential treatment is offered to them. CROSBY is the eighty-first sexually dangerous person committed under the Adam Walsh Act.
Assistant United States Attorneys Michael Gordon James and Dennis Duffy represented the government in this case.
Raleigh Man Sentenced to 180 Months in Prison for Drug Trafficking, Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that today in federal court, United States District James C. Dever III sentenced STEVEN WILLIAM NOWELL, a/k/a “Shoota,” 28, of Raleigh, North Carolina, to 180 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release.
NOWELL was charged in a three-count Indictment that was issued by the grand jury for the Eastern District of North Carolina on January 10, 2018. The indictment charged him with two counts of distribution and possession with the intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine base (crack) and one count of possession of a firearm by a felon. On July 9, 2018, NOWELL pled guilty to one count of distribution and possession with the intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine base (crack) and possession of a firearm by a felon.
In June of 2016, the Raleigh Police Department conducted controlled purchases of cocaine base (crack) from NOWELL on Bragg Street in Raleigh. On October 27, 2017, a Garner Police Department officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by NOWELL. NOWELL then jumped and ran from the vehicle, and he was observed placing his hands on his waist as if he was carrying a weapon. NOWELL was later found in a nearby wooded area. A subsequent search was conducted of that area, and a .40 caliber handgun was located, along with marijuana and NOWELL’s jacket.
This case was brought by the United States Attorney’s Office through partnerships with the Raleigh Police Department, Garner Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Scott A. Lemmon.
Farmville Man Sentenced to 90 Months for Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – United States Attorney Robert J. Higdon, Jr. announced that today in federal court, United States District Judge James C. Dever III sentenced JAMES ANTRON DILDY, 38, of Farmville, North Carolina to 90 months imprisonment, followed by 6 years of supervised release.
DILDY was named in an Indictment filed on May 10, 2017 charging him with conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine. On October 4, 2017, DILDY pled guilty to that charge.
According to the investigation, DILDY conspired with others in Greenville, North Carolina and distributed over 190 grams of cocaine from December 30, 2015 to February 3, 2016.
Investigation of this case was conducted by the Greenville Regional Drug Task Force consisting of the Greenville Police Department, Winterville Police Department, East Carolina University Police Department, and North Carolina’s State Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Dena King represented the government.
United States Attorney Robert J. Higdon, Jr. Announces Progress in Making Our Communities Safer Through Project Safe Neighborhoods and the "Take Back North Carolina" InitiativeRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – One year ago, the Department of Justice announced the revitalization and enhancement of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), which Attorney General Sessions has made the centerpiece of the Department’s violent crime reduction strategy. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Throughout the past year, we have partnered with all levels of law enforcement, local organizations, and members of the community to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
“Project Safe Neighborhoods is a proven program with demonstrated results,” Attorney General Jeff Sessions said. “We know that the most effective strategy to reduce violent crime is based on sound policing policies that have proven effective over many years, which includes being targeted and responsive to community needs. I have empowered our United States Attorneys to focus enforcement efforts against the most violent criminals in their districts, and directed that they work together with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and community partners to develop tailored solutions to the unique violent crime problems they face. Each United States Attorney has prioritized the PSN program, and I am confident that it will continue to reduce crime, save lives, and restore safety to our communities.”
“During the course of my over 25 years as a federal prosecutor, I have seen the dramatic impact that PSN can have on reducing violent crime in our communities. Following the Attorney General’s lead, we directed the revitalization of the PSN program in this District and have fully staffed it with aggressive and skilled prosecutors who can take on these violent criminals, and those who would victimize our citizens and local businesses. To reduce violent crime and remove drug traffickers from our neighborhoods, our efforts must be real on the streets of the cities, towns, and counties across the District and cannot just be a reemphasis from Raleigh. As such, in March of this year, we implemented the Take Back North Carolina Initiative to mold our PSN program to address the specific violent crime problems that exist in eastern North Carolina.”
Take Back North Carolina is a partnership between the United States Attorney’s Office, District Attorney’s offices, and federal, state and local law enforcement agencies across the 44 counties of the district to combat violent crime, drug trafficking and crimes against law enforcement. This partnership includes 44 Sheriffs, 188 Police Departments, and 15 elected District Attorneys, and utilizes the regional assignment of Assistant United States Attorneys, strategic targeting, decentralized case intake authority, and public messaging. Regional prosecution teams have been given the responsibility of working directly with law enforcement on a sustained basis to reduce violent crime by targeting those organizations and individuals responsible for the increased violent crime rates and for introducing the poison of illegal drugs into those particular communities. Take Back North Carolina allows the entire district to have the full range of enforcement tools available through the federal court system, allows the regional teams to quickly route matters to federal court when prosecution in that venue would deliver the most significant impact, and protects and supports law enforcement officers who face unacceptable threat levels as they enforce the law.
As we celebrate the one-year anniversary of the revitalized PSN program, here are some of the highlights of our PSN actions over the past year:
Enforcement Actions
- Warren T. Baker was sentenced to 408 months in federal prison in August 2018 for his armed robbery of a Starbucks in Fayetteville, NC, during which he confronted employees at gunpoint. Baker had a prior federal conviction for armed bank robbery. Read More
- Kelly Shadrome Anderson was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison in September 2018 after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. Fleeing an altercation during which he fired a gun in Wilson, NC, Anderson took a 4 year old child hostage inside a nearby house. Anderson had prior felony convictions for selling cocaine, breaking and entering, and assault on a female. Read More
- Charlie O’Bryant Terry was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison in July 2018 for obstruction of justice and illegal possession of a firearm. Terry assaulted and robbed a couple at gunpoint in Vance County – placing a pistol in one victim’s mouth, and cutting the other victim’s head by repeatedly hitting him with the firearm. Terry had a prior federal conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Read More
- Joseph Luther Lewis was sentenced to 151 months in federal prison in August 2018 for possession of a firearm by felon and possession of a stolen firearm. After having a gunfight with a drug dealer in Fayetteville, NC, Lewis traveled to Robeson County and forcibly abducted his girlfriend at gunpoint – kicking and punching her when she attempted to escape. Lewis had prior felony convictions for possession with the intent to manufacture, sell, and deliver marijuana and conspiracy to commit robbery with a dangerous weapon. Read More
- David Kareem Turpin was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison in August 2018 for Hobbs Act robbery and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. Turpin robbed Walmart, Food Lion, and Family Dollar stores in Raleigh, NC during which he brandished a firearm and abducted and threatened employees. Read More
- John Devere Battle was sentenced to 1,272 months in federal prison this month for robbing several convenience stores in Cary, NC, as well as his role in committing a home invasion during which the victims were robbed, tied up, pistol-whipped, threatened, and forced to withdraw money from a bank. Battle had prior felony convictions for breaking and entering and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Read More
Community Partnerships
- As a complement to the Take Back North Carolina enforcement strategy, the United States Attorney’s Office works with law enforcement to develop the most effective public messaging strategies for each community. Over the past year, this has included reentry programs; community engagement movie nights; school-based educational programs for children about the prevention of gun violence and bullying; and, call-in meetings with individuals identified to be at-risk of committing future violent acts. These meetings are conducted in partnership with federal, state and local law enforcement; community-based social service providers; business leaders; and the faith-based community to communicate a deterrence message by describing focused enforcement efforts and to link those individuals to services to address the root causes of violence and recidivism.
- Operation Ceasefire administered by Fayetteville Police Department under the PSN program in partnership with the United States Attorney’s Office, utilizes a three-tiered approach of prevention, intervention, and suppression to reduce gun and gang violence with goal of improving the quality of life for all residents of Cumberland County. Read more. In the last year, through Operation Ceasefire over 100 offenders participated in the above described call-in meetings; over 2,000 people attended movie nights engaging with law enforcement and community leaders; and, over 3,300 students participated in the Educating Kids about Gun Violence Program in Cumberland County schools. Read More
Improvements to Community Safety
- The FBI’s official crime data for 2017 reflects that, after two consecutive, historic increases in violent crime, in the first year of the Trump Administration the nationwide violent crime rate began to decline. The nationwide violent crime rate decreased by approximately one percent in 2017, while the nationwide homicide rate decreased by nearly one and a half percent.
- The preliminary information we have for 2018 gives us reason for optimism that our efforts are continuing to pay off. Public data from 60 major cities show that violent crime was down by nearly five percent in those cities in the first six months of 2018 compared to the same period a year ago.
- Here in the Eastern District of North Carolina, we are seeing direct results of the PSN revitalization. Since the implementation of the Take Back North Carolina Initiative, our prosecutors have charged over 250 violent offenders and drug traffickers, many of whom have prior felony convictions. In addition, during this one year period, in Fayetteville, NC, homicides by use of a firearm have decreased by 23% and the number of firearms seized increased by 17%.
These enforcement actions and partnerships are part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), 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. 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. Learn more about Project Safe Neighborhoods.
Hope Mills Man Sentenced on Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that in federal court yesterday, United States District Judge Terrence W. Boyle sentenced Tavares Graham, 40, of Hope Mills, to 120 months’ imprisonment followed by 5 years of supervised release.
On April 18, 2018, GRAHAM pled guilty to one count charging possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and 28 grams or more of cocaine base (crack) and another count charging possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Officers of the Fayetteville Police Department, with assistance from the Hope Mills Police Department, obtained a search warrant for GRAHAM’s Hope Mills residence based on reports from informants and drug evidence found in GRAHAM’s trash. On May 25, 2016, law enforcement executed the search warrant, finding 720 grams of cocaine and 25 grams of crack cocaine in GRAHAM’s kitchen and garage. In the garage not far from the drugs, officers also found an Amadeo .38 special revolver and a separate magazine loaded with 12 9mm rounds. Other seized evidence included supplies to cook crack cocaine, digital scales, and torn sandwich bags.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), 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. Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The investigation of this case was conducted by the Fayetteville Police Department, Hope Mills Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF). Assistant United States Attorney Jake D. Pugh represented the government in this case.
Fayetteville Man Sentenced After Conviction of Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that yesterday, TRUMAIN DAVIS, 32, of Fayetteville, was sentenced by United States Senior District Malcolm J. Howard for possession of a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon and trafficking in firearms. Judge Howard sentenced DAVIS to 144 months’ imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release.
DAVIS was charged in a six-count indictment on December 12, 2017, and pled guilty to two counts on April 9, 2018.
Between July 18 and October 9, 2017, DAVIS sold six firearms to a confidential informant believing that those firearms would be resold to drug dealers.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), 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. Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The investigation of this case was conducted by the Fayetteville Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF).
Man Receives 106 Year Sentence After String of Violent Convenience Store Robberies in the TriangleRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that today, Senior United States District Judge Malcolm J. Howard sentenced JOHN DEVERE BATTLE, 25, of Durham, to 1,272 months imprisonment followed by 5 years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $35,791.00 in restitution. BATTLE was convicted on May 17, 2018, after a four-day jury trial, of 12 counts including Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery, Interference with commerce by robbery and aiding and abetting, four-counts of Brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence and aiding and abetting, Interference with commerce by robbery and aiding and abetting, Taking motor vehicle by force, violence and intimidation with intent to cause serious bodily injury, and aiding and abetting, Bank robbery and aiding and abetting, two-counts of Possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.
The evidence at trial showed that on May 14, 2016, BATTLE and others robbed the Kangaroo gas station located at 1807 North Harrison Avenue in Cary at gunpoint. On June 15, 2016, BATTLE and others robbed the Quality Mart gas station located at 7411 Chapel Hill Road in Cary at gunpoint. On June 16, 2016, BATTLE and others committed a home invasion in Cary. During the home invasion, BATTLE and others robbed the victims at gunpoint, tied up the victims and threatened to kill them. One of the victims was pistol-whipped. BATTLE and others took one of the victims at gunpoint to a bank in Cary and forced the victim to withdraw money. The evidence also established that BATTLE was arrested on June 17, 2016 after the execution of a search warrant at a home in Wendell, NC. During the execution of the search warrant, a handgun was recovered along with numerous stolen items taken from the home invasion.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), 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. 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.
In support of PSN, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina has implemented the Take Back North Carolina Initiative. This initiative emphasizes the regional assignment of federal prosecutors to work with law enforcement and District Attorney’s Offices on a sustained basis in those communities to reduce the violent crime rate, drug trafficking, and crimes against law enforcement.
The investigation of this case was conducted by the Cary Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF), Durham Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Wake County Sheriff’s Office, Wendell Police Department, City County Bureau of Identification and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Peggah B. Wilson and Ethan A. Ontjes represented the government in this case.
Ninth and Tenth Conspirators Sentenced to Prison in Identity Theft and Credit Fraud Scam at Sams Club and Walmart StoresRead the Press Release
Raleigh - United States Attorney Robert J. Higdon, Jr. announced that today in federal court United States District Judge Terrence W. Boyle sentenced two additional defendants to federal prison for their participation in an identity theft and credit card scam carried out at various Walmart and Sams Club stores. The Court also directed that each of the defendants serve terms of supervised release, and the forfeiture of the proceeds of their crimes.
In November of 2015, a grand jury issued a true bill of indictment charging ten defendants with engaging in a complicated scheme involving the use of stolen credit information. The indictment alleged that the defendants acquired stolen credit information from overseas hackers, and then encoded the stolen credit information onto plastic gift cards. Members of the conspiracy then took the counterfeit gift cards to Walmart locations in various states and used them to buy genuine Walmart gift cards. After acquiring genuine gift cards, the conspirators took them to Sams Club stores (who accept Walmart gift cards as tender) where they used them to purchase more than $1 Million in cigarettes. The conspirators then sold off the cigarettes for cash to various black market vendors.
SALIFU JALLOW, 33, of Sugarhill, GA, who previously pleaded guilty, was sentenced to 60 months in prison on charges of Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering and Aggravated Identity Theft. JALLOW was also ordered to serve a three year term of supervision upon release from prison.
ABDOULAIE FRANCIS LOWE NICOLAS, 30, of Raleigh, NC, who previously pleaded guilty, was sentenced to 24 months in prison on the charge of Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering. NICOLAS was also ordered to serve a three year term of supervision upon release from prison.
Investigation of this case was conducted by the United States Secret Service, with the assistance of the Wake Count Sheriff’s Office, the Durham Police Department, and the Fuquay Varina Police Department. The Defense Criminal Investigative Service also assisted in the prosecution of the case. Assistant United States Attorney William M. Gilmore represented the United States.
Bolivia, NC Man Sentenced to 117 Months in Prison for Drug Trafficking and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that today in federal court, United States District Terrence W. Boyle sentenced MICHAEL MONTRAY FRINK, 25, of Bolivia, North Carolina, to 117 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release.
FRINK was charged by Indictment in the Eastern District of North Carolina with possession with intent to distribute heroin (Count One), possession of a firearm by a convicted felon (Count Two), and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime in violation (Count Three).
In 2017, the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office received information that FRINK was selling heroin from his home in Calabash, North Carolina.
Agents conducted controlled purchases of heroin from FRINK at his home, and the agents then obtained a warrant to search FRINK’s home.
On June 9, 2017, the warrant was executed. Agents seized more than eight thousand dollars; two stolen, semi-automatic firearms (a 9mm Ruger handgun and a 9mm Glock handgun); ammunition; digital scales; more than 28 grams of heroin; and more than four grams of fentanyl. Prior to possessing the firearms, FRINK had been convicted of a felony.
FRINK agreed to be interviewed and admitted that all of the contraband, including the drugs and firearms, were his.
This case was brought by the United States Attorney’s Office through partnerships with the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Scott A. Lemmon.
Officer of North Carolina Mental Health Service Provider Pleads Guilty for Failure to Pay Employment TaxesRead the Press Release
A Raleigh, North Carolina, man pleaded guilty today to one count of willful failure to pay over employment taxes to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Robert J. Higdon Jr. for the Eastern District of North Carolina.
According to court documents, from 2010 to 2013, Sainte Deon Robinson failed to pay over federal income, Social Security, and Medicare taxes withheld from the wages paid to employees of his mental health service provider, OneCare Inc. Robinson served in various positions at OneCare Inc., including President, and was obligated to pay over to the IRS such payroll taxes on behalf of the company. Robinson failed to pay over $1.6 million in employment taxes for OneCare Inc. and other companies he controlled.
Robinson's sentencing is scheduled for January 7, 2018, and faces a statutory maximum sentence of five years in prison. He also faces a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and U.S. Attorney Higdon commended special agents of IRS Criminal Investigation, who investigated the case, and Tax Division Trial Attorneys Lauren Castaldi and Michael Boteler, who are prosecuting the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the division’s website.
Department of Justice Reminds the Public to Be Aware of Fraud When Disaster Strikes and Report it to the National Center for Disaster Fraud - (866) 720-5721Read the Press Release
RALEIGH – The Department of Justice established the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, when billions of dollars in federal disaster relief poured into the Gulf Coast region, which opened opportunities for criminals to exploit people during vulnerable times. The NCDF, a national coordinating agency within the Department’s Criminal Division, operates a call center at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge and serves as a centralized clearinghouse for disaster fraud complaints and information relating to both natural and man-made disasters. The NCDF seeks to improve and further the detection, prevention, investigation, and prosecution of fraud related to natural and man-made disasters, and to advocate for victims of such fraud. More than 20 federal, state, and local agencies participate in the NCDF, which allows them to forward complaints to the appropriate agency for investigation.
“In the aftermath of the devastation wrought by Hurricane Florence the affected communities and citizens of Eastern North Carolina should be on guard against disaster fraud schemes,” said Robert J. Higdon, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina. “As FEMA and other federal, state, and local relief agencies work tirelessly to support those who have suffered losses as the result of this natural disaster, we can be certain that criminals will target those impacted and attempt to profit from the suffering of others. The Department of Justice is committed to detecting and stopping this type of fraud. Through the National Center for Disaster Fraud, and in conjunction with our law enforcement partners, we are working to aggressively prosecute the offenders.”
While compassion, assistance, and solidarity are generally prevalent in the aftermath of natural disasters, unscrupulous individuals and organizations also use these tragic events to take advantage of those in need. Examples of illegal activity being reported to the NCDF and law enforcement include:
- FEMA fraud;
- Identity theft;
- Contractor fraud;
- Charity fraud; and,
- Impersonation of government officials.
The NCDF reminds the public to be aware of and report any instances of alleged fraudulent activity related to relief operations and funding for victims. Members of the public are reminded to apply a critical eye and do their due diligence before trusting anyone purporting to be working on behalf of disaster victims and before giving contributions to anyone soliciting donations on behalf of disaster victims. The public is also reminded to be extremely cautious before providing personal identifying or financial information to anyone, especially those who may contact you after a natural disaster.
Unfortunately, criminals can exploit disasters, such as Hurricane Florence, for their own gain by sending fraudulent communications through email or social media and by creating phony websites designed to solicit contributions. Tips should be reported to the NCDF at (866) 720-5721. The line is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Additionally, e-mails can be sent to [email protected], and information can be faxed to (225) 334-4707.
Learn more about the NCDF at www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud and watch a public service announcement from United States Attorney Higdon here. Within the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Deputy Criminal Chief Felice Corpening serves as the Disaster Fraud Coordinator. Working with the NCDF and our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners, Deputy Criminal Chief Corpening oversees the federal prosecution and investigation of disaster fraud matters impacting Eastern North Carolina. Violations of North Carolina state disaster fraud laws are handled by the North Carolina Department of Justice’s (NCDOJ) Consumer Protection Division. The NCDOJ Consumer Protection Division may be contacted at 1-877-5-NO-SCAM (1-877-566-7226) or by visiting www.ncdoj.gov/complaint.
Tips for the public on how to avoid being victimized by fraud are available at https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/tips-avoiding-fraudulent-charitable-contribution-schemes.
2 Aliens Indicted on Illegal Reentry ChargesRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – Robert J. Higdon, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, announces that a federal grand jury in Raleigh has returned an indictment charging RICARDO CONTRERAS-MENDOZA, age 33, of Mexico and FERNAND JUAN JOSE LEWIS, age 39, of Canada, with illegal reentry of a deported alien.
If convicted of illegal reentry of a deported alien, CONTRERAS-MENDOZA, found in Johnston County, would face maximum penalties of two years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and a term of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
If convicted of illegal reentry of an aggravated felon, LEWIS, found in Wake County, would face maximum penalties of twenty years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and a term of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
The charges and allegations contained in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
The case is being investigated by ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations.
Treyton Thomas Pleads Guilty to Multi-Million Dollar Investment Fraud Scheme and Income Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – Robert J. Higdon, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, announces that today, in federal court, TREYTON LEE THOMAS, age 62, pled guilty to wire fraud, affecting a financial institution, and income tax evasion. In pleading guilty, THOMAS, agreed to pay restitution to all the victims of his fraud scheme and to forfeit more than seven million dollars.
On November 22, 2016, THOMAS was charged in a 21-Count Indictment with wire fraud, bank fraud and money laundering. This Indictment charged THOMAS, who represented himself as a successful Harvard educated investment advisor, with defrauding his father’s used car warranty company, NC&VA Warranty of Roxboro, N.C., several of its customers, his wife, and his father-in-law. THOMAS claimed he was conservatively investing their money in U.S. Treasury Bills. Instead, through an on-line brokerage firm, THOMAS used these funds to conduct risky trades in the commodities and futures market. To conceal this fraud scheme, THOMAS provided these victims and various financial institutions with false information and fabricated bank and brokerage statements. To obtain additional funds, the Indictment charged THOMAS with using the same false information and fabricated statements to defraud financial institutions out of approximately 1.9 million dollars in loan proceeds.
In addition to losing the victims’ money in risky trades, the Indictment charged THOMAS with spending more than 1.6 million dollars to pay personal expenses.
On March 15, 2018, THOMAS was charged in another Indictment with six counts of income tax evasions for the calendar years 2010 2015 and two counts of failing to disclose his interest in and authority over foreign bank accounts. In entering his guilty plea, THOMAS agreed that he concealed his income from the Internal Revenue Service by, among other things, concealing his interest in foreign corporations and using offshore bank accounts to pay his personal expenses.
The applicable total maximum statutory penalty for these crimes is 35 years imprisonment, a $1,100,000 fine, and 3 years supervised release.
Investigation of this case was conducted by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations, and the United States Secret Service. Assistant United States Attorneys Melissa Kessler and Susan Menzer are representing the government in this case.
Serial Pedophile Committed to Federal Custody as a Sexually Dangerous PersonRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – United States Attorney Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that Chief United States District Judge James C. Dever, III, committed JACK LOUIS SPORICH, 84, to the custody of the Attorney General as a sexually dangerous person. SPORICH is now the oldest sex offender to be committed under the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act of 2006.
SPORICH has a long history of sexually molesting children and was once considered one of California’s most dangerous sex offenders. His first known sexual offense occurred in 1966. Over the course of the next 50 years – and despite a lengthy prison sentence, a term of state parole, and an involuntary commitment in a state hospital – SPORICH continued molesting children as young as five years old. Even in his seventies, Sporich traveled to Cambodia, where he enticed children with money, toys, clothes, food, and other items, and then sexually molested them. The evidence at trial demonstrated that SPORICH has molested at least ten children in his lifetime.
In March 2017, and while SPORICH was serving a federal prison sentence for his offenses in Cambodia, the United States certified him as a sexually dangerous person under the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act. Congress passed that Act in 2006 to provide another powerful legal mechanism for protecting the public from some of the most dangerous sexual offenders. The Act allows the United States to seek civil commitment of sexually dangerous persons who, because of a serious mental illness, abmnormality, or disorder, would have serious difficulty refraining from sexually violent conduct or child molestation.
The United States believed that SPORICH met every element of that definition. The Court agreed. On September 27, 2018, after a bench trial, Judge Dever committed SPORICH to the custody of the Attorney General as a sexually dangerous person. In doing so, Judge Dever explained that SPORICH is not able to control his urges as they relate to children and continues to be sexually attracted to boys ages 8-12. Judge Dever noted that Sporich’s offense conduct spans much of his adult life and demonstrates extraordinary efforts to create an atmosphere in which he could molest young boys.
“Jack Sporich is an unrelenting, unrepentant sexual predator,” said U.S. Attorney Higdon. “He clearly could not control his deviant sexual urges, and children the world over suffered for it. No more. Our children and our communities are safer with Sporich off the streets, and he can now get the treatment that he so desperately needs.”
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina litigates all Adam Walsh Act cases for the entire country. All sexually dangerous persons who are committed to federal custody are housed in a federal facility in that district, where intensive, residential treatment is offered to them. SPORICH is the eightieth sexually dangerous person committed under the Adam Walsh Act.
Special Assistant United States Attorneys Michael Bredenberg and Genna Petre, and Assistant United States Attorney Michael Anderson, represented the government in this case.
Elon Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison, Elon Woman Sentenced to 5 Years Probation for Drug Trafficking Conspiracy Involving Brunswick CountyRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that today in federal court, Senior United States District Judge W. Earl Britt sentenced DEONTE XAVIER BIGELOW, 27, of Elon, North Carolina, to 120 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and sentenced COURTNAE SHANTE WILEY, 28, of Elon, North Carolina, to 5 years of probation.
BIGELOW and WILEY were charged by Indictment with conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine (Count One) and possession with intent to distribute five hundred grams or more of cocaine (Count Two).
In 2017, the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office received information that BIGELOW had supplied more than twenty kilograms of cocaine to Brunswick County, North Carolina from 2011 to 2016.
On November 7, 2017, officers used a confidential informant to order one kilogram of cocaine from BIGELOW, who said he would deliver it to Brunswick County.
On November 8, 2017, BIGELOW and his girlfriend, COURTNAE WILEY, drove from Elon, North Carolina to Brunswick County, where officers conducted a traffic stop of their vehicle. Officers asked where they were going, and WILEY said they were going to the beach. Officers noted, however, that there was no luggage in the car. A drug canine alerted to the car, indicating that drugs were present. Officers conducted a search of the car and found a kilogram of cocaine--with a street value of more than $30,000--in WILEY’s purse.
This case was brought by the United States Attorney’s Office through partnerships with the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Scott A. Lemmon.
Fayetteville Man Sentenced in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – United States Attorney Robert J. Higdon, Jr. announced that today in federal court, Senior United States District Judge W. Earl Britt sentenced Jason Stewart hollingsworth, 41, of Fayetteville, NC to 65 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release.
hollingsworth was named in an Indictment filed on December 12, 2017 charging him with possession with the intent to distribute oxycodone and amphetamine, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. On July 9, 2018, Hollingsworth pled guilty to those charges.
According to the investigation, on June 23, 2017, Fayetteville Police Department received a call from a concerned citizen, who reported a vehicle driving in circles in a parking lot near Owens Drive. When officers responded to the scene, they found the vehicle still in motion, with HOLLINGSWORTH unconscious in the driver’s seat. Once officers were able to safely stop the vehicle, and they noticed numerous pills and pill bottles while they were removing HOLLINGSWORTH. Officers conducted a search of the vehicle, with the assistance of a Fayetteville Police Department K9 unit. Officers recovered over 480 pills, containing various substances, including oxycodone and amphetamine. Many of the pills were packaged for resale in plastic bags. Officers also recovered a loaded 9mm handgun from the vehicle. HOLLINGSWORTH was prohibited by law from possessing a firearm due to previous felony convictions from Cumberland County Superior Court, NC.
Investigation of this case was conducted by the Fayetteville Police Department, the Department of Justice’s Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and NMS Labs. Assistant United States Attorney Dena King and Special Assistant United States Attorney Jay Saunders represented the government. Mr. Saunders is a prosecutor with the District 3-A District Attorney’s Office encompassing Pitt County. District Attorney Kimberly Robb assigned him to the United States Attorney’s Office to prosecute federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force criminal matters.
Wilson Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Hobbs Act RobberyRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that today in federal court, Senior United States District Judge W. Earl Britt sentenced MURDOCK RAEFORD SHERROD, 53, of Wilson, North Carolina to 120 months of imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release.
SHERROD was charged in an Indictment on March 7, 2018 with a Hobbs Act Robbery. On May 1, 2018, SHERROD pled guilty to the charge.
On January 25, 2018, the Wilson Police Department (WPD) received an alert of a robbery in progress at the Family Dollar Store in Wilson. Their investigation revealed that on January 25, 2018, SHERROD entered the Family Dollar store wearing a hospital-type mask over his face. He walked to the sales register, picked up a bag of chips, and placed it on the counter. The store clerk then rang the item up for sale. When the register opened, SHERROD demanded $300. The clerk pulled out all the money in the drawer and placed it on the counter. SHERROD then demanded the money that was underneath the drawer; however, the clerk informed SHERROD there was no money under the drawer. While this was transpiring, the clerk was screaming and attempting to dial 911 on her cell phone. SHERROD demanded the cell phone, which the clerk handed to him. SHERROD kept one of his hands concealed, leading the clerk to believe SHERROD was armed. Video surveillance further showed SHERROD making motions with his right hand inside his jacket pocket, which appeared as if SHERROD was concealing a weapon. After realizing there was no money under the drawer, SHERROD took the $89 that the clerk placed on the counter and quickly walked toward the exit door, dropping the cell phone, and knocking the door off its rail. A second store clerk present in the store, heard the other clerk yell for help and sounded the security alarm. Following his arrest, SHERROD was interviewed by a WPD detective where he admitted to committing the Family Dollar robbery.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), 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. 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.
In support of PSN, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina has implemented the Take Back North Carolina Initiative. This initiative emphasizes the regional assignment of federal prosecutors to work with law enforcement and District Attorney’s Offices on a sustained basis in those communities to reduce the violent crime rate, drug trafficking, and crimes against law enforcement.
The Wilson Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the criminal investigation of this case. Assistant United States Attorney James J. Kurosad handled the prosecution of this case for the government.
Grifton Man Sentenced After Conviction of Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that today, DEFONTE KENTRIAL WILLIAMS, 25, of Grifton, was sentenced by United States Senior District Judge W. Earl Britt for possession of a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. Judge Britt sentenced WILLIAMS to 68 months’ imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release.
WILLIAMS was charged in a one-count indictment on July 11, 2017, and pled guilty to one count on July 9, 2018.
On January 2, 2017, WILLIAMS and an associate decided to purchase marijuana in Pitt County, North Carolina. During the purchase, a dispute arose. WILLIAMS seized a firearm and pointed it at one of the dealers, and chased that person into a field at gunpoint. WILLIAMS then robbed the dealer of marijuana at gunpoint.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), 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. 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
The investigation of this case was conducted by the Raleigh Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF). Assistant United States Attorney Erin Blondel handled the prosecution of this case for the government.
Durham Man Arrested for Mailing Bomb Threat HoaxesRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announces that MICHAEL DEXTER BRODIE was arrested today, September 20, 2018.
On September 6, 2018, a federal grand jury sitting in the Eastern District of North Carolina returned an indictment charging BRODIE with two counts of mailing bomb threat hoaxes, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 844(e). As stated in open court during the initial appearance, the alleged conduct includes bomb threats received by government offices in the Raleigh area, resulting in multiple evacuations. If convicted, BRODIE would face as to each charge a maximum term of 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and a term of up to three years supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
The charges and allegations contained in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Investigation of this case is being conducted by the United States Postal Inspection Service and Raleigh Police Department, with assistance by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Alien Indicted on Illegal Reentry ChargesRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – Robert J. Higdon, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, announces that a federal grand jury in Raleigh has returned an indictment charging EZEQUIEL CUAUHTEMOC MACEDO-MAGADAN, age 48, of Mexico, with illegal reentry.
If convicted of Illegal Reentry of a Deported Alien, MACEDO-MAGADAN, previously deported four times and found in Wake County, would face maximum penalties of two years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and a term of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
The charges and allegations contained in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
The case is being investigated by ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations.
Former Raleigh Resident Sentenced to Eight Years for Conspiracy and Aggravated Identity Theft in Connection with Credit Card and Auto Loan Fraud SchemesRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina announces that in Federal court in Greenville, Senior United States District Judge Malcolm J. Howard sentenced DEBORAH ROSE MCFADDEN, formerly of Raleigh, North Carolina, to 96 months imprisonment for her role in a complex fraud scheme to steal, exploit, and profit from the personal and financial information of victims in North Carolina and other states. The Court ordered the term of imprisonment to be followed by 5 years of supervised release. Among other terms of the judgment, MCFADDEN was also ordered to pay restitution to over a dozen financial institutions that suffered losses as a result of the scheme.
MCFADDEN was named in a 13-count Indictment filed in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina on June 17, 2017. On February 5, 2018, MCFADDEN pled guilty to the charged offenses of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and aggravated identity theft.
Laila Merchant and Malayna McFadden (MCFADDEN’s daughter), were two of MCFADDEN’s principal co-conspirators. Malayna McFadden pleaded guilty to a Criminal Information on July 14, 2017. On March 7, 2018, United States District Judge Malcolm J. Howard sentenced Malayna McFadden to 6 months imprisonment, among other terms of the judgment. Laila Merchant pleaded guilty to a Criminal Information on April 17, 2018. On May 3, 2018, United States District Judge Malcolm J. Howard sentenced Merchant to 42 months imprisonment, among other terms of the judgment.
According to the charging instruments, statements made in court, and other public information, between at least May 2013 and September 2014, MCFADDEN, Malayna McFadden, and Laila Merchant engaged in a complex, multistate scheme to commit credit card fraud and loan fraud through the use of stolen victim identifiers, including dates of birth and Social Security numbers.
As part of the credit card fraud scheme, the stolen identifiers were used to form sham companies and apply for merchant accounts with various credit card processors. Upon establishment of the merchant accounts, MCFADDEN and her co-conspirators unlawfully obtained credit card numbers of other victims and ran the stolen numbers through the electronic point-of-sale systems issued to the sham companies. The fraud proceeds were then laundered through dozens of bank accounts maintained and/or controlled by MCFADDEN.
As part of the bank fraud scheme, MCFADDEN and her co-conspirators submitted fraudulent auto loan applications to multiple financial institutions using stolen victim identifiers. False and fraudulent documentation was used to deceive the targeted financial institutions and trigger the release of funds, including stolen VIN numbers, phony title documents and sales contracts from sham car dealerships, and counterfeit identification with victim identifiers.
Investigation of this case was conducted by the Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Adam F. Hulbig prosecuted the case for the government.
Fayetteville Woman Sentenced After Conviction of Human Trafficking OffensesRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announces that, DAQUANJRA TASHA WHITE, 29, of Fayetteville, was sentenced by United States Senior District Judge Malcolm J. Howard for sex trafficking of children. Judge Howard sentenced WHITE to 144 months of imprisonment followed by 5 years of supervised release.
WHITE was charged in a four-count indictment on February 8, 2017, and pled guilty to one count on February 5, 2018.
Between November 2015 and January 2016, WHITE prostituted three minor females in Fayetteville and Raleigh, North Carolina. WHITE recruited the children on social media and arranged to meet them. She then took provocative photos of them and advertised them for prostitution online. WHITE received proceeds from the girls’ prostitution.
The investigation of this case was conducted by the Fayetteville Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Erin Blondel for the Government.
Fayetteville Man Sentenced for Drug & Felon in Possession ChargesRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announces that JOHNNY DEWAYNE MCARTHUR, 33, of Fayetteville, North Carolina, was sentenced to 62 months imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release.
MCARTHUR was named in a three-count Indictment on November 29, 2017. On May 7, 2018, MCARTHUR pled guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute a Quantity of Marijuana and to Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Offense.
On October 29, 2017, officers with the Fayetteville Police Department (FPD), were on foot patrol due to gun violence and narcotics activity at a local establishment. The officers detected the smell of burnt marijuana coming from a vehicle with four occupants. As the officer approached the vehicle, one of the occupants partially opened a door, and it became apparent that the smell was coming from inside the vehicle. One of the officers made contact with the driver, who was later identified as MCARTHUR. MCARTHUR handed the officer a rolled cigar, stating they only had “one blunt.” MCARTHUR and the three occupants exited the vehicle in order for the officer to conduct a search of the vehicle. The officer found a glass jar containing three plastic bags totaling approximately 13 grams of marijuana in the center console. As the officer attempted to detain MCARTHUR, he pulled away and fled on foot. A foot chase ensued where the officer witnessed MCARTHUR remove something from his right front pocket and throw it onto the roof of a building. A search of the building roof found a .380 caliber handgun loaded with one round in the chamber and four rounds in the magazine. The firearm was also determined to be stolen.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), 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. Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The investigation of this case was conducted by the Fayetteville Police Department and Assistant United States Attorney S. Katherine Burnette handled the prosecution of this case for the government.
Elizabethtown Man Sentenced After Conviction of Murder-For-Hire and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announces that today, FRANCISCO DAMIAN TORRES-VICTORIA, 25, of Elizabethtown, was sentenced by United States Senior District Judge Malcolm J. Howard for murder-for-hire and possession of a firearm by an alien. Judge Howard sentenced TORRES-VICTORIA to 120 months of imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release.
TORRES-VICTORIA was charged in a three-count indictment on October 5, 2016, and pled guilty to two counts on May 7, 2018.
Between September 7 and September 15, 2016, TORRES-VICTORIA recruited a confidential informant (CI) to murder a fifteen-year-old boy and his family because the boy was dating TORRES-VICTORIA’s ex-girlfriend. TORRES-VICTORIA instructed the CI to “kill them all” and burn down the residence. He provided the CI with a firearm, a can of gasoline, and a photograph of the intended victim.
The investigation of this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office. The case was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Erin Blondel for the Government
Bolivia Man Sentenced to 18 Years After Conviction of Narcotics OffensesRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that today, DAVIN LAMONT SMITH, 43, of Bolivia, was sentenced by Senior United States District Judge Malcolm J. Howard for possession with intent to distribute cocaine. Judge Howard sentenced SMITH to 216 months of imprisonment followed by 6 years of supervised release.
SMITH was charged in a six-count superseding indictment on March 22, 2017, and pled guilty to four counts on April 11, 2018.
Beginning in April 2016, SMITH distributed cocaine in and around Bolivia, North Carolina. Between July and September 2016, a confidential informant (CI) purchased cocaine from SMITH four times. Other informants reported seeing the defendant possess firearms. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents obtained a search warrant for SMITH’s residence, where they found firearms, ammunition, and marijuana. Later, SMITH admitted to another informant that he had additional firearms and had previously shot at law enforcement officers.
SMITH was previously federally convicted of distribution of 3.5 grams of cocaine base, possession of a firearm by a felon, and using and carrying a firearm in relation to a drug trafficking crime and sentenced to 138 months’ imprisonment.
The investigation of this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office. The case was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Erin Blondel for the Government.
Wilson Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Possession of a Firearm by a FelonRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that today in federal court, Senior United States District Judge Malcolm J. Howard sentenced KELLY SHADROME ANDERSON, 33, of Wilson, North Carolina to 120 months of imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release.
ANDERSON was charged in a single-count Indictment on June 22, 2017, with possession of a firearm as a convicted felon. On April 14, 2018, ANDERSON was found guilty by a jury.
In the early evening of September 24, 2016, Wilson Police Department was called to respond to a hostage situation at a home in Wilson, NC. Witnesses stated that a black male, later determined to be ANDERSON, ran into the home with a gun and locked himself inside with the homeowner’s niece, a four year-old child. The Wilson Police Department responded to the call and engaged in hostage negotiations with ANDERSON, who eventually released the child, and then surrendered himself. Wilson Police Department conducted a search of the home and found a firearm hidden in the cushions of the living room couch. Further investigation indicated that ANDERSON was involved in an altercation in a nearby neighborhood, where he fired a weapon and then fled on foot and arrived at the victim’s home.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), 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. 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.
In support of PSN, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina has implemented the Take Back North Carolina Initiative. This initiative emphasizes the regional assignment of federal prosecutors to work with law enforcement and District Attorney’s Offices on a sustained basis in those communities to reduce the violent crime rate, drug trafficking, and crimes against law enforcement.
The Wilson Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the criminal investigation of this case. Assistant United States Attorney Melissa Belle Kessler handled the prosecution of this case for the United States.
Georgia Man Sentenced for Compromising U.S. Army Computer ProgramRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that today, Senior United States District Judge Malcom J. Howard, sentenced MITTESH DAS, 49, of Atlanta, Georgia, to 24 months of imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release and ordered to pay 1.5 million dollars in restitution.
On September 20, 2017, a federal jury found DAS guilty of knowingly transmitting malicious code with the intent to cause damage to a U.S. Army computer used in furtherance of national security.
A Grand Jury in the Eastern District of North Carolina indicted DAS on April 5, 2016 for conduct that occurred in 2014.
In November of 2014, a national level computer program responsible for handling pay and personnel actions for nearly 200,000 U.S. Army reservists began experiencing unusual issues. Five of the servers associated with the program are located at Ft. Bragg, North Carolina. Standard internal troubleshooting uncovered suspicious code that led to an investigation by the Army’s Criminal Investigation Command (CID). The investigation revealed that in 2012, due to DAS’s vast experience with the system, the contracted company responsible for oversight of the computer system had subcontracted with DAS to assume lead responsibility for the system. However, the contract was subsequently re-bid and awarded to a different company with a hand-over date of November 24, 2014. The investigation revealed that DAS inserted malicious code - commonly referred to as a “logic bomb” – in the days leading up to the contract changeover and that the progressively destructive nature of this code began taking effect the day after the changeover.
The damage had to be corrected through removal of the malicious code, restoration of all information and features, and a thorough review of the entire system to locate any further malicious code, amounting to a total labor cost to the U.S. Army of approximately $2.6 million.
The case was investigated by U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command, which received assistance from the Department of Homeland Security and the Johns Creek, Georgia, Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Jason Kellhofer represented the government in this case.
"Mr. Das exploited his position as a cleared defense contractor to sabotage the U.S. Army Reserve's personnel system and disrupt pay to our nation's Soldiers," said Director Daniel Andrews of the Computer Crime Investigative Unit, U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command. "Cybercrime and insider threats present significant challenges to national security and military operations, and today's sentencing serves as a stark reminder that we will continue to preserve strategic readiness by bringing violators to justice."
Robert J. Higdon, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina remarked that, “We are strong supporters of the brave work accomplished by the United States Army Reserve Command and are honored to have been able to hold this criminal accountable for the harmful attack on what is much more than just a computer system. The cyber attack in this instance directly affected thousands of Army reservists. Such conduct will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law by this office.”
Federal Jury Convicts Holly Springs Man on Federal Drug and Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that, HOWARD DAVIS, 40, of Holly Springs, NC, was convicted in federal court following a day and a half jury trial before Chief United States District Judge James C. Dever III. The jury found DAVIS guilty of possession with the intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base, and a quantity of cocaine, both Schedule II controlled substances, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and felon in possession of a firearm.
The evidence presented at trial established that DAVIS was pulled over for a window tint violation and while the officer was verifying DAVIS’s information, he fled the scene. This resulted in a high-speed chase within a residential neighborhood until DAVIS exited his car and fled on foot into a swamp. The investigation resulted in the seizure of over 28 grams of cocaine base and 178 grams crack cocaine, $67,288.00 and a firearm.
Sentencing is set for December 10, 2018 term of court. DAVIS faces not less than 25 years imprisonment and up to life imprisonment followed by 8 years of supervised release and up to an 8.5 million dollar fine.
The case was investigated by the Holly Springs Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF). Assistant United States Attorney Gabriel Diaz and Jason Kellhofer prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
Alien Indicted on Illegal Reentry ChargesRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – Robert J. Higdon, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, announces that a federal grand jury in Raleigh has returned an indictment charging JOSE GUADALUPE BURGOS-SOTO, age 33, of Mexico, with illegal reentry.
If convicted of Illegal Reentry of a Deported Alien, BURGOS-SOTO, previously deported four times and found in Johnston County, would face maximum penalties of two years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and a term of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
The charges and allegations contained in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
The case is being investigated by ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations.