Eastern District of North Carolina
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Participated in Eastern North Carolina National Night Out EventsRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina joined law enforcement partners, neighbors, and communities on Tuesday for National Night Out events in cities across the state.
“National Night Out is about more than public safety – it’s about community,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar. “It was a privilege to join our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners as we visited neighborhoods across Raleigh, connected with residents, heard their feedback, and strengthened our ties with the community. We were particularly excited to welcome Associate Deputy Attorney General Aakash Singh—an alumni from our office— who joined us at Raleigh-area events and met with many of our law enforcement partners from across Eastern North Carolina.”
“For me, community engagement isn’t just part of the job—it’s a calling. Events like this are about more than showing up; they’re about bridging gaps and building real relationships. That’s why we started Cops on the Block—to be more than uniforms, more than badges. To be neighbors. I always say, National Night Out is our Super Bowl—it’s our moment to connect, to be present, and to celebrate what brings us together,” said Raleigh Police Chief Rico Boyce.
National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes partnerships and camaraderie between law enforcement and the communities they serve to make our neighborhoods safer places to live. Millions take part in National Night Out across thousands of communities throughout the country on the first Tuesday of August in most areas of the country.
National Night Out was established in 1984 with funding from the Bureau of Justice Assistance of the U.S. Department of Justice. The program is administered by the National Association of Town Watch, a nationwide non-profit organization.
Coordinated by local law enforcement and trained volunteers, National Night Out provides an opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances. Neighborhoods host block parties, cookouts, festivals, parades, safety demonstrations, seminars, youth events, visits from emergency personnel and more. National Night Out sends a message that neighbors are united and working together to keep their communities and each other safe.
For more information, visit https://natw.org/.
Liberian National and Convicted Sex Offender Arrested for Naturalization FraudRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A federal grand jury returned an indictment in June charging Cyril Domaquik Clemens, 71, a U.S. citizen born in Liberia, with naturalization fraud. The indictment alleges that Clemens lied about his criminal conduct on his application to obtain U.S. citizenship. Clemens had his initial appearance before a federal judge last week.
According to the indictment and previously issued court documents, Clemens is alleged to have knowingly and materially made false statements under penalty of perjury on his naturalization application and during a naturalization interview with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). In response to the questions “Were you EVER involved in any way with any of the following:…[f]orcing or trying to force, someone to have any kind of sexual contact or relations?” and “Have you EVER committed, assisted in committing, or attempted to commit, a crime or offense for which you were NOT arrested?” he answered “No.” Clemens took the oath of citizenship and naturalized on February 19, 2021.
On April 3, 2023, in the Superior Court of North Carolina in Durham County, Clemens pleaded guilty to three counts of indecent liberties with a child. He was sentenced to a term of imprisonment between 16 and 29 months and ordered to register as a sex offender. Clemens confessed to having sexually molested the child for more than a decade, from November 1, 2011, through March 7, 2022. The victim was four years old when the abuse began. Clemens was not arrested until after he had naturalized, so immigration officials were unaware of his crimes when they granted him citizenship.
Clemens is charged in a three-count indictment with naturalization fraud. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison as well as the automatic revocation of his U.S. citizenship.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement. ICE ERO officers and HSI agents assigned to the Document and Benefit Fraud Task Force are investigating the case as part of Operation False Haven, an ongoing initiative designed to aggressively target child molesters and other egregious felons who fraudulently obtain U.S. citizenship. USCIS’s Fraud Detection and National Security Division is assisting the initiative. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lori Warlick is prosecuting the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:25-CR-151-FL-RN.
An indictment is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Former Correctional Officer Sentenced to Five Years for Plan to Smuggle Drugs and Contraband into North Carolina PrisonRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, N.C. – A Kenansville man was sentenced Tuesday to five years in prison, followed by four years of supervised release, for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. On May 7, 2025, Dawan Dontra McKinzie pleaded guilty to the charges.
“This case is a reminder that when those entrusted with public safety break the law, the damage runs deep – inside our prisons and throughout our communities,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar. “We are committed to working with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable anyone who undermines that trust, especially when it involves trafficking dangerous drugs into a correctional facility.”
“Illicit drugs and contraband endanger the health, safety and security of our employees, those in our custody and the public at large,” said Leslie Dismukes, Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction. “We will not hesitate to investigate and take action against anyone — including a compromised staff member — that brings illicit drugs or contraband into our facilities. I am grateful to our law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina for working with us to bring Dawan McKinzie to justice.”
According to court documents and other information presented in court, McKinzie, 31, was a Correctional Officer at Neuse Correctional Institution in Goldsboro when he began working with inmates to smuggle contraband into the prison. On November 14, 2023, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Drug Enforcement Administration received information that McKinzie was bringing contraband into Neuse Correctional. After receiving this information, law enforcement agents went to McKinzie’s house to confront him. McKinzie told law enforcement that he received a recent package from an inmate’s wife, then showed agents where he was storing the drugs and contraband. Agents located 53 grams of methamphetamine, 30 grams of psilocybin mushrooms, two grams of cocaine, seven pounds of tobacco, suboxone, a cellphone, and nude photographs that McKinzie planned to smuggle inside the prison.
The investigation further revealed that McKinzie began smuggling contraband into Neuse Correctional sometime between July and October of 2023. McKinzie would place the contraband on his person and smuggle it inside Neuse Correctional. Agents located multiple messages on McKinzie’s cellphone that provided further details of the conspiracy.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the NC Department of Adult Correction Internal Investigations and Apprehension Division, and the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Alison Lester and Assistant U.S. Attorney Casey Peaden prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 7:25-CR-5-M-BM
Fayetteville Man Convicted of Embezzling from U.S. Postal ServiceRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, N.C. – A Fayetteville man pleaded guilty to misappropriation of postal funds and to making false entries and reports in U.S. Government records.
According to court documents, Robert Raquan Patterson, 29, served as a sales and services distribution associate for the U.S. Postal Service, Evergreen Post Office. In this capacity, Patterson was responsible for the office’s finances and had access to its financial systems and records. From November 1, 2022, to July 30, 2024, Patterson fraudulently issued 129 postal money orders for his benefit and falsely reported debit and credit card payments that corresponded to these money orders. Patterson’s theft and false reporting resulted in at least $74,735 in losses to the U.S. Postal Service. Patterson used the stolen funds for personal expenditures, including hotels, flights, and cash withdrawals.
Patterson pleaded guilty to one count of misappropriation of postal funds and to one count of making false entries and reports and faces a maximum of 240 months in prison when sentenced on August 7, 2025.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II accepted the plea. The U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General is investigating the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Toby Lathan is prosecuting the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 7:25-cr-00036-M.
Roanoke Rapids Man Sentenced in Large-Scale Drug and Gun CaseRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – Diandre Sherod Ireland, aka “Debo”, 35, was sentenced Wednesday to 13 years in prison for drug trafficking in Roanoke Rapids.
“This sentence reflects the serious threat posed by fentanyl traffickers who fuel addiction and violence in our communities,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar. “We remain committed to working with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable those who profit from dealing this deadly poison.”
“This conviction is the culmination of hard work by the Halifax Narcotics and Gang Taskforce, a partnership between RRPD and the Halifax County Sheriff’s Office, as well as our federal law enforcement partners, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The dedication of each,” said Roanoke Rapids Police Chief Lawrence Wiggins.
“Over the past three years we have built an excellent relationship with our local, state and federal law enforcement partners. We have used this partnership to go after those who are terrorizing our community,” said Halifax County Sheriff Tyree Davis. “Drugs and gangs are a problem in Halifax County and a vast majority of our murders, violent crimes and non-violent crimes are directly related to drugs and gangs. In partnership with the Roanoke Rapids Police Department, our (HCSO & RRPD) Drug and Gang Task Force works tirelessly to ensure our communities are safer. Our agents will build strong, detailed cases. The Chief and I take a tough stance on drugs and gangs.”
According to court documents and other information presented in court, the Halifax Regional Drug and Gang Task Force began investigating Ireland in 2022 after sources identified him as a major drug supplier. Officers observed him making short visits to suspected drug houses in North Carolina and Virginia and interacting with known traffickers.
In February 2024, agents executed a search warrant at his home. When they arrived, law enforcement observed Ireland exit out the back door and toss two backpacks into the neighboring yard before returning inside. Inside the bags, investigators found more than 1,500 grams of cocaine and 300 grams of fentanyl. A search of Ireland’s home uncovered nearly 250 grams of marijuana, digital scales, more than $38,000 in cash, and four firearms – including two stolen handguns and a rifle with a high-capacity magazine.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The Halifax County Sheriff’s Office, the Roanoke Rapids Police Department, and the ATF investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie A. Childress prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:24-CR-00075.
Fatal Overdose Traced to Henderson Dealer Leads to Federal Prison SentenceRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, N.C. – A Henderson man whose distribution of fentanyl led to a fatal overdose has been sentenced to 16 years in federal prison. Keymon Leahke Cofield, a/k/a “Keymoney,” a/k/a “Boi Fat,” 25, pleaded guilty on April 22, 2025, to charges of distribution of fentanyl and heroin and possession with intent to distribute both substances.
According to court records and evidence presented in court, on June 13, 2020, Cary Police Department officers responded to a 911 call for a suspected overdose at a hotel in Cary. Upon arrival, officers found a deceased 35-year-old man in the room alongside drug paraphernalia and 50 bindles of suspected heroin and fentanyl. Law enforcement determined that one of the bindles had been used, resulting in the victim’s overdose. The remaining bindles were tested and found to contain heroin, fentanyl, and acetyl fentanyl. Investigators traced the fatal fentanyl back to Cofield, who was 20 years old at the time and had traveled from Henderson to Cary to sell the drugs.
The investigation continued through July and August, during which undercover officers conducted several purchases of heroin from Cofield. On July 15, 22, and 23, an undercover officer bought a total of more than 750 bindles from him. When Cofield arrived at another arranged deal on August 5, he was arrested. Law enforcement then seized an additional 651 bindles of suspected heroin and fentanyl. Lab testing confirmed the bindles contained mixtures of heroin, fentanyl, 4-anilino-N-phenethylpiperidine (ANPP), cocaine, and tramadol. A search of Cofield’s phone revealed photographs of large quantities of cash and firearms.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by Chief United States District Judge Richard E. Myers II. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Cary Police Department investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer C. Nucci prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for case number 5:22-CR-00278-M-RJ.
Rocky Mount Brothers Sentenced for Large-Scale Drug Trafficking OperationRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – Two Rocky Mount men were sentenced this week to federal prison for their roles in separate but related drug trafficking operations involving crack cocaine, fentanyl, and firearms.
“Pumping illicit narcotics—especially fentanyl—into our communities not only endangers the lives of our citizens, it is a serious federal crime,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar. “We’re grateful to our local and federal partners who worked to shut down both operations, hold these defendants responsible, and make Nash County neighborhoods safer.”
“I’m proud of the investigators who refused to stop at the street level and took this case to a higher level,” said Nash County Sheriff Keith Stone. “Their tireless work helped take down major players in the drug trade and made our community a safer place.”
Anivel Pedro Puddy, 35, of Charlotte, was sentenced to 10 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for conspiring to distribute fentanyl and crack cocaine. His brother, Carvell Shamike Puddy, 33, of Rocky Mount, was sentenced to nine years for distributing crack and possessing a firearm in connection with drug trafficking. Both men pleaded guilty earlier this year.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, Anivel Puddy was selling crack and fentanyl-laced Percocet pills in the Rocky Mount area between 2023 and early 2024. Investigators used informants and surveillance to track his activities and eventually searched multiple residences associated to him. On one occasion, officers found more than 470 grams of cocaine, fentanyl pills disguised as Percocet, marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and high-capacity magazines.
Carvell Puddy ran his operation from several homes across Rocky Mount. Law enforcement bought more than 500 grams of crack from him during undercover buys. When they searched his locations, they found over 60 grams of crack, a loaded 9mm handgun with an extended magazine, and a disassembled sawed-off shotgun.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II. The Nash County Sheriff’s Office and the ATF investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Julie A. Childress and Caroline Webb prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:23-CR-00252 and 5:24-CR-00092.
Greenville Man Sentenced Following Armed Standoff with PoliceRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, N.C. – Jonas Michael Fucito, 32, a convicted felon, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison and three years of supervised release, following a violent armed standoff with law enforcement that resulted in the shooting of a Greenville Police Department officer.
“The defendant shot a police officer, put a child in harm’s way, and caused havoc in his neighborhood,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar. “We will simply not tolerate violence against law enforcement. This sentence reflects our commitment to holding accountable those who seek to cause violence and ensuring the safety of the brave men and women who wear the badge.”
“This senseless attack highlights the many dangers our brave men and women in law enforcement face every day,” said Special Agent in Charge Alicia Jones. “Attacks on law enforcement cannot be tolerated, and ATF will continue to use every resource available to target those who threaten our partners and endanger our communities.”
According to court documents and other information presented in court, on April 2, 2024, officers responded to the scene of a domestic disturbance at Fucito’s residence after a victim reported being assaulted by Fucito. Upon the officers’ arrival, Fucito barricaded himself and his child inside the apartment. As officers attempted to make contact, Fucito fired a shotgun through the front door, striking an officer in the forearm.
As a convicted felon, Fucito was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition. Despite this, a loaded 12-gauge shotgun and ammunition were later recovered from his apartment. Officers also found a spent shell casing in the bedroom closet.
The incident led to a five-hour standoff, during which Fucito made threats to shoot anyone who approached the door. Negotiations were attempted but ultimately failed, and officers entered the apartment through the back door and took Fucito into custody. The child was recovered safely and unharmed.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II. The Greenville Police Department and the ATF investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ashley Foxx and Phil Aubart prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:24-CR-00077.
Kilo Fentanyl Trafficker Sentenced to More Than Eight Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Raleigh man has been sentenced to more than eight years in federal prison for trafficking large quantities of fentanyl throughout Eastern North Carolina. Joshua Vines, 40, admitted to conspiring to distribute over 400 grams of fentanyl and pleaded guilty earlier this year.
According to court records and evidence presented at sentencing, on October 25, 2023, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents were conducting surveillance on a vehicle registered to co-defendant Nigel Gray. They observed the car parked outside a Dollar General in Elizabeth City, where a passenger and co-defendant, Omar Cardenas, exited and got into another vehicle. Both cars then left the area.
Law enforcement later stopped the vehicle, driven by Vines, in Nashville, NC. During the stop, Vines contacted Gray by phone to ask for the car’s registration information. A trained K-9 alerted to the vehicle, prompting a search. Inside, officers found approximately 30,000 pills containing fentanyl or para-fluorofentanyl, with a combined weight of 1.5 kilograms, along with an additional kilogram of fentanyl powder. Vines had texted Gray that they were being detained and requested consent to search the vehicle. The group had planned to distribute the drugs in the Raleigh area.
Gray and Cardenas have already been sentenced in federal court for their roles in the conspiracy.
Vines has prior felony convictions for discharging a weapon into an occupied vehicle, trafficking heroin, and trafficking cocaine by transportation.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. HSI, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigations, the Raleigh Police Department, the Nashville Police Department, the Pitt County Sheriff’s Office, the Greenville Regional Drug Task Force investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Timothy Severo and Katherine Englander prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:24-CR-00076.
Three Convicted Felons Sentenced for Illegal Reentry After DeportationRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – Three Mexican nationals were sentenced for illegally reentering the United States (U.S.) after previously being deported. At the time they were charged and sentenced in federal court, each had been previously convicted of multiple criminal offenses.
Ezequiel Andres-Antonio, 42, was sentenced to 12 months in prison for reentering the U.S. without permission following a prior removal after an aggravated felony conviction for possession with intent to sell or deliver cocaine. On March 14, 2025, Andres-Antonio pled guilty to illegally reentering the U.S. after removal. [Case No. 5:24-cr-00269-FL]
Edward Nunez, 45, was sentenced to 19 months in prison for reentering the U.S. after having been removed three times after multiple felony convictions, including conspiracy to commit robbery with a dangerous weapon and illegal reentry, as well as recent convictions for possession of cocaine and possession of methamphetamine. On February 3, 2025, Nunez pled guilty to the illegal reentry charge. [Case No. 7:25-cr-00011-FL]
Martin Reyes-Hernandez, 37, was sentenced to 13 months in prison for returning to the U.S. after being removed five times following convictions for larceny-related offenses and a recent conviction for assault with a deadly weapon. On April 4, 2025, Reyes-Hernandez pled guilty to illegal reentry. [Case No. 5:25-cr-00041-FL]
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Louise W. Flanagan. ICE investigated the cases, and the National Security Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina prosecuted the cases.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for the respective case numbers.
Harnett County Felon Sentenced for Possessing Firearms During Search for Missing ChildRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Harnett County man was sentenced to 37 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release, for illegally possessing multiple firearms as a convicted felon. On May 17, 2024, Joe Levaughn Smith, Sr., 63, pled guilty to the charge.
“This case highlights the power of strong law enforcement partnerships to make our communities safer across the board,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar. “A missing child was safely recovered, and an armed felon was held accountable. We remain committed to protecting public safety and pursuing justice.”
“The successful recovery of a missing child, seizure of multiple firearms, and the prosecution of this individual responsible for violations of federal law demonstrates the unwavering dedication of our Deputy U.S. Marshals and law enforcement partners,” said Glenn M. McNeill, Jr., U.S. Marshal for the Eastern District of North Carolina. “The outstanding collaboration between federal, state, and local authorities during this investigation is unparalleled. We remain committed to pursuing individuals who prey on the vulnerable and ensuring those responsible are brought to justice.”
According to court documents and other information presented in court, on January 25, 2022, law enforcement executed a search warrant at a residence in Bunnlevel in connection with the recovery of a mother and child who had been missing from Fayetteville since 2016. Investigators with the U.S. Marshal’s Service (USMS), the Fayetteville Police Department, the Harnett County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), ATF, and other agencies located the individuals at Smith’s residence. Smith became irate and noncompliant during the search, stating he had COVID-19 and intentionally coughing in the direction of the officers as they attempted to detain him.
Smith had previously threatened a government employee and law enforcement in 2021 during an attempted welfare check.
A search of the residence led to the seizure of four firearms: a .22 caliber rifle, a sawed-off 12-gauge shotgun, a 12-gauge shotgun, and a 9mm handgun. Smith, a convicted felon, was prohibited from possessing any firearms under federal law.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The USMS, the Fayetteville Police Department, and the HCSO investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Foxx prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:22-CR-00017-D.
Wake County Illegal Alien Sentenced to More Than 10 Years for Drug and Gun ConvictionsRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – Daniel Oswaldo Santos-Soto, age 25, was sentenced to 130 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Santos-Soto pleaded guilty to the charges on April 14, 2025.
According to court records and evidence presented at sentencing, on August 27, 2023, the Nash County Sheriff’s Office (NCSO) utilized a confidential source of information to arrange a controlled purchase of methamphetamine from Santos-Soto. The next day, August 28, Santos-Soto contacted the source of information and agreed to meet the source at a gas station in Spring Hope with approximately 10 ounces of methamphetamine. When Santos-Soto arrived at the meeting location, NCSO approached him, and he was detained. A K-9 was deployed on Santos-Soto’s vehicle and alerted to the presence of narcotics. NCSO searched the vehicle and found 83.61 grams of pure methamphetamine packaged in four plastic bags. They also found an SKS rifle in the backseat of the vehicle.
Santos-Soto is an illegal alien who crossed the border from Mexico to the United States in 2017. He has been living in Wake County and had no prior criminal history until the current conduct in August 2023.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. Agencies involved in the investigation include the NCSO and the Drug Enforcement Administration and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Dixon prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:24-CR-00074-D-RJ.
Raleigh Drug Trafficker Sentenced to Nine YearsRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – Enrico Ferrante Cotton, a 55-year-old resident of Raleigh, has been sentenced to nine years in prison for distribution of a quantity of fentanyl and possession with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine, and 40 grams or more of fentanyl. Cotton pleaded guilty on March 26, 2025.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, law enforcement received a tip from a confidential source in February 2024, indicating that Cotton was selling fentanyl and cocaine in the Raleigh area. On March 1, 2024, law enforcement conducted a controlled purchase of 32.82 grams of fentanyl from Cotton for $1,500. During this transaction, Cotton and the buyer discussed the sale of cocaine.
In the following days, authorities learned that Cotton frequently visited a storage unit. On March 6, 2024, the K-9 unit detected substances at the storage unit, leading law enforcement to execute a search warrant. During this search, law enforcement located and seized heroin, fentanyl, cocaine, 4-anilino-N-phenethylpiperidine (ANPP), and various drug paraphernalia.
On the same day, law enforcement conducted a follow-up search at Cotton’s residence, where they discovered 47.35 grams of fentanyl and ANPP hidden in the toilet. Additionally, they seized $9,231 in cash, four cellular phones, a loaded magazine, a money counter, and 55 rounds of ammunition from various locations within the house.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by United States District Judge Terrence W. Boyle. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Raleigh Police Department investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer C. Nucci prosecuted it.
Related court documents and information can be found on the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina's website or on PACER by searching for case number 5:24-CR-00328-BO.
Former Marine Sentenced to 40 Years After Trial Conviction on Sextortion and Child Sexual Abuse ChargesRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, N.C. – Anthony Fritzinger, of Middletown, New Jersey, was sentenced today to 40 years in prison for five counts of production of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), four counts of online exploitation of a minor, one count of possession of CSAM, and two counts of extortion. Fritzinger, 25, was convicted at trial on September 12, 2024.
“This defendant preyed on vulnerable children, manipulating and threatening them to produce explicit content for his own gratification,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar. “This case should also serve as a strong reminder that the proliferation of social media has expanded the manner in which young people can be targeted by individuals like Fritzinger, who look to exploit them. We will continue to do all we can to stand with survivors, protect children, and ensure their voices are heard as we pursue justice.”
“This case represents the very worst kind of online exploitation, and it is only through the extraordinary courage of the victims and the relentless work of our Special Agents that justice was served,” said Special Agent in Charge Kelly Parrish, NCIS Carolinas Field Office. “NCIS remains committed to uncovering hidden threats, safeguarding children from predatory abuse, and holding offenders accountable—no matter where they operate or how they hide.”
According to court records and evidence presented at trial and sentencing, the investigation began when Fritzinger used an anonymous account to try to extort an eighteen-year-old woman online. He threatened to distribute naked pictures created when she was a minor unless she obeyed his order to create and send him additional sexual photos. Her family contacted their local police, who referred the case to Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS). From there, NCIS discovered that he had been serially stalking, soliciting, and extorting minors to obtain sexual images and videos for years.
Fritzinger used teen “dating” websites like Yubo, Spotafriend, and mylol.com to identify and contact potential victims, sometimes posing as a teenage girl. Then he began online “relationships” with victims, including on Snapchat and Instagram, in which he encouraged children to send him sexually explicit images and videos. Fritzinger taught his victims to engage in a dominant/submissive relationship in which he exerted total control over them and required them to perform sadistic, sexual punishments. He manipulated and coerced victims to continue sending images, including falsely claiming to be dying and exploiting their immaturity and personal histories. Then he extorted many victims, threatening to expose their images to their friends and family if they did not send more.
NCIS recovered a vast quantity of disturbing evidence from Fritzinger’s cell phone, laptop, social media accounts, and Dropbox account. He had collected hundreds of screenshots of young girls’ social media profiles, and thousands of sexually explicit chats revealed his extensive efforts to entice minors to produce child pornography. NCIS recovered hundreds of images and videos of enticement victims, as well as other images and videos of child pornography that the defendant had collected online, including those depicting victims as young as toddlers. Through painstaking effort, NCIS was able to identify roughly two dozen victims, spanning several states, including several who bravely testified against Fritzinger at trial.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II. The NCIS investigated this case and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jake D. Pugh and Erin Blondel prosecuted.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:20-CR-00081.
Former City of Raleigh Firefighter Pleads Guilty to Dark Web Drug Trafficking SchemeRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A former City of Raleigh firefighter and his wife have pleaded guilty today to running a large-scale drug trafficking operation involving cocaine, methamphetamine, and other narcotics. Nicholas Banister, 36, and Amanda Banister, 36, admitted to using the dark web and cryptocurrency to distribute drugs across Eastern North Carolina.
“The defendant, a Raleigh firefighter, served in a position of public trust, but was hiding in plain sight as he and his wife sold numerous types of illegal narcotics around businesses the community frequently visits,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar. “I’m proud of our federal and state partners at the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) and North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement (NC ALE) for their hard work, which is holding these individuals accountable and making our community safer.”
“It is unfortunate to see someone we trust to help keep us protected involved in criminal activities that jeopardize public safety,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Alicia Jones. “ATF realizes the danger and violence associated with drug trafficking, and we’re proud to work with our local and state law enforcement partners to break up those networks and better protect our communities.”
“A primary focus for ALE is reducing crime associated with alcohol establishments and protecting the safety of our communities. In this case, undercover ALE special agents conducted a comprehensive investigation that led to the arrest and conviction of two individuals — one of whom had taken an oath to protect others but instead chose to put lives at risk,” said Bryan House, Director of North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement. “We’re hopeful this case, along with our continued efforts, will have a positive impact on our state.”
According to court documents and other information presented in court, Banister conspired with his wife to sell cocaine and methamphetamine on four occasions to an undercover law enforcement officer at the Morgan Street Food Hall in Raleigh. The NC ALE executed a search warrant at Banister's residence in Raleigh, where they found 1,324.43 grams of methamphetamine, 844 grams of cocaine, over 7 kilograms of marijuana, 382 grams of psilocybin mushrooms, Xanax and Ecstasy pills, 216 units of LSD, 15 grams of dimethyltryptamine (DMT), two firearms, a digital wallet used to store cryptocurrency and $213,810 in U.S. currency. Banister had been selling cocaine, methamphetamine, and LSD every other week for at least a year prior to his arrest. Banister purchased the narcotics from the dark web using cryptocurrency, had them shipped to North Carolina, and then sold them to various buyers, primarily in the Glenwood South area. Banister utilized the Snapchat application to advertise narcotics by providing a “menu” for buyers. The following appeared on Banister’s Snapchat account and was presented in court:
Banister was employed with the City of Raleigh Fire Department at the time of the charged offenses.
Both Banister and his wife face a mandatory minimum of 10 years' imprisonment when sentenced at a later date.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after arraignment by U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert T. Numbers II. The NC ALE and the ATF investigated the case and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney (SAUSA) Aria Q. Merle prosecuted the case. SAUSA Merle is a prosecutor with the Wake County District Attorney’s Office assigned to the United States Attorney’s Office to prosecute federal violent crimes and other criminal matters.
A copy of this press release is located on our website. Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:25-cr-00106-D.
Cary Man Who Wounded Police Dog Sentenced to 12.5 Years for Armed CarjackingRead the Press Release
NEW BERN, N.C. – Joshua Whittlesey, a resident of Cary, was sentenced today to 12.5 years in prison and $28,000 in restitution, for carjacking. The 26-year-old man pled guilty to the charge on November 13, 2024.
According to court records and other information presented in court, on July 21, 2023, Whittlesey went to Hendrick’s Cadillac in Cary under the guise of purchasing a Ford Raptor. While out on a test drive with the sales representative, Whittlesey brandished what the sales representative believed to be a firearm and ordered him out of the vehicle. The sales representative immediately called 911 to report the crime. Whittlesey took the vehicle and led officers from the Cary, Durham, and Raleigh Police Departments on a high-speed chase reaching speeds of 100 miles per hour. While fleeing from the officers, Whittlesey struck and wounded a Cary Police dog with the stolen vehicle. Whittlesey later abandoned the vehicle and was apprehended in Burlington. Whittlesey claimed that the apparent firearm was a BB gun, but law enforcement did not recover either.
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 gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Louise W. Flanagan. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Cary Police Department investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jaren E. Kelly and Jake D. Pugh prosecuted.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:24-CR-00115-FL.
Federal Charges Brought After Man Fired at Nash County DeputyRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – Federal charges were brought Tuesday against a Rocky Mount man, charging him with being a felon in possession of a firearm. Montrel Devon Ingram, 36, appeared in federal court for his initial appearance.
“We will act swiftly and relentlessly to investigate anyone who threatens our law enforcement officers and violates federal law,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar. “This case reflects the strong, coordinated response from our federal and local partners, and I’m proud of the quick work that brought the defendant into custody.”
“Keeping dangerous individuals and illegal firearms off our streets is critical to protecting our neighborhoods,” said Nash County Sheriff Keith Stone. “Thanks to the dedication of our deputies and the support of our federal partners, we were able to quickly apprehend the suspect and recover the weapon ensuring the safety of our community.”
According to the information presented in the criminal complaint, Ingram was a passenger during a traffic stop in which the driver was suspected of driving under the influence. When backup arrived, Ingram fled on foot near the intersection of Ravenwood Drive and Canary Drive in Rocky Mount. A deputy from the Nash County Sheriff’s Office pursued Ingram after noticing him reaching into his waistband. The deputy shouted loud verbal commands for Ingram to show his hands. Shortly after, the deputy heard a gunshot and saw a muzzle flash coming from Ingram’s direction. Seeking cover while maintaining a clear line of sight on Ingram, the deputy observed him throw a firearm into the front yard of a nearby residence and then attempt to jump the fence into the backyard. The deputy quickly closed in on Ingram, ordering him to the ground. With the assistance of NC State Highway Patrol (NCSHP) troopers, the deputy was able to apprehend Ingram and take him into custody. They later located the thrown firearm, which had a spent shell casing stuck in the ejector port, causing it to jam. The magazine contained five additional rounds of ammunition.
Ingram faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison if convicted.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Nash County Sheriff’s Office, and the North Carolina State Highway Patrol assisted with the investigation and Assistant U.S. Attorney Phil Aubart is prosecuting the case.
Related court documents and information are located on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:25-MJ-01851.
A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Wake County Felon Sentenced to over Six Years after Posting a Video Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – Diamonique Shawn Newton, age 33, was sentenced to 78 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Newton pled guilty to the charge on March 24, 2025.
According to court records and evidence presented at sentencing, in February 2024, officers with the Raleigh Police Department (RPD) investigated Newton after they saw he had posted pictures of himself on his Facebook page possessing a firearm. RPD was aware of Newton’s felon status and inability to possess a firearm. The investigation culminated on February 26, 2024, when Newton streamed a live Facebook video of himself pointing a gun at the camera multiple times. Based on the investigation, on February 29, RPD obtained and executed a search warrant for Newton’s Raleigh home. During the search, RPD found two firearms, one of which was stolen, over 180 grams of marijuana, and drug paraphernalia. Newton admitted that the stolen firearm was his and that he had bought it off the street.
Newton has a criminal history that spans almost two decades and includes two felony convictions for possession with intent to sell or deliver marijuana from 2011 and 2018. Newton was also previously convicted of attempted possession of a firearm by a felon in 2013.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. Agencies involved in the investigation include the Raleigh Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jaren Kelly and Kimberly Dixon prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on our website. Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:24-CR-00074-D-RJ.
Virginia Man Convicted of Armed Drug Trafficking by Federal JuryRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A federal jury found a man from Lynchburg, Virginia, guilty of multiple charges, including possession with intent to distribute heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and 4-anilino-N-phenethylpiperidine (ANPP). He was also convicted of possessing a firearm in relation to a drug trafficking crime and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
According to court records and evidence presented at trial, Derrick O’Brian Hamlett, 32, was a front seat passenger in a vehicle stopped for a traffic violation in Vance County on October 26, 2022. A Vance County detective noticed an odor of marijuana coming from the car and a marijuana grinder in between the front passenger seat and the center console. A search of the vehicle revealed a backpack with a locked section. Hamlett gave law enforcement the code to unlock the section of the backpack. It contained a stolen pistol, a loaded extended magazine, methamphetamine, cocaine, and over 100 dosage units of fentanyl, heroin, and ANPP. It also contained Hamlett’s wallet with his Virginia identification card, social security card, and other documents with his information. Hamlett is a convicted felon and therefore cannot legally possess a firearm.
Hamlett faces a mandatory minimum of five years of imprisonment and a statutory maximum of life imprisonment when sentenced on a later date.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III accepted the verdict. The Vance County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Sampson County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jermaine Sellers and David Beraka prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No.5:24-cr-00043-D-KS.
Defense Attorney Sentenced After Pleading Guilty to Felony Drug OffenseRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, N.C. – A Harnett County defense attorney was sentenced in federal court after his guilty plea to a felony drug offense. Jeffrey Stall,45, was sentenced to two years of house arrest and five years of supervised release.
Stall was initially intercepted during a federal wiretap investigation into a group of drug traffickers that were distributed methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, and marijuana throughout Sampson, Johnston, and Harnett counties. Through intercepted and coded conversations, Stall spoke with another individual and the two agreed to meet later so that Stall could receive drugs.
Two days later, law enforcement watched as Stall arrived at an established drug trafficking location, stayed for a short period of time, and then departed. As Stall was driving away, a North Carolina State Trooper executed a traffic stop. Stall was the driver and lone occupant. The trooper immediately observed Stall exhibiting characteristics consistent with intoxication and observed an empty gun holster on the seat. During the traffic stop, a canine alerted on the vehicle. The trooper asked Stall two times whether there was anything in Stall’s vehicle that was illegal. Stall responded with “There shouldn’t be” and “Not that I am aware of.”
The subsequent search of the vehicle revealed a backpack on the passenger seat. Inside the backpack the trooper discovered 33.65 grams of pure methamphetamine and a loaded .40 caliber handgun.
As the underlying investigation continued, several individuals were taken into custody and interviewed about their drug trafficking. In these interviews, they revealed that they had provided Stall with user amounts of methamphetamine for extended lengths of time. These individuals stated that their relationship with Stall often started with or involved Stall representing them in a legal capacity. The drug relationship with Stall would then extend beyond the course of the legal representation.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II. The DEA, ATF, U.S. Marshals Service, NC National Guard, NC State Bureau of Investigation, Sampson County Sheriff’s Office, Harnett County Sheriff’s Office, Johnston County Sheriff’s Office, and the Dunn Police Department investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Tyler Lemons prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 7:24-CR-110-M.
Hertford County Man Sentenced to over 7 Years After Armed Robbery in WintonRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, N.C. – Trevon Montez Freeman, of Hertford County, was sentenced today to 90 months in prison for interference with commerce by robbery and brandishing a firearm during the robbery. Freeman, 21, pled guilty to the charges on February 11, 2025.
“Commercial armed robbery not only endangers the lives of victims and bystanders but tears at the fabric of our communities,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar. “This result reflects our commitment to holding violent offenders accountable and providing some justice to the victim in this case.”
According to court documents and other information presented in court, on November 26, 2023, just before 10 p.m., Hertford County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a report of an armed robbery at the Winton Deli on S. Main Street in Winton. The clerk, who was shaking and in tears, explained that she and her nephew had been closing the store when a black male ran into the store and aimed a tan handgun at them. The robber, who was wearing a black ski mask, Air Force 1 shoes, and a black hoodie, ordered the clerk to the register at gunpoint. He took bills and change, later determined to be $257, from the register and left the store. Deputies attempted a K-9 track, which led to a parking lot where fresh tire marks indicate a car had sped away.
“The professionalism, dedication, and commitment shown by our team reflect our ongoing mission to protect the citizens and businesses of Hertford County,” said Hertford County Sheriff Dexter Hayes. “We remain steadfast in our pledge that anyone who chooses to commit a crime in our county will be held accountable. We will not tolerate those who threaten the safety of our community.”
Surveillance video confirmed that the robber brandished a tan handgun with a light attached under the barrel. He could be heard speaking on the video, and a deputy recognized the voice as belonging to the defendant Trevon Freeman. Deputies began to patrol around Freeman’s house and just after midnight made a traffic stop on Freeman’s car for a speeding violation. Freeman was wearing a black jacket and Air Force 1 shoes, and a black ski mask sat beside him in the passenger seat. Deputies found a roll of bills and hundreds of coins in pocket, totaling nearly $200.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II. The Hertford County Sheriff’s Office and Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jake D. Pugh and Phil Aubart prosecuted.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:24-cr-0018-M.
Greenville Man Sentenced to over Five Years in Prison for Ponzi SchemeRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, N.C. – A Greenville man was sentenced Monday to 63 months in prison and three years of supervised release for mail fraud in connection with a multi-year investment fraud scheme. Willard Timothy Sutton, age 64, pled guilty to the charge on February 26, 2025. The court also ordered Sutton to pay $8,986,162 in restitution to the victims of the offense.
“The defendant orchestrated a complex and brazen Ponzi scheme that exploited the trust of hard-working North Carolinians, based upon his own greed,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar. “We are committed to holding those accountable who prey on the citizens in our communities for personal gain.”
"Mr. Sutton ran a local business for many years, purporting to help those with poor or no credit get much needed vehicle loans. When he ran into financial trouble, he chose to commit a federal crime rather than admit his business was failing. The FBI hopes today's sentence and restitution offers some sense of justice to those who trusted him to legitimately invest their hard-earned money," said James C. Barnacle Jr., the FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge in North Carolina.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, between at least 2019 and 2023, Sutton conducted a largescale Ponzi scheme in connection with an investment program offered through his business, Greenville Auto World, LLC (GAW). As a result of the scheme, more than 65 victims in Eastern North Carolina suffered net losses totaling approximately $9 million. Federal investigators estimate that Sutton collected more than $63 million in investor funds during the offense period.
GAW was a “buy here pay here” (BHPH) car dealership. BHPH dealerships enable customers with poor or no credit history to finance the purchase of a vehicle directly through the dealership, rather than through a bank or credit union. Such loans typically carry significantly higher interest rates than traditional car loans. Between approximately 2012 and 2023, as part of an investment program sponsored, promoted, and administered by GAW, Sutton sold BHPH finance contracts to outside investors through direct solicitation, referrals, and word-of-mouth advertisement.
Beginning in approximately 2019, Sutton falsely and fraudulently led BHPH investors to believe that their investments were safe and secure, and that GAW was collecting sufficient repayments from loan customers to be able to fully pay the principal and interest owed to them. In truth, GAW was collecting millions from investors, but it did not have the means to service the debt through BHPH revenue or any other legitimate business income.
To conceal GAW’s financial condition, and forestall the collapse of his business, Sutton operated the BHPH program as a Ponzi scheme in which Sutton would (in a typical transaction) sell a legitimate loan contract to one investor and then sell one or more false and fabricated versions of that same contract to other investors without their knowledge. Sutton then used the proceeds of the fraudulent sales to pay off earlier investors. Among other things, the defendant forged loan customer signatures to the fake contracts and provided fake title documents to investors to convince them that their investments were appropriately secured.
In approximately 2022, to generate additional funds to meet GAW’s massive debts to investors, Sutton solicited some BHPH investors to help finance GAW’s vehicle inventory. Sutton falsely and fraudulently represented to these investors that he was using their funds to purchase vehicles when, in fact, the funds were being used to conceal and perpetuate the Ponzi scheme.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after the sentencing concluded. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Charlotte Field Office, investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam F. Hulbig prosecuted the case for the government.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:24-CR-83-M.
Multiple Eastern North Carolina Healthcare Professionals Charged in Connection with 2025 National Healthcare Fraud TakedownRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – Today, Acting United States Attorney Daniel P. Bubar announced criminal charges against five individuals and one company, in connection with alleged schemes to defraud and abuse the Medicare and Medicaid programs, and other insurance carriers. The charges filed in federal court are part of the Department of Justice’s 2025 National Health Care Fraud Takedown. The charges stem from Medicaid kickbacks to patients in exchange for attending substance abuse services, and from false and fraudulent billings to Medicare for durable medical equipment.
“Fraud against our healthcare system is not a victimless crime – it threatens patient care, burdens taxpayers, and undermines trust in critical programs,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar. “Today’s charges demonstrate our offices resolve to pursue those who attempt to profit by violating federal law and jeopardizing public resources. We will continue to work with our federal and state law enforcement partners to ensure accountability.”
“Today’s record-setting Health Care Fraud Takedown sends a crystal-clear message to criminal actors, both foreign and domestic, intent on preying upon our most vulnerable citizens and steal from hardworking American taxpayers: we will find you, we will prosecute you, and we will hold you accountable to the fullest extent of the law,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Make no mistake – this administration will not tolerate criminals who line their pockets with taxpayer dollars while endangering the health and safety of our communities.”
All the cases are part of a strategically coordinated, nationwide law enforcement action that resulted in criminal charges against 324 defendants for their alleged participation in health care fraud and illegal drug diversion schemes that involved the submission of over $14.6 billion in intended loss and over 15 million pills of illegally diverted controlled substances. The defendants allegedly defrauded programs entrusted for the care of the elderly and disabled to line their own pockets. The United States has seized over $245 million in cash, luxury vehicles and other assets in connection with the takedown.
The following individuals have been charged in the Eastern District of North Carolina:
Kimberly Mable Sims (a lab company owner), Francine Sims Super (an office manager), and Keke Komeko Johnson (a compliance officer), were charged by information in connection with the payment of more than $1 million in illegal remunerations in the form of gift cards to patients of Life Touch, LLC (“Life Touch”), a North Carolina substance abuse treatment company, and in connection with false statements to Medicaid auditors regarding the same. The inducements resulted in more than $25 million in payments from Medicaid to Life Touch. As alleged, over four years, Life Touch, through its compliance officer and managers, routinely paid patients based upon the number of days per week that they received services. Life Touch staff also received kickbacks from a lab company that it utilized for drug testing services. The charging documents further allege that Medicaid auditors were deceived regarding these ongoing practices at Life Touch and the lab company. In addition, Super and Johnson were each charged with failure to file a tax return. Life Touch and Brandon Eugene Sims were previously charged in this case. More than $6 million in assets in the form of cash, real estate and other assets haven been seized. The cases are being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tasha Gardner, and Assistant U.S. Attorney William M. Gilmore of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina.
Randal Fenton Wood, 56, of Flagler Beach, Florida, was charged by information with conspiracy to commit health care fraud in connection with a scheme to bill Medicare, the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA), and other insurance programs for medically unnecessary durable medical equipment (“DME”). As alleged in the information, Wood and others partnered with purported marketing entities which solicited Medicare beneficiaries to accept durable medical equipment, such as braces and pneumatic compression devices, by illegally waiving copays and pressuring beneficiaries to accept the equipment without verifying that the equipment was medically necessary. The marketing entities sold the beneficiary information and the prefilled orders to Wood and other DME supply companies, who developed and implemented a “doctor chase” model to pressure physicians into signing or altering orders so that they could be billed in full. The DME supply companies owned by or affiliated with Wood received over $39 million in reimbursement from Medicare for DME ordered through this scheme. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David G. Beraka of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina.
In addition to the foregoing cases, which were a part of the National Enforcement Action, Acting United States Attorney Bubar today also announces the convictions of the following healthcare and mental health practitioners in connection with an investigation into billing and documentation practices by Medicaid mental health providers Our Treatment Center and Partners Against Sexually Transmitted Diseases, which operated in Raleigh, North Carolina:
Dawn Marie Meacham, 61, of Raleigh, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) pled guilty to Conspiracy to Make and Use Materially False Writings and Documents Relating to Health Care Matters, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371. At sentencing, which remains pending, Meacham faces up to 5 years of imprisonment on the charge.
Kim Jones Kelly, 68, of Greenville, a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS) pled guilty to Conspiracy to Make and Use Materially False Writings and Documents Relating to Health Care Matters, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371. At sentencing, which remains pending, Kelly faces up to 5 years of imprisonment on the charge.
Pius Ondachi, 54, of Raleigh, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) pled guilty to Making and Using Materially False Writings and Documents Relating to Health Care Matters, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1035(a)(2). At sentencing, which remains pending, Ondachi faces up to 5 years of imprisonment on the charge.
Tequila Vinson Bogan, 48, of Smithfield, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) pled guilty to Conspiracy to Make and Use Materially False Writings and Documents Relating to Health Care Matters, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371. At sentencing, which remains pending, Bogan faces up to 5 years of imprisonment on the charge.
Ifeoma Ezugwu, 56, of Raleigh, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA) pled guilty to Making and Using Materially False Writings and Documents Relating to Health Care Matters, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1035(a)(2). At sentencing, which remains pending, Ezugwu faces up to 5 years of imprisonment on the charge.
Queensly Onuzulike, 49, of Raleigh, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) pled guilty to Conspiracy to Make and Use Materially False Writings and Documents Relating to Health Care Matters, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371. At sentencing, which remains pending, Onuzulike faces up to 5 years of imprisonment on the charge.
Tamika Rochaelle Autry, 29, of Wilson, a Certified Peer Support Specialist and Qualified Practitioner, pled guilty to Making and Using Materially False Writings and Documents Relating to Health Care Matters, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1035(a)(2). At sentencing, which remains pending, Autry faces up to 5 years of imprisonment on the charge.
Special Assistant United States Attorney Tasha C. Gardner, of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina, and the North Carolina Attorney General’s Office – Medicaid Investigations Division, serves as prosecutor on each of these cases.
“Individuals and entities that participate in federal healthcare programs are expected to obey the laws meant to preserve the integrity of program funds,” said Kelly J. Blackmon, Special Agent in Charge with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG will continue to collaborate with our law enforcement partners to investigate allegations of Medicare and Medicaid fraud.”
“Healthcare fraud isn’t a crime that only exists on paper. These schemes drain taxpayer-funded government programs designed to assist citizens who may not otherwise be able to afford healthcare. The FBI and our partners work tirelessly to stop people from defrauding the government, protect the integrity of the programs for those who truly need it, and bring offenders to justice,” said FBI Charlotte Acting Special Agent in Charge James C. Barnacle Jr.
“We remain committed to uncovering misconduct in use of healthcare funds and holding offenders accountable,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Richard Gaskins, Charlotte Field Office, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation. “Our special agents will continue to work alongside our law enforcement partners to pursue individuals who try to exploit federal relief programs for their personal gain.”
“These people were entrusted to help provide health care and necessary medical tests to patients, but instead they used patients’ information to commit Medicaid fraud,” said North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson. “I'm grateful for the work of our office’s Medicaid Investigations Division to hold these fraudsters accountable, as well as the partnerships with federal and state law enforcement and prosecutors that helped get this done. We'll make sure anyone who abuses taxpayer dollars is held accountable.”
“This criminal charge underscores the VA Office of Inspector General’s commitment to vigorously investigate those who would seek to defraud VA healthcare programs,” said Special Agent in Charge Nate Landkammer with the VA Office of Inspector General’s Mid-Atlantic Field Office. “The VA OIG thanks the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and our law enforcement partners for their efforts in this investigation.”
Principal Assistant Deputy Chief Jacob Foster, Assistant Deputy Chief Rebecca Yuan, Trial Attorney Miriam L. Glaser Dauermann, and Data Analyst Elizabeth Nolte, all of the Health Care Fraud Unit of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, led and coordinated this year’s Takedown. The cases are being prosecuted by the Health Care Fraud Unit’s National Rapid Response, Florida, Gulf Coast, Los Angeles, Midwest, New England, Northeast, and Texas Strike Forces; U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the District of Arizona, Central District of California, Northern District of California, Southern District of California, District of Columbia, District of Connecticut, District of Delaware, Middle District of Florida, Northern District of Florida, Southern District of Florida, Middle District of Georgia, District of Idaho, Northern District of Illinois, Eastern District of Kentucky, Western District of Kentucky, Eastern District of Louisiana, Middle District of Louisiana, District of Maine, District of Massachusetts, Eastern District of Michigan, Western District of Michigan, Northern District of Mississippi, Southern District of Mississippi, District of Montana, District of Nevada, District of New Hampshire, District of New Jersey, Eastern District of New York, Northern District of New York, Southern District of New York, Western District of New York, Eastern District of North Carolina, Western District of North Carolina, District of North Dakota, Northern District of Ohio, Southern District of Ohio, Northern District of Oklahoma, Western District of Oklahoma, District of Oregon, Eastern District of Pennsylvania, District of South Carolina, Middle District of Tennessee, Western District of Tennessee, Northern District of Texas, Southern District of Texas, Western District of Texas, District of Vermont, Eastern District of Virginia, Western District of Washington, and Northern District of West Virginia; and State Attorneys General’s Offices for California, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and Wisconsin. The Health Care Fraud Unit’s Data Analytics Team used cutting-edge data analytics to identify and support the investigations that led to these charges.
The Eastern District of North Carolina, in particular, worked with the following law enforcement organizations to investigate and prosecute the cases filed during the enforcement period: The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), the North Carolina Attorney General’s Office – Medicaid Investigations Division (MID), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation (IRSCI), the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), and the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General.
The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Forces. Prior to the charges announced as part of today’s nationwide Takedown and since its inception in March 2007, the Health Care Fraud Strike Force, which operates in 27 districts, charged more than 5,400 defendants who collectively billed Medicare, Medicaid, and private health insurers more than $27 billion.
A complaint, information, or indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Multi-Kilo Distributor with Ties to Sinaloa Cartel Sentenced to 24 YearsRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – Nigel Gray, 45, of Raleigh, was sentenced to 24 years in prison followed by five years of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl and five kilograms or more of cocaine. He pled guilty to the charges on June 28, 2024. Gray was also on federal supervised release at the time.
“This case reflects our commitment to dismantling drug trafficking networks—particularly those connected to cartels—and holding accountable those who fuel addiction and violence in the Eastern District,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar. “We will continue to work hand in hand with our state and federal partners to stop the flow of deadly narcotics and pursue justice for the people of this district.”
“This sentencing marks significant progress in our relentless efforts to shield our communities from the harmful effects of drug trafficking," stated Cardell T. Morant, Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Homeland Security Investigations Charlotte, responsible for North and South Carolina. "Through the dismantling of this criminal network and the confiscation of dangerous substances such as fentanyl and cocaine, as well as firearms, HSI and its partners are enhancing the safety of our neighborhoods and firmly asserting that such illegal activities will not be tolerated.”
Law enforcement received information linking Nigel Gray to the Sinaloa Cartel. On February 23, 2023, Homeland Security Investigations learned that a package containing nearly five kilograms of cocaine was enroute from Corona, California, to an address in Greenville, North Carolina. A controlled delivery was made on February 27, and a child retrieved the package. Surveillance and the investigation revealed Gray arranged for its pickup. On August 23, 2023, agents observed Gray in North Hills in Raleigh, meeting with individuals in a car later stopped in Winterville. Officers recovered 82 grams of fentanyl and 40 grams of cocaine. Further surveillance led to a Dollar General parking lot in Elizabeth City, where agents seized over two and a half kilograms of narcotics, including fentanyl and para-fluorofentanyl. On March 13, 2024, Gray was arrested. Prior to his arrest, agents observed him leaving a Raleigh residence that held a kilogram press, drug packaging materials, firearms, and over two kilograms of fentanyl. A search of Gray’s car uncovered evidence of wire transfers to Mexico.
Gray has prior convictions for Accessory after the fact (2005), Possession of a Firearm by a felon (2009), Assault with a Deadly Weapon (2009) and Conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 1 kilogram or more of heroin and 500 grams or more of cocaine (2012).
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, the Raleigh Police Department, Nashville Police Department, Pitt County Sheriff’s Office, and the Greenville Regional Drug Task Force investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Timothy Severo and Katherine Englander prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:24-CR-76-D.
Clayton Man with Gun Sentenced to over Five Years in Prison for COVID-19 FraudRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, N.C. – Darnell William King, age 42, was sentenced to 70 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release following his plea in May to conspiracy to commit bank and wire fraud, aggravated identity theft, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. According to the indictment and information presented in court, King entered into separate conspiracies to commit Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) fraud and to use stolen identities to obtain personal lines of credit from various private lenders in and around Wake County. King was also ordered to pay restitution to the Small Business Administration and the private lenders who were defrauded.
"This sentence sends a clear message: those who seek to exploit pandemic relief programs and steal individuals’ identities for personal gain will be held accountable,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar. “Mr. King’s deliberate and repeated fraud undermined a program designed to help struggling businesses in Eastern North Carolina. Thanks to the diligence of our federal and state partners, justice has been served.”
“Criminals cause immeasurable hardship to innocent victims and businesses by lying and stealing their identities,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Richard Gaskins, Charlotte Field Office, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation. “The defendant knowingly stole personally identifiable information and recruited others to aid in obtaining fraudulent loans using the stolen info. Our special agents will continue to work alongside our law enforcement partners and the United States Attorney's Office, to find, investigate and prosecute those who choose to willfully defraud the American people.”
“Stealing critical resources aimed at protecting communities and citizens is inexcusable,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Alicia Jones. “Not only did this individual exploit assistance programs aimed at helping those in need, but he did so while illegally possessing a firearm. Prohibited individuals in possession of firearms are dangerous and should be considered serious threats to public safety.”
King and others recruited “mules” to obtain fraudulent personal loans. King created fake driver’s licenses and other identity documents using a true photo of the mule and stolen personally identifying information belonging to unknowing victims. The mules then used the fake identity documents and other forged business records to obtain personal loans based on applications for credit that King or others had previously submitted online. The mule would then deliver the loan proceeds to King or his co-conspirators and would receive kickbacks anywhere between $100 and $2,000.
“This extensive investigation, known as Operation Overload, uncovered a sophisticated criminal enterprise that fraudulently utilized thousands of North Carolina licenses, resulting in financial crimes that impacted individuals across multiple states,” said Captain Vaughn of the North Carolina DMV License & Theft Bureau. “Bureau commends its inspectors, intelligence analysts, and all partner agencies for their hard work and collaboration. Their efforts underscore the importance of interagency cooperation in combating complex fraud schemes and safeguarding the identities of North Carolina residents.”
“This investigation began following several complaints from Wake County residents regarding identity theft and fraud. Over the course of nearly a year, a thorough investigation led to multiple arrests, supported by the NCDMV License and Theft, Clayton Police Department, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and the IRS Criminal Investigations. The investigators involved demonstrated exceptional diligence in pursuing the suspects and uncovering a vast network of crimes. Their efforts resulted in identifying hundreds of victims, not only in Wake County, but across North Carolina, and uncovering hundreds of thousands of dollars in fraud. I would like to commend the investigators for their tireless work and unwavering commitment to serving the residents of our county and state,” Sheriff Willie Rowe said.
In a second conspiracy, King and other conspirators applied for a PPP loan in King’s name with falsified bank and tax records claiming that King had been working as an Uber driver before the pandemic, resulting in the disbursement of over $15,000 in funds guaranteed by the Small Business Administration. Finally, during the execution of a search warrant in Clayton seeking evidence related to the identity theft conspiracy, law enforcement discovered King in possession of a firearm with a high-capacity drum magazine, even though King is a previously convicted felon prohibited from possessing firearms. King’s co-defendants, Loretta Clarice James and Lakesha Bowles, were previously sentenced to 8 years imprisonment and 30 months imprisonment respectively, for their roles in the conspiracies.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II pronounced the sentence. Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation led the investigation with the assistance of Homeland Security Investigations; the Wake County Sheriff’s Office; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles License & Theft Bureau. The Clayton Police Department and other local agencies have also aided over the course of the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys David G. Beraka and Ashley H. Foxx prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5-24-CR-00156.
Convicted Sex Offender Indicted for Naturalization FraudRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, N.C. – A federal grand jury returned an indictment on Tuesday charging Anibal Rios Lavias, 30, a U.S. citizen born in Mexico, with naturalization fraud. The indictment alleges that Lavias lied about his criminal conduct on his application to obtain U.S. citizenship.
According to the indictment and previously issued court documents, Lavias is alleged to have made knowingly and materially false statements under oath and penalty of perjury during a naturalization interview with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (CIS). In response to the questions “Were you EVER involved in any way with any of the following: … [f]orcing or trying to force someone to have any kind of sexual contact or relations?” and “Have you EVER committed, assisted in committing, or attempted to commit, a crime or offense for which you were NOT arrested?” he answered “No.” Lavias took the oath of citizenship and naturalized on May 4, 2018.
On March 19, 2024, in the Superior Court of North Carolina in Alamance County, Lavias pleaded guilty to five counts of statutory sexual offense with a child by an adult. He was sentenced to a term of imprisonment of between 300 and 420 months and ordered to register as a sex offender. Lavias confessed to having committed the crimes between February 25, 2018, and February 26, 2023. The victim was five years old when the abuse began. He was not arrested until after he naturalized, so immigration officials were unaware of his crimes prior to granting citizenship.
Lavias is charged in a two-count indictment with naturalization fraud. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison as well as the automatic revocation of his U.S. citizenship.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement. Officers with Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations division assigned to the Document Benefit Fraud Task Force are investigating the case as part of Operation False Haven, an ongoing initiative designed to aggressively target egregious felons who fraudulently obtain U.S. citizenship. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lori Warlick is prosecuting the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:25-cr-00152-BO-RJ.
An indictment is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Fayetteville Woman Sentenced to Prison in a $3.5 Million in Federal Student Aid SchemeRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, N.C. – A Fayetteville woman was sentenced Tuesday to five years in prison followed by three years of supervised release for conspiracy to commit wire fraud in connection with the theft of millions from the federal student aid program. Cynthia Denise Melvin, age 60, pled guilty to the charge on February 26, 2025. The court also ordered Melvin to pay $3,641,473 in restitution to the U.S. Department of Education.
“This case represents one of the most significant federal student aid fraud schemes ever prosecuted in North Carolina,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar. “We will continue to investigate and prosecute those who seek to steal from programs that help students who need it, as they pursue an education.”
“I’m proud of the work of OIG special agents and our law enforcement colleagues for shutting down yet another student aid fraud ring and holding Ms. Melvin accountable for her criminal actions,” said Andrew Balceniuk, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Education Office of Inspector General’s Eastern Regional Office. “The Office of Inspector General is committed to stopping student aid fraud rings, and we will continue to aggressively pursue anyone who participates in them.”
According to court documents and other information presented in court, between approximately 2016 and 2023, the defendant organized, led, and conspired with approximately 80 “straw students” and others to fraudulently apply for federal student aid at multiple community colleges in North Carolina, including Wake Technical Community College, Cape Fear Community College, and Fayetteville Technical Community College. Federal investigators from the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Inspector General (OIG), estimate that the scheme resulted in more than $4.7 million in financial aid awards, of which more than $3.5 million was disbursed. Based on the fraud losses, OIG indicates the scheme is the largest of its kind prosecuted in the State of North Carolina.
Federal Student Aid (FSA), an office within the U.S. Department of Education, is responsible for administering financial aid programs to assist qualified students in their pursuit of post-secondary education, including grants, loans, work study funds, and other disbursements. FSA also develops, distributes, and processes the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). After a school applies a financial award to a student’s tuition and fees, any remaining balance is refunded to the student for education-related expenses.
According to the investigation, Melvin collected personal identifying information (PII) of straw students in North Carolina and used that information to submit fraudulent applications for admission at the targeted schools. Thereafter, Melvin attempted to make it appear that the straw students were attending classes, completing coursework, and communicating with the targeted schools when, in fact, Melvin impersonated the straw students for these and other purposes. To obtain financial aid, Melvin submitted FAFSA forms for the straw students through FSA’s website and concealed her identity as the preparer.
During the execution of a federal search warrant at Melvin’s residence, OIG investigators recovered evidence establishing the operation and mechanics of the scheme, including PII and coursework for straw students, FSA account usernames and passwords, and bank account and routing numbers.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by Chief Judge Richard E. Myers, II. The U.S. Department of Education, Office of Inspector General, investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam F. Hulbig prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:25-CR-14-M.
Armed Crips Member Receives Six Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Greenville gang member was sentenced to 72 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Leonard Williams Jr., 36, pled guilty to the charges on February 18, 2025.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, the Greenville Regional Drug Task Force conducted several controlled purchases of cocaine from Williams Jr. during July and August 2024. On August 12, 2024, law enforcement searched a residence associated with Williams Jr. on Ward Street and found more than an ounce of cocaine and a loaded .40 caliber handgun in the bedroom. According to law enforcement, Williams Jr. is a validated member of the 83 set of the Crips street gang. Williams Jr. has a prior conviction from 2016 for conspiracy to commit second degree murder.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launders, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Greenville Regional Drug Task Force investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy Severo prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:24-CR-00072.
Raleigh Basketball Scout and Life Coach Sentenced to Prison for Obtaining Nearly $300,000 in Fraudulent COVID-19 Relief Loans in Nationwide SchemeRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – Earl Lamont Taylor, 52, was sentenced to six years in prison Monday and will be ordered to pay over half a million dollars in restitution to the Small Business Administration. Taylor went to trial in November and ultimately pled guilty to one count each of bank fraud and wire fraud while the jury was deliberating. He received almost $300,000 in fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) COVID-19 loans. This fraud was part of a multimillion-dollar national scheme, and, to date, more than 30 defendants have pled guilty and 29 have been sentenced.
“The Paycheck Protection Program required a degree of trust in American businesspeople,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar. “Thankfully, most were worthy of that trust, but Earl Taylor and his co-defendants were not. This sentence sends a message that those who take advantage of programs like PPP will receive serious consequences for their crimes.”
“The defendant conspired to take advantage of critical aid programs intended to provide relief for businesses affected during the pandemic by fraudulently applying for and obtaining COVID-19 program funds,” said Special Agent in Charge Donald “Trey” Eakins, Charlotte Field Office, IRS Criminal Investigation. “Our special agents will continue to work alongside our law enforcement partners to pursue individuals who try to exploit federal relief programs for their personal gain.”
According to court records and evidence presented at trial, Taylor worked with Quentin Jackson and Edward Whitaker to obtain fraudulent PPP loans. Taylor was referred to Whitaker by Jackson, and, with Whitaker’s assistance, Taylor applied for and received loans for two businesses, Get Me Recruited, LLC (a basketball scouting and tournament staging business) and Changing the Game Life Coach (purportedly a life coaching service for young athletes). The total received for both loans was $291,665.50, and Taylor paid Whitaker $72,917.24 for his assistance. In addition to the fraudulent loans, the trial evidence showed that Taylor also cashed alleged “payroll” checks for Jackson on Jackson’s PPP loans.
Information presented at the trial showed that Get Me Recruited, LLC did have business in 2019 and 2020, but employees listed on the loan application testified that they never made more than $2,000 per year and were not regularly salaried employees. The loan application submitted by Taylor listed their annual salaries as being between $110,145 and $128,416. In contrast, Changing the Game Life Coach did not appear to have any meaningful business during the relevant period and employees testified that they had never done any work for the company, and the bank account associated with the business was only open to receive the loan disbursement.
Jackson pled guilty in November 2022 and Whitaker pled guilty in January 2023. Jackson was sentenced to seven years in prison in December.
Other defendants that have been sentenced in the broader “Loanstarters” PPP scheme include:
- Albert Eugene Miller, Jr. [Case No. 5-22-CR-00290-D]
- Jonathan Fleming [Case No. 5-22-CR-00337-D]
- Nekita Hooks [Case No. 5-23-CR-00025-D]
- Denise Coit Alston [Case No. 5-23-CR-00077-D]
- Monica Faye Barnes [Case No. 5:23-CR-00094-D]
- Dontrell Barnes [Case No. 5-23-CR-00094-D]
- Isaac Lamont Dawson [Case No. 5:23-CR-0097-D]
- Irene Edwards [Case No. 5-23-CR-00098-D]
- Natosia Jerome Jenkins [Case No. 5:23-CR-00167-D]
- Ronald L. Jones [Case No. 5:23-CR-00339-D]
- Delvin Dashavone Felder [Case No. 5:23-CR-00198]
- Shun Lamont Gibbs [Case No. 5:23-CR-00346-D]
- Teresa Ann McRae [Case No. 5:23-CR-00313-D]
- Dontae Antonio Murphy [Case No. 5:24-CR-00072]
- Jackson Ndoyo [Case No. 5-23-CR-00118-D]
- Terron Cortez Parker [Case No. 5-23-CR-00081-D]
- Ayyub Abdur Rasheed [Case No. 5:23-CR-00314-D]
- Karim Aziz Razzak [Case No. 5:23-CR-00324]
- Toni A. Smith [Case No. 5:23-CR-00312-D]
- Darian Casteele Tyler [Case No. 5:23-CR-00338-D]
- Shakeerah Kaneisha Yvette Vinson [Case No. 5-23-CR-00027-D]
- Anthony S. Whitaker [Case No. 5:23-CR-00311-D]
- James Elton Watson Case No. 5:23-CR-00323-D]
- Shara Monique Wells [Case No. 5:23-CR-00323-D]
- Kami D. Woodard [Case No. 5-23-CR-00095-D]
- Lenille Woodard [Case No. 5-23-CR-00138-D]
- Quentin Jackson [Case No. 5-22-CR-180-D]
- Everett M. McBride [Case No. 5:24-CR-00036-D]
- Hanif Abdul-Hakim [Case No. 5:24-CR-00109-D]
- Schunda Coleman [Case No. 5-22-CR-00257-D]
- Edward Whitaker [Case No. 5-22-CR-00257-D]
Defendants awaiting sentencing include:
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was designed to provide emergency financial assistance to the millions of Americans who were economically suffering from the COVID-19 pandemic. The CARES Act and additional appropriations authorized up to $649 billion in forgivable loans to small businesses through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). Financial institutions issued the PPP loans, which were guaranteed by the Small Business Administration (SBA).
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III accepted the plea. Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorneys William M. Gilmore and David Beraka prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:23-CR-00335-D.
Drug Trafficker Sentenced to More Than Eight Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – An Elizabeth City man was sentenced on Tuesday to 8.5 years in prison for possessing with intent to distribute 189 grams of fentanyl. Al Esteban Ortiz, age 49, pled guilty to the charges on January 17, 2025.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, law enforcement received information that Ortiz, aka “Floyd Lee Riddick, Jr.”, had driven to New York to purchase narcotics. On May 4, 2024, Pasquotank County Sheriff’s Office investigators stopped Ortiz’s car once he entered Pasquotank County. After initiating the stop, law enforcement saw the driver throw a white bag out of the passenger side window onto the shoulder of the road. Investigators arrested Ortiz, the driver and sole occupant of the car, and recovered the bag from the shoulder of the road. The bag contained 189 grams of fentanyl. Law enforcement then obtained a search warrant for Ortiz’s house, where they recovered 25 grams of cocaine. Ortiz confessed to travelling to New York and purchasing what he believed to be heroin for $11,000, to bring back to Elizabeth City, North Carolina for distribution.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The Pasquotank County Sherriff’s Office investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ashley Avera and Phil Aubart prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:24-cr-00021.
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Nigerian-Born Man Previously Convicted in an $80 Million Fraud Case Indicted on New Charges of Naturalization FraudRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE, N.C. – A federal grand jury returned an indictment on Wednesday charging Omoyoma Christopher Okoro, 51, a United States citizen born in Nigeria, with naturalization fraud. The indictment alleges that Okoro lied about his criminal history on his application to obtain U.S. citizenship.
According to the indictment and previously issued court documents, Okoro is alleged to have made knowingly and materially false statements under penalty of perjury on an application for naturalization. In response to one question “Have you EVER committed, assisted in committing, or attempted to commit, a crime or offense for which you were NOT arrested?” he answered “No.” Okoro took the oath of citizenship and naturalized on December 13, 2018.
On September 19, 2024, following a jury trial in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, Okoro was convicted of conspiracy to commit mail, wire, and bank fraud. He was also convicted of two additional counts of wire fraud, one count of mail fraud, and one count of bank fraud. He was sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 100 months and ordered to pay over $22 million dollars in restitution. According to the jury’s verdict, Okoro committed those crimes from at least August 13, 2008, through January 1, 2011. He was not arrested until after he naturalized in 2018, so immigration officials were unaware of his crimes prior to granting citizenship.
Okoro is charged in a three-count indictment with naturalization fraud. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison as well as the automatic revocation of his United States citizenship.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations Division is investigating the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Lori Warlick is prosecuting the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No.5:25-CR-130.
An indictment is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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California Man Sentenced for Making Violent Threats Against North CaroliniansRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – Kevin Day Dunlow, age 62, of Huntington Beach, California, was sentenced to more than a year in prison, six months of home confinement, and three years of supervised release for two counts of transmitting a threat in interstate commerce.
According to court records and evidence presented in court, between May 1, 2024, and May 16, 2024, Dunlow made numerous threats targeting multiple entities and individuals, including an elected official, members of law enforcement, a church located in northeastern North Carolina, and two synagogues located in Raleigh and Durham.
Specifically, on May 1, 2024, Dunlow called the Wake County Sheriff’s Office dispatch to threaten there was a bomb at the sheriff’s office and told the dispatcher: “were going kill you.” Additionally, on May 10, 2024, Dunlow called a Rabbi just prior to the commencement of evening services and stated: “Jews didn’t deserve to live. Jews didn’t deserve to be on this earth. I’m going to kill the Jews. I’m coming to the Temple to kill all the Jews and the children.”
“Threats of violence against the Jewish community and law enforcement officials are not only despicable, they are also a grave federal crime that we take seriously,” Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar stated. “I commend the FBI’s quick and decisive response to these messages, so that Mr. Dunlow can be held responsible and our community can breathe easier.”
“Kevin Dunlow made violent threats against several groups of people. He targeted law enforcement, elected officials and their families, even local faith leaders, spewing vicious threats over the phone. These people serve our communities in varies ways and should feel safe as they do so,” said James C. Barnacle Jr., the FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge in North Carolina.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Terrence W. Boyle. The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) Raleigh-based Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Gabriel J. Diaz and Erin Blondel prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No.5:24-CR-00190.
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Texas Narcotics Trafficker who Burglarized Local Pharmacy Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – Michael Tremayne Smith, a 40-year-old resident of Sugarland, Texas, has been sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for Burglary of a Pharmacy, aiding and abetting, and Possession with Intent to Distribute a quantity of Oxycodone, aiding and abetting. Smith pled guilty on March 11, 2025.
According to the court documents and other information presented in court, Drugco Discount Pharmacy in Littleton, North Carolina, was burglarized on January 28, 2022. Security footage showed two people jump through the drive-thru window into the area behind the pharmacy counter. Both burglars were wearing hooded sweatshirts, gloves, and masks and were carrying large bags. They quickly grabbed numerous bottles of prescription medication, threw them into the bags, and ran out. The stolen drugs were worth $5,786.
Later that morning, a Franklin County Sheriff’s deputy stopped Defendant driving south on I-85. Inside his car were 15 unopened pill bottles labeled Oxycodone, 12 opened pill bottles labeled Oxycodone, and two bottles of liquid labeled promethazine, which matched substances taken during the burglary of Drugco Discount Pharmacy.
Defendant’s passenger, LaCarlton Lee Johnson, Jr., was also charged. He pled guilty and was sentenced to 87 months’ imprisonment.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by United States District Judge James C. Dever III. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) and Franklin County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer C. Nucci prosecuted the case. Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for case number 4:23-CR-00060-D.
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North Carolina Narcotics Trafficker Sentenced to 22 YearsRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – Shaborn Amar Nesbitt, a 37-year-old resident of Smithfield, North Carolina, has been sentenced to 22 years in federal prison for Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute 50 Grams or More of Methamphetamine. Nesbitt pled guilty on April 26, 2023.
According to the court documents and other information presented in court, the investigation began in October 2019, when law enforcement learned that Nesbitt was distributing large quantities of methamphetamine in the Eastern District of North Carolina. On October 14, 2019, Nesbitt traveled to Atlanta, Georgia, to get more methamphetamine to distribute in Eastern North Carolina. Law enforcement stopped his car, and a K9 unit alerted on it. Inside, they found almost two kilograms of crystal methamphetamine, small amounts of marijuana and mushrooms, $10,920 cash, and two cell phones. Nesbitt admitted to driving to Atlanta to pick up the methamphetamine.
Ultimately, Nesbitt was found responsible for approximately 11.98 kilograms of methamphetamine, 4.53 kilograms of marijuana, 10 kilograms of heroin, 56.7 grams of cocaine, and 3.8 grams of mushrooms.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by United States District Judge James C. Dever III. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Goldsboro Police Department, Selma Police Department, Robeson County Sheriff’s Office, and Johnston County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer C. Nucci prosecuted the case. Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for case number 5:21-CR-00056-D.
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Armed Drug Trafficker Convicted by Federal JuryRead the Press Release
NEW BERN, N.C. – A federal jury convicted an Elizabeth City man Tuesday on one charge of possession of crack cocaine with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
According to court records and evidence presented at trial, Charles Gregory, 36, was stopped for a traffic violation in Elizabeth City on August 7, 2022. An Elizabeth City police officer observed Gregory, the sole occupant of the car, toss an item out the window before coming to a stop. Officers recovered the tossed item from the street and found it to be a bag containing multiple smaller baggies of crack cocaine. Officers placed Gregory under arrest and searched the vehicle, where they found a stolen pistol in the glovebox. Gregory later made statements on recorded jail phone calls about the drugs and gun. Gregory is a convicted felon who has multiple prior felony drug convictions, including possession of cocaine and sell/deliver a Schedule II controlled substance.
Charles Gregory faces a mandatory minimum of five years of imprisonment and a statutory maximum of life imprisonment when sentenced on a later date.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Louise W. Flanagan accepted the verdict. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Elizabeth City Police Department investigated the case with assistance from the Sampson County Sheriff’s Office and the Pasquotank County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Phil Aubart and Jermaine Sellers prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:23-CR-14.
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Wilson Gang Member Sentenced to Seven Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Wilson man was sentenced Friday to seven years in prison followed by three years of supervised release for illegally possessing a firearm after being convicted of a felony. Joshua Elijah Strickland, 22, pled guilty to the charge on March 11, 2025.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, Strickland was arrested last July when the Wilson Police Department searched a house where Strickland and other gang members stored guns and drugs. That search came on the heels of a June 26, 2024, incident in which multiple men were spotted retreating to the gang house after firing 11 rounds into another occupied house just a few blocks away. The June 26 shooting was part of a spike in gang violence last summer, when Wilson saw at least 12 gang-related shootings occur in less than one month. Strickland has several prior felony convictions, including possession of a stolen firearm and maintaining a place for the use, storage, or sale of a controlled substance.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Raleigh-Durham Safe Streets Task Force and the Wilson Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Phil Aubart and Chris Cogburn prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:24-CR-305.
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Georgia Narcotics Trafficker Sentenced to More Than 12 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
NEW BERN, N.C. – Jesus Anibal Gutierrez, a 27-year-old resident of College Park, GA was sentenced to 12.5 years in federal prison for distributing crystal methamphetamine in Goldsboro, NC. Gutierrez pled guilty on November 12, 2024.
According to the court documents and other information presented in court, the investigation began in July 2023, when law enforcement learned that a Mexico-based drug trafficker had arranged to send significant quantities of narcotics to the Eastern District of North Carolina. Law enforcement learned that a courier working on behalf of the Mexican drug trafficker was scheduled to arrive in the Goldsboro, NC area with a large shipment of methamphetamine on October 21, 2023.
With the assistance of a confidential informant, law enforcement located the courier’s car and conducted a traffic stop. A K-9 alerted to the presence of narcotics inside the car, and law enforcement seized approximately 20.74 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine, as well as three cellular telephones. Gutierrez was a passenger in the car and admitted to law enforcement that he coordinated the shipment of narcotics and was traveling to the Goldsboro area to deliver them. The driver, Rosendo Salazar, pled guilty to possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine on March 10, 2025.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Louise W. Flanagan. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Goldsboro Police Department investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer C. Nucci prosecuted the case. A copy of this press release is located on our website. Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for case number 5:24-CR-00149.
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Pastor at Word of God Church Pleads Guilty to Fraudulently Obtaining More than $400,000 in COVID-19 LoansRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – Mitchell Summerfield, age 45, of Raleigh, pleaded guilty Tuesday to conspiracy to commit bank fraud and wire fraud in connection with a scheme to fraudulently obtain COVID-19 loan funds. At sentencing, Summerfield faces a maximum sentence of 30 years’ imprisonment, a $1,000,000 fine, and five years of supervised release. Summerfield will also be required to pay restitution in an amount to be determined.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, Summerfield was the pastor of the Word of God Fellowship Church in Raleigh, and also owned various other entities, including Winning Ways, KHS Investments, and Vision and Destiny. Between July 2020 and July 2021, Summerfield conspired with others to submit false and fraudulent applications for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans and Economic Injury Disaster loans (EIDL) for these entities.
Congress created the PPP program in March 2020 as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act in order to mitigate the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic for small businesses. PPP loans were fully guaranteed by the United States and forgivable so long as the proceeds were used for payroll and other qualified expenses. The CARES Act also expanded the EIDL program to assist small businesses experiencing financial distress due to the pandemic. The PPP and EIDL programs were administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).
Summerfield submitted multiple EIDL and/or PPP applications on behalf of Winning Ways, KHS Investments, and Vision and Destiny. Summerfield made various false statements in the applications to induce the SBA and lending institutions to approve and disburse the requested loan amounts. Summerfield also provided fabricated IRS tax forms, including false income tax returns. As a result of the fraudulent applications, Summerfield received more than $400,000 in PPP and EIDL funds. Summerfield used the loan fraud proceeds for unauthorized and unlawful purposes, including paying for personal expenses.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Terrence W. Boyle accepted the plea. The Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, investigated the case. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Lisa K. Labresh prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:25-CR-22.
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Iranian Man Pleaded Guilty to Role in Robbinhood RansomwareRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, N.C. – An Iranian national pleaded guilty today to participating in an international ransomware and extortion scheme involving the Robbinhood ransomware.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Sina Gholinejad, 37, and his co-conspirators compromised the computer networks of cities, corporations, health care organizations, and other entities around the United States, and encrypted files on these victim networks with the Robbinhood ransomware variant to extort ransom payments. These cyber-attacks caused significant disruptions and tens of millions in losses, including to the City of Greenville, North Carolina, and the City of Baltimore, Maryland. Baltimore lost more than $19 million from the damage caused to their computer networks and the resulting disruption to several essential city services, including online services for processing property taxes, water bills, parking citations, and other revenue-generating functions, which lasted many months. The conspirators used the damage they caused these cities to threaten subsequent victims.
“Gholinejad and his co-conspirators — all of whom were overseas — caused tens of millions of dollars in losses and disrupted essential public services by deploying the Robbinhood ransomware against U.S. cities, health care organizations, and businesses,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The ransomware attack against the City of Baltimore forced the city to take hundreds of computers offline and prevented the city from performing basic functions for months. Gholinejad’s conviction reflects the Criminal Division’s commitment to bringing cybercriminals who target our cities, healthcare system, and businesses to justice no matter where they are located. There will be no impunity for these destructive attacks.”
“Cybercrime is not a victimless offense—it is a direct attack on our communities, as seen in this case. Gholinejad and his co-conspirators orchestrated a ransomware scheme that disrupted lives, businesses, and local governments, and resulted in losses of tens of millions of dollars from unsuspecting victims and institutions,” said acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar. “The announcement today marks a significant step towards justice for the countless victims impacted by the defendant’s malicious scheme. Cases like these act as a reminder that cybercriminals who seek to exploit our digital infrastructure for personal gain will be identified, prosecuted, and held accountable.”
“These ransomware actors leveraged sophisticated tools and tradecraft to harm innocent victims in the United States, all while believing they could conduct their illegal activities safely from overseas,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge James C. Barnacle Jr. of the FBI. “This case demonstrates the capability and resolve of the FBI and our partners to find and impose consequences on cybercriminals no matter where they attempt to hide.”
Beginning in January 2019, Gholinejad and others gained and maintained unauthorized access to victim computer networks and then copied information from the infected victim networks to virtual private servers controlled by the conspirators. The conspirators also deployed Robbinhood ransomware to encrypt the victims’ files and extort Bitcoin from victims in exchange for the private key required to decrypt the victims’ computer files.
Gholinejad and his co-conspirators attempted to launder the ransom payments through cryptocurrency mixing services and by moving assets between different types of cryptocurrencies, a practice known as chain-hopping. They also hid their identities and activities through a number of technical methods, including the use of virtual private networks and servers that they operated. The indictment identifies multiple additional victims of Robbinhood ransomware, including, but not limited to, the City of Gresham, Oregon and the City of Yonkers, New York.
Gholinejad pleaded guilty to one count of computer fraud and abuse and one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. He faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison when sentenced later this year.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II accepted the plea. The Federal Bureau of Investigation is investigating the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad DeVoe, Senior Counsels Aarash Haghighat and Ryan R.J. Dickey of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section are prosecuting the case with valuable assistance from Trial Attorney Alexandra Cooper-Ponte of the Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section and Deputy Chief Matthew Anzaldi of the National Security Division’s National Security Cyber Section.
The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs also provided substantial assistance in the collection of evidence. Additional details on protecting networks against ransomware are available at StopRansomware.gov.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:24-CR-16.
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Iranian Man Pleaded Guilty to Role in Robbinhood RansomwareRead the Press Release
Note: see indictment here.
An Iranian national pleaded guilty today to participating in an international ransomware and extortion scheme involving the Robbinhood ransomware.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Sina Gholinejad, 37, and his co-conspirators compromised the computer networks of cities, corporations, health care organizations, and other entities around the United States, and encrypted files on these victim networks with the Robbinhood ransomware variant to extort ransom payments. These cyber attacks caused significant disruptions and tens of millions in losses, including to the City of Greenville, North Carolina, and the City of Baltimore, Maryland. Baltimore lost more than $19 million from the damage caused to their computer networks and the resulting disruption to several essential city services, including online services for processing property taxes, water bills, parking citations, and other revenue-generating functions, which lasted many months. The conspirators used the damage they caused these cities to threaten subsequent victims.
“Gholinejad and his co-conspirators — all of whom were overseas — caused tens of millions of dollars in losses and disrupted essential public services by deploying the Robbinhood ransomware against U. S. cities, health care organizations, and businesses,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The ransomware attack against the City of Baltimore forced the city to take hundreds of computers offline and prevented the city from performing basic functions for months. Gholinejad’s conviction reflects the Criminal Division’s commitment to bringing cybercriminals who target our cities, healthcare system, and businesses to justice no matter where they are located. There will be no impunity for these destructive attacks.”
“Cybercrime is not a victimless offense — it is a direct attack on our communities, as seen in this case. Gholinejad and his co-conspirators orchestrated a ransomware scheme that disrupted lives, businesses, and local governments, and resulted in losses of tens of millions of dollars from unsuspecting victims and institutions,” said acting U. S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar for the Eastern District of North Carolina. “The announcement today marks a significant step towards justice for the countless victims impacted by the defendant’s malicious scheme. Cases like these act as a reminder that cybercriminals who seek to exploit our digital infrastructure for personal gain will be identified, prosecuted, and held accountable.”
“These ransomware actors leveraged sophisticated tools and tradecraft to harm innocent victims in the United States, all while believing they could conduct their illegal activities safely from overseas,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge James C. Barnacle Jr. of the FBI’s Charlotte Field Office. “This case demonstrates the capability and resolve of the FBI and our partners to find and impose consequences on cybercriminals no matter where they attempt to hide.”
Beginning in January 2019, Gholinejad and others gained and maintained unauthorized access to victim computer networks and then copied information from the infected victim networks to virtual private servers controlled by the conspirators. The conspirators also deployed Robbinhood ransomware to encrypt the victims’ files and extort Bitcoin from victims in exchange for the private key required to decrypt the victims’ computer files.
Gholinejad and his co-conspirators attempted to launder the ransom payments through cryptocurrency mixing services and by moving assets between different types of cryptocurrencies, a practice known as chain-hopping. They also hid their identities and activities through a number of technical methods, including the use of virtual private networks and servers that they operated. The indictment identifies multiple additional victims of Robbinhood ransomware, including, but not limited to, the City of Gresham, Oregon and the City of Yonkers, New York.
Gholinejad pleaded guilty to one count of computer fraud and abuse and one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison. He is scheduled to be sentenced in August. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI Charlotte Field Office investigated the case, with substantial assistance from the FBI Baltimore Field Office. The Justice Department extends its thanks to international judicial and law enforcement partners in Bulgaria for providing valuable assistance with the collection of evidence.
Senior Counsels Aarash A. Haghighat and Ryan K. J. Dickey of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section and Assistant U. S. Attorney Bradford DeVoe for the Eastern District of North Carolina are prosecuting the case, with valuable assistance from Trial Attorney Alexandra Cooper-Ponte of the Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section and Deputy Chief Matthew Anzaldi of the National Security Division’s National Security Cyber Section.
The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs also provided substantial assistance in the collection of evidence.
Additional details on protecting networks against ransomware are available at StopRansomware. gov.
Halifax County Felon Sentenced to More Than 5 Years for Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – Sakwon Artavas Bowser, age 29, was sentenced on Friday to 5.5 years in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Bowser pleaded guilty to the charge on February 18, 2025.
According to court records and evidence presented at sentencing, in June 2024, Bowser was wanted on outstanding warrants for common law robbery by the Halifax County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO). On June 6, 2024, law enforcement saw Bowser exit a local mobile home park and attempted a traffic stop. Instead of stopping, Bowser drove through a restaurant parking lot and then accelerated at a high rate of speed. The officer pursued Bowser as he drove recklessly, passing a vehicle at a stop sign, traveling in the center lane, and reaching speeds of 60 mph in a 35-mph zone. Bowser continued driving through residential yards of a mobile home park before he jumped from the moving vehicle and continued to flee on foot. HCSO noticed that Bowser had a backpack in his possession when he jumped out of the car, which he dropped in a wooded area during the foot pursuit. HCSO found Bowser hiding inside one of the mobile homes. A subsequent search of Bowser’s backpack revealed multiple baggies of marijuana packaged individually for distribution, a loaded Glock 17 handgun, a digital scale, and U.S. currency.
Bowser has a criminal history that spans a decade and includes a prior felony conviction from 2018 for conspiracy to obtain property by false pretenses.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. Agencies involved in the investigation include the Halifax County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Dixon prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:24-CR-00074.
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Gang Member Sentenced to 14 Years for Involvement in Cross-Country Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Raleigh gang member was sentenced on Thursday to 14 years in prison for conspiring to traffic fentanyl pills in the Eastern District of North Carolina. Shakeim Weeks, age 30, pled guilty on February 27, 2025, to Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Four Hundred Grams or More of a Mixture and Substance Containing a Detectable Amount of Fentanyl.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, law enforcement determined that Weeks, a validated member of the United Blood Nation gang, was part of a drug trafficking organization that was obtaining fentanyl pills in California and Arizona and transporting them to the Raleigh area for distribution. On June 7, 2024, Weeks was arrested when law enforcement found approximately 100,000 fentanyl pills, weighing approximately 11 kilograms, in Weeks' suitcase when he returned to North Carolina from a resupply trip to Arizona. The fentanyl pills Weeks brought to North Carolina were packaged in Lego boxes, consistent with other seizures of fentanyl pills from this drug trafficking organization.
This investigation was an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Raleigh Police Department, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Durham Police Department investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Casey L. Peaden prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:24-CR-200-D-006.
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Elizabeth City Man Sentenced to 78 Months in Prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Quantity of FentanylRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – An Elizabeth City man was sentenced Thursday to 6.5 years in prison after he ran from law enforcement during a traffic stop and was found in possession of 29.66 grams of fentanyl. Rashawn M. Baum, 29, pled guilty to Possession With the Intent to Distribute a Quantity of a Mixture and Substance Containing a Detectable Amount of Fentanyl on February 27, 2025.
According to court records, officers with the North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement and Elizabeth City Police Department observed Baum driving erratically at a high rate of speed. When officers tried to initiate a traffic stop, Baum sped off. After a short pursuit, Baum collided with two separate cars before coming to a stop near a local family restaurant. Baum and one of the passengers in the car attempted to flee on foot but were caught quickly.
In Baum’s vehicle, law enforcement found a green Crown Royal bag on the driver’s side floorboard. It contained a plastic bag and ten bindles containing various quantities of a white substance. Tests of that substance confirmed it to be approximately an ounce of fentanyl. Law enforcement also recovered a .357 semi-automatic pistol from the scene.
U.S. District Court Judge James C. Dever, III, imposed the sentence and stated that “fentanyl is destroying thousands of lives.” Judge Dever explained the sentence was, in part, because the defendant would rather poison members of his community than seek legitimate employment. The 78-month sentence will commence after Baum finishes an unrelated state sentence in 2031.
Elizabeth City Chief of Police Eddie Graham echoed the District Court and stated that “drugs ruin people’s lives, break up families, and have a disastrous effect on our community.” Chief Graham asserted that such conduct “will no longer be tolerated.”
“Communities across North Carolina have been ravaged by the spread of fentanyl and other opioids, which can lead to overdose deaths,” Acting United States Attorney Daniel P. Bubar said today. “When individuals bring this poison into our communities, this United States Attorney’s Office, along with our partners in law enforcement, will act to prosecute those offenders in order to protect the community.”
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement, and Elizabeth City Police Department investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Phil Aubart and Logan Liles prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No.5:24-CR-182.
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Federal Charges Brought After Shots Fired at Bertie County DeputiesRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – Federal charges were brought today against a Lewiston-Woodville man charging him with being a felon in possession of a firearm. Dominique Javon Thompson, 34, appeared in federal court for his initial appearance.
According to information presented in the Criminal Complaint, Thompson fired at Bertie County Deputies who were responding to a call regarding an armed individual at a residence in Lewiston-Woodville. The Complaint alleges that when deputies arrived, Thompson opened fire at their patrol vehicles. Neither the deputies nor the K-9 deputy were struck by the gunfire, although their vehicles were hit multiple times. Thompson then fled in a White Hyundai Elantra. Deputies received information that Thompson had family in the Kinston area, and the Kinston Police Department found the white Elantra abandoned on the side of the road around 9 am. Kinston PD later found Thompson in a car during a traffic stop. Upon approaching the car, the officer found Thompson in the back seat and took him into custody. A firearm was found in the glovebox, which matched the description of the one used in the shooting in Bertie County.
“We will work quickly and tirelessly to investigate anyone who tries to inflict violence against our law enforcement partners and break federal laws, as alleged in the complaint,” Acting United States Attorney Daniel P. Bubar stated today. “I’m proud of the investigative response provided by our federal and state partners in this case.”
“Thankfully, no one was hurt, and the defendant was taken into custody without incident,” Bertie County Sheriff Tyrone M. Ruffin stated today. “Law enforcement officers dedicate themselves to public service and we leave home daily not knowing if we will return. We are thankful for the partnerships of our local, state, and federal resources.”
Thompson is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm in violation of Title 18, United States Code Sections 922(g)(1) and 924. He faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison if convicted.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Bertie County Sheriff’s Office, the Martin County Sheriff’s Office, the Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office, State Highway Patrol, Bertie Police Department, Martin Police Department, Williamston Police Department, and Kinston Police Department assisted with the investigation and Assistant U.S. Attorney Phil Aubart is prosecuting the case.
Related court documents and information are located on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:25-mj-01049.
A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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Federal Jury Convicts a Former Armed-Robber of Possessing a Firearm while on Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. – A federal jury convicted a Raleigh man on Tuesday on charges of possession of a firearm by a felon. Cawajalin Kavin McNeil, age 30, will face up to 15 years of imprisonment when sentenced later this year.
According to court records and evidence presented at trial, in the early morning hours of March 16, 2024, while heading home from work, an eyewitness saw McNeil in a confrontation with a young woman. When the eyewitness attempted to intervene, McNeil pointed a 9mm pistol at him. He then backed away to his vehicle where he called 911 to report the incident near North Carolina State University. The eyewitness described the black car the defendant got into, gave a nearly complete license plate number, and a physical description of McNeil.
When Officers with the Raleigh Police Department (RPD) responded, they found McNeil seated in a black vehicle matching the description of the car from the eyewitness. That vehicle’s license plate was nearly an exact match of the one given to 911 and McNeil himself matched the description of the individual who had pointed the gun at the eyewitness. A search of the vehicle found a 9mm pistol wedged between the front passenger seat and the center console. The gun was similar to the gun pointed at the 911 caller. McNeil was then arrested for not having a conceal-carry permit.
During processing at the Wake County Detention Center, officers located a razor blade in McNeil’s shoe and felt an unusual object near the defendant’s groin. A subsequent search uncovered a second 9mm pistol hidden in McNeil’s underwear. It was later determined that McNeil was a convicted felon who had previously plead guilty to conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery and using and carrying a firearm in furtherance of a federal crime of violence. McNeil had been sentenced to 180 months in prison, had been released in November 2023, and was on supervised release when this incident occurred.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Terrence W. Boyle accepted the verdict. The RPD and the Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives are investigating the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Logan Liles is prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on our website. Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No.5:24-cr-00271.
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Two Women Sentenced for Running a More Than $1.5 Million COVID-19 Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, N.C. – A Zebulon woman was sentenced Thursday to 8 years in prison for her role in a multi-million-dollar COVID-19 fraud scheme. Loretta Clarice James, 49, had previously pled guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud on May 29, 2024. One of James’ co-conspirators, Lakesha Bowles, 43, was sentenced on April 24, 2025, to 30 months imprisonment for her role in the conspiracy. Both women were also ordered to repay over one million dollars in restitution.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, James and Bowles conspired to commit wire fraud by fraudulently submitting loan applications to the federal Paycheck Protection Program(PPP), which was established by Congress through the CARES Act to support small businesses during the economic uncertainty and layoffs that accompanied the COVID-19 pandemic.
The fraudulent claims on the PPP loan applications, guaranteed by the United States Small Business Association, inflated payroll numbers and asked for funding on behalf of dormant or non-existent businesses. James and Bowles submitted loan applications in their own names, and on behalf of others whom they recruited. James and Bowles were given a portion of the loan proceeds if the third-party loans were approved.
In addition to PPP fraud, James also conspired to commit wire fraud by fraudulently submitting loan and grant applications to the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Program and the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) Program. These other programs were also created by the federal government as a lifeline to struggling small businesses affected by COVID-19. James submitted fraudulent EIDL loans applications in her name, her family members’ names, and in the names of other friends and associates. James submitted EIDL applications for businesses that did not exist and for salaries of employees who were fictitious. James submitted several hundred fraudulent EIDL applications, leading to over $500,000 in fraudulent EIDL disbursements.
In all, James, Bowles and other co-conspirators facilitated the fraudulent disbursement of more than $1.5 million in COVID-19 Loans. Darnell William King, who conspired with both women, pled guilty to PPP fraud and identity theft charges on March 11, 2025.
In addition to this significant COVID-19 loan fraud conspiracy, Loretta James was involved in an identity theft scheme where she and others used stolen identities to obtain loans or personal lines of credit from private lenders. James’ main role in that scheme included obtaining Social Security Numbers of individuals with good credit, completing a loan application in that individual’s name, using forged documents and email accounts in furtherance of the loan applications. James and her conspirators then hired “Mules” to physically obtain the funds from the bank or lender. Equipped with fake identity documentation made by James or others, the Mule would physically sign the application and associated paperwork, claiming to be the true applicant and promising to pay the loan back. After securing the funds, the Mule would bring the money back to James and other members of the scheme, and they would give the Mule a cut of the loan, ranging from $100 to $2,000 per loan. James and her compatriots did this over and over again, with loans that ranged from $5,000 to $10,000, none of which was ever paid back.
“This office is committed holding accountable those who exploited a national crisis and the hardships of others for their personal gain and greed. Public relief funds were created to support hardworking individuals and small businesses during times of crisis—not to line the pockets of criminals,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar. “We will continue to work diligently with our many state and federal partners to peruse justice for those who choose to abuse public trust by lying, cheating, and stealing resources that are meant to support our community in its greatest time of need.”
“This extensive investigation, known as Operation Overload, uncovered a sophisticated criminal enterprise that fraudulently utilized thousands of North Carolina licenses, resulting in financial crimes that impacted individuals across multiple states,” said Captain Vaughn of the North Carolina DMV License & Theft Bureau. “Bureau commends its inspectors, intelligence analysts, and all partner agencies for their hard work and collaboration. Their efforts underscore the importance of interagency cooperation in combating complex fraud schemes and safeguarding the identities of North Carolina residents.”
“The defendants conspired to take advantage of critical aid programs intended to provide relief for businesses affected during the pandemic by fraudulently applying for and obtaining COVID-19 program funds,” said Special Agent in Charge Donald “Trey” Eakins, Charlotte Field Office, IRS Criminal Investigation. “IRS Criminal Investigation special agents will continue to work alongside our law enforcement partners to pursue individuals who try to exploit federal relief programs for their personal gain.”
“This investigation began following several complaints from Wake County residents regarding identity theft and fraud. Over the course of nearly a year, a thorough investigation led to multiple arrests, supported by the NCDMV License and Theft, Clayton Police Department, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and the IRS Criminal Investigations. The investigators involved demonstrated exceptional diligence in pursuing the suspects and uncovering a vast network of crimes. Their efforts resulted in identifying hundreds of victims, not only in Wake County, but across North Carolina, and uncovering hundreds of thousands of dollars in fraud. I would like to commend the investigators for their tireless work and unwavering commitment to serving the residents of our county and state,” Wake County Sheriff Willie Rowe said.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II announced James’ sentence. The Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation investigated the case with the assistance of Homeland Security Investigations; the Wake County Sheriff’s Office; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicle License & Theft Bureau. The Clayton Police Department and other local agencies also aided over the course of the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys David G. Beraka, Ashley H. Foxx, and Karen Haughton prosecuted the cases.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 5:24-CR-00132 and 5:24-CR-00363.
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Former Firefighter Sentenced for Distributing Child Sexual Abuse Material OnlineRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, N.C. – A former volunteer firefighter from Wake Forest was sentenced Wednesday to more than 12 years (151 months) in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release for distribution, receipt and possession of child sexual abuse material. Royce Cosmo Fuoco, 49, plead guilty on October 8, 2024, to ten counts of Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Material, one count of Receipt of Child Sexual Abuse Material, and one count of Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, Fuoco was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) after receiving a cyber tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) that someone with the username “ncfirefighter07” on the social media application Kik had distributed at least 30 videos containing child sexual abuse material. Law enforcement executed a search warrant for the Kik account and found that user “ncfirefighter07” had 441 instances of distribution of child sexual abuse material to both individuals and groups on the Kik platform. Law enforcement linked that Kik account to Royce Fuoco, a former volunteer firefighter for the Wake Forest Fire Department.
Law enforcement executed a search warrant at Fuoco’s house. Several digital devices seized contained child sexual abuse material and evidence of his distribution of the material. Fuoco admitted to law enforcement that he obtained child sexual abuse material in Kik chat groups. Fuoco said he was bored while working from home, and he would obtain the child sexual abuse material and then send it to other users.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II. The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Charity Wilson prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:24-CR-229.
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Serial Bank Robber Convicted by Federal JuryRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, N.C. – A federal jury convicted a Fayetteville man on Friday on one charge of bank robbery, three charges of armed bank robbery, and three charges of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
According to court records and evidence presented at trial, Karim Brown, 32, engaged in a serial bank robbery spree that spanned a month from December 2021 to January 2022. The robberies occurred in Hope Mills, Angier, Fuquay-Varina, and Fayetteville. Karim Brown was the robber who entered each of the banks and brandished a firearm in three of them. Shiheem Brown, who pled guilty to one of the armed bank robberies and a charge of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, was sentenced to 18 years in federal prison on December 11, 2024.
Karim Brown began his spree by robbing the PNC Bank in Hope Mills. He entered the bank and demanded money from the teller, which totaled $4,674. On New Year’s Eve 2021, Shiheem Brown was captured on surveillance footage scouting the First Bank in Angier, before Karim Brown entered, brandished a firearm, and demanded cash. He got away with $4,611. Two weeks later, on January 14, 2022, Karim Brown robbed the PNC on Main Street in Fuquay-Varina, brandishing a firearm and getting away with $9,000. For the final act in their spree, Shiheem Brown was again captured on surveillance footage scouting the Fidelity Bank on Village Drive in Fayetteville. Karim Brown then entered the bank, brandished a firearm equipped with a laser sight, and demanded cash. During this robbery he passed a note to the teller indicating that he was willing to shoot her. A bank manager at Fidelity exited her office to see what the commotion was about, and Karim Brown pointed his firearm at her and ordered her to walk across the bank to the teller counter while the tellers placed $15,336 in a bag. Karim Brown then fled, but during the flight, Shiheem Brown took a selfie as he drove away, capturing himself driving and Karim Brown removing his disguise in the back seat. The selfie was taken approximately 7 minutes after the robbery (pictured below).
Police broke the case open when they were able to track the vehicle used in the Fuquay-Varina bobbery back to Shiheem and Karim Brown. Shiheem Brown was arrested at an apartment in Fayetteville by Fayetteville PD and the U.S. Marshals Service Task Force on January 27, 2022. During the arrest, Shiheem Brown threw a loaded firearm off the balcony of the apartment, which was recovered. The firearm matched the description of the firearm used in the robberies. Police also recovered $2,650 cash during Shiheem Brown’s arrest. Karim Brown was arrested at this residence the same day.
Karim Brown faces a mandatory minimum of 31 years’ imprisonment and a statutory maximum of life in prison when sentenced on a later date.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II accepted the verdict. The Federal Bureau of Investigations, Hope Mills PD, Angier PD, Fuquay-Varina PD, Fayetteville PD and the United States Marshals Service helped investigate the case and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Phil Aubart and Kimberly Dixon prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No.5:23-CR-251.
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Lumberton Bank Employee Pleads Guilty to Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Lumberton woman pleaded guilty today to bank fraud and misuse of social security numbers. Jillian Scott, 31, faces a maximum penalty of 35 years in prison when sentenced later this year.
According to court documents and other evidence presented in court, Scott was employed as a customer call representative for State Employees Credit Union (SECU) and worked remotely from her home on a SECU issued laptop. As a customer call representative, Scott had access to both the personal identifying information and account information of SECU members. Between November 2018 and June 2021, Scott used her position to access the bank accounts of more than 20 customers who called the member service line for questions regarding their accounts. The customers were unaware that Scott repeatedly accessed their accounts for reasons unrelated to their customer service call.
As part of the scheme, Scott used the personal identifying information from the customer’s accounts to create fraudulent PayPal and CashApp accounts in their names. Scott then used these fraudulent PayPal and CashApp accounts to transfer money from the customers’ SECU accounts to bank accounts owned and controlled by her. She also created fraudulent Bill Pay checks, which she used to move money from the SECU customer’s accounts into her own accounts. In total, Scott made nearly 700 fraudulent CashApp transactions, 120 fraudulent PayPal transactions, and 47 fraudulent Bill Pay transactions, for a total loss of nearly $80,000.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Terrence W. Boyle accepted the plea. The United States Postal Inspection Service is investigating the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Toby Lathan is prosecuting the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 25-CR-00028.
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Justice Department Announces Results of Operation Restore Justice: 205 Child Sex Abuse Offenders Arrested in FBI-led Nationwide Crackdown, Including Six in North CarolinaRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – Today, the Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Restore Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators. The operation resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sexual abuse offenders in the nationwide crackdown. The coordinated effort was executed over the course of five days by all 55 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section in the Department’s Criminal Division, and United States Attorney’s Offices around the country.
“The Department of Justice will never stop fighting to protect victims — especially child victims — and we will not rest until we hunt down, arrest, and prosecute every child predator who preys on the most vulnerable among us,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “I am grateful to the FBI and their state and local partners for their incredible work in Operation Restore Justice and have directed my prosecutors not to negotiate.”
“Every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation, and the FBI will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of those who exploit the most vulnerable among us,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Operation Restore Justice proves that no predator is out of reach and no child will be forgotten. By leveraging the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state and local partners, we’re sending a clear message: there is no place to hide for those who prey on children.”
The FBI’s Charlotte Field Office arrested six people as part of this operation across North Carolina.
- John Matthew Miller, of Wilmington, 35, is charged with sex trafficking of a minor; enticing a minor to engage in illegal sexual conduct; and producing, distributing, receiving, and possessing child sexual abuse material. Miller was previously convicted of sexual battery and was a registered sex offender at the time of the offense. Miller faces at least 25 years and up to life in prison if convicted on all counts.
- Jesse Lonzo Teal, of Bolivia, 72, also known as “Lonnie” and “Mark,” is charged with sex trafficking of a minor, enticing a minor to engage in illegal sexual conduct, producing child sexual abuse material, and using the internet to promote an illegal prostitution business enterprise. He faces at least ten years and up to life imprisonment if convicted on all counts.
- William Justin Lewis, of Louisburg, 54, is charged with distributing child sexual abuse material and possessing child sexual abuse material. He faces at least five years in federal prison and up to twenty years on each distribution count and up to twenty years on the possession count.
- Donte Melvin Peek, of Durham, 34, is charged with attempted enticement of a minor, distribution of child sexual abuse material, receipt of child sexual abuse material, and possession of child sexual abuse material. He faces at least 10 years imprisonment and up to life imprisonment on the enticement charge and up to twenty years in federal prison on the possession count, if convicted.
- Jonathan Robert Davlin, of Huntersville, 48, is charged with transportation of child sexual abuse material and possession and access with intent to view child sexual abuse material involving prepubescent minors. He faces at least five years and up to twenty years imprisonment on the transportation count and up to twenty years imprisonment on the possession count.
- Terrell Shawn Anderson, previously of Charlotte, 30, is charged with distributing child sexual abuse material and possession child sexual abuse material. He faces at least five years in federal prison and up to twenty years on each distribution count and up to twenty years on the possession count. He was arrested by FBI Atlanta.
“These important cases reflect the unwavering commitment of our office and our justice system to protect the most vulnerable members of our community—our children. We will continue to work closely with the FBI and our other law enforcement partners to ensure that those who commit such heinous acts are held accountable,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar for the Eastern District of North Carolina. “There is no place in our community for those who prey on children, and we will do everything we can to not only seek justice for the victims, but to prevent additional child exploitation crimes.”
“Producing and exchanging child sexual abuse material (CSAM) is a sickening reality in our world and it’s not just happening on the dark web. Pedophiles use the same platforms your family and friends use. No matter where this crime is occurring the FBI will find you. The Violent Crimes Against Children (VCAC) program is uniquely positioned to work complex global and multijurisdictional crimes against children with the capacity to counter threats of abuse and exploitation of children,” said Robert M. DeWitt, the FBI Special Agent in Charge in North Carolina.
Others arrested around the country are alleged to have committed various crimes including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking. In Minneapolis, for example, a state trooper and Army Reservist was arrested for allegedly producing child sexual abuse material while wearing his uniforms. In Norfolk, VA, an illegal alien from Mexico is accused of transporting a minor across state lines for sex. In Washington, D.C., a former Metropolitan Police Department Police Officer was arrested for allegedly trafficking minor victims.
In many cases, parental vigilance and community outreach efforts played a critical role in bringing these offenders to justice. For example, a California man was arrested about eight hours after a young victim bravely came forward and disclosed their abuse to FBI agents after an online safety presentation at a school near Albany, N.Y.
This effort follows the Department’s observance of National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April, and underscores the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and raising awareness about the dangers they face. While the Department, including the FBI, investigates and prosecutes these crimes every day, April serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preventing these crimes, seeking justice for victims, and raising awareness through community education.
The Justice Department is committed to combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.
The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org. The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI’s tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office.
Other online resources:
Electronic Press Kit
Violent Crimes Against Children
How we can help you: Parents and caregivers protecting your kids
An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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