Eastern District of North Carolina
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Federal Charges Unsealed Related to Kidnapping of Garner FamilyRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – Three Raleigh-based individuals appeared in federal court today to face charges for kidnapping a mother and toddler from their Garner, North Carolina home. Eleodoro Estrada-Hernandez, age 37, and siblings Paola Duran Duran, age 25, and Miguel Duran Duran, age 23, are charged in federal criminal complaints with kidnapping and aiding and abetting. The complaints were unsealed today at the defendants’ initial appearances. Their federal detention hearings are scheduled for May 12, 2025.
The federal criminal complaints allege that Paola, Miguel (wearing a ski mask) and Hernandez (wearing a ski mask and armed with a semi-automatic handgun) forcibly entered a home in Garner on the evening of April 28, 2025. Inside the home was a husband and wife and their 13-month-old child. The complaints allege that Hernandez and Miguel overpowered the husband, taped his hands behind his back and covered his eyes and mouth, and then demanded $1 million. Miguel and Paola forced the mother and toddler out the back door of the house and into a car, according to the complaints. Hernandez left the house a short time later. Once alone, the complaints allege that the husband was able to free himself and call police. He provided law enforcement with a description of a car he believed the kidnappers were driving.
Police issued an Amber Alert, and a short time later, the complaint alleges that the kidnappers dropped the mother and child off on a dirt road approximately 30 miles away from their house. The victims were able to walk to a nearby house and contact police and were returned home safely.
The FBI arrested Paola and Miguel on April 29, 2025. They have been detained since that date on related state charges. The FBI arrested Hernandez on May 2, 2025. According to information presented in court today, all three defendants are allegedly illegally present in the United States.
“These significant federal charges result from the prompt response of law enforcement and demonstrate the close partnership between all of the agencies involved,” Acting United States Attorney Daniel P. Bubar stated today. “Investigating and prosecuting violent crimes like those alleged in the complaints will remain a top priority for our office.”
“When our partners at the Garner Police Department requested FBI assistance with a kidnapping, we surged resources from across the state in the middle of the night. Alongside local and state partners, a fast-moving and complex case unfolded. Through the combination of investigative technology, tactics, and tools, thankfully the victims were recovered safely. The FBI will continue to support our partners and work towards justice for innocent victims caught up in violent criminal actions,” said Robert M. DeWitt, the FBI Special Agent in Charge in North Carolina.
Eleodoro Estrada-Hernandez, Paola Duran Duran and Miguel Duran Duran are all charged with Kidnapping and Aiding and Abetting. All three face a maximum punishment of life in prison if convicted.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement. The FBI Raleigh-Durham Safe Streets Task Force, Homeland Security Investigations, Garner Police Department, NC State Bureau of Investigation, and the Wake County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Avera 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 Nos.5:25-MJ-1559 and 5:25‐MJ‐1571.
A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Raleigh Man Convicted of Possessing More Than 300 Images of Child Sexual Abuse Material on his Work LaptopRead the Press Release
ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. – A federal jury convicted a Raleigh man Tuesday for possession of child sexual abuse material. Joseph Matthew Dobbs, 45, now faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison when sentenced in July.
According to court records and evidence presented at trial, Dobbs was working from home as an IT support engineer for a multinational technology company when, in early November 2022, a supervisor remotely observed Dobbs watching content on his work-issued laptop that appeared to be child sexual abuse material. The company terminated Dobbs’s employment and forwarded screenshots taken by the supervisor to law enforcement for investigation. The Raleigh Police Department executed a search at Dobbs’s apartment and seized the company laptop. A review of the laptop and the company’s back-up servers revealed that Dobbs’s laptop contained over 300 image files of child sexual abuse material, including the sexual abuse of infants and toddlers and depictions of bondage. On a special verdict form, the jury found Dobbs guilty as charged and found that the images included visual depictions of prepubescent minors.
In 2006, Dobbs was also convicted of having carnal knowledge of a child, using a computer to solicit a minor (three counts), possession of child sexual abuse material (ten counts), and manufacturing sexually explicit material in Virginia. He spent seven years in prison and was still on probation for those offenses at the time of this incident.
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 Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Raleigh Police Department investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lori Warlick 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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Armed Drug Dealer Convicted on Weapons and Drug Charges After Three-Day TrialRead the Press Release
NEW BERN, N.C. – A federal jury convicted Anthony Travis Slaughter on Wednesday on charges of possession with intent to distribute marijuana, possession of a firearm by a felon, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Slaughter, age 30, faces at least five years and up to life in prison when he is sentenced in August 2025.
According to court records and evidence presented at trial, the Wilmington Police Department conducted a traffic stop of Slaughter on Princess Place Drive in Wilmington. After a police K9 positively alerted on the vehicle, a police search uncovered approximately two pounds of marijuana, along with marijuana packaging and a digital scale in the car. Police also located a loaded firearm under the driver’s seat.
Slaughter was prohibited from possessing a firearm based on seven prior state felony convictions for drug and violent crimes. These include a conviction for common law robbery as well as multiple convictions for selling heroin.
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 & Explosives and the Wilmington Police Department investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Charles E. Loeser and Jake D. Pugh 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.7:23-CR-51.
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Three North Carolina Men Arrested on Child Sex Abuse Material–Related ChargesRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Wilmington man and a Bolivia man were arrested Tuesday on separate charges of child sex trafficking and producing child sexual abuse material. A Louisburg man, William Justin Lewis, was arrested today on child sexual abuse material charges.
John Matthew Miller, 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, 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, 54, is charged with distributing child sexual abuse material and possessing child sexual abuse material. He faces at least five years’ imprisonment and up to twenty years’ imprisonment on each distribution count and up to twenty years’ imprisonment on the possession count.
“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. Wewill 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. “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 he capacity to counter threats of abuse and exploitation of children,” said Robert M. DeWitt, the FBI Special Agent in Charge in North Carolina.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, and Robert M. DeWitt, FBI Charlotte Special Agent in Charge, made the announcement. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office, Wilmington Police Department, Onslow County Sheriff’s Office, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation are investigating the cases and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Charity L. Wilson and Erin C. Blondel are prosecuting the cases.
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 Nos.7:25-CR-46-D-RN, 7:25-CR-47-UA-RJ, and 5:25-CR-94-D-KS.
An indictment is merely an accusation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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Wake Forest Woman Sentenced to Prison for $85K COVID FraudRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, N.C. – A Wake Forest woman was sentenced to six months in prison, followed by one year of home confinement, on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, for conspiring to defraud the United States government with respect to Covid-19 Paycheck Protection Program loans. Sonya Lenise Davis, 57, pled guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud on August 7, 2024.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, Davis and others lied on applications to the Small Business Association for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans. These loans were a form of Covid-19 relief funding to help keep small businesses afloat during the pandemic. Davis did not qualify for these loans, but nevertheless lied, and helped others to lie, to steal money from the program. On her own loan application, Davis falsified information about her company, Sonya’s Braiding, by inflating the number of employees and income. Davis also assisted others to acquire and submit fake documents to bolster wage claims on their own PPP loans using fake IRS forms. In some instances, Davis also assisted conspirators to obtain fake bank statements. As a result, Davis and others illegally obtained more than $85,000 in Covid relief loan money.
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 Internal Revenue Service (IRS) investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney William Gilmore and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Lisa 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. 5:23-CR-00299.
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Armed Drug Store Robber Sentenced to 25 years in PrisonRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A felon involved in several Raleigh drug store robberies was sentenced on April 16, 2025, to 25 years in prison for Hobbs Act Robbery and Brandishing a Firearm in Furtherance of a Crime of Violence. Marvin Rashaad Cummings, 34, pled guilty to the charges on December 4, 2024.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, the Raleigh Police Department (RPD) responded to a robbery at a CVS store on New Bern Avenue on December 29, 2022. Witnesses reported that a black male wearing a gray hoodie and a black mask approached the register to buy a pack of gum. The man showed the store clerk a black handgun and demanded all of the money in the register. The suspect then led the clerk upstairs to the store’s safe and stole a large sum of money from the safe that had a tracker attached to it. RPD tracked the money to a red sedan parked near the CVS. Cummings was in the driver’s seat wearing clothing that matched the description of the robbery suspect and was in possession of a mask and handgun that matched the description given by witnesses.
Cummings admitted to participating in six robberies in the Raleigh and Knightdale areas over the prior month and using a real handgun during the commission of the crimes. Cummings has prior convictions for Hobbs Act robbery, conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery, bank robbery, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
The conviction is a result of the ongoing Violent Crime Action Plan (VCAP) initiative which is a collaborative effort with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, working with the community, to identify and address the most significant drivers of violent crime. VCAP involves focused and strategic enforcement, and interagency coordination and intelligence-led policing.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Terrence W. Boyle. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, the Raleigh Police Department, and the Knightdale Police Department investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorneys John Newby and Sarah E. Nokes 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-00319.
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Wilson Man Sentenced to 10 Years on Fentanyl and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW BERN, N.C. – A Wilson man was sentenced Wednesday to 10 years in prison for charges related to the sale of narcotics and possession of a firearm by convicted felon. Navon Shemar Freeman, 24, pled guilty on November 11, 2024, to conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl, possession with the intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl and a quantity of cocaine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, investigators with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) received information in July 2023 that Freeman was selling narcotics. The Nash County Sheriff’s Office (NCSO) and Nash County Probation Office conducted a search of Freeman’s house and located fentanyl pills and firearms. One of the firearms seized was equipped with a fully operational, 3-D printed “switch,” which is a device that can be placed into a semi-automatic firearm to make it fully automatic.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by Judge Louise W. Flanagan. The Nash County Sheriff’s Office, Nash County Probation Office, and the Drug Enforcement Agency investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Julie A. Childress, Jimmie Bellamy, and Nicholas Hartigan 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-FL.
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Halifax County Man Sentenced to 11 Years in Prison for Distributing Narcotics in Halifax CountyRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – Troy Covington, age 54, was sentenced Tuesday to 11 years in prison for distributing methamphetamine, fentanyl and cocaine. Covington pleaded guilty to the charges on January 23, 2025.
According to court records and evidence presented at sentencing, the Halifax County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) conducted a series of controlled purchases from Covington from April 2023 to May 2024. Specifically, on July 20, 2023, HCSO conducted a purchase of more than 80 grams of pure methamphetamine from Covington using a confidential source of information. HCSO conducted another controlled purchase from Covington on September 28, 2023, where he sold seven grams of pure methamphetamine to the source. That same day, HCSO executed a search warrant at Covington’s house in Roanoke Rapids. As a result, HCSO located more than 700 grams of pure methamphetamine, cocaine, fentanyl, drug packaging and distribution materials, a firearm, ammunition, and approximately $2,200 in U.S. Currency.
Covington has prior felony convictions for drug distribution, including possession with intent to distribute heroin from 2013 and possession of a Schedule II controlled substance in 2022. Additionally, Covington has a prior robbery with a dangerous weapon conviction from 2014.
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, Roanoke Rapids Police Department and DEA investigated the case, 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 number 4:24-CR-00042 .
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Brooklyn, NY Woman Sentenced to 4 Years for Aiding and Abetting Armed Robbery of Hyde County Family Dollar StoreRead the Press Release
NEW BERN, N.C. – A Brooklyn, NY woman was sentenced Wednesday to 4 years in prison for aiding and abetting in the armed robbery of a Family Dollar in Swan Quarter. On November 13, 2024, Victoria Michelle Cyren Clarke, 32, pled guilty to interference with commerce by robbery and aiding and abetting.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, on Sunday, June 4, 2023, at approximately 9:00 p.m., Hyde County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) received a call about an armed robbery at the Family Dollar, located at 13065 US Highway 264 in Swan Quarter. Two individuals entered the store brandishing firearms while demanding money. After retrieving over $2000 in cash from the store, the two individuals left and got into a car being driven by Clarke. A deputy with HCSO attempted to initiate a traffic stop on the vehicle after it was observed leaving the area at a high rate of speed. A high-speed chase ensued for approximately 18 miles with speeds in excess of 100 mph before the vehicle was finally stopped. In addition to the two armed robbers and Clarke, two children were unrestrained in the vehicle. Subsequent investigation revealed that Clarke bought both firearms used in the robbery and rented the get-away car.
“The Hyde County Sheriff's Office is committed to ensuring the safety of our residents and businesses,” said Sheriff Guire Cahoon. “The armed robbery at the Family Dollar in Swan Quarter was a serious crime that put innocent lives at risk, and we are grateful for the quick response of our deputies which resulted in the apprehension of the individuals involved, and we are grateful for the assistance of the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their work on the case. Violent crime has no place in our community, and we will continue working tirelessly to protect the people of Hyde County.”
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. Hyde County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation 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-12-FL-RJ-3.
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Former Army Soldier Sentenced to More Than 24 Years for Producing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, N.C. – A former Army soldier was sentenced today to more than 24 years (292 months) in prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release for the production of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Jason Charles Manuelito, 27, pled guilty to the offense on June 11, 2024.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, Manuelito was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Army Criminal Investigation Division (CID) after CID received multiple cybertips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that someone using an IP address on the military base was uploading child pornography, otherwise known as child sexual abuse material (CSAM). The individual uploaded illegal images and videos to Kik social media application, Google, and Dropbox. Investigators determined that the IP address belonged to Manuelito.
A military search and seizure authorization was executed for Manuelito’s person and his barracks. Digital devices were seized and analyzed, and investigators found numerous conversations between Mauelito and children where he would encourage the child to send specific images of their genitals and engaging in sexual acts. Manuelito would, often times, send explicit images of his genitals to the children. There were approximately nine victims identified and interviewed and many others unidentified. Some of the victims were as young as 11 years old when Manuelito was enticing them to self-produce child sexual abuse material and share it with him. In a recorded interview with law enforcement, Manuelito admitted he had been involved in online relationships with minors. During the course of those online relationships both he and the victim would engage in sexualized conversations and then exchange illicit images.
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. Army Criminal Investigation Division and 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. 5:23-CR-00200.
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Armed Drug Dealer Receives 10 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
NEW BERN, N.C. – Eric Harris, 38, of Wilmington, was sentenced today to 10 years in prison for distribution of a quantity of methamphetamine and fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Harris pled guilty to the charges on January 16, 2025.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, law enforcement received information that Harris had traveled to Charlotte, North Carolina to purchase methamphetamine that he planned to sell in Wilmington. Between August 20 and September 9, 2024, the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office made controlled purchases from Harris of more than 3 ounces of methamphetamine and 10 grams of fentanyl at the Campus Edge Apartments in Wilmington. On September 9, 2024, the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office arrested Harris following the last controlled purchase and then searched Harris’ Campus Edge apartment. Law enforcement found an additional two ounces of methamphetamine, nineteen grams of fentanyl, and a loaded firearm in the apartment.
This 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 Louise W. Flanagan. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office 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. 7:24-cr-00092.
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Raleigh Fentanyl Trafficker Sentenced to More Than 23 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Wake County man was sentenced today to more than 23 years (283 months) in prison on drug charges. Myquan Taquil Houston, aka “Dirty,” pled guilty on January 13, 2025, to the offenses of conspiracy to distribute and possession with the intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a substance containing fentanyl, and possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a substance containing fentanyl and 500 grams or more of cocaine.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, Houston conspired with another person to sell fentanyl to a confidential informant on five occasions in Raleigh. Law enforcement searched Houston’s house in Knightdale, North Carolina on July 26, 2023. The search revealed 502.29 grams of cocaine, 41.54 grams of cocaine base (crack), 134.46 grams of fentanyl and ANPP, 26.6 grams of Oxycodone, digital scales, a loaded .45 caliber handgun, two cellphones, and $7,970 in U.S. currency. The investigation determined that Houston sold approximately $1,400 of fentanyl every other week for at least a year prior to his arrest, making him responsible for 1,590.46 grams of fentanyl and 635.1 grams of cocaine.
Houston has prior convictions for felony breaking and entering and conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine and a quantity of cocaine base (crack), distribution of a quantity of cocaine, and aiding and abetting. Houston was on federal supervised release in the Eastern District of North Carolina at the time of these offenses.
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 and the Raleigh Police Department investigated the case and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Aria Q. Merle 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-00238.
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Arizona Man Sentenced to 9 Years for Involvement in Cross-Country Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – An Arizona man was sentenced today to 9 years in prison for trafficking fentanyl pills in the Eastern District of North Carolina. Dakota Henderson, 26, pled guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Forty Grams or More of a Mixture and Substance Containing a Detectable Amount of Fentanyl and Distribution of Forty grams or more of a Mixture and Substance Containing a Detectable Amount of Fentanyl on October 10, 2024.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, law enforcement determined that Henderson was part of a group that obtained fentanyl pills from California and Arizona and then transported them to the Raleigh area for distribution.
In March 2024, law enforcement searched a hotel room rented in Henderson’s name and found approximately 5,912 fentanyl pills, a drum magazine loaded with 32 rounds of ammunition, and over $1,000 in U.S. currency. Several weeks later, Henderson was observed by law enforcement, armed with a firearm, collecting money from a drug debt and delivering an additional 2,000 suspected fentanyl pills to a confidential informant.
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 Cary Police Department, and the United States Postal Inspection Service 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-004.
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Brunswick County Man Sentenced to over 15 Years for Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. – A Brunswick County man was sentenced today to 190 months imprisonment followed by life supervised release for Distribution of Child Pornography.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, Tyler Samuel Godfrey, 33 was simultaneously investigated by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office and the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office in 2022 for child sexual exploitation offenses. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received cybertips from social media websites that one of its users was uploading child sexual abuse material. The IP addresses used to upload the illegal material was traced back to Godfrey’s parent’s residence in Cameron and his own residence in Shallotte.
In the investigation, law enforcement learned he had previously been investigated for similar conduct in 2018 and 2021. Search warrants were executed on Godfrey’s social media accounts, his parent’s residence, and his own residence. A forensic analysis of the digital devices and content seized showed since 2013, Godfrey has been communicating with underage children over the internet. Godfrey successfully received child sexual abuse material from a least two children and attempted to get child sexual abuse material from other children who refused to do so. During one attempt in October 2021, he sent a 13-year-old child images and videos of child pornography while encouraging her to view and enjoy the material. During his conversations with the 13-year-old child, he graphically discussed fantasies to rape a 10-year-old child.
While the evidence of his communication showed he targeted pre-teens and teenage children, his collection of child sexual abuse material included images and videos depicting the rape of infants and toddlers.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after the sentencing by U.S. District Judge Terrence W. Boyle. The Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office, Lee County Sheriff’s Office and Department of Homeland Security 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. 7:24-CR-32-BO.
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Armed Drug Trafficker Sentenced to More Than Five Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
NEW BERN, N.C. – A Rocky Mount man was sentenced Friday to 68 months in prison for possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking and distribution of a quantity of fentanyl. Nedall Alwan, 30, pled guilty to the charge on January 14, 2025.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, in March 2023, the Tarboro Police Department and Edgecombe Sheriff’s Office received information that Alwan, who operated a vape and tobacco store in Tarboro, was involved in the sale of narcotics. Between March 8 and April 5, 2023, law enforcement made three controlled purchases of “Perc 30” pills from Alwan. The pills contained fentanyl. On April 6, 2023, law enforcement searched Alwan’s vape and tobacco business. Law Enforcement found 290 “M-30” pills which contained 30 grams of fentanyl, a 9mm rifle and $9,533.00 in U.S. currency. A 9mm handgun was also found in Alwan’s car, and additional U.S. currency was found at Alwan’s residence.
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, Homeland Security Enforcement, Edgecombe County Sheriff’s Office, and the Tarboro and Rocky Mount Police Departments investigated the case. 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-0035.
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Roanoke Rapids Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Multiple Narcotics and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW BERN, N.C. – A Roanoke Rapids man was sentenced Thursday to 10 years in prison for charges related to the sale of narcotics and possession of a firearm by convicted felon. On November 4, 2024, Danny Steven Bryant, Jr., age 33, pled guilty to thirteen charges, including nine drug-related charges and four counts of possession of a firearm by a felon.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, in June 2021, Nash County Sheriff’s Office (NCSO) began investigating Bryant for narcotics and firearms sales in Nash County, North Carolina. Investigators with NCSO, the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); Roanoke Rapids Police Department (RRPD), and Halifax County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) conducted multiple controlled purchases from Bryant from June 2021 through November 2021 for methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, and several firearms, including one .223 AR-15 and two high capacity magazines capable of firing 100 rounds of ammunition, a .22 caliber revolver, and two .38 caliber revolvers.
Bryant is a convicted felon, having previous convictions for unlawful wounding and felon in possession of a firearm.
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 Nash County Sheriff’s Office, Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Roanoke Rapids Police Department, and the Halifax County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Julie A. Childress and Katherine S. 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. 5:23-CR-00252-FL.
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Former Bureau of Prisons Officer Sentenced for Violating Inmate’s Civil RightsRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A former lieutenant at the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) was sentenced today to two years of probation for conspiring to violate the civil rights of inmates at Butner Correctional Institute. On December 23, 2024, Daniel Mitchell, 42, pled guilty to the charge.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, Mitchell was a lieutenant supervising the special housing unit (SHU) at the Federal Correctional Institute Butner Medium II. Victim K.G. was an inmate housed in the SHU under Mitchell’s supervision. On the morning of December 8, 2021, a female officer reported to Mitchell that inmate K.G. exposed himself to her and engaged in a sexual act within her view. The BOP disciplinary policy for such behavior is a formal write-up of the misconduct. Instead, Mitchell directed another officer to take inmate K.G. to a holding cell and teach him a lesson by “tuning him up.” There, the inmate was physically assaulted by the officer. In later interviews, Mitchell and the officer both admitted to meeting in Mitchell’s office where they agreed that the officer would assault K.G. as punishment.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Terrence W. Boyle. The DOJ Office of the Inspector General investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jake D. Pugh and Civil Rights Division Trial Attorney Eric Peffley 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-0332-BO.
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Dunn County Man Sentenced to More than 12 Years for Trafficking Fentanyl and Crystal MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
NEW BERN, N.C. – A Dunn County man was sentenced Wednesday to more than 12 years (151 months) in prison for possession with the intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Zachary Antoine Williams aka “Fendi”, age 23, pled guilty to the offense on December 13, 2024.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, Williams was stopped by law enforcement in Four Oaks, North Carolina on September 18, 2023. Law enforcement searched Williams’ car and found digital scales, fentanyl powder, and drug paraphernalia. In addition, between September 2023 and January 2024, law enforcement conducted five undercover purchases of crystal methamphetamine and fentanyl from Williams. The evidence also showed Williams sold $1,500 of heroin per week since at least January 2022. In January 2024, law enforcement searched William’s house and found two loaded pistols, $3,445 in U.S. currency, and digital scales.
Williams has a prior felony conviction for conspiracy to commit robbery with a dangerous weapon.
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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and Dunn Police Department investigated the case and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Aria Q. Merle 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-00164.
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- Albuquerque Man Sentenced for Threatening and Stalking a Raleigh Woman He Met Online
Ahoskie Gang Member Sentenced to 71 Months in Prison for Firearm and Drug Trafficking OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW BERN, N.C. – An Ahoskie man was sentenced today to 71 months in prison for gun and drug crimes. Nyjawaun Ezell, a.k.a. “Nike,” age 28, pleaded guilty to the charges on November 13, 2024.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, Ezell, a high-ranking member of the G-Shine set of the Bloods gang, unlawfully obtained multiple firearms over a 10-month period while under indictment for allegedly murdering a rival gang member in Hertford County. In one instance, Ezell tried to purchase an AR-style rifle at a local gun store and made a false statement on the ATF gun-purchase form about being under the felony indictment, which disqualified him from being able to purchase a firearm. The evidence also showed that Ezell was engaged in dealing narcotics and other controlled substances in Hertford County during this time period.
Ezell pleaded guilty to three counts of receipt of a firearm while under felony indictment; one count of knowingly making a materially false statement to a federally licensed firearms dealer; and one count of possession with intent to distribute a quantity of oxycodone.
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); the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF); the Down East Drug and Violent Crime Task Force; and the Hertford County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Lori Warlick 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. 2:23-CR-22-FL-RJ.
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Expatriate Pleads Guilty to Threatening to Kill U.S. Senator and StaffRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, N.C. – An American citizen living in Thailand pleaded guilty Wednesday to threatening to kill United States Senator Thom Tillis and his staff. Eric Charles Welton, 53, pled guilty to one count of threatening a federal official on account of his duties.
According to court documents and information presented in court, Welton made multiple harassing and intimidating calls to the offices of Republican elected officials and GOP organizations in the United States. Welton claimed he made the threatening calls because he was angry about the large number of unsolicited political emails he received. In September of 2021, Welton spoke with a staff member at the Senator’s Raleigh office and threatened to show up and “put a bullet through each of [their] heads.” Welton also threatened to come to North Carolina and “mow…down” the “whole [expletive] state,” and find the person who emailed him and cut off his hands.
“Threatening to kill a public official and his staff is not only despicable, but also an affront to our democratic system of government,” Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar stated today. “Our office will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute threats or intimidation against public officials, so they can properly carry out their important duties.”
“It is unacceptable to make violent threats against anyone. But when threats are directed at elected officials, it can impact their ability to effectively serve their constituents and their country. The FBI will not tolerate this type of intimidation for any reason especially when it comes to those who help run our democracy,” said Robert M. DeWitt, the Special Agent in Charge of FBI in North Carolina.
Welton pleaded guilty to violating 18 U.S.C. § 115(a)(1)(B) and faces a maximum of 10 years in prison when sentenced in July.
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 investigated 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. 5:23-CR-192-M-RN.
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North Carolina U.S. Attorney’s Host Ceremony in Observance of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, April 6-12, 2025Read the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C – In April, the Justice Department’s Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) leads communities across the country in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW). This year’s observance takes place April 6-12, 2025.
NCVRW began in 1981 to honor crime victims, promote victims’ rights, and recognize those who work with and advocate on behalf of victims of crime. It also serves to promote policies and programs that help victims of crime. This year’s NCVRW theme, “Connecting < KINSHIP > Healing,” recognizes that shared humanity should be at the center of supporting all survivors and victims of crime.
To commemorate NCVRW, the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the Western, Middle, and Eastern Districts of North Carolina hosted a ceremony in Raleigh, to promote community engagement, raise awareness, and support and honor crime victims. The program also included a remembrance ceremony for crime victims and an award ceremony to recognize individuals for their superior service and work with victims and survivors.
“Today we honor the victims of crimes and celebrate those who work to restore hope in the face of loss and tragedy,” said Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina. “We greatly appreciate the sacrifices that our law enforcement partners and victim advocates make to serve, creating the community necessary to build the healing victims deserve.”
“Each year during National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, we recognize people whose physical, financial, and emotional well-being has been shattered by crime, and those who work to support them. By reflecting upon and honoring victims, victim advocates, and law enforcement professionals, we renew our commitment to seeking justice and giving hope to victims and their families,” said Randall Galyon, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of North Carolina. “Throughout the coming year, we will continue to bring our very best efforts to this work, protecting the fundamental human rights to ‘life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.’”
“We wish there were no victims of crime, and eliminating crime is our goal and motivation. During National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, we reaffirm our commitment to that goal, and to crime victims, survivors, and their families,” said Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. “My Office will continue to work closely with our community partners, advocates, and law enforcement to uphold victims’ rights, and to ensure that victims’ voices are heard not just this week, but every day of the year.”
For additional information about this year’s National Crime Victims’ Rights Week and how to assist crime victims in your community, please visit OVC’s website at www.ovc.gov.
Additional information about the U.S. Attorney’s Office Victim/Witness Assistance Program can be found here.
Acting U.S. Attorney Randall Galyon (MDNC), U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson (WDNC), and Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar (EDNC) attended Tuesday’s NCVRW Ceremony in Raleigh
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Martin County Man Sentenced for Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
NEW BERN, N.C. – A North Carolina man was sentenced today to more than 16 years imprisonment (201 months) followed by 30 years of supervised release for Distribution of Child Pornography.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, Alexander Madison Chambers, age 26 of Martin County, was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security. An undercover agent from Homeland Security saw that Chambers was messaging on an application distributing child sexual abuse materials in a group chat. The under-cover agent began chatting in private messages with Chambers, where Chambers claimed to have sexually abused a child with whom he had contact. Additionally, Chambers expressed a desire to sexually abuse the undercover agent’s purported 4-year-old child.
As a result of this undercover investigation, HSI agents executed a search warrant on Chambers’ residence in Williamston, which resulted in numerous devices being seized. On those devices, law enforcement found images and videos of child pornography. Additionally, law enforcement found a messaging application commonly used for trading child sexual abuse material. On this messaging application, law enforcement found the conversations where Chambers’ distributed child pornography to the undercover agent as well as to other users on the platform.
“When Chambers distributed sexual abuse material of children, he perpetuated the victims’ trauma and abuse, which simply will not be tolerated,” Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar stated. “It remains a top priority of our office to investigate and prosecute those who distribute these horrific materials that victimize children. We appreciate the good work of the Homeland Security Investigations, who brought Chambers to justice.”
“The sentencing of this individual should serve as a clear message: HSI and our law enforcement partners remain steadfast in our commitment to protecting children and bringing to justice those who exploit them,” said Cardell T. Morant, Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Homeland Security Investigations Charlotte, which oversees North and South Carolina. “There is no place in our communities for those who traffic in child sexual abuse material. We will continue to use every tool at our disposal to identify offenders, hold them accountable, and safeguard the most vulnerable members of our society.”
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 Department of Homeland Security 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. 7:24-CR-62-FL-RN.
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Fayetteville Man Sentenced for Selling Fentanyl and Cocaine in Cumberland CountyRead the Press Release
NEW BERN, N.C. – A Fayetteville man was sentenced today to 40 months in prison for distributing 40 grams or more of fentanyl and distributing a quantity of cocaine. Charles Bernard Veal, age 50, pled guilty to three counts of drug trafficking on January 15, 2025.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, Veal supplemented his income as a screen-printer by selling dangerous narcotics. Known as “T-Shirt Man,” law enforcement identified him as a source of both cocaine and fentanyl in the Fayetteville area. As part of the investigation, law enforcement purchased cocaine from Veal in October 2021. Veal provided law enforcement with approximately 56 grams of cocaine for $2,600 in the parking lot of a local restaurant.
In February 2022, law enforcement made two undercover purchases of fentanyl from Veal. On the first occasion, Veal sold approximately 57 grams of fentanyl for $3,600 in the parking lot of a Lowe’s Home Improvement. On the second occasion, Veal sold law enforcement approximately 54 grams of fentanyl for $3,600 at a location near Cross Creek Mall.
In March 2022, the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office arrested Veal after a traffic stop on Interstate 95. During that traffic stop, law enforcement found 57 grams of cocaine, a 9mm magazine, and a BB gun in Veal’s car.
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, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Fayetteville Police Department investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Logan W. 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. 5:23-CR-00277-FL.
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Campbell Sales Group Agrees to Pay Nearly $1.5 Million in Restitution and Penalties for COVID-19 Loan SchemeRead the Press Release
NEW BERN, N.C. – Campbell Sales Group, Inc., d/b/a LeatherItaliaUSA (CSG) has agreed to pay $1,499,164 in restitution and penalties and to undertake additional responsibilities to resolve its criminal liabilities in connection with a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan scheme.
Congress created the PPP 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 authorized expenses. In order to obtain forgiveness of the full PPP loan balance, the borrower was required to spend, and attest to spending, at least 60 percent of the loan proceeds on eligible payroll costs during the covered period.
CSG is a leather furniture supplier headquartered in Leland, North Carolina. In April 2020, CSG applied for and received a $257,700 PPP loan. As part of the criminal settlement, CSG admitted that after receiving the loan proceeds, it fraudulently increased its payroll in order to meet eligibility requirements for PPP loan forgiveness. Specifically, CSG admitted that it added multiple individuals to the payroll and claimed to have paid them wages, when in fact none of the individuals worked for CSG nor did they receive any wages. CSG further admitted that in addition to the payment of the “ghost wages,” it artificially inflated its payroll by increasing the wages of multiple CSG employees, but the wage payments were not retained by the employees.
CSG also admitted that in October 2020, it submitted a PPP loan forgiveness application, in which it provided a payroll cost figure that included the “ghost wages” and the fraudulently inflated wages. During the application review process, CSG provided false supporting documentation to the lender and made additional false representations. The full balance of the $257,700 PPP loan was subsequently forgiven in May 2021.
In March 2021, CSG applied for an additional PPP loan totaling $213,006. CSG admitted that it incorporated the same false wage information that it used to obtain forgiveness of its first PPP loan in the second PPP loan request.
As part of the criminal settlement, CSG has agreed to pay $1,499,164 in restitution and penalties and be subject to a three-year prosecution deferral period in which it may not commit any further offenses, among other terms.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after the settlement was accepted by U.S. District Judge Louise W. Flanagan. The United States Secret Service investigated the case and 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. 7:25-CR-14-FL.
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Cary Man Sentenced to More Than Five Years for Access Device Fraud and Identity TheftRead the Press Release
NEW BERN, N.C. – A Cary man was sentenced today to 61 months in prison for access device fraud and aggravated identity theft. Ibrahim Abiodun Aderounmu, 27, pled guilty to the charges on November 4, 2024. The court also ordered Aderounmu to pay $536,782 in restitution to the victims.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, between approximately 2020 and 2022, Aderounmu engaged in multiple access device fraud schemes involving the theft and misuse of personal identifying information (PII) of victims across the United States. The schemes resulted in attempted losses of more than $650,000.
As part of one scheme, victim PII was used to submit hundreds of applications for Chase Bank business credit card accounts. If the application was successful, the physical credit card was mailed to Aderounmu’s apartment in Cary. Aderounmu then used the credit cards to make online and in-store purchases.
The investigation into the Chase Bank scheme resulted in a search warrant of Aderounmu’s apartment. During the search, officers recovered, among other things, more than 400 access devices, including debit cards for unemployment insurance (UI) benefits. According to the investigation, victim PII was fraudulently used to apply for and initiate UI benefits from multiple state workforce agencies, including in North Carolina, California, Nevada, and Arizona. If approved, the benefits were loaded onto debit cards and mailed to addresses under the control of Aderounmu and others. Aderounmu was captured on surveillance footage withdrawing the UI benefits from the debit cards at ATMs in Raleigh, Cary, and other locations in the Eastern District of North Carolina.
The seized access devices also included multiple USAA debit cards in the names of victims. The investigation found that victim PII was used to open USAA accounts with addresses linked to Aderounmu. The fraudulent accounts, in turn, were funded with fraudulent check deposits, the proceeds of which were withdrawn from ATMs in Raleigh, Cary, and elsewhere.
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 and the United States Postal Inspection Service 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. 5:24-CR-222-FL.
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Media Advisory: U.S. Attorney’s Office Announces National Crime Victims’ Rights Week EventsRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C – In commemoration of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW), Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar is announcing NCVRW observances planned in the Eastern District of North Carolina for the week of April 6-12, 2025. Members of the public and media are invited to attend.
On Monday, April 7th, a Pinwheel Event will be held in Wilmington to honor and support crime victims and their families.
9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. at The Harrelson Center, Plaza on Princess (410 Princess Street, Wilmington, NC 28401).
This event will feature a message of hope and inspiration from caretakers in a child exploitation case and is being held in partnership with A Safe Place.
On Tuesday, 8th the National Crime Victims’ Rights Ceremony will be held in Raleigh.
11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at the North Carolina State Bar Association (217 E. Edenton Street, Raleigh, NC 27601)
Registration is required for this event.
This event is sponsored by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Eastern, Middle and Western Districts and the Interagency Council.
For additional information about this year’s NCVRW and how to assist victims in your own community, please visit the United States Attorney’s Office website. For more ideas on how to support victims of crime, visit OVC’s website at www.ovc.ojp.gov.
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Rocky Mount Man Sentenced to More Than 18 Years for Armed RobberyRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Rocky Mount man was sentenced today to 218 months in prison for robbing a Dollar General and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of multiple crimes of violence. Kaleb Joseph Coppage, age 23, pled guilty to the charges on September 30, 2024.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, on November 30, 2023, Coppage entered the Dollar General at 2800 W. Raleigh Blvd. in Rocky Mount wearing a facemask. He pointed an AR-style pistol at an employee and demanded money. After stealing more than $2,800 from the store’s safe and cash registers, Coppage fled on foot.
On December 8, 2023, Coppage entered the Circle K at 5102 Dortches Blvd. in Rocky Mount, again wearing a facemask, and pointed an AR-style pistol at an employee and demanded cash. The employee gave Coppage approximately $60 in a shopping bag which also contained a GPS tracker. The Nash County Sheriff’s Office followed the coordinates on the tracker and located Coppage in a stolen car. When they attempted to conduct a traffic stop, Coppage fled. He led law enforcement on a chase that exceeded 120 mph in a 45-mph zone. Coppage ultimately collided with another car and then fled the scene on foot. Law enforcement found the AR-style pistol, which was stolen, in the car Coppage had been driving.
Upon further investigation, the sheriff’s office discovered that Coppage was on probation and monitored by an ankle bracelet. Through the ankle monitor, officers confirmed that Coppage was present at both the Dollar General and Circle K at the times of these robberies. Upon arrest, Coppage admitted to the robberies, and admitted that he stole the vehicle in which he fled from the Circle K.
“Violently robbing our places of business terrorizes our communities and is a serious federal offense with significant consequences,” Acting United States Attorney Daniel P. Bubar stated today. “Today’s sentence demonstrates that we will continue to work tirelessly with our partners to stamp out gun violence. I commend the excellent work in this case by ATF, the Nash County Sheriff’s Office, and the Rocky Mount Police Department.”
“Our Office has strived to take every available action to combat violent repeat offenders from wreaking havoc in our communities. We have focused our attention on illegal guns, gangs, and drugs that have found their way into Nash County,” said Nash County Sheriff Keith Stone. “Our partnerships with our local agencies, the District Attorney’s Office, federal partners, North Carolina Probation and Parole, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, has greatly increased our ability to remove defendants, that engage in these types of crimes away from our citizens. Mr. Coppage not only robbed our local convenience stores, but he also used a firearm to terrorize the clerks and lead our deputies on a pursuit that placed everyone’s life in danger. I am thankful for the hard work, dedication, and professionalism that the Nash County Sheriff’s Office, Edgecombe County Sheriff’s Office, ATF, North Carolina Probation and Parole, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office demonstrated in this case. The Nash County Sheriff’s Office will continue its relentless pursuit to stop violent crime and drug trafficking in our county.”
“A firearm in the hands of a prohibited individual is illegal and extremely dangerous,” said ATF’s Acting Special Agent in Charge Christopher Rogers. “ATF is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to identify and apprehend those who try to undermine public safety and threaten our communities.”
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Terrence W. Boyle. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Nash County Sheriff’s Office, and the Rocky Mount Police Department investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Phil Aubart and Lori Warlick 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-84-BO-RJ.
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Recidivist Receives 7 Years in Prison for Firearms Possession and Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
Raleigh, N.C. – A Goldsboro man was sentenced Thursday to 5 years in prison for possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Arraqib Hardy, 33, pled guilty to the charge on December 16, 2024. Hardy received an additional 2 years in federal prison for committing this offense while on federal supervised release for the offenses of possessing a stolen firearm (aiding and abetting) and discharging a firearm in a school zone (aiding and abetting). Hardy received a total sentence of 7 years.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, Goldsboro Police officers were conducting surveillance on a convenience store parking lot due to possible drug activity on June 15, 2023. Officers observed Hardy engage in what appeared to be hand-to-hand drug transactions and arrested him. Police located a bag with a loaded 9mm handgun, marijuana, fentanyl, and $365 on Hardy.
According to law enforcement, Hardy was a member of the United Blood Nation gang. Hardy had prior convictions in 2013 for discharging a weapon into an occupied or moving vehicle.
This investigation was 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and the Goldsboro Police Department 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. 7:23-CR-00120.
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Raleigh Man Sentenced to 7.5 Years in Prison for Possession of a Firearm as a FelonRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Raleigh man was sentenced Thursday to 90 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Christopher Ivan White, age 58, pled guilty to the charge on December 19, 2024.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, on the afternoon of April 8, 2024, White shot another man in front of Renegade Motors, located at 2621 S. Wilmington Street in Raleigh. Raleigh Police officers responded to the scene of the shooting where the victim was being treated by emergency medical services for a gunshot wound to the left thigh. White fled the scene and attempted to toss away the firearm. Raleigh Police searched the surrounding area and located White and the firearm. White was also found in possession of cocaine.
White was a felon and prohibited to own or possess a firearm. His prior felony convictions include breaking and entering, robbery with a dangerous weapon, and embezzlement.
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 and Firearms and the Raleigh Police investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarah Nokes and Evelyn S. Yarborough 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-00297.
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Armed Raleigh Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 15 YearsRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Raleigh man was sentenced Thursday to 15 years in prison for cocaine trafficking and firearms possession. On December 5, 2024, Linwood Davis pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more cocaine, possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more cocaine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance a drug trafficking crime.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, in June of 2023, law enforcement identified Davis as a source of supply of cocaine in the Raleigh area. After conducting multiple controlled purchases involving Davis, law enforcement executed a search warrant at his residence on November 3, 2023. Law enforcement recovered over 1,000 grams of cocaine, approximately $44,470 in U.S. currency, and two firearms, both with large capacity magazines, from Davis’s house.
Davis has five previous felony drug convictions (2003, 2004, 2007 and 2013) and two previous felony convictions for eluding arrest with a motor vehicle (2003 and 2004).
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Terrence W. Boyle. The Raleigh Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives 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-263-BO-RN.
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Former Corrections Officer Convicted of Committing Perjury After Making False Statements During an Investigation into Use of Excessive Force at PrisonRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – Richard Wargo, a former Sergeant at Pender Correctional Institution, pled guilty today to committing perjury before a federal grand jury in a civil rights investigation. Wargo, 37, faces up to 60 months in prison when sentenced later this year.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) began an investigation in 2022 into Pender Correctional Institution (PCI), in Burgaw, after receiving multiple allegations of officers using excessive force against inmates in the prior year. During one incident, which occurred on November 17, 2021, PCI officers removed an inmate from a dorm room due to apparent intoxication and took him to a separate shipping and receiving building with no surveillance cameras. The inmate was handcuffed and struck with a baton multiple times, resulting in lacerations on his legs and scarring.
Wargo was working the night shift when the November 17, 2021, incident occurred and was tasked with preparing the incident report regarding the use of force. In his report, Wargo omitted that he was present during or involved in the use of force. It was the prison’s policy that no one involved in the incident should prepare the incident report.
The FBI interviewed Wargo in August 2023. When asked about the November 17, 2021, incident, Wargo described being the investigating officer but said he otherwise was in no way involved and was not even present for the use of force. He appeared before a federal grand jury on August 22, 2023, and while under oath, gave the same account. However, grand jury testimony from other officers and witnesses established that Wargo was present in the shipping and receiving building during the assault. Two officers testified that Wargo participated in the assault, striking the inmate with a baton, while another officer testified that he saw Wargo standing over the inmate.
Wargo agreed to a second, audio recorded interview on February 26, 2024. He again denied being present for or participating in the November 17, 2021, use of force incident. But when confronted with evidence to the contrary, Wargo admitted that he had entered the shipping and receiving building during an ongoing use of force incident. He further admitted that he had drawn his baton and witnessed other officers strike the inmate with batons.
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 Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jake D. Pugh 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. 7:24-cr-0043-BO.
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Bloods Gang Member Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Role in Gang-Related ShootoutRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – Ulysses Jaheim Page, age 22, was sentenced to 15 years in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm and injuring a man in a gang-related shooting. Page pled guilty to the charge on September 19, 2024.
According to court records and evidence presented at sentencing, on May 4, 2024, Page, a validated Bloods gang member, was the backseat passenger in a car that was stopped by the Wilmington Police Department. The driver of the car had an unserved arrest warrant for a firearms offense. Officers searched the car and found a stolen firearm by Page’s feet. The firearm was swabbed for DNA and testing confirmed Pages’ DNA was on the gun.
Page’s sentence was also based on an incident in 2023 when Page was involved in a gang related shootout. On April 27, 2023, Wilmington Police Department responded to a shooting at the Oakdale Cemetery in Wilmington. During the investigation, officers learned that members of the 720 Gangster Disciples gang had planned a balloon release at the gravesite of a deceased gang leader. As a crowd gathered at the cemetery, a car pulled into the area, four individuals jumped out of the car and fired 28 shots into the crowd, striking one person in the arm. Members of the 720 Gangster Disciples returned approximately 29 shots. Page was identified as one of the shooters from the car.
Page is a previously convicted felon prohibited from legally possessing a firearm. His felony convictions include common law robbery and possession of a stolen firearm in 2020 as well as multiple convictions in 2019 for larceny of a firearm.
The conviction is a result of the ongoing Violent Crime Action Plan (VCAP) initiative, which is a collaborative effort with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, working with the community to identify and address the most significant drivers of violent crime. VCAP involves focused and strategic enforcement, interagency coordination, and intelligence-led policing.
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 Wilmington Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Dixon, and former Special Assistant U.S. Attorney William Van Trigt, 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 7:23-CR-00060-D-BM.
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Armed Whiteville Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 23 YearsRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Whiteville man was sentenced today to 23 years in prison for trafficking fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine. On February 9, 2024, Marion Lamont Flowers, age 43, pled guilty to the charges.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, in 2020, the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, Whiteville Police Department, and the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) began investigating Flowers for drug trafficking. Between December 2020 and July 2021, law enforcement oversaw seven controlled purchases of cocaine and methamphetamine from Flowers. On July 20, 2021, a confidential informant arranged to purchase 1 kilogram of methamphetamine from Flowers. When Flowers arrived to make the sale, he was apprehended by law enforcement and taken into custody. A search of Flowers’ vehicle recovered 893.8 grams of methamphetamine (97% purity), more than $2000 in cash and a loaded PH 13 handgun. l
Based on surveillance during the investigation, Flowers was operating out of a hotel room at an EconoLodge. Agents executed search warrants on two rooms rented by Flowers and seized MDMA pills, Xanax pills, Alprazolam and Buprenorphine pills. They also seized 37 grams of cocaine base (crack), 249 grams of cocaine, 27 grams of fentanyl and nearly $4000 in cash.
Flowers has a lengthy criminal history dating back to 1995 when he was convicted of assault with intent to kill and robbery with a dangerous weapon for robbing a Hasty Mart Store. During the robbery, Flowers shot a customer in the neck. In 2004, he pled guilty to conspiracy to commit robbery with a dangerous weapon after robbing a BB&T bank. In 2016, Flowers pled guilty to possession with intent to sell or deliver cocaine and to delivering cocaine. As the sentencing judge noted at Flowers’ hearing, Flowers has also performed poorly while incarcerated, incurring over 30 infractions while serving time for previous convictions.
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 N.C. State Bureau of Investigation, the Whiteville Police Department and the Columbus County Sheriff 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. 7:22-CR-00135-D-001.
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Armed Greenville Fentanyl Distributor Sentenced to 11 YearsRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, N.C. – Ernest Russell Early, Jr., of Greenville, was sentenced today to 11 years in prison for an armed robbery and for possessing fake oxycodone pills that contained fentanyl. Early, 37, pled guilty to the charges on August 21, 2024.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, on August 19, 2023, Early entered the Falkland Mini Mart located on South Main Street in Falkland. He approached the clerk at the back of the store and brandished a black pistol. He then compelled the clerk to return to the register and demanded that he hand over all the money. When the clerk opened the register, Early grabbed $1,500, exited the store, and entered a black Nissan Sentra with New Jersey plates. The cashier followed him outside and was able to obtain a partial license plate number.
Pitt County Sheriff’s Deputies responded and located the suspect's vehicle, initiating a pursuit. After initially evading the deputies, Early crashed the car and fled on foot. Deputies were able to collect fingerprints from the vehicle, which had been reported stolen, and later confirmed that the prints matched Early's.
Early remained at large until he was spotted by a detective from the Greenville Police Department on December 8, 2023. The police arrested Early on active warrants in a parking lot in Greenville. During the arrest, they seized 103 counterfeit oxycodone pills and a .40 caliber handgun from his pockets. The pills were subsequently tested and found to contain fentanyl.
Early’s criminal history features three state felony convictions and fifteen misdemeanor convictions. In 2013, he was convicted in Wake County Superior Court of common law robbery.
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 (FBI), Pitt County Sheriff’s Office, and Greenville Police Department investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Phil Aubart 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. 4:24-cr-0025-M.
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New Bern Gang Member Sentenced to 10 years in Prison for Possession of a Firearm as a FelonRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A New Bern man was sentenced today to 10 years in prison for illegally possessing firearms as a convicted felon. Nathan Sheptock, 24, pled guilty to the charge on August 22, 20224.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, Nathan Sheptock, a validated Crip street gang member, illegally possessed two firearms including an AK-style 12-guage shotgun with a 10-round magazine. On August 9, 2023, North Carolina Probation responded to a verbal altercation between Sheptock and a woman at Sheptock’s house on Kinston Street in New Bern. Since Sheptock was actively on probation at the time, probation officers conducted a warrantless search of the house and observed what appeared to be narcotics in plain sight. A witness also reported that Sheptock was keeping firearms in the house. New Bern Police then obtained a search warrant for the house and found firearms hidden in the backyard. The firearms were DNA tested and lab confirmed to contain Sheptock’s DNA.
Sheptock has a violent criminal history, including multiple convictions for Common Law Robbery from a series of robberies of pizza delivery drivers that Sheptock and an accomplice carried out in 2017.
“When violent felons such as Mr. Sheptock possess firearms, they are committing serious federal crimes and endangering our communities,” Acting United States Attorney Daniel P. Bubar stated today. “I commend the FBI and our state partners at the New Bern Police Department and NC Probation for their hard work in this case, which brought Sheptock to justice.”
“The FBI will not tolerate violent gang members who break the law and then disregard the restrictions they brought upon themselves as convicted felons. Mr. Sheptock was convicted of multiple robberies in 2017, therefore prohibited from owning a weapon. The FBI and our partners at the New Bern Police Department are unwavering in our commitment to making our communities safer for everyone,” said Robert M. DeWitt, the FBI Special Agent in Charge in North Carolina.
This case was brought as part of the New Bern Violent Crime Action Plan (VCAP) which is a collaboration of the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the New Bern Police Department, the Craven County Sheriff’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the District Attorney for the region. A primary objective of VCAP is to investigate and prosecute individuals contributing significantly to crime in New Bern and surrounding areas.
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. New Bern PD, the FBI, and NC Probation investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Philip Aubart and Julie 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. 4:23-CR-61-D-BM.
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Goldsboro Gang Member Sentenced to 21 Years for Armed RobberyRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Goldsboro man was sentenced today to 258 months in prison for armed robbery. Fremandeus Connell Williams, age 45, pled guilty to interference with commerce by robbery and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence on December 20, 2024.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, the Wilson Police Department (WPD) responded to a call of a robbery at the Hot Spot Internet Café Sweepstakes on Ward Boulevard in Wilson on December 7, 2021. The investigation revealed that Williams entered the establishment wearing a surgical mask and appeared to play a game machine. As a Hot Spot employee unlocked the office door to assist a customer in cashing out, Williams walked up behind the employee, placed the barrel of a firearm against the back of her head, and pushed her to the ground. Williams then threatened the employee and said, “where’s the money and you better not lie, or I’ll kill you.” Williams stole $7,039 in cash from the register and counter drawers while the employee remained in the back corner of the office. The incident was captured on video surveillance. Williams, a known member of the United Blood Nation gang, was arrested a few days later on December 10, 2021.
The conviction is a result of the ongoing Violent Crime Action Plan (VCAP) initiative which is a collaborative effort with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, working with the community, to identify and address the most significant drivers of violent crime. VCAP involves focused and strategic enforcement, interagency coordination, and intelligence-led policing.
Daniel 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 WPD, Goldsboro Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Leonard Champaign 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-87-D-RJ-1.
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Armed Franklin County Drug Dealer Sentenced to 19 YearsRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Youngsville man was sentenced Thursday to 19 years in prison for armed drug trafficking of cocaine, fentanyl and marijuana. On June 10, 2024, Samuel McCoy Oakley, Jr., age 47, pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine, 400 grams or more of fentanyl, and a quantity of marijuana, distribution of 500 grams or more of cocaine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, in September 2022, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), in conjunction with other federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, initiated an investigation into a drug-trafficking organization (DTO) operating in the Eastern District of North Carolina (EDNC). Investigation through digital and physical surveillance, cooperating sources, and wire intercepts determined that Oakley and his co-conspirators were responsible for distributing various narcotics sourced from New York and New Jersey.
On multiple occasions during the investigation, law enforcement observed unidentified males, with bags, arrive at Oakley’s residence, stay for a brief period, and leave. Vehicles stopped after leaving Oakley’s residence were found with marijuana and cash. Wiretap interceptions included calls where Oakley was discussing the sale of cocaine and fentanyl with his co-conspirators. In one instance, in May of 2023, he discussed purchasing “knowledge,” which referred to fentanyl branded with that name. The next day, a man used by Oakley as a courier drove from Charlotte to Oakley’s house and stayed only a couple of hours before returning to Charlotte. The following day, the courier took a flight to New York. Geo-location data show that the courier was in New York and New Jersey for a couple of days before driving back to North Carolina where he was stopped by law enforcement. During a search of the vehicle, officers located a “trap” that contained 5,012 grams of cocaine and 600 grams of fentanyl. The packages of fentanyl were stamped with the word “Knowledge.”
On July 19, 2023, a search warrant was executed at Oakley’s residence and more than 2,000 grams of cocaine were seized from the attic insulation. In addition, two 9mm handguns, including one that was loaded, a semiautomatic rifle, several rounds of ammunition and more than $35,000 in cash were recovered.
Based on the investigation, between July 2022 and July 2023, law enforcement determined that Oakley was responsible for a total of over 168 kilograms of cocaine, over 7 kilograms of fentanyl, and approximately 4 kilograms of marijuana.
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 Terrence W. Boyle. The DEA, the Henderson Police Department, Franklin County Sherriff’s Office, and the State Bureau of Investigation 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. 5:23-cr-00247-BO-RN.
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Sampson County Illegal Alien Caught with 30 Kilograms and 9 Firearms Sentenced to 17 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A man from Sampson County was sentenced today to 17 years in prison after he was caught with 30 kilograms of drugs and 9 firearms. On November 7, 2024, Antonio Tamoya Mondragon pled guilty to his charges.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, Mondragon, age 45, was born in Mexico and illegally entered the United States. Mondragon started distributing drugs as early as 2008. Law enforcement began investigating Mondragon in 2019 and conducted controlled purchases of pure methamphetamine from him on three occasions.
The investigation culminated in a traffic stop with follow-on search warrants on April 18, 2023. On that day, law enforcement was conducting early morning surveillance at Mondragon’s house. Mondragon and others appeared to be transferring packages into a car. In a traffic stop, law enforcement found just under 9 kilograms of cocaine hidden in the car’s headliner. As the traffic stop was executed, law enforcement observed a flurry of activity back at Mondragon’s house followed by a second car departing. This car was later searched. Inside was 7 kilograms of fentanyl, 9 kilograms of cocaine, 2 kilograms of heroin, 144 grams of methamphetamine, and a drug ledger. The car also had 8 guns inside with ammunition. Law enforcement then searched Mondragon’s house and seized $28,881 in cash and another gun. Subsequent interviews and investigation made clear that the drugs, guns, and cash all belonged to Mondragon.
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 DEA, Sampson County Sherriff’s Office, and SBI 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-040.
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Raleigh Armed Narcotics Trafficker Sentenced to 10 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – Darius Donte Privette, a/k/a “Heavy,” a 31-year-old resident of Zebulon, N.C. was sentenced today to 10 years in federal prison for trafficking fentanyl, crack cocaine, cocaine hydrochloride, and methamphetamine while armed in the Raleigh, Louisburg, and Zebulon areas. Privette pled guilty on November 12, 2024.
According to the court documents and other information presented in court, the investigation began on January 19, 2023, when officers with the Raleigh Police Department (RPD), stopped Privette on an outstanding warrant for his arrest. While conducting a search incident to his arrest, law enforcement located and seized a large sum of money and a key to his car.
A search of Privette’s car resulted in the seizure of the following items: 13 round blue tablets labeled as Percocet but containing fentanyl and ANPP, a fentanyl precursor, with a total weight of 1.43 grams of fentanyl; 22 MDMA pills with a total weight of 8.55 grams; 5.88 grams of crack cocaine; 9.94 grams of cocaine; 48.2 grams of marijuana; a 9mm firearm; various ammunition; various drug paraphernalia including digital scales and rolling papers; and a total of $1,886.00 in U.S. currency.
In an unrelated investigation, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office in Louisburg, North Carolina conducted three controlled purchases of crack cocaine from Privette in October and November 2023. During each buy, Privette sold a confidential informant approximately one gram of crack in exchange for $100.
Law enforcement then executed a search warrant on Privette’s home on November 9, 2023. In the upstairs bedroom, officers seized a large amount of marijuana, U.S. currency, and a firearm. On the back porch, law enforcement found a drum-style large-capacity magazine inside a children’s backpack. In total, law enforcement recovered 3 firearms, 1 large-capacity magazine; approximately 348.8 grams of cocaine hydrochloride, 898.11 grams of marijuana, a drug ledger, and a total of $5,020.00.
The investigation further revealed that Privette had been previously convicted of Possessing Marijuana, Carrying a Concealed Firearm, Fleeing Law Enforcement with a Motor Vehicle, and Possession with Intent to Sell Cocaine.
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 (ATF), Raleigh Police Department, Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, and Nash 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 5:24-CR-00199-D-001.
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Charlotte Man Sentenced to 20 Years for Trafficking Kilograms of Cocaine from Charlotte to WilmingtonRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Charlotte man was sentenced Tuesday to 20 years in prison for injecting large quantities of cocaine into the Wilmington area from early 2017 to July 2022. On November 5, 2024, Kinte Fisher, age 47, pled guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute a quantity of cocaine.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Wilmington Police Department (WPD) started investigating Fisher for drug trafficking. The investigation revealed that Fisher, who lived in Charlotte, moved narcotics to a “stash house” that he maintained in Wilmington. From there, he would sell large quantities of cocaine. Fisher often used the cover of visiting family to deliver cocaine to the area and supervised several other individuals involved in drug trafficking, including his girlfriend. Fisher also mailed packages containing narcotics using the United States Postal Service. Over a five-year period, Fisher distributed at least sixty-two kilograms of cocaine.
On July 25, 2022, surveillance revealed that Fisher was traveling again to Wilmington. Agents with the FBI saw him enter his stash house with a backpack. A few moments later, Fisher left the apartment and threw a piece of plastic wrap into a municipal trash can before driving off. Law enforcement officers tested that plastic wrap, and it tested positive for cocaine residue. Based on that, law enforcement attempted to initiate a traffic stop. Fisher sped off. A high-speed chase unfolded where Fisher sped through various areas, including one of Wilmington’s business districts. Fisher abandoned his car and continued to evade arrest on foot. Law enforcement caught up to Fisher at the Wilmington Riverwalk. As they closed in, Fisher tossed his cellphone into the river. A subsequent search of Fisher’s stash house found approximately 340 grams of cocaine, a scale, and drug packaging materials.
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 FBI, Wilmington Police Department, and New Hanover County Sheriff's Office investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney 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. 7:22-CR-101-D-1.
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Armed Raleigh Man Sentenced to 16 Years for Trafficking FentanylRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Raleigh man was sentenced today to 16 years in prison for trafficking fentanyl pills. On November 12, 2024, Donnavin Mustafia Byrdsong pled guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with the Intent to Distribute 400 grams or more of Fentanyl.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, Byrdsong, 31, was part of a group that was trafficking fentanyl pills into the Raleigh, North Carolina area for distribution. Law enforcement determined that Byrdsong and other members of the drug trafficking organization would fly to California to purchase fentanyl pills and would ship the pills back to North Carolina. On January 16, 2024, Byrdsong mailed two packages from California to an address in Raleigh. Law enforcement ultimately seized the packages and discovered a total of 40,000 fentanyl pills, concealed in Lego boxes. During a search of Byrdsong’s residence, law enforcement found numerous additional Lego boxes. The investigation confirmed that Byrdsong had previously mailed similar packages from California to Raleigh.
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 Internal Revenue Service 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.
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Raleigh Company to Pay More Than $2 Million to Resolve False Claims Act Liability Related to Improper Paycheck Protection Program LoanRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – DynPro, Inc., an IT solutions company based in Raleigh, will pay $2,178,254 to resolve its liability for falsely obtaining a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).
Congress created PPP loans to provide emergency financial assistance to American businesses suffering from the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the PPP, eligible small businesses could receive forgivable loans guaranteed by the SBA. Regulations provided various eligibility requirements for the PPP, including that to be eligible for a second-draw PPP loan, an applicant was required to have experienced at least a 25% reduction in quarterly gross receipts as a result of the pandemic.
DynPro’s second-draw PPP loan application falsely reported that DynPro had experienced a reduction in gross receipts of at least 25%, inaccurately stating the difference between the company’s gross receipts during the second quarter of 2019 and the second quarter of 2020. In fact, DynPro did not experience a 25% reduction in gross receipts, and therefore DynPro was ineligible for the loan. DynPro also falsely certified in its second-draw loan application that “the information provided in [the] application and the information provided in all supporting documents and forms [wa]s true and accurate in all material respects.” DynPro self-reported the conduct to the United States Attorney’s Office, and cooperated with the office’s investigation, including by identifying key witnesses and documents.
“The United States Attorney’s Office will use every tool available, including the False Claims Act, to investigate and recover fraudulently obtained PPP loans,” Acting United States Attorney Daniel P. Bubar stated. “We will continue to work closely with our partners at the SBA and elsewhere to root out waste, fraud and abuse of taxpayer funds.”
“The settlement in this matter demonstrates the excellent results achieved through the combined efforts of SBA and the Department of Justice to forcefully respond to PPP fraud. Such fraud unconscionably undermines critical pandemic relief, and SBA continues its enhanced efforts to uncover such misconduct and recover those damages,” said Wendell Davis, SBA General Counsel.
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar announced the resolution, which was the result of a coordinated effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina and the SBA. Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Kasper handled the case for the government, with assistance from the SBA’s Office of General Counsel.
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Three North Carolina Men Charged for Operating a Website to Sell Illegal DrugsRead the Press Release
NEW BERN, N.C. – A Rockingham man pleaded guilty Monday for his involvement in running an online e-commerce website that sold illegal drugs to customers nationwide. Adam Meland, 45, pled guilty to introducing misbranded drugs into interstate commerce. Leondas Paul, 39, previously pled guilty to the same charge for his involvement in the online drug sales.
Mark James Meland, also of Rockingham, was charged by Criminal Complaint in September 2023 for creating and operating the website MadisonJamesResearchChems.com. The online retail store illegally sold FDA-regulated drugs, including drugs commonly prescribed for weight loss, diabetes, erectile disfunction, and narcolepsy. M. Meland was charged with introducing misbranded drugs into interstate commerce and money laundering and faced more than 20 years in prison.
According to court documents and evidence presented in court, M. Meland used his website MadisonJamesResearchChems.com to sell a variety of products that contained well-known active pharmaceutical ingredients. M. Meland obtained the pharmaceutical ingredients from China and other overseas suppliers. He employed workers to mix the chemicals with cutting agents and then repackage the products into capsules, bottles, and vials to fulfil website orders. M. Meland used his Rockingham business, Copy Proz, to create logos and labels for his website products and then ship them to customers nationwide.
Neither M. Meland, his co-conspirators, or his businesses were registered with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to engage in the manufacturing or processing of drugs, nor were they practitioners licensed by law to administer prescription drugs. Many of the products sold on M. Meland’s website contained labels that did not have adequate directions for use and were false or misleading (such as stating the product was “not for human consumption”). Other drugs marketed on the website lacked requisite approval from the FDA to be lawfully marketed in the United States.
A search of M. Meland’s Copy Proz business and adjacent business suites in Rockingham resulted in the seizure of hundreds of bags of capsules, as well as dozens of bottles of liquids labeled as containing steroids and testosterone, both controlled substances (photographs attached). More than $150,000 in cash was seized along with numerous illegal firearms.
M. Meland died in February 2024, before the resolution of his criminal case. Paul was sentenced on March 6, 2024, to 6 months’ probation for his role working for M. Meland and operating a spin-off website LP3Health.com, which sold the same products as MadisonJamesResearchChems.com. A. Meland pled guilty for his role in assisting M. Meland run the online website. He is still awaiting sentencing and faces up to three years in prison.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after US Magistrate Judge Robert B. Jones, Jr. accepted the plea. The Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations is investigating the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Haughton 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 Nos. 5:23-mj-2147, 5:25-cr-00034, and 5:24-cr-00283.
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NC Department of Transportation Employee Pleads Guilty to the Sale of Dangerous Counterfeit Car AirbagsRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Raleigh man pled guilty today to importing thousands of counterfeit car steering wheel airbags into the Raleigh area over the past two years. The counterfeit airbags were sold locally and to online buyers through Facebook Marketplace.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, Mateen Mohammad Alinaghian, 31, imported approximately 2,500 counterfeit air bags into Raleigh between May 2022 and April 2024. Alinaghian imported steering wheel airbags with counterfeit markings of Honda, Chevrolet, General Motor, and Toyota, from a supplier in the United Kingdom. Alinaghian then sold the counterfeit airbags to unsuspecting customers using Facebook Marketplace. Alinaghian used the Facebook Marketplace seller profile of “Matt AutoParts” or “Medo Smith” to advertise and sell the counterfeit airbags. Alinaghian is currently employed as an engineer with the N.C. Department of Transportation.
According to testing done by Honda, General Motors, and Toyota, the steering wheel airbags obtained and sold by Alinaghian were not manufactured by the car companies, and often included materials of lesser quality. In testing, the counterfeit airbags often malfunctioned, either not fully inflating or inflating late – posing a potentially serious risk of injury to the vehicle driver.
The Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) led the investigation, along with the U.S. Department of Transportation, Office of Inspector General. The investigation included a search of Alinaghian’s house, which resulted in the seizure of approximately 20 counterfeit airbags, and multiple seizures by Customs and Border Control of in-bound packages from the United Kingdom containing counterfeit airbags en route to Alinaghian.
“In this case, the defendant put profit over safety by selling counterfeit airbags that had the potential to put drivers in harm’s way if the airbags malfunctioned during a collision,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar. “I’m so proud of the cooperation on display by this investigative team, which included partnering with our state, federal and international colleagues, and will hold Mr. Alinaghian responsible for his illegitimate enterprise.”
“Airbags are critical life-saving devices that are designed and produced to protect motorists. Counterfeit airbags pose a serious threat to the safety of consumers,” said Cardell T. Morant, special agent in charge of U.S. Homeland Security Investigations Charlotte that covers North and South Carolina. “HSI actively collaborates with its law enforcement partners to disrupt and dismantle transnational criminal organizations that seek to exploit global commerce and threaten legitimate supply chains.”
“The sale of counterfeit air bags that are not regulated or tested to ensure they meet federal safety standards puts drivers and those on our nation’s roadways at serious risk,” said Greg Thompson, Special Agent-in-Charge, Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General, Mid-Atlantic Region. “Today’s guilty plea is the result of an unwavering commitment to safety demonstrated together with our law enforcement, prosecutorial, and agency partners.”
“Selling and using counterfeit car airbags can have dangerous consequences,” said N.C. Secretary of State Elaine F. Marshall. “Our strong partnerships with the brand holders and law enforcement was crucial to uncovering this serious threat and taking them off the market may have saved lives.”
After identifying that Alinaghian was importing the counterfeit airbags from a source in the United Kingdom, HSI contacted law enforcement abroad. As a result, a search warrant was executed on September 19, 2024, by the City of London Police’s Intellectual Property Crime Unit (PICU). PICU officers searched two residential and one business address and seized a total of 500 counterfeit airbags and an estimated £140,000 in cash. Three men were arrested on suspicion of fraud by false representation, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and conspiracy to distribute counterfeit goods. The investigation is still ongoing.
According to a consumer alert published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), three people in the U.S. were killed and two people suffered injuries from September 2023 to July 2024 as a result of their vehicles being fitted with substandard replacement airbags.
Individuals who suspect they purchased a counterfeit airbag should consult their brand’s dealership or a reputable mechanic to determine if the parts need to be replaced, and report it to their local Homeland Security Investigations office or submit an online complaint to the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
If you have reason to believe that you are a victim the defendant’s conduct, either because you believe you received a counterfeit airbag from the defendant, or if you believe that you were injured or incurred costs as a result of the defendant’s conduct, please contact HSI at 919-677-6392.
Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after the guilty plea was accepted by U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert B. Jones. The Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) led the investigation, along with the U.S. Department of Transportation, Office of Inspector General, with assistance from the N.C. Secretary of State Trademark Enforcement Division or Anti-Counterfeit Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Haughton 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-00013-FL.
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Clayton Man Pleads Guilty to COVID-19 Assistance Fraud, Aggravated Identity Theft, and Illegal FirearmRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, N.C. – Darnell William King, age 42, pled guilty today 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 the Eastern District of North Carolina.
“The Paycheck Protection Program was an essential tool used to support the economy against an unforeseen international health crisis and provide much needed relief for small businesses,” Acting United States Attorney Daniel P. Bubar stated today. “Instead, King saw the PPP as an opportunity to commit serious fraud, and is being held responsible for his crimes because of the good work of IRS-CI and our other federal and state partners.”
“The defendant caused immeasurable hardship to innocent victims and businesses by stealing identities and using them to borrow money he never intended to repay,” said Special Agent in Charge Donald “Trey” Eakins, Charlotte Field Office, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation. “IRS Criminal Investigation, along with our law enforcement partners and the United States Attorney's Office, remain vigilant in finding, investigating and prosecuting those individuals who seek to willfully defraud the United States Treasury and blatantly disregard the victims of their schemes.”
According to the indictment, 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. 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.
“This extensive investigation, known as Operation Overload, uncovered a sophisticated criminal enterprise that fraudulently utilized thousands of North Carolina driver 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.”
Sentencing will occur later this year before United States District Judge Richard E. Myers, II.
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. Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation is leading 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. Attorney David G. Beraka and Assistant U.S. Attorney 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.
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Raleigh Woman Sentenced for Sex Trafficking of a 12-Year-Old Victim and Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
NEW BERN, N.C. – A Raleigh woman was sentenced to 216 months in prison for conspiring to sex traffic a minor and production of child pornography. On August 15, 2024, Brieania Shidae Pinnock, age 23, pled guilty to the charges.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, on June 23, 2022, law enforcement received a report regarding a missing juvenile child. Later that night, officers responded to the Budgetel Inn and Suites in Raleigh for a suspected overdose. Upon arriving at the hotel room, first responders identified the overdose victim as the missing 12-year-old female. The child was revived and transported to the hospital for treatment.
Law enforcement later discovered that the 12-year-old victim had been advertised for commercial sex on two separate websites. The advertisements featured multiple nude and exposed photographs of the minor victim. Investigators discovered the advertisements, which falsely claimed the victim was 19, had been posted to the websites on June 16, 2022. Investigators also determined that Pinnock did not act alone in advertising the minor for commercial sex, they identified an accomplice, Trinity Sky Alston. A review of phone messages between Pinnock and Alston confirmed they were aware of the victim’s true age and arranged for her to engage in commercial sex.
A forensic review of Pinnock’s phone revealed numerous images of child pornography, including original images of the victim taken on June 16, 2022, at Alston’s residence in Goldsboro, and subsequently posted on commercial sex websites.
On March 13, 2024, Alston [Case No. 5:23-cr-00210-FL-2] pled guilty to conspiracy to commit sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion of a minor, and sex trafficking of children age 13 years old or younger; and aiding and abetting. Alston is scheduled to be sentenced in April.
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 Raleigh Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case 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. 5:23-cr-00210-FL-1.
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Fayetteville Man Sentenced to 130 Months in Prison for Possessing a Firearm as a Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – Chadiez White (24) was sentenced on Thursday to 130 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. White pled guilty to the offense on November 26, 2024.
According to court records and evidence presented at sentencing, White was stopped by the Fayetteville Police Department for a traffic infraction. Officers detected an odor of marijuana coming from the car and saw marijuana residue and paraphernalia in the lap of a passenger. White admitted to officers that there was marijuana and a firearm in the car. White’s vehicle was seized and searched, and the officers located a semiautomatic pistol with a large capacity magazine under the driver’s seat, ammunition in the center console, 77 grams of marijuana and a digital scale in backpack located behind the driver’s seat, and six empty marijuana graphic baggies from the passenger side. White claimed ownership of everything found in the vehicle.
White’s criminal history includes convictions for common law robbery, breaking and entering, and an unrelated prior conviction for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
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.
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 Fayetteville Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jaren E. Kelly 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. 5:24-cr-00282-D.
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Eastern NC Man Sentenced to over Four Years for Role in $1 Million Covid Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
NEW BERN, N.C. – A Snow Hill man was sentenced to 50 months in prison for Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud related to Covid-19 loans. In March of 2024, TYREEK RASHEED EXUM, 26, was charged in a multi-count indictment alleging various offenses related to a Covid fraud scheme. On September 24, 2024, Exum pled guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud. Co-defendant Anthony Wandland, Jr., of Chicago, Illinois, pled guilty to the same charge on November 13, 2024.
Exum and Wandland conspired to use over 20 stolen identities and the identities of co-conspirators to apply for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) and Pandemic Unemployment Assistance benefits. The indictment charged that Wandland provided Exum with the stolen identities, and, in exchange, Exum gave Wandland a percentage of the proceeds. Each loan application submitted by Exum contained false statements, misrepresentations, and omissions related to income, employment, and claimed business entities. Exum signed various financial documents, including loan and security agreements, in the names of those stolen identities and then had the loan proceeds deposited into his personal bank account, nominee bank accounts, bank accounts of family and friends, and into accounts in the names of stolen identities. Exum exercised control over these accounts by obtaining bank debit cards and by causing nominees to transfer the fraud proceeds to other accounts controlled by him via various digital mediums such as PayPal and CashApp. Exum also withdrew the cash at multiple ATMs. In total, the indictment alleged Exum received nearly $1 million in fraudulent loan proceeds. The Court ordered Exuma to pay more than $620,000 in restitution.
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. IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Lisa 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 Nos. 5:21CR178-M and 5:23CR388-M.
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New Bern Man Sentenced to over Five Years for Role in Craven County Drug Trafficking OperationRead the Press Release
ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. –A New Bern man was sentenced Tuesday to 64 months in prison for his role in a Craven County drug trafficking organization (DTO). On November 21, 2024, Robert Niquan Bryant, age 26, pled guilty to the following two counts: conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture containing methamphetamine and 40 grams or more of fentanyl; and distribution of 50 grams or more of a mixture containing methamphetamine. Bryant is a validated member of the United Blood Nation street gang.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, in December 2023, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), in conjunction with the Craven County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO), the New Bern Police Department and other local law enforcement, initiated an investigation into the drug trafficking activities of DTO operating in Craven County. Bryant was identified as an individual who was distributing methamphetamine on behalf of the DTO. Two controlled purchases of methamphetamine were made from Bryant in March and April of 2024. In both instances, Bryant sold more than 100 grams of methamphetamine to a confidential informant.
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 Terrence W. Boyle. The ATF, the CCSO, and the New Bern Police Department investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Caroline Webb and Julie 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-00046-BO-BM.
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