District of North Dakota
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Former Tribal Official Pleads Guilty to Bribery SchemeRead the Press Release
A former Tribal government official of the Three Affiliated Tribes of the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation (MHA Nation) pleaded guilty today to a bribery scheme in which he admitted to soliciting and accepting bribes and kickbacks from a contractor providing construction services on the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation, which is the home of the MHA Nation.
According to court documents, Randall Jude Phelan, 58, of Mandaree, North Dakota, was an elected representative on the Tribal Business Council, the governing body of the MHA Nation, from around November 2012 through the middle of 2020. Beginning around 2013 and continuing through 2020, Phelan solicited and accepted bribes and kickbacks from a contractor operating on the Fort Berthold Reservation. In exchange for the payments, Phelan used his official position to help the contractor’s business, including by awarding contracts, fabricating bids during purportedly competitive bidding processes, advocating for the contractor with other Tribal officials, and facilitating the submission and payment of fraudulent invoices.
Phelan pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bribery concerning programs receiving federal funds, honest services wire fraud, and bribery concerning programs receiving federal funds. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 22, 2023, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on the top count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite, Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Jennifer Klemetsrud Puhl for the District of North Dakota; and Assistant Director Luis Quesada of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division made the announcement.
The FBI Minneapolis Field Office investigated the case.
Trial Attorneys Andrew Tyler and John J. Liolos of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Greenley for the District of North Dakota are prosecuting the case.
U.S. Department of Justice’s Election Day ProgramRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Jennifer Klemetsrud Puhl announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Rick L. Volk will lead the efforts of the United States Attorney’s Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 8, 2022, general election. AUSA Volk has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the District of North Dakota and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.
United States Attorney Jennifer Klemetsrud Puhl said, "Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election. Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process."
The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.
Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights
Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).
United States Attorney Jennifer Klemetsrud Puhl stated that: "We all must ensure that those who are entitled to vote can exercise that right if they choose, and that those who seek to interfere with that right are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSA/DEO Volk will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. He can be reached by the public at the following telephone number: 701-530-2420.
In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The local FBI Field Office can be reached by the public in North Dakota at 701-223-4875 or the FBI Field Office in Minneapolis, MN, at 763-569-8000.
Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by phone at 800-253-3931 or by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ .
Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office Announces Commitment to Environmental Justice and Seeks Reporting of Environmental Justice ConcernsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Jennifer Klemetsrud Puhl announced today that the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of North Dakota is encouraging members of the public to report environmental justice concerns to the Department of Justice.
The United States Attorney’s Office is coordinating with various components of the Department of Justice to promote the goal of environmental justice and that all communities may live in a safe and healthy environment through the fair and effective enforcement of the Nation's laws. Environmental justice is the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race, color, national origin, or income with respect to the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies. Environmental justice issues can arise under many different circumstances and may involve various federal civil and criminal laws.
Community members that have any environmental justice concerns to report or would like additional information are encouraged to contact the Environmental Justice Coordinator for the District of North Dakota by calling the U.S. Attorney’s Office at 701-530-2420. Members of the public may also submit reports of suspected environmental violations through the Environmental Protection Agency’s website.
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Spirit Lake, ND, Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Production and Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Fargo – United States Attorney Jennifer Klemetsrud Puhl announced that Johnson Shae Tollefson, age 29 of Spirit Lake, ND, appeared before Chief Judge Peter D. Welte, U.S. District Court, Fargo, ND, and was sentenced to 30 years in prison after having plead guilty on February 8, 2022, to Production, Distribution and Possession of Child Pornography. Judge Welte also sentenced Tollefson to lifetime of supervised release and he ordered Tollefson to pay $12,000 in restitution to four victims who were depicted in the images of child pornography.
This case came to the attention of law enforcement after the social networking website Tumblr reported that the Tumblr user "hornybiguysstuff" uploaded child pornography images during a private blog via the platform on December 19, 2019. A subsequent investigation by Homeland Security Investigation and North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation revealed that the user "hornybiguysstuff" was in reality Tollefson. Tollefson produced child pornography in Dilworth, Minnesota, that depicted a toddler-age female. While in North Dakota, Tollefson subsequently distributed the child pornography to other Tumblr users in exchange for other child pornography.
A federal grand jury in the District of Minnesota returned an Indictment charging Tollefson with production of child pornography and a federal grand jury in North Dakota returned an Indictment charging him with distribution and possession of child pornography. The Minnesota Indictment was eventually transferred to the District of North Dakota and Tollefson plead guilty to both Indictments in North Dakota. The two cases were combined for sentencing.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices throughout the nation, Project Safe Childhood, in conjunction with Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC), help federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies enhance their investigative responses to offenders who use the Internet, online communications systems, or computer technology to sexually exploit children. The ICAC Program is a national network of 61 coordinated task forces engaging in proactive investigations, forensic investigations, and criminal prosecutions. Project Safe Childhood also helps to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
This case was investigated by the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation and Homeland Security Investigations, and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office, with United States Attorney Jennifer Puhl assigned to the case.
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St. Michael Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Three Counts of Involuntary ManslaughterRead the Press Release
Fargo – United States Attorney Jennifer Klemetsrud Puhl announced that Winter Skye Bigtrack, age 19 of St. Michael, ND, appeared before Chief Judge Peter D. Welte, U.S. District Court, Fargo, ND, and was sentenced to 57 months in prison after having plead guilty to three counts of Involuntary Manslaughter and one count of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury. Judge Welte also sentenced Bigtrack to 3 years of supervised release and $76,786.42 restitution.
On August 11, 2021, Winter Bigtrack operated a motor vehicle on Heart Road on the Spirit Lake Reservation that left the roadway and rolled, which involved another motor vehicle. As a result of the rollover, three of the five occupants of the vehicle, an adult male, a juvenile male, and a minor female, died. The fifth passenger, another minor female, suffered injuries that required her to be transported to Fargo for intensive care treatment. Bigtrack suffered a broken collar bone. The occupants of the second vehicle received minor injuries.
Further investigation revealed that Bigtrack was driving without a license, exceeding the posted speed limit, and passing in a no passing zone while under the influence of intoxicating liquor and a controlled substance.
A federal grand jury has indicted the driver of the second involved vehicle, Trina Lily Hunt, age 19 also of St. Michael, ND, on the same charges. The indictment alleges that Hunt was driving a motor vehicle without a license while under the influence of intoxicating liquor and a controlled substance at high speeds exceeding the posted speed limit, and otherwise driving recklessly.
Grand jury Indictments are allegations and are not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until he is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Indian Affairs, and the North Dakota Highway Patrol, and the case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office, with Assistant United States Attorney Lori H. Conroy assigned to the case.
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Fargo, ND, Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possession of Illegal Ghost Guns and Imported SilencersRead the Press Release
Fargo – United States Attorney Jennifer Klemetsrud Puhl announced that Matthew Kraft, Age 31 of Fargo, ND, appeared before Chief Judge Peter D. Welte, U.S. District Court, Fargo, ND, and was sentenced to 30 months in prison for the Possession of Firearms by a Convicted Felon; Receipt or Possession of Firearms Made in Violation of National Firearms Act; Receipt of Possession of Unregistered Firearms; and Illegal Importation of Firearms. Judge Welte also sentenced Kraft to 3 years of supervised release and a $400 special assessment.
This case came to the attention of law enforcement after the United States Customs and Border Protection intercepted a package from China headed to Fargo, North Dakota, that contained a firearm silencer. On June 28, 2021, federal and state law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at the home of Matthew Kraft. During the search, law enforcement found an arsenal of weapons, to include short-barreled rifles, ghost guns, and over 20 firearm silences. Most of the firearm suppressors were illegally imported from China.
"It is extremely dangerous to have unregulated firearms, such as ghost guns, circulating throughout the community," said acting Special Agent in Charge of HSI Saint Paul Jamie Holt. "It’s not just the unregistered weapons themselves that present an obvious danger, but the criminal networks who are profiting from the sale of these illegal arms. HSI, and our law enforcement partners will continue our work to remove these unlawful guns from the streets and bring all of those involved in their trade to justice."
"Through his previous convictions, Mr. Kraft has demonstrated his lack of public trust," said ATF Special Agent in Charge William McCrary, of the St. Paul Field Division. "Circumventing the law to obtain firearms, silencers or any other controlled item as a person prohibited from possessing such items cannot and will not be tolerated. We are grateful to our partners for their work in the case and applaud the U.S. Attorney’s Office for its successful prosecution of this investigation."
"This case represents our commitment to reducing gun violence by disrupting illegal firearms trafficking in our region," said United States Attorney Jennifer Puhl.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Customs and Border Protection; ND Bureau of Investigations; Cass County Sheriff’s office; Cass County Drug Task Force; and Fargo Police Department and was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s office, with Assistant United States Attorney Richard Lee assigned to the case.
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Tokio, ND, Woman Sentenced to Life in Prison for Murder of Foster Child and Abuse and Neglect of Other ChildrenRead the Press Release
Fargo –United States Attorney Jennifer Klemetsrud Puhl announced that Tammy Longie of Tokio, ND, appeared before Chief Judge Peter D. Welte, U.S. District Court, Fargo, ND, and was sentenced to serve life in prison after having plead guilty to Second-Degree Murder within Indian Country; three counts of Child Abuse in Indian Country; and Child Neglect in Indian Country.
On May 6, 2020, agents with the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Federal Bureau of Investigation responded to the home of Erich and Tammy Longie on the Spirit Lake Reservation. Law enforcement observed a deceased 5-year-old child in the basement of the home and observed bruising throughout the body. An autopsy concluded the death a homicide and identified the cause of death as bilateral subdural hematomas incurred from assault. The pathologist observed abrasions and contusions consistent with "multiple episodes of inflicted trauma." The child’s sibling was examined at a local hospital and determined to need a higher level of care and was hospitalized for more than a month. An attending physician explained the child had bruising over the child’s body consistent with abuse. The primary medical concern, however, was heart failure due to malnutrition.
Spirit Lake Tribal Social Services ("SLTSS") had placed the two children in foster care in the home of Erich Longie, Jr., and Tammy Longie in July of 2019.
The investigation revealed that two biological children were also abused including with objects and hands.
"This is a tragic and horrifying case," said United States Attorney Jennifer Klemetsrud Puhl. "The children endured prolonged physical and emotional abuse by Longie, who was responsible for caring and protecting them. In particular, Longie’s physical and psychological abuse of five-year-old R.T. and seven-year-old Z.T. represents some of the worst of humanity; for Longie ultimately killed R.T. and severely injured Z.T. Today’s sentence ensures that she will be removed from her community forever."
Co-defendant Erich Longie, Jr. plead guilty to First-Degree Murder; three counts of Child Abuse in Indian Country, and Child Neglect in Indian Country and was also sentenced to serve life in prison.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Indian Affairs and is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s office, with Assistant United States Attorney Lori H. Conroy assigned to the case.
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Quebec Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Import and Distribute FentanylRead the Press Release
Jason Joey Berry, 39, of Montreal, Canada, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and import it into the United States, resulting in serious bodily injury and death. The criminal conspiracy involved distributing fentanyl and other similar substances from Canada and China into the United States, resulting in 15 overdoses, four of which were fatal.
According to court documents, Berry arranged the distribution of fentanyl and fentanyl analogues to the United States and elsewhere while incarcerated in a Canadian prison. Berry led the conspiracy in Canada with another inmate, Daniel Vivas Ceron, 41, who pleaded guilty in July 2019 to continuing criminal enterprise, conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and controlled substance analogues resulting in serious bodily injury and death, and money laundering. This investigation started in North Dakota on Jan. 3, 2015, with the overdose death in Grand Forks, North Dakota, of Bailey Henke.
“Jason Berry was part of a fentanyl trafficking ring that contributed to the opioid epidemic plaguing our communities,” said Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite, Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “This case sends a clear message that the Criminal Division is committed to protecting those communities, combating the flow of deadly drugs like fentanyl, and holding accountable drug traffickers seeking to turn a profit on addiction.”
Berry pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and controlled substance analogues resulting in serious bodily injury and death, and conspiracy to import controlled substances and controlled substance analogues into the United States resulting in serious bodily injury and death. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 17, 2023, and faces a mandatory minimum sentence of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Additional defendants charged in federal court in this investigation include:
District of North Dakota
- Jian Zhang, aka Hong Kong Zaron, 43, of China; Xuan Cahn Nguyen, aka Jackie and Jackie Chan, 42, of Quebec Canada; Marie Um, aka Angry Bird, 41, of Quebec, Canada; and Vannek Um, 44, of Quebec, Canada were charged by a superseding indictment returned on Jan. 18, 2018, with drug trafficking conspiracy. Also charged with international money launder conspiracy were Na Chu, 41; Yeyou Chu, 40; Cuiying Liu, 66; and Keping Zhang, 66, all Chinese nationals. On May 31, Nguyen pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute and import fentanyl and fentanyl analogues and conspiring to launder money;
- On March 22, 2018, Steven Barros Pinto, aka Yeaboy, 41, of Pawtucket, Rhode Island, was charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of controlled substances and controlled substance analogues resulting in serious bodily injury and death, conspiracy to import controlled substances and controlled substance analogues into the United States resulting in serious bodily injury and death, and continuing criminal enterprise. On Nov. 28, 2018, a superseding indictment was filed adding the charges of obstruction of justice and money laundering conspiracy. On July 9, 2021, a federal jury convicted Pinto for conspiring to import and distribute fentanyl and fentanyl analogues, continuing criminal enterprise, money laundering conspiracy, and multiple obstruction offenses. He was sentenced on Oct. 14, 2021, to serve 400 months in federal prison;
- Brandon Corde Hubbard, 47, of Portland, Oregon, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances resulting in serious bodily injury and death, distribution of a controlled substance resulting in death, and money laundering conspiracy. He was sentenced on July 13, 2016, to serve life in federal prison;
- Ryan Jon Jensen, 27, of Grand Forks, North Dakota, pleaded guilty on Feb. 27, 2015, to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances resulting in serious bodily injury and death, one count of distribution of a controlled substance resulting in death, two counts of distribution of a controlled substance resulting in serious bodily injury, and money laundering conspiracy. He was sentenced on Feb. 1, 2016, to serve 240 months in federal prison;
- Joshua Tyler Fulp, 27, of Grand Forks, pleaded guilty on June 23, 2015, to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances resulting in serious bodily injury and death. He was sentenced to serve 144 months in federal prison;
- Kain Daniel Schwandt, 26, of Grand Forks, pleaded guilty on July 24, 2015, to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. He was sentenced on Jan. 25, 2016, to serve 42 months in federal prison;
- David Todd Noye Jr., 121, of Grand Forks, pleaded guilty on May 4, 2015, to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. He was sentenced on Jan. 25, 2016, to serve 39 months in federal prison;
- Jameson Robert Sele, 27, of Grand Forks, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. He was sentenced on July 27, 2015, to serve 36 months in federal prison;
- Braden James Foley, 35, of Olympia, Washington, pleaded guilty on Aug. 11, 2016, to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of controlled substances. He was sentenced on Nov. 21, 2016, to serve 30 months in federal prison;
- Anthony Santos Gomes, 37, originally of Rhode Island and Davie, Florida, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute controlled substances and controlled substance analogues resulting in serious bodily injury and death and money laundering conspiracy. In addition to pleading guilty, Gomes agreed to forfeit a residence located in Davie, Florida; $162,836.00 in cash; a 2007 Maserati Quattroporte; a 2017 Polaris Sportsman XP ATV; and assorted jewelry valued at $64,725.00. He was sentenced on July 30, 2021, to serve 360 months in federal prison;
- Amanda Schneider, 32, of Port St. Lucie, Florida, pleaded guilty on Sept. 17, 2018, to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of controlled substances. She was sentenced on Jan. 17, 2019, to serve 15 months in federal prison;
- Keveen Nobre, 32, of Providence, Rhode Island, pleaded guilty on Oct. 10, 2018, to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of controlled substances. He was sentenced on April 17, 2019, to serve 30 months in federal prison;
- Robinson Gomez, 39, of Charlotte, North Carolina, pleaded guilty on Jan. 10, 2019, to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of controlled substances. He was sentenced on April 17, 2019, to serve 180 months in federal prison;
- David Campbell, 61, of Plantation, Florida, pleaded guilty on Jan. 10, 2019, to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of controlled substances. He was sentenced on April 17, 2019, to serve 120 months in federal prison;
- Louis Bell, 34, of Port St. Lucie, Florida, pleaded guilty on Nov. 8, 2018, to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of controlled substances. He was sentenced on April 18, 2019, to serve 201 months in federal prison;
- Elizabeth Ton, 31, of Davie, Florida, pleaded guilty on June 18, 2018, to money laundering conspiracy. She was sentenced on March 8, 2019, to serve 41 months in federal prison; and
- Danny Gamboa, 25, of Pawtucket, Rhode Island, pleaded guilty on Jan. 10, 2019, to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of controlled substances. He was sentenced on April 17, 2019, to serve 25 months in federal prison.
District of Oregon
- Channing Lacey, 35, of Portland, Oregon, pleaded guilty on March 28, 2017, to one count of distribution of a controlled substance resulting in serious bodily injury to three individuals and one count of distribution of a controlled substance resulting in death. She was sentenced on Aug. 28, 2017, to serve 135 months in federal prison;
- Steven Fairbanks Locke, 46, of Portland, pleaded guilty on June 14, 2017, to use of a communication facility to facilitate a drug offense. He was sentenced on Sept. 4, 2019, to time served; and
- Carissa Marie Laprall, 27, of Portland, pleaded guilty on March 28, 2017, to three counts of distribution of a controlled substance resulting in serious bodily injury. She was sentenced on Jan. 30, 202 to time served.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Grand Forks Narcotics Task Force, IRS Criminal Investigation, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Portland Police Bureau – Narcotics and Organized Crime Division, Oregon/Idaho HIDTA Interdiction Task Force, Oregon State Police, and the Grand Forks Police Department. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided valuable assistance.
Trial Attorneys Kaitlin Sahni and Imani Hutty of the Criminal Division’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section, Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Myers of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of North Dakota, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Kerin of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon are prosecuting the case.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Reaches ADA Settlement with Ulta Salon, Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc.Read the Press Release
FARGO - United States Attorney Jennifer Klemetsrud Puhl announced that the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of North Dakota completed its investigation and entered into a settlement agreement with Ulta Salon, Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc. ("Ulta") to resolve allegations that Ulta violated the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 ("ADA"). Specifically, a complaint alleged that Ulta refused to allow an individual with a disability who uses a service animal to enter Ulta with her service animal. Ulta operates a retail store located in Fargo, North Dakota, where the alleged incident occurred.
During its investigation, the U.S. Attorney’s Office found that the complainant attempted to enter Ulta with her service animal. An Ulta employee told the complainant she was not allowed to enter the store with her service animal, and incorrectly told her a North Dakota cosmetology statute prohibited service animals without documentation.
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, individuals with disabilities who use service animals may enter places of public accommodations, such as retail stores, with their service animals. There is no requirement that individuals with disabilities show any documentation, licensure, or certification, nor is there a requirement that the service animal be wearing any vest, harness, or collar that indicates it is a service animal. A service animal is simply any dog trained to work or perform tasks for individuals with disabilities. If a place of public accommodation is unsure whether an animal is a service animal, under the ADA they may only ask two questions:
• Is the dog a service animal required because of a disability?
• What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?
Under the settlement agreement, Ulta agreed to adopt a nationwide service animal non-discrimination policy for all its stores, provide relevant training to its employees regarding the ADA, post signage indicating service animals are welcome, and pay $1,000 in damages to the complainant.
"People with disabilities who are accompanied by a service animal are entitled to come and go freely in the community," said United States Attorney Puhl. "The corrective measures agreed to by Ulta will give individuals with disabilities an equal opportunity to enjoy the largest beauty retailor in the United States, as is required by the ADA. We hope other proprietors will proactively comply with this important civil rights law. Service animals play an important role to ensure the independence of people with disabilities, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to ensuring that individuals with disabilities will have full and equal access to places of public accommodation."
This matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa H. Burkland of the District of North Dakota.
Any member of the public who wishes to file a complaint alleging that any place of public accommodation or public entity in North Dakota is not accessible to persons with disabilities may file a complaint online at www.ada.gov or contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at 701-297-7400.
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Tokio, ND, Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for Death of Foster Child and Abuse and Neglect of Other ChildrenRead the Press Release
Fargo – United States Attorney Jennifer Klemetrud Puhl announced that Erich Longie, Jr. of Tokio, ND, appeared before Chief Judge Peter D. Welte, U.S. District Court, Fargo, ND, and was sentenced to serve life in prison after having plead guilty to First-Degree Felony Murder within Indian Country; three counts of Child Abuse in Indian Country; and Child Neglect in Indian Country.
On May 6, 2020, agents with the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Federal Bureau of Investigation responded to the home of Erich and Tammy Longie on the Spirit Lake Reservation. Law enforcement observed a deceased 5-year-old child in the basement of the home and observed bruising throughout the body. An autopsy concluded the death a homicide and identified the cause of death as bilateral subdural hematomas incurred from assault. The pathologist observed abrasions and contusions consistent with "multiple episodes of inflicted trauma." The child’s sibling was examined at a local hospital and determined to need a higher level of care and was hospitalized for more than a month. An attending physician explained the child had bruising over the child’s body consistent with abuse. The primary medical concern, however, was heart failure due to malnutrition.
Spirit Lake Tribal Social Services ("SLTSS") had placed the two children in foster care in the Longie home in July of 2019.
The investigation revealed that two biological children were also abused including with objects and hands.
Co-defendant Tammy Longie plead guilty to Second-Degree Murder; three counts of Child Abuse in Indian Country, and Child Neglect in Indian Country and is scheduled for sentencing. Sentencing for Tammy Longie before Chief Judge Peter D. Welte is scheduled for August 9, 2022.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Indian Affairs and is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s office, with Assistant United States Attorney Lori H. Conroy assigned to the case.
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Minot, ND Man and Velva, ND Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Sexual Exploitation of Minor ChildrenRead the Press Release
BISMARCK – Interim United States Attorney Jennifer Klemetsrud Puhl announced that on June 22, 2022, U.S. District Court Judge Daniel L. Hovland sentenced Katie Heidinger, age 33 of Velva, ND and Derrick Walker, age 46 of Minot, ND, for the charges of Six Counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, and Walker for an additional count of Receipt of Images Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor.
Katie Heidinger plead guilty to the charged offenses and was sentenced to 30 years’ imprisonment followed by a life term of supervised release. Derrick Walker was found guilty following a federal jury on January 26, 2022 and was sentenced to 45 years’ imprisonment followed by a life term of supervised release to follow.
During the trial of Derrick Walker, Katie Heidinger testified that she engaged in an affair with Walker during which time Walker disclosed to her that he was sexually interested in young boys. At Walker’s request, Heidinger produced sexually explicit images and videos involving three boys, ages one, two and five years. Thereafter, she sent this material to Walker to view. Heidinger, again per Walker’s request, created images and videos that depicted her sexually abusing some of these same boys. In addition, Walker requested Heidinger to engage in similar conduct with three other children.
The matter came to law enforcement attention when Heidinger’s then husband discovered some of the images and videos on Heidinger’s cellphone and immediately reported the discovery to the McHenry County Sheriff’s Department.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Gary Delorme and investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigations, Minot Police Department, and McHenry County Sheriff’s Office.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices throughout the nation, Project Safe Childhood, in conjunction with Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC), help federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies enhance their investigative responses to offenders who use the Internet, online communications systems, or computer technology to sexually exploit children. The ICAC Program is a national network of 61 coordinated task forces engaging in proactive investigations, forensic investigations, and criminal prosecutions. Project Safe Childhood also helps to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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Bismarck, ND, Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Sexual Exploitation of Minor Female ChildrenRead the Press Release
BISMARCK – Interim United States Attorney Jennifer Klemetsrud Puhl announced that U.S. District Court Judge Daniel Hovland sentenced Dawson Rouse, Age 23 of Bismarck, ND, to 30 years in federal prison for the charges of 15 counts of Coercion and Enticement of a Minor to Engage in Unlawful Sexual Activity and six count of Receipt of Child Pornography. Judge Hovland also sentenced Rouse to 30 years of supervised release. Rouse was further ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $3,000.00 to one of the child victims.
This case came to the attention of law enforcement after a concerned parent reported to the Bismarck Police Department that her adolescent-age daughter and her friend snuck out of the family residence in the middle of the night and met with an adult male, later identified as Dawson Rouse. An investigation revealed that Rouse had been communicating with hundreds of minor females he met through the social media platform, Snapchat. Rouse, after identifying as someone closer in age to them, coerced and enticed or attempted to coerce and entice 21 minor victims between the ages of twelve and sixteen years to either send Rouse sexually exploitive images and videos or to meet with him for unlawful sexual conduct. In many of the cases, Rouse harassed the minor victims to send him nude photographs or videos of themselves, after which Rouse harassed them to meet for the purpose of sexual activity. Several of the victims sent Rouse self-produced child pornography and six of the victims met with Rouse and engaged in sexual acts with him.
Following sentencing, Interim United States Attorney Jennifer K. Puhl said "this is an "every parent’s nightmare" type of case, one in which should serve as a warning about the real dangers that exist on many of the social media platforms used by children."
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Gary Delorme and investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigations, and Bismarck Police Department.
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Detroit Men Convicted of Numerous Federal Charges for a Large Drug Distribution Enterprise Targeting the Spirit Lake, Turtle Mountain and Fort Berthold Indian ReservationsRead the Press Release
FARGO – United States Attorney Jennifer Klemetsrud Puhl announced that on June 17, 2022, following a 12-day trial, a jury returned guilty verdicts on multiple counts against two men from Detroit, Michigan, for their leadership in a drug trafficking organization targeting three of North Dakota’s Native American Reservations.
Baquan Sledge, a/k/a Rell, a/k/a TJ, a/k/a Matthew Pierce, was convicted of Continuing Criminal Enterprise, Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance, Possession with Intent to Distribute Oxycodone, and Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premise.
Darius Sledge, a/k/a Ace, a/k/a Man Man, a/k/a Frank Love, a/k/a Gary, a/k/a Bill, was convicted of Continuing Criminal Enterprise, Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance, Possession with Intent to Distribute Oxycodone, and Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premise.
This case is part of "Operation Blue Prairie," an Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation into the multi-state trafficking of oxycodone.
The multi-agency investigation led by the Bureau of Indian Affairs Division of Drug Enforcement revealed that the Sledge defendants and their co-conspirators targeted areas with fewer law enforcement resources where they could distribute controlled substances at a premium price. The Sledge defendants and others used local residences and people for distribution and stash houses to further their criminal activities for monetary gain. In total, twenty-six defendants were charged in the case.
U.S. District Judge Daniel L. Hovland presided over the trial.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs Division of Drug Enforcement, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Rolette County Sheriff’s Department, Bottineau County Sheriff’s Department, Ward County Narcotics Task Force, Lake Region Narcotics Task Force, Mandan Hidatsa Arikara Division of Drug Enforcement, North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation, North Dakota Crime Laboratory, Michigan State Police, Minot Police Department, United States Department of Homeland Security Investigations.
The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office, with Assistant United States Attorneys Dawn Deitz and Lori Conroy assigned with the assistance of lead investigator Bureau of Indian Affairs Division of Drug Enforcement Special Agent Isaiah Soldier.
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Moorhead, MN, Man Sentenced to 17 ½ Years in Federal Prison for Attempted Sex Trafficking of a Child and Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
FARGO – Interim United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase announced that on June 9, 2022, U.S. District Court Chief Judge Peter D. Welte sentenced James Duane Vanraden, age 48, Moorhead, MN, to 17 ½ years in federal prison for Attempted Sex Trafficking of a Child and Distribution of Materials Containing Child Pornography. Chief Judge Welte also sentenced Vanraden to a lifetime period of supervised release.
Investigation revealed that on or about December 4, 2019, and continuing until on or about July 16, 2020, Vanraden attempted to solicit a perceived 10-year-old girl for the purpose of a commercial sex act. Specifically, on December 4, 2019, an Undercover Officer (UC) with law enforcement began a proactive Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) investigation and posted an advertisement on Craigslist searching for a "tutor" for his 10-year-old daughter. Vanraden responded to the Craigslist post and thereafter Vanraden and the UC began communicating via an encrypted platform. Over the ensuing seven months, Vanraden sent the UC child pornography and further arranged to engage in commercial sex with his perceived 10-year-old daughter. Eventually, Vanraden arranged for the UC to receive a $200 payment from a third party via Venmo, a mobile payment application, in exchange for the sexual activity.
On February 8, 2022, Vanraden pleaded guilty to knowingly Attempting Sex Trafficking of Children under the age of 14 and Distributing Materials Containing Child Pornography.
This case was investigated by the West Pargo Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, and the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigations and prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office, with Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Puhl assigned to the case.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices throughout the nation, Project Safe Childhood, in conjunction with Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC), help federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies enhance their investigative responses to offenders who use the Internet, online communications systems, or computer technology to sexually exploit children. The ICAC Program is a national network of 61 coordinated task forces engaging in proactive investigations, forensic investigations, and criminal prosecutions. Project Safe Childhood also helps to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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Fargo, ND, Man Sentenced to 27 Years in Federal Prison for Possession and Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
FARGO – Interim United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase announced that on June 9, 2022, U.S. District Court Chief Judge Peter D. Welte sentenced Jeffrey Lee Buckmeier, age 42, Fargo, ND, to 27 years in federal prison for the charges of Receipt and Distribution of Materials Containing Child Pornography and Possession of Materials Containing Child Pornography. Chief Judge Welte also sentenced Buckmeier to a lifetime period of supervised release and ordered him to pay $84,000 in restitution to the child victims depicted in his child pornography collection.
This case came to the attention of law enforcement after KIK reported to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) that one of its users uploaded 27 files of child pornography to a KIK group on January 22 and 24, 2021. A subsequent investigation identified the defendant, Jeffrey Buckmeier, a thrice-convicted sex offender, as the user of the KIK account. In an attempt to avoid detection, Buckmeier used the IP addresses of several local businesses to download child pornography on his cell phone.
On August 27, 2021, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Buckmeier’s residence located in Fargo, ND. A forensic examination of the devices seized from the residence revealed more than 11,000 images and 900 videos of child pornography
depicting children as young as three months of age. The investigation also revealed that Buckmeier used several social media platforms to communicate and trade child pornography with others.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigations, and North Dakota Parole and Probation and prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office, with Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Puhl assigned to the case.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices throughout the nation, Project Safe Childhood, in conjunction with Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC), help federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies enhance their investigative responses to offenders who use the Internet, online communications systems, or computer technology to sexually exploit children. The ICAC Program is a national network of 61 coordinated task forces engaging in proactive investigations, forensic investigations, and criminal prosecutions. Project Safe Childhood also helps to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office Reaches ADA Settlement with Milnor Public School DistrictRead the Press Release
Fargo - Interim United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase announced today that the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of North Dakota entered into a settlement agreement with the Milnor Public School District ("School District") to resolve an allegation that the School District violated the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 ("ADA").
The settlement agreement resolves an ADA complaint alleging that the newly constructed playground at the Milnor Public School is inaccessible to students with disabilities, and that the School District failed to provide accessible transportation to a student with a disability for a field trip. Through its investigation into the complaint, the U.S. Attorney’s Office learned of serious barriers to access for students with disabilities at the playground. These barriers included a newly installed Engineered Wood Fiber playground surface that was loose and unstable, such that a wheelchair user would have extreme difficulty navigating the playground surface. Additionally, the route to the playground area included changes in level, running slopes, and cross slopes far exceeding those permitted under the ADA Standards for Accessible Design. Further, the U.S. Attorney’s Office learned about an incident in which a student with a disability was, rather than provided with accessible transportation, picked up and carried on to a non-accessible school bus for a field trip during the school day.
Under the terms of the settlement agreement, the School District will make modifications to the playground by September 1, 2022, to bring it into compliance with the ADA. Further, when transporting students with disabilities who use mobility devices, the School District will use vehicles with features such as lifts or ramps to properly assist and secure these students.
Interim U.S. Attorney Chase commended the School District for its exemplary cooperation throughout this investigation and for its commitment to the ADA. "Every child in North Dakota should have equal access to educational facilities," said Interim U.S. Attorney Chase. "I personally thank the Milnor Public School District for its full cooperation with our investigation and for its agreement to correct the issues at the playground before the upcoming school year. We hope other schools, park districts, and providers of playground equipment and installation services remain focused on the requirements of the ADA. Our office is committed to ensuring children with disabilities have full and equal access to educational and recreational opportunities in North Dakota."
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tara Vavrosky Iversen and Melissa H. Burkland represented the United States in this matter, with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Michelle Erdmann.
Any member of the public who wishes to file a complaint alleging that any place of public accommodation or public entity in North Dakota is not accessible to persons with disabilities may file a complaint online at www.ada.gov or contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at 701-297-7400.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office Commemorates National Crime Victims’ Rights WeekRead the Press Release
FARGO – Interim United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase announced that on April 29, 2022, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of North Dakota recognized individuals from across the state who provide outstanding services to victims.
Victim assistance awards were presented to the following individuals:
• Assistant United States Attorney Victim Assistance Award – Lori Conroy, Assistant U.S Attorney, U.S. Attorney’s Office, Fargo.
• Support Staff Victim Assistance Award – Susan Spivey, Forensic Interviewer, Red River Children’s Advocacy Center, Grand Forks, ND.
• Victim Witness Advocate Assistance Award – Melandie Deplazes, Safe Alternatives for Abused Families, Devils Lake, ND.
• Special Agent Victim Assistance Award – Jarrod Birchler, Special Agent, FBI, Grand Forks, ND.
• Crime Victim Service Legacy Assistance Award – Geig & Linda Schneider.
The U.S. Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) leads communities throughout the country in their annual observances of the National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. This year’s theme - Rights, access, equity, for all victims - underscores the importance of helping crime survivors find their justice by enforcing victims’ rights, expanding access to services, and ensuring equity and inclusion for all.
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Registered Sex Offender from Mandan, ND, Sentenced to 40 Years in Federal Prison for Crimes Related to International Travel with Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Acts with a MinorRead the Press Release
BISMARCK – Interim United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase announced that on April 12, 2022, U.S. District Court Judge Daniel M. Traynor sentenced Maurice Robert Thill, Age 60 from Mandan, ND, to 40 years in federal prison for the charges of Count 1 – Failure of Registered Sex Offender to Report International Travel (18 USC 2250(b)); Count 2 – Failure to Update Sex Offender Registration (18 USC 2250(a)); Count 3 - Possession of Materials Involving the Sexual Exploitation of Children (18 USC 2252(a)(4)(B) and 2252(b)(2)) Count 6 - Travel with Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct with a Minor (18 USC 2423(b) and 2423(f)(1)); and Count 7 - Commission of a Felony Offense Involving a Minor by a Registered Sex Offender (18 USC 2260A). Judge Traynor also sentenced Thill to a Lifetime term of supervised release, $500 in special assessments, and $3,000 in restitution. Thill pleaded guilty to the above charges on August 12, 2021.
This matter came to the attention of law enforcement officials when in December 2019, Thill boarded a flight destined to Madagascar, Africa, without having previously notified sex offender registration authorities of his intention to engage in international travel as required by Federal law. Upon his return to the United States in January 2020, Thill was arrested on a related North Dakota State warrant for failing to update his sex offender registration. Thill’s cellular phone was seized and searched. Additional
investigation determined Thill had been communicating with minors in Madagascar about sexual activity using social media accounts he had failed to register as required by law. Authorities located multiple images involving the sexual exploitation of minors on the cell phone, including numerous images of Thill engaging in sexual acts with a minor in Madagascar, as well as communications referencing sexual activity with another minor in that country during a previous trip in 2019.
Thill was a registered sex offender based on his convictions under North Dakota law for Gross Sexual Imposition in 1990, 1991, and 2004. He was also civilly committed as a Sexually Dangerous Individual between 2011 – 2017. He had last updated his sex offender registration on 12-13-2019, three days prior to his flight to Madagascar.
"HSI and our law enforcement partners are watching closely for indicators of child exploitation throughout our community, one of which may be an offender not adhering to mandated reporting requirements," said acting Special Agent in Charge Jamie Holt of Homeland Security Investigations St. Paul "Today's sentencing is a result of those partnerships and the watchful eyes of all the dedicated agents and officers involved in both this case and the defendant’s previous cases. I commend them all for their hard work."
"This investigation is a great example of coordinated efforts by Federal, State and Local law enforcement officials and their determined efforts to protect the public from sexual predators," said Interim United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase, "and this sentence effectively ends defendant’s ability to victimize children."
This case was investigated by the Homeland Security Investigations; United States Marshal’s Service; North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation; Mandan Police Department; and the Diplomatic Security Service (State Department), and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s office, with Assistant United States Attorney Rick Volk assigned to the case.
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Fergus Fall, MN, Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Federal Prison for Violent Gang RobberiesRead the Press Release
FARGO – Interim United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase announced that on April 12, 2022, U.S. District Court Chief Judge Peter D. Welte sentenced Abbot William Aho, a/k/a Boogie, age 26, Fergus Falls, MN, to 25 years in federal prison for the charges of Continuing Criminal Enterprise, Conspiracy to Interfere with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery; Interference with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery; Use of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence; Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and Distribute Controlled Substances; and Aiding and Abetting. Chief Judge Welte also sentenced Aho to 5 years supervised release and 1,773.23 in restitution.
It is alleged that from January 2019 through May 2019, Abbot Aho, led a criminal gang known as the "Slither Gang," and conspired with other individuals to target robbery victims who were themselves alleged drug traffickers in North Dakota, Minnesota, and elsewhere. Aho and the co-conspirator gang members carried out a string of robberies by threats of violence, the infliction of violence, and the brandishing of firearms and other dangerous weapons. Aho and the co-conspirators often resorted to home invasions or setting up victims to meet at a public place, and then robbed them of drugs, money, firearms and personal property, later selling the drugs they stole.
In addition to numerous similar related federal prosecutions across the state as a part of this initiative, several of Aho’s co-conspirators have also been sentenced for their involvement in the violent robberies:
• Cory Carlson, age 24, Robbinsdale, MN: Sentenced on December 9, 2021, to 100 months in federal prison and 3 years supervised release for the charges of Interference with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery and Use of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence.
• Sarah Ann Carlson, age 21, Minneapolis, MN: Sentenced on July 19, 2021, to 80 months imprisonment and 3 years supervised release for the charges of Conspiracy to Interfere with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery; Interference with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery; Use of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence; and Aiding and Abetting.
• Jared Christopher Kaul, age 21, Fridley, MN: Sentenced on December 8, 2021, to 32 months in federal prison and 3 years supervised release for the charges of Conspiracy to Interfere with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery; Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and Distribute Controlled Substances.
• Nicholas Dakota May, age 22, Fargo ND: Sentenced on November 23, 2021, to 28 months imprisonment and 3 years supervised release for the charges of Interference with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery and Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and Distribute Controlled Substances.
• Shelby Lynn Dallman, age 23, Faribault, MN: Sentenced on August 23, 2021, to 24 months imprisonment and 3 years supervised release for the charge of Interference with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery.
• Josiah Thomas Aguilar, age 21, Dilworth, MN: Sentenced on December 13, 2021, to 100 months in federal prison and 3 years supervised release for two counts of Interference with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery; Use of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence; Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and Distribute Controlled Substances; and Aiding and Abetting.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF); Fergus Falls, MN, Police Department; Fargo, ND, Police Department; Cass County, ND, State’s Attorney’s Office; and the Ottertail County, MN, States Attorney’s Office, and prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s office, with Assistant United States Attorney Chris C. Myers assigned to the case.
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Nigerian Man Extradited to the United States from the United Kingdom to Face Multiple Fraud and Money Laundering Charges in Bismarck, NDRead the Press Release
BISMARCK: Interim United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase announced, that on April 11, 2022, Kolawole Bamidele Akande, a/k/a Patric Elis Ferguson, a/k/a David Louis Wallace, a/ka/ Ramos Joseph Hogan made an initial appearance in the United States District Court for the District of North Dakota on charges of 1) Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud; 2) Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud; 3) Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud; 4) Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering; 5) Mail Fraud; and 6) Money Laundering.
Akande appeared at this hearing in Bismarck, ND, after being extradited from the United Kingdom. The court ordered Akande be detained pending trial.
As alleged in the Indictment, the defendant participated in a complicated computer intrusion scheme targeting a Dickinson, ND company which was allegedly defrauded out of approximately $348,000.00. The defendant, and other codefendants, fraudulently obtained checks from the Dickinson company through the mail and deposited these checks in fraudulently obtained accounts in financial institutions located within the State of Texas. Once the funds from these checks were available for withdrawal and transfer, the defendant, and other codefendants, withdrew and transferred the funds to conceal and disguise their nature, location, source, and ownership.
The United States District Court for the District of North Dakota previously sentenced:
• Co-Defendant Olawale Sule a/k/a Brand King Mohammed, a/k/a John Thomas, on February 17, 2021, to serve two years’ imprisonment and payment of restitution on a charge of Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud.
• Co-Defendant Oluwafemi Elijah Olasode, on September 7, 2021, to time served imprisonment and payment of restitution on a charge of Misprision of Felony.
An Indictment is an accusation and notice of charges. The defendant is presumed innocent under the law.
Link for Prior Press Release Unsealing Indictment is located below:
https://www.justice.gov/usao-nd/pr/federal-grand-jury-indicts-nigerian-nationals-multiple-fraud-schemes-against-dickinson-nd
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation; United States Postal Inspection Service; Homeland Security Investigations, and the United States Attorney’s Office in the Northern District and Eastern District of Texas, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan J. O’Konek
The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided valuable assistance in securing Kolawole Bamidele Akande’s arrest and extradition.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office Reaches ADA Settlement with Jefferson Partners L.P. dba Jefferson LinesRead the Press Release
FARGO - Interim United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase announced today that the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of North Dakota entered into a settlement agreement with Jefferson Partners L.P. dba Jefferson Lines to resolve an allegation that the transportation company violated the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 ("ADA").
The settlement agreement resolves an ADA complaint alleging that a Jefferson Lines bus driver refused to allow a passenger, who used a walker to assist with mobility, to use the bus’s lift, located at the rear of the bus, to exit the bus. The complaint alleged that the bus driver instead required the passenger to walk from a seat at the back of the bus to the front of the bus and then use the stairs to get off the bus, all without the assistance of the walker. During its investigation, the U.S. Attorney’s Office learned that from January 1, 2017, through August 7, 2020, Jefferson Lines received twenty-four customer complaints regarding disability access issues, eight of which were complaints that a bus lift failed to work or that a driver failed to properly operate a lift.
Under the terms of the settlement agreement, Jefferson Lines will:
• train vehicle operators, personnel who assist passengers, and any personnel who operate lifts on the requirements of the ADA;
• require each such employee to demonstrate they can operate accessibility features and properly secure individuals who use mobility devices;
• test drivers on their ability to operate a vehicle’s accessibility features; and
• test all fixed-route vehicles weekly to ensure all accessibility features are operable and remove faulty vehicles from service until they can be repaired.
Jefferson Lines also agreed to compensate the complainant $5,000.00 for the alleged violation of the complainant’s rights under the ADA.
Interim U.S. Attorney Chase commended Jefferson Lines for cooperating throughout this investigation and for their commitment to the ADA. "For many people with disabilities, transportation is a challenging issue. The corrective measures agreed to by Jefferson Lines will allow individuals with disabilities better access to transportation services in North Dakota and around the United States. We hope other transportation providers remain focused on compliance with this important civil rights law. Our Office is committed to ensuring individuals with disabilities have full and equal access to places of public accommodation and the benefits of transportation services in North Dakota."
Since October 29, 2012, the fleets of all large, fixed-route over-the-road bus operators, such as Jefferson Lines, must be 100 percent readily accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities. The ADA authorizes the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate complaints and undertake compliance reviews of covered entities. The Justice Department is also authorized to commence a civil lawsuit in federal court in any case that involves a pattern or practice of discrimination or raises an issue of general public importance, and to seek injunctive relief, monetary damages, and civil penalties.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara Vavrosky Iversen represented the United States in this matter, with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Michelle Erdmann.
Any member of the public who wishes to file a complaint alleging that any place of public accommodation or public entity in North Dakota is not accessible to persons with disabilities may file a complaint online at www.ada.gov or contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at 701-297-7400.
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United States Attorney Announces a Turtle Mountain, ND, Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Sexual Abuse of a ChildRead the Press Release
FARGO – Interim United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase announced that U.S. District Court Chief Judge Peter D. Welte sentenced Jimmie Dean Moore, age 58, Turtle Mountain Indian Reservation, ND, to 293 months in federal prison after he pleaded guilty to the offense of Abusive Sexual Contact of a Minor. Chief Judge Welte also sentenced Moore to lifetime supervised release.
Investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation revealed that in September 2020, Moore inappropriately touched a 10-year-old female while she was sleeping on a couch at a family member’s residence. The minor female reported that she woke up when she felt Moore touch her legs and inner thighs, and felt her pants and underwear being pulled down exposing her genitalia. The minor female reported her legs had been propped up and she believed Moore was taking photos of her genital region. Moore was interviewed and admitted to attempting to photograph the minor female’s vagina with the intent to masturbate to the photographs.
Moore began residing on the Turtle Mountain Indian Reservation shortly after being released from prison in 2005. Moore had previously been convicted of Sexual Abuse in the 19th Judicial Circuit Court, Wetumpka, AL, where he was sentenced to 10 years’ incarceration for conduct including the sexual abuse of minor children. At the time in which Moore committed the 2020 offense, he was a convicted sexual offender.
"The bravery and resiliency of this minor victim is remarkable and should serve as empowerment to other victims and because of the courageous decision by this child to come forward and share her story, the defendant will no longer be able to sexually molest and exploit another child," said Interim U.S. Attorney Nick Chase.
"One of the FBI's highest priorities is the protection of our children, today's sentence ensured that a repeat sexual offender will not be in any position to harm any child again," said FBI Special Agent in Charge Michael Paul. "I want to thank the agents, analysts, victims specialists and members of the prosecution team who worked collaboratively with our partners in Indian Country to help build this case to help bring the victim the justice she so richly deserves."
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations, and was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s office, with Assistant United States Attorney Dawn M. Deitz assigned to the case.
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Former Dickinson, ND, Resident Sentenced to Federal Prison for Bank Fraud, Aggravated Identity Theft, and Possession of Stolen MailRead the Press Release
BISMARCK – Interim United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase announced that U.S. District Court Judge Daniel L. Hovland sentenced Ryan Gregory Lee, Age 43, from Little Elm, Texas, to 4 years in federal prison for the charges of Bank Fraud, 18 U.S.C. §§ 1344 and 1349; Aggravated Identity Theft, 18 U.S.C. §§ 1028A, 1344 and 1349; and Possession of Stolen Mail, 18 U.S.C. § 1708. Judge Hovland also sentenced Lee to 3 years supervised release, a $700 Special Assessment and $3,477.44 in restitution.
On November 15, 2021, Lee pleaded guilty to four counts of Bank Fraud, two counts of Aggravated Identity Theft, and one count of Possession of Stolen Mail.
Investigation determined between October 2019 and May 2020, Ryan Lee stole mail and checks from residents’ mailboxes located in Dickinson, North Dakota, and later created fraudulent bank accounts utilizing residents’ personal identifying information contained. During this time frame, several Dickinson residents reported to law enforcement that they had mailed checks that did not arrive to their intended recipients. These residents reported that they had placed checks into their mailboxes, usually the night before the mail carrier came to their residences, only to learn that their checks were stolen when they saw the checks information had been altered and not used for their intended purposes. Law enforcement later identified that Lee, during multiple financial transactions, possessed and tendered the reported stolen checks. Lee altered the checks payee information, dollar amounts, and signatures and used other individuals’ personal identifying information to cash or tender these checks as payment at Wal-Mart or at banks in Dickinson. Additionally, law enforcement discovered that Lee used other individuals’ personal identifying information to conduct unlawful financial transactions and create fraudulent bank accounts for his own private gain.
"North Dakotans expect to send and receive personal mail through the United States Postal System securely, without a chance of theft," said Interim United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase, and "the United States Attorney’s Office is committed to prosecuting those who steal mail for fraudulent purposes. I encourage North Dakota residents to closely monitor their mail to ensure they do not become targets of mail or identity theft."
"The safety and security of the U.S. Mail and its customers is core to the mission of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. This case is a tremendous example of how local, state, and federal partners can join together to protect the integrity of the U.S. Mail and aggressively investigate those individuals who use the mail to defraud individuals or businesses of money and property," said Inspector in Charge Ruth M. Mendonça.
"We are pleased with the adjudication of this case, as both our investigators and those of the United States Postal Service invested significant time and effort into building leads and sifting through transactions," said Dickinson Police Department Police Chief Dustin D. Dassinger, "We hope this provides Lee's victims a sense of closure and serves as an example of what can be accomplished with teamwork and strong local-federal partnerships."
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Dickinson Police Department, and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s office, with Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan J. O’Konek assigned to the case.
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Fargo, ND, Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for a Drug Related Robbery in West Fargo Gone Bad, resulting in a Six-Year-Old Boy being Shot in the HeadRead the Press Release
FARGO – Interim United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase announced that U.S. District Court Chief Judge Peter D. Welte sentenced CJ Jesse James Carruthers, age 20, Fargo, ND, to 10 years in federal prison for Interfere with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery, 18 USC § 01951 and Conspiracy to commit a Hobbs Act Robbery. Chief Judge Welte also sentenced Carruthers to 3 years’ supervised release and a $62,575.36 in restitution.
On March 22, 2021, CJ Carruthers, while robbing an alleged drug dealer in West Fargo ND, with Germond Johnson, Jr., fired his firearm striking the robbery victim’s vehicle. The robbery victim returned fire and one of the bullets travelled through the exterior wall of an adjacent house, hitting a 6-year-old child while he was lying in his bed. The 6-year-old child survived his extensive injuries as a result of being struck by the stray bullet.
Carruthers’ co-defendant, Germond Edward Johnson Jr., age 18, Fargo, ND, pleaded guilty on February 23, 2022, to One Count of Interfere with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery, 18 USC § 1951 and Conspiracy to commit a Hobbs Act Robbery. Sentencing is set for July 6, 2022.
"When drug offenders bring and use firearms while committing their drug and theft trade, so many law-abiding innocent people are needlessly placed at risk and in this situation, the most innocent among us was seriously hurt," said Interim U.S. Attorney Nick Chase. "This case is another great example of local and federal partners joining together to solve what can be best described as a senseless criminal act and this sentence sends a stout message that violent crime in our communities will not go undisciplined."
"This tragic case is a definitive example of why firearms do not belong in the hands of criminals," said ATF Assistant Special Agent in Charge Jon Ortiz, of the St. Paul Field Division. "A young boy nearly lost his life because of a brazen and senseless act. We hope today’s sentence brings justice to the family of the victim. We are grateful for the tireless efforts of the West Fargo Police Department on this case as well as for the U.S. Attorney’s Office in obtaining this successful prosecution."
This case was investigated by the West Fargo Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office, with Assistant United States Attorney Richard Lee assigned to the case.
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Sheyenne, ND, Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child Under the Age of 12Read the Press Release
FARGO – Interim United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase announced that U.S. District Court Chief Judge Peter D. Welte sentenced Gary Lee Longie Jr., a/k/a Ty, age 39, Sheyenne, ND, to 30 Years in federal prison for Aggravated Sexual Abuse. Chief Judge Welte also sentenced Longie to 10 years supervised release.
The investigation was initiated in December 2020, when a child under the age of 12, informed a school counselor that the child had been sexually abused by a male with the first name "Ty" who was a friend of the child’s father. The investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation revealed more than one incident with the child and additional incidents with the child’s siblings. Longie pleaded guilty to Aggravated Sexual Abuse in September of 2021. Longie’s conduct prompted the parties to agree on a sentencing guidelines enhancement because Longie engaged in a pattern of activity involving prohibited sexual conduct.
"The 30-year sentence assures that this defendant will never abuse another child," said Interim US Attorney Nicholas W. Chase. "The Department of Justice and our law enforcement partners are committed to protecting children, and we will aggressively prosecute these heinous perpetrators."
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office, with Assistant United States Attorney Lori H. Conroy and Richard M. Lee assigned to the case.
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Fargo, ND, Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for His Involvement in a String of Violent RobberiesRead the Press Release
FARGO - United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase announced that U.S. District Court Chief Judge Peter D. Welte sentenced Jordan Daniel Kraft, age 22, Fargo, ND, to 134 months in federal prison for Conspiracy to Commit Robbery and Robbery. Chief Judge Welte also sentenced Kraft to 3 years supervised release and a $100.00 Special Assessment.
Investigation revealed that from May and continuing through June 2019, Kraft and Harleigh Haugen, age 21, Fargo, ND, conspired with a group of young males and females to rob customers of commercial sex. Kraft, Haugen and others posted advertisements on "Skip the Games" promoting prostitution with adult women. The defendants sought to take advantage of a group of commercial sex customers whom they believed would be unwilling to go to law enforcement if they were robbed. The defendants arranged to meet the victims in their private residences and in local apartments controlled by the defendants. Using dangerous weapons, the defendants robbed the commercial sex customers by threats of force and violence, and in some instances the victims were physically assaulted by the defendants before they were robbed.
Several of Kraft’s co-defendants were indicted in North Dakota and pleaded guilty:
• ZACHARY RONZELL MITCHELL, age 30, Fargo, ND: Pleaded guilty to One Count of Interfere with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery, sentenced to 72 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years supervised release.
• SHELTON LEE MOSEBY, IV, age 21, Fargo, ND: Pleaded guilty to One Count of Interfere with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery, sentenced to 51 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years supervised release.
• TEAJAHA SHANETTE LAYSHA GRANGER, age 24, Fargo, ND: Pleaded guilty to One Count of Interfere with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery, sentenced to 2 years in federal prison, followed by 3 years supervised release.
• TATYANNA DESHUAN GRANGER, age 21, Fargo, ND: Pleaded guilty to One Count of Interfere with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery, sentenced to 20 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years supervised release.
• TEON TYRIK BERRY, age 19, Fargo, ND: Pleaded guilty to One Count of Interfere with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery, sentenced to 57 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years supervised release.
• JACOBY RASHAWN LEE, age 30, Fargo, ND: Pleaded guilty to One Count of Interference with Commerce by Threats or Violence—Hobbs Act Robbery, sentenced to 7 years in federal prison, followed by 3 years supervised release.
• HARLEIGH JOSETTE HAUGEN, age 21, Fargo, ND: Pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Robbery and Robbery, sentenced to 45 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years supervised release.
"Kraft and his associates were motivated by greed and showed a willingness to harm others for profit," said acting Special Agent in Charge Jamie Holt of HSI St. Paul. "This case represents another successful collaborative effort by law enforcement to help victims and lock up violent criminals."
This case was investigated by the Fargo Police Department and the Homeland Security Investigations and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office, with Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Puhl assigned to the case.
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United States Attorney Announces Belcourt, ND, Man Sentenced to Seven years in Federal Prison for CarjackingRead the Press Release
FARGO - United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase announced that U.S. District Court Chief Judge Peter D. Welte sentenced John Thomas Poitra, age 32, Belcourt, ND, to 7 years in federal prison for carjacking,18 U.S.C. § 2119. Chief Judge Welte also sentenced Poitra to three years supervised release, a $100 Special Assessment, and restitution of $496.24 to the victim of the carjacking and $1,188.00 to the Minnesota Counties Intergovernmental Trust (police vehicle damages).
On March 17, 2020, at 4:20 p.m., John Thomas Poitra, was walking in the area of 6th Avenue North and 8th Street North in Fargo, ND, when he approached someone who had just parked a Chevy Silverado pickup truck and demanded the keys to the pickup and threatened to stab the owner. Poitra then fled the area in the stolen Silverado pickup striking a vehicle as he fled. After receiving notification of the carjacking, the Fargo Police Department observed Poitra driving against traffic south on 10th Street in Fargo, ND, where he continued to flee south, striking at least two vehicles. The Fargo Police Department and North Dakota State Highway Patrol followed Poitra east on I-94, where Deputies from the Clay County Sheriff’s Office stopped and arrested Poitra approximately one-half mile east of 34th Street, Moorhead, MN.
Poitra plead guilty to one count of carjacking on September 30, 2021.
"Car jackings strike at the heart of a community’s sense of safety and security, and we hope today’s strong sentence will cause anyone to think twice before taking advantage of an unsuspecting victim targeted simply because of the type of car they drive,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Michael Paul. “I want to thank our local partners for their quick work on this case which helped ensure Mr. Poitra’s joyride took him straight to federal prison.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Fargo Police Department, North Dakota Highway Patrol, and Clay County Sheriff’s Office, and the case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office, with Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Greenley assigned to the case.
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United States Attorney Announces a Minot, ND, Man Found Guilty of Sexual Exploitation of Six Minor ChildrenRead the Press Release
BISMARCK - United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase announced that a Federal Jury found Derrick Stephen Walker, age 46 of Minot, ND, guilty for six Counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor and one Count of Receipt of Images Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor.
A federal jury found Derrick Walker guilty of six Counts of the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor involving six separate minor victims identified as "John Doe One, Age One"; "John Doe Two, Age Three"; "John Doe Three, Age Six"; "John Doe Four, Age One"; and "Jane Doe One" and "Jane Doe Two, both Age One". Walker was specifically found guilty of aiding and abetting his co-defendant, Katie Heidinger of Velva, ND, in the production of images and videos depicting the sexual exploitation of the minors. In addition, Walker was found guilty of receiving images depicting the sexual exploitation of minors. Investigation revealed that Katie Heidinger was involved in a romantic relationship with Derrick Walker and that Heidinger produced and distributed the videos and images, using the internet, at Walker’s request.
Katie Heidinger entered a change of plea to guilty to Counts One through Six on June 16, 2020 and is currently scheduled for sentencing on March 16, 2022. The Sentencing date for Walker has not been set.
"The actions of these defendants are revolting. The harm they’ve caused their victims is devastating and can last a lifetime," said acting Special Agent in Charge Jamie Holt of HSI St. Paul. "HSI is proud of the work we’ve accomplished with our state and local law enforcement partners, and we remain committed to our joint efforts in bringing these criminals to justice."
This case was investigated by the McHenry County Sheriff’s Office, Ward County Sheriff’s Office, North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation, North Dakota Human Trafficking Task Force, and Homeland Security Investigations, and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s office, with Assistant United States Attorney Gary Delorme assigned to the case.
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United States Attorney Announces a Rhame, ND Man Sentenced to Life in Federal Prison for Sexual Abuse of a ChildRead the Press Release
BISMARCK - United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase announced that U.S. District Court Judge Daniel M. Traynor sentenced Douglas James Schneider, Age 51 of Rhame, ND, to life in Federal Prison for the offense of Transportation of a Minor, 18 U.S.C. 2423(a). Judge Traynor also sentence Schneider to 10 years supervised release, and restitution in the amount of $19,215.
Investigation determined that between 2013 and 2018, Schneider sexually abused a minor child under the age of twelve years, when the minor child was between seven and ten years of age. Sometime between April and July 2018, Schneider transported the minor child from North Dakota to Montana with the intent of and engaging in unlawful sexual acts with the minor.
"This was an egregious case of victimization of a child. The multi-jurisdictional group of law enforcement, local, state, and federal, masterfully developed this case for prosecution" said United States Attorney Nick Chase, and "this sentence means this defendant will never victimize a child ever again."
"No one should be forced to live in a world of isolation, servitude and terror" said acting Special Agent in Charge Jamie Holt, of HSI St. Paul. "HSI and its law enforcement partners are committed to protecting the vulnerable, and will aggressively investigate criminals who traffic children for sexual purposes."
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security Investigations; North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigations; North Dakota Human Trafficking Task Force; Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, SD; and Bowman County Sheriff’s Department, ND, and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s office, with Assistant United States Attorney Gary Delorme assigned to the case.
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United States Attorney Announces Flint, MI, Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
BISMARCK - United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase announced that U.S. District Court Judge Daniel M. Traynor sentenced Patrick Robert McKee, a/k/a William Patrick O’Hara, Age 77 from Flint, MI, to two years in federal prison for the charges of Social Security False Statements, False Statements, Health Care Fraud, and Aggravated Identity Theft. Judge Traynor also sentenced McKee to 3 years supervised release and a $400 Special Assessment.
Investigation determined that Patrick Robert McKee stole the identity of J.C. (Identity Protected) in 1997 and then converted J.C.’s identity to William Patrick O’Hara while retaining J.C.’s social security number. Since 1997, McKee fraudulently lived and worked under J.C.’s identity. He used J.C.’s identity to obtain healthcare benefits, home mortgages, credit cards and for numerous other fraudulent pretenses.
"It has become far too common for people to have their identification stolen and suffer financial disruption and damaged credit," said United States Attorney Nick Chase, and "it is appropriate that this defendant received the maximum penalty under the law for the crime of Aggravated Identity Theft."
"We will continue to pursue those who misuse the Social Security number of others for their own personal gain. For decades, by obtaining benefits and services as
someone else, McKee abused the identity of another person," said Christian Assaad, Special Agent in Charge of the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General, Denver Field Division. "I thank our law enforcement partners for working with in this investigation and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their efforts in prosecuting this case and holding this individual accountable."
"Fraudsters who steal the identity of others to loot taxpayer-funded federal health care programs often do so at the immeasurable risk of undermining the integrity of these programs," said Special Agent in Charge Curt L. Muller of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. "In coordination with law enforcement partners, our oversight agency will continue to investigate those who participate in health care fraud schemes."
This case was investigated by the Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General; Office of Inspector General, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; United States Department of Agriculture; and the United States Marshals Service, and the case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s office, with Assistant United States Attorney Brandi Sasse Russell assigned to the case.
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Tokio, ND, Woman Pleads Guilty to Second-Degree MurderRead the Press Release
Fargo – United States Attorney Nick Chase announced that Tammy Longie, a/k/a Tammy Onebear of Tokio, ND, appeared before Chief Judge Peter D. Welte, U.S. District Court, Fargo, ND, and plead guilty to Second-Degree Murder within Indian Country; three counts of Child Abuse in Indian Country; and Child Neglect in Indian Country.
On May 6, 2020, agents with the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Federal Bureau of Investigation responded to the home of Erich and Tammy Longie on the Spirit Lake Reservation. Law enforcement observed a deceased 5-year-old child in the basement of the home and observed bruising throughout the body. An autopsy concluded the death a homicide and identified the cause of death as bilateral subdural hematomas incurred from assault. The pathologist observed abrasions and contusions consistent with "multiple episodes of inflicted trauma." The child’s sibling was examined at a local hospital and determined to need a higher level of care and was hospitalized for more than a month. An attending physician explained the child had bruising over the child’s body consistent with abuse. The primary medical concern, however, was heart failure due to malnutrition.
Spirit Lake Tribal Social Services ("SLTSS") had placed the two children in foster care in the Longie home in July of 2019.
The investigation revealed that two biological children were also abused including with objects and hands.
Sentencing for Tammy Longie before Chief Judge Peter D. Welte is scheduled for April 14 & 15, 2022.
Co-defendant Erich Longie previously plead guilty to First-Degree Felony Murder; three counts of Child Abuse in Indian Country, and Child Neglect in Indian Country and is scheduled for sentencing.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s office, with Assistant United States Attorney Loir H. Conroy assigned to the case.
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Acting United States Attorney Announces Dilworth, MN, Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Violent Gang RobberiesRead the Press Release
FARGO - Acting United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase announced that on December 13, 2021, U.S. District Court Chief Judge Peter D. Welte sentenced Josiah Thomas Aguilar, age 21, Dilworth, MN, to 100 months in federal prison for two counts of Interference with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery; Use of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence; Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and Distribute Controlled Substances; and Aiding and Abetting. Chief Judge Welte also sentenced Aguilar to 3 years supervised release and a $400 Special Assessment.
It is alleged that from January 2019 through May 2019, Abbot Aho, led a criminal gang known as the "Slither Gang," members of which conspired with Aho and other individuals to target robbery victims who were themselves alleged drug traffickers in North Dakota, Minnesota, and elsewhere. Aguilar and the co-conspirator gang members carried out a string of robberies by threats of violence, the infliction of violence, and the brandishing of firearms and other dangerous weapons. Aguilar and the co-conspirators often resorted to home invasions or setting up victims to meet at a public place, and then robbed them of drugs, money, firearms and personal property, later selling the drugs they stole.
"The defendants engaged in a string of vicious and violent attacks, including multiple armed robberies" said Acting US Attorney Nicholas W. Chase, and "The US Attorney’s Office is committed to targeting these most violent offenders for federal prosecution and we commend the outstanding work of the Special Agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), and our local and state law enforcement partners for their steadfast commitment to identifying and investigating prolific violent criminal organizations, enforcing the law, and protecting our communities from acts of violence."
"ATF is committed to working with our local, state and federal partners to remove violent offenders from our communities, regardless of who the offenders target in their crimes," said ATF Special Agent in Charge William McCrary, of the St. Paul Field Division. "The acts these individuals committed were dangerous and could have easily caused injury or death to innocent bystanders. We simply cannot allow illegal guns, drugs, and armed violent gang members to plague our neighborhoods. We are grateful for the tireless efforts of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in their successful prosecutions which disrupted and dismantled this criminal enterprise."
In addition to numerous similar though unrelated federal prosecutions across the state as a part of this initiative, several of Aguilar’s co-conspirators have also been indicted in North Dakota and are awaiting trial and/or have been sentenced for their involvement in the violent robberies:
• Cory Carlson, age 24, Robbinsdale, MN: Sentenced on December 9, 2021, to 100 months in federal prison and 3 years supervised release for the charges of Interference with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery and Use of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence.
• Sarah Ann Carlson, age 21, Minneapolis, MN: Sentenced on July 19, 2021, to 80 months imprisonment and 3 years supervised release for the charges of Conspiracy to Interfere with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery; Interference with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery; Use of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence; and Aiding and Abetting.
• Jared Christopher Kaul, age 21, Fridley, MN: Sentenced on December 8, 2021, to 32 months in federal prison and 3 years supervised release for the charges of Conspiracy to Interfere with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery; Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and Distribute Controlled Substances.
• Nicholas Dakota May, age 22, Fargo ND: Sentenced on November 23, 2021 to 28 months imprisonment and 3 years supervised release for the charges of Interference with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery and Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and Distribute Controlled Substances.
• Shelby Lynn Dallman, age 23, Faribault, MN: Sentenced on August 23, 2021 to 24 months imprisonment and 3 years supervised release for the charge of Interference with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery.
• Abbot William Aho, a/k/a Boogie, age 26, Fergus Falls, MN: Indicted on the charges of Continuing Criminal Enterprise, Conspiracy to Interfere with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery; Interference with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery; Use of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence; Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and Distribute Controlled Substances; and Aiding and Abetting. Mr. Aho is pending trial; Grand Jury Indictments are allegations and are not evidence of guilt. Mr. Aho is presumed innocent unless and until he is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF); Fergus Falls MN Police Department; and the Ottertail County Attorney’s Office, and the case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s office, with Assistant United States Attorney Chris C. Myers assigned to the case.
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Fargo, ND, Man Sentenced to Six Years in Federal Prison for His Involvement in a String of Violent RobberiesRead the Press Release
FARGO - Acting United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase announced that U.S. District Court Chief Judge Peter D. Welte sentenced Zachary Ronzell Mitchell, age 30, Fargo, ND, to 72 months in federal prison for Interfere with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery. Chief Judge Welte also sentenced Mitchell to 3 years supervised release and a $100 Special Assessment.
On June 6, 2019, Mitchell and a group of young males and one female robbed a customer of commercial sex. Mitchell’s co-defendants posted an advertisement on "Skip the Games" promoting prostitution with adult women. The victim arranged to meet an individual for the purpose of commercial sex at an apartment building in Fargo. Using dangerous weapons, Mitchell and his co-defendants robbed the commercial sex customer by threats of force and actual force after he arrived at the apartment building just after midnight. The defendants sought to take advantage of a customer of commercial sex whom they believed would be unwilling to go to law enforcement if he was robbed, but fortunately the victim called 911 immediately following the robbery. Several of Mitchell’s co-defendants were indicted in North Dakota and pleaded guilty:
• JORDAN DANIEL KRAFT, age 21, Fargo, ND: Pleaded guilty to One Count Conspiracy to Commit Robbery and Robbery, pending sentencing.
• SHELTON LEE MOSEBY, IV, age 19, Fargo, ND: Pleaded guilty to One Count of Interfere with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery, sentenced to 51 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years supervised release.
• TEAJAHA SHANETTE LAYSHA GRANDER, age 24, Fargo, ND: Pleaded guilty to One Count of Interfere with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery, sentenced to 2 years in federal prison, followed by 3 years supervised release.
• TATYANNA DESHUAN GRANDER, age 21, Fargo, ND: Pleaded guilty to One Count of Interfere with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery, sentenced to 30 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years supervised release.
• TEON TYRIK BERRY, age 19, Fargo, ND: Pleaded guilty to One Count of Interfere with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery, sentenced to 57 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years supervised release.
• JACOBY RASHAWN LEE, age 19, Fargo, ND: Pleaded guilty to One Count of Interference with Commerce by Threats or Violence—Hobbs Act Robbery, sentenced to 7 years in federal prison, followed by 3 years supervised release.
• HARLEIGH JOSETTE HAUGEN, age 21, Fargo, ND: Pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Robbery and Robbery, sentenced to 45 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years supervised release.
This case was investigated by the Fargo Police Department and the Homeland Security Investigation and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s office, with Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Puhl assigned to the case.
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Fargo, ND, Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for a String of Violent Federal RobberiesRead the Press Release
FARGO - Acting United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase announced that U.S. District Court Chief Judge Peter D. Welte sentenced Harleigh Josette Haugen, age 20, Fargo, ND, to 45 months in federal prison for Conspiracy to Commit Robbery and Robbery. Chief Judge Welte also sentenced Haugen to 3 years supervised release and a $100.00 Special Assessment.
Investigation revealed that from May and continuing through June 2019, Haugen and Jordan Daniel Kraft, age 21, Fargo, ND, conspired with a group of young males and females to rob customers of commercial sex. Haugen, Kraft and others posted advertisements on "Skip the Games" promoting prostitution with adult women. The defendants sought to take advantage of a group of commercial sex customers whom they believed would be unwilling to go to law enforcement if they were robbed. The defendants arranged to meet the victims in their private residences and in local apartments controlled by the defendants. Using dangerous weapons, the defendants robbed the commercial sex customers by threats of force and violence, and in some instances the victims were physically assaulted by the defendants before they were robbed.
"This case and sentencings sends a strong message that violent crime in our community will not be tolerated," said Acting United States Attorney Nick Chase, "and the US Attorney’s Office, along with our local, state and federal law enforcement partners will aggressively pursue efforts through the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhood program to reduce violent crime and eliminate brutal criminals from our community."
"We encourage anyone who is a victim of a crime to report it and allow law enforcement officials to investigate, no matter the circumstances," said Acting Special Agent in Charge Jamie Holt, of HSI St. Paul. "Individuals engaged in violent criminal activity in our communities will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law and brought to justice."
Several of Haugen’s co-defendants were indicted in North Dakota and pleaded guilty:
• JORDAN DANIEL KRAFT, age 21, Fargo, ND: Plead guilty to One Count Conspiracy to Commit Robbery and Robbery, pending sentencing.
• SHELTON LEE MOSEBY, IV, age 19, Fargo, ND: Plead guilty to One Count of Interfere with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery, sentenced to 51 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years supervised release.
• TEAJAHA SHANETTE LAYSHA GRANDER, age 24, Fargo, ND: Plead guilty to One Count of Interfere with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery, sentenced to 24 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years supervised release.
• TATYANNA DESHUAN GRANDER, age 21, Fargo, ND: Plead guilty to One Count of Interfere with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery, sentenced to 30 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years supervised release.
• TEON TYRIK BERRY, age 19, Fargo, ND: Plead guilty to One Count of Interfere with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery, sentenced to 57 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years supervised release.
• ZACHARY RONZELL MITCHELL, age 19, Fargo, ND: Plead guilty to One Count of Interfere with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery, pending sentencing.
• JACOBY RASHAWN LEE, age 19, Fargo, ND: Plead guilty to One Count of Interference with Commerce by Threats or Violence—Hobbs Act Robbery, sentenced to 84 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years supervised release..
This case was investigated by the Fargo Police Department and the Homeland Security Investigation and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s office, with Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Puhl assigned to the case.
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Acting U.S. Attorney Chase Announces the Indictment of Five People in a Methamphetamine Drug Trafficking Conspiracy Directed at the Spirit Lake and Turtle Mountain ReservationsRead the Press Release
Fargo – Acting United States Attorney Nick Chase announced that a federal grand jury has indicted five individuals for Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Distribution of a Controlled Substance (Methamphetamine).
The indictment alleged that the following individuals conspired to sell methamphetamine:
• Uzziel Lucero Garcia, a/k/a O Girl, a/k/a Uzzi, age 25, Arizona
• Allan Gordon Widmayer, a/k/a Woody, age 57, Minot, North Dakota
• Corey James Baker, age 50, Sheyenne, North Dakota
• Nathan James Smith, age 40, Fort Totten, North Dakota
• Charlsie Marie Walking Elk, age 36, Tokio, North Dakota
The last of the charged defendants, Smith, appeared in federal court November 8, 2021.
In January of 2021, Nathan Smith was arrested on Spirit Lake tribal charges following a high-speed chase. A later search of his vehicle yielded 73 grams of methamphetamine. The investigation indicated that the methamphetamine came from Baker through Charlsie Walking Elk.
As a result of a traffic stop in Grand Forks in June of 2021, law enforcement seized eight ounces of methamphetamine and more than $27,000 in cash from Baker.
Baker’s sources were identified as "Woody" from Minot and "O Girl" from Arizona, later identified as defendants Allan Widmayer and Uzziel Garcia. A controlled buy and a search warrant on Widmayer’s house yielded more than 30 pounds of methamphetamine and more than $32,000 in cash.
Garcia was arrested after she had been in contact with Widmayer and had traveled to North Dakota to collect money.
The investigation indicated that Baker had been receiving 2-3 pounds of methamphetamine per month from Widmayer and Garcia since 2018, resulting in more than 350 pounds of methamphetamine. The methamphetamine was primarily distributed on the Spirit Lake and Turtle Mountain Reservations.
"This investigation is an incredible federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement endeavor, working together to dismantle a major narcotics trafficking ring from our North Dakota tribal communities," said Acting United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase. "This conspiracy is alleged to have been targeting North Dakota communities in multiple pound quantities and that translates to thousands of doses of drugs that have been intercepted and taken off the street before they could further fuel addition."
"This indictment paints a tragic picture of a coordinated distribution effort to push this poison across tribal lands," said FBI Special Agent in Charge Michael Paul. "We have seen a recent surge in both methamphetamine and opioid cases, and the FBI remains committed to working with our partners to arrest those responsible for threatening and exploiting tribal communities."
Grand jury Indictments are allegations and are not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until he is proven guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
This case is being investigated Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Indian Affairs Division of Drug Enforcement, Ward County Narcotics Task Force, Grand Forks County Narcotics Task Force, Lake Region Narcotics Task Force, and Eddy County Sheriff’s Department, and the case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s office, with Assistant United States Attorneys Alex J. Stock and Lori H. Conroy assigned to the case.
Media Notification: Assistant US Attorneys Stock and Conroy are available for comments at 11:00 a.m., November 9, 2021 at 701-297-7400.
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Acting U.S. Attorney Chase Announces the Arrest of Three Beulah, ND, Men for Committing Financial Crimes While Employed at North Dakota BanksRead the Press Release
BISMARCK – Acting United States Attorney Nick Chase announced that a federal grand jury has indicted Brady Daniel Torgerson, age 34; Brent D. Torgerson, age 60; and Kelly M. Huffman, age 32, all three from Beulah, ND, for engaging in financial crimes while employed at North Dakota financial institutions located in Beulah and Glen Ullin, North Dakota. As cited in the Indictment, Brady Torgerson is charged with committing bank fraud, misapplication of bank funds, making false entries in bank records, and committing aggravated identity theft, while employed at two separate North Dakota financial institutions. Additionally, Brent Torgerson and Kelly Huffman are each charged with one count of misapplication of bank funds while employed at North Dakota financial institutions.
The Indictment unsealed today alleges that Brady Torgerson, while employed at two separate North Dakota financial institutions, engaged in a scheme to defraud both financial intuitions by issuing bank funds to individuals not entitled to these funds, failing to register banking transactions, creating fraudulent loan obligations, and taking actions to conceal his activities. The Indictment further alleges that Brent Torgerson, the father of Brady Torgerson, while employed at a North Dakota financial institution, misapplied bank funds by issuing a $724,558.48 cashier’s check to his son, Brady Torgerson,
without obtaining promissory notes and other necessary financial paperwork. Moreover, the Indictment alleges, Kelly Huffman, while employed at a North Dakota financial institution, misapplied bank funds by unlawfully issuing a $125,648.64 check advance to a separate North Dakota financial institution at Brady Torgerson’s request.
Brady Daniel Torgerson, Brent D. Torgerson, and Kelly M. Huffman have entered not guilty pleas to the matters alleged in the Indictment. U.S. Magistrate Judge Clare R. Hochhalter released all three defendants pending trial, which is scheduled to occur on December 7, 2021, before United States District Judge Daniel M. Traynor
An indictment is an accusation and notice of charges. The defendants are presumed innocent under the law unless and until proven guilty. Anyone with additional information in this case is encouraged to contact the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation – Office of Inspector General through its tip line at 1-800-964-FDIC, Reference Number 58523 or the FDIC-OIG Hotline Portal at www.fdicoig.gov/oig-hotline.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation – Office of Inspector General; the Federal Housing Finance Agency – Office of Inspector General; and the Federal Reserve Board – Office of Inspector General and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan J. O’Konek.
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Rhode Island Man Sentenced to 33 years in Federal Prison for His Leadership Role in a Large-Scale International Fentanyl Trafficking Operation, Investigated Under “Operation Denial”Read the Press Release
FARGO – Acting United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase, District of North Dakota, along with Acting United States Attorney Scott E. Asphaug, District of Oregon, and Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite, Jr., U.S. Department of Justice, Criminal Division, announced that Steven Barros Pinto, age 40 of Pawtucket, Rhode Island, was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Court Judge Peter Welte, to 33 years imprisonment for the charges of Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances and Controlled Substances Analogues, Conspiracy to Import Controlled Substances and Controlled Substances Analogues into the United States, Money Laundering Conspiracy, Continuing Criminal Enterprise (CCE), and Obstruction of Justice.
On June 8, 2021, the trial of Steven Pinto commenced, in Fargo, North Dakota. Steven Pinto was part of a Rhode Island organization that was receiving fentanyl and fentanyl analogues from Canada and China. After a 5-week trial, the jury returned guilty verdicts against Steven Pinto on various narcotics trafficking charges. The partner of Steven Pinto in this criminal conspiracy, Anthony Santos Gomes, age 36 from Rhode Island, was sentenced to 30 years’ imprisonment on July 30, 2021.
This case is part of "Operation Denial," an Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation into the international trafficking of fentanyl and fentanyl analogues and was significantly aided by the national and international coordination led by the multi-agency Special Operations Division (S.O.D.) near Washington, DC, as part of "Operation Deadly Merchant." The investigation started in North Dakota, on January 3, 2015, with the overdose death in Grand Forks, ND, of Bailey Henke.
Operation Denial has led to thirty-one (31) defendants charged in North Dakota and three (3) defendants charged in Oregon. The investigation has resulted in nearly $1 million in cash and property forfeited from members of the organization.
In 2021, three Canadian nationals from Quebec, Canada, Jason Joey Berry, 38, Xuan Cahn Nguyen, 41, and Marie Um, 41, were extradited from Canada to the United States. These defendants are detained and are currently awaiting trial scheduled on October 4, 2022, in Fargo. On August 31, 2021, the U.S. Department of State offered a reward of up to $5 million for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of People’s Republic of China (PRC) national Jian Zhang, a fugitive in this transnational investigation.
This case is being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement -Homeland Security Investigations; North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation; U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; IRS-Criminal Investigation, Fargo; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; Grand Forks Narcotics Task Force; Royal Canadian Mounted Police; Portland Oregon Police Bureau – Drugs and Vice Division; Portland HIDTA Interdiction Task Force; Oregon State Police; and Grand Forks Police Department.
The prosecutors for this case are Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher C. Myers, District of North Dakota; Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Kerin, District of Oregon, also designated as a Special Assistant U.S Attorney in North Dakota; and Trial Attorneys Kaitlin Sahni and Imani Hutty, Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section, U.S. Department of Justice, Criminal Division.
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Senior Executive of Oil-Services Company Pleads Guilty to Securities Fraud Scheme that Caused over $886 Million in Shareholder LossesRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON: A North Dakota man, formerly the executive vice president of U.S. operations at a publicly traded Canadian oil-services company, pleaded guilty today to perpetrating a scheme to fraudulently inflate the company’s reported revenue that resulted in shareholder losses in excess of $886 million.
According to court documents, Joseph A. Kostelecky, 60, of Dickinson, admitted that he engaged in a scheme to defraud while serving as the highest-ranking U.S. executive of Poseidon Concepts Corporation (Poseidon) from approximately November 2011 to December 2012. Kostelecky admitted that, in his role, he caused Poseidon to falsely report approximately $100 million in revenue from purported long-term contracts with oil and natural-gas companies that were Poseidon’s customers. Kostelecky’s misconduct included fraudulently directing Poseidon’s accounting staff at the U.S. corporate headquarters in Denver, Colorado, as well as its field office in Dickinson, to record revenue from such contracts and then assuring management that the associated revenue was collectable, when he knew that the contracts either did not exist or that the associated revenue was not collectable. After Poseidon reported a partial write-down of uncollectable accounts in its financial statements, resulting in a drop in the company’s stock price, Kostelecky fraudulently caused the issuance of a public filing falsely reporting that he had purchased a substantial number of shares of the company, when in fact he had made no such purchase. Kostelecky admitted that when the inflated revenue came to light at the end of 2012,
Poseidon’s stock price plunged and the company was forced into bankruptcy, causing over $886 million in shareholder losses. Kostelecky further admitted that he perpetrated the scheme to inflate the value of the company’s stock price and to enrich himself through the continued receipt of compensation and appreciation of his own stock and stock options.
"Joseph Kostelecky engaged in a fraudulent scheme with catastrophic consequences to Poseidon Concepts Corporation and its shareholders, resulting in hundreds of millions of dollars in victim losses," said Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. "Today’s guilty plea demonstrates the department’s continued commitment to prosecuting executives at all levels of public companies, holding them accountable for their misconduct, and protecting the investing public from corporate malfeasance."
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service has a history of protecting American investors from fraudulent schemes perpetrated by individuals driven by sheer greed," said Inspector in Charge Eric Shen of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Criminal Investigations Group. "Today’s guilty plea demonstrates corporate executives are not exempt from justice. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service and its federal law-enforcement partners will continue to exhaust all their efforts to protect American shareholders from corporate fraud."
Kostelecky pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud and one count of securities fraud in the District of North Dakota. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 10, 2022, and faces a maximum total penalty of 40 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service Criminal Investigation Group’s DOJ Mail Fraud Team is investigating the case.
Assistant Deputy Chief Anna G. Kaminska and Trial Attorney Jason M. Covert of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case. The Securities and Exchange Commission and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of North Dakota provided valuable assistance in this matter.
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Belcourt, ND Man Sentenced to 36 ½ Years in Federal Prison for Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Minor ChildRead the Press Release
FARGO - Acting United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase announced that U.S. District Court Chief Judge Peter D. Welte sentenced Adam Jason Poitra, age 40, Belcourt, ND, to 36 ½ years in federal prison for Aggravated Sexual Assault of a 11-Year-Old Minor Child. Chief Judge Welte also sentenced Poitra to lifetime supervised release and a $100.00 special Assessment.
Investigation revealed that between September 2017 and May 2018, Adam Jason Poitra sexually abuse an eleven-year-old child countless times while in Belcourt, ND.
This case was investigated by the Bottineau County Sheriff’s Office, Northern Plains Children’s Advocacy Center and the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Greenly, District of North Dakota and Clayton Solomon, Trial Attorney, Criminal Division, Department of Justice prosecuted the case.
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Department of State Offers Reward for Information to Bring Chinese Fentanyl Trafficker to JusticeRead the Press Release
The U.S. Department of State is offering a reward of up to $5 million for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of People’s Republic of China (PRC) national Jian Zhang, a key leader of the transnational criminal Zhang Drug Trafficking Organization. This reward is also offered for information leading to his location.
Between 2013 and 2016, with Zhang acting as principal leader and organizer, Zhang’s criminal organization imported and distributed controlled substances and their analogues into the United States that led to the overdose deaths of four Americans in North Dakota, Oregon, North Carolina, and New Jersey and serious bodily injuries to five other Americans.
Zhang was charged in North Dakota in September 2017 along with several other Canadian nationals. A superseding indictment was returned in January 2018 adding additional PRC nationals. Several of the U.S. nationals have been convicted and sentenced to penalties ranging from 20 years to life. This investigation led to charges which include drug trafficking, trafficking of illicit drugs which led to death and/or serious bodily injury of Americans, violations of the Continuing Criminal Enterprise statute, and international money laundering.
This reward is offered under the Department of State’s Transnational Organized Crime Rewards Program (TOCRP). More than 75 transnational criminals and major narcotics traffickers have been brought to justice under the TOCRP and the Narcotics Rewards Program (NRP) since 1986. The Department has paid more than $135 million in rewards to-date.
The State Department’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs manages the TOCRP in close coordination with the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, and other U.S. government agencies.
For more information on the individual listed above and the TOCRP and NRP, please see Department of State INL Anticrime Rewards Program.
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WANTED: ZHANG JIAN
REWARD OF UP TO $5 MILLION
Zhang Jian is a key leader of transnational criminal organization, the Zhang Drug Trafficking Organization (DTO). Zhang was the principal leader and organizer of this transnational criminal conspiracy which sold controlled substances and controlled substance analogues throughout the United States and Canada.
Zhang was charged in North Dakota in September 2017 along with several other Canadian nationals. A superseding indictment was returned in January 2018 adding additional PRC nationals. Several of the U.S. nationals have been convicted and sentenced to penalties ranging from 20 years to life. This investigation led to charges which include drug trafficking, trafficking of illicit drugs which led to death and/or serious bodily injury of Americans, violations of the Continuing Criminal Enterprise statute, and international money laundering.
The U.S. Department of State is offering a REWARD OF UP TO $5 MILLION for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of Zhang Jian, a/k/a "Hong Kong Zaron." The reward is also offered for information leading to the location of Zhang as the key leader of a transnational organized crime group.
If you have information, please contact the DEA by calling or texting +1-504-534-5134 via telephone/text/WhatsApp, or emailing [email protected]. If you are located outside
of the United States, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. If in the United States, please contact the local Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) office in your city.
ALL IDENTITIES ARE KEPT STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL.
Government officials and employees are not eligible for rewards
Man Convicted of Conspiracy to Import and Distribute FentanylRead the Press Release
A federal jury convicted a Rhode Island man today for conspiring to import and distribute fentanyl and fentanyl analogues, continuing criminal enterprise, money laundering conspiracy, and multiple obstruction offenses.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Steven Barros Pinto, 40, of Pawtucket, conspired to import kilogram-quantities of fentanyl from China and use the fentanyl to manufacture counterfeit Percocet pills. Pinto personally distributed tens of thousands of the fentanyl-laced pills. Pinto acquired the fentanyl with the assistance of co-conspirators Daniel Vivas Ceron, of Colombia, who pleaded guilty in July 2019, and Anthony Gomes, of Rhode Island, who pleaded guilty in April 2018. Pinto also engaged in a series of obstructive acts intended to silence witnesses and tamper with evidence.
Pinto was convicted of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and fentanyl analogues, conspiracy to import fentanyl and fentanyl analogues into the United States, continuing criminal enterprise, two counts of obstruction of justice, money laundering conspiracy, four counts of contempt, possession of contraband in a correctional facility, and tampering with evidence. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 14, and faces a mandatory minimum of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Nicholas L. McQuaid of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Nicholas W. Chase for the District of North Dakota and Acting U.S. Attorney Scott E. Asphaug for the District of Oregon made the announcement.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Grand Forks Narcotics Task Force, the IRS, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Portland Oregon Police Bureau – Drugs and Vice Division, Portland HIDTA Interdiction Task Force, Oregon State Police and the Grand Forks Police Department. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided valuable assistance.
Trial Attorneys Kaitlin Sahni and Imani Hutty of the Criminal Division’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section, Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Myers of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of North Dakota and Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Kerin of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon are prosecuting the case.
Detroit, Michigan Oxycodone Dealer Sentenced to 15 years in Federal Prison for Narcotics ChargesRead the Press Release
Bismarck - Acting United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase announced that U.S. District Court Judge Daniel M. Traynor sentenced Mario R. Garmoo, age 32, Detroit, MI, to 15 years in federal prison for the charges of Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Oxycodone and Possession with Intent to Distribute Oxycodone. Judge Traynor also sentenced Garmoo to 3 years of supervised released and $200 in special assessment fees.
On March 20, 2019, the motor vehicle Garmoo was traveling in was stopped near Fargo, ND, and subsequently searched by law enforcement agents, who located 94 oxycodone 30mg pills and approximately 1 pound of marijuana. Garmoo had traveled out of state and was returning to North Dakota with intent to distribute the opiate pills. The investigation determined Garmoo had acquired and distributed hundreds of oxycodone 30mg pills, primarily in the area of the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation. Garmoo was found to be a "career offender" under the United States Sentencing Guidelines based upon two prior drug trafficking convictions.
This case was investigated by DEA, MHA Drug Enforcement, and Bismarck PD, and Assistant United States Attorney Rick Volk prosecuted the case.
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Mapleton, ND, Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Preparation of False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
FARGO - Acting United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase announced that U.S. District Court Chief Judge Peter D. Welte sentenced Benjamin Boway, age 43, Mapleton, ND, to 18 months in federal prison for the charge of Aiding in Preparation of False Tax Returns. Judge Welte also sentenced Boway to 1 year of supervised released, $134,498 in restitution and $500 in special assessment fees.
Between 2015 and 2018, Boway, the sole owner and operator of a tax preparation business, Bennie Tax Services, in Mapleton, ND, knowingly filed fraudulent tax returns. Boway charged clients a fee for the preparation and filing with the Internal Revenue Service of federal individual income tax returns for the tax years of 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2017. Some of the returns he prepared on behalf of clients were false and fraudulent, representing that the taxpayers were entitled to claim credits and deductions that Boway knew were not legitimate. The tax loss attributable to the Boway’s fraudulent conduct was $134,298.
"Mr. Benjamin Boway used his tax return preparer’s knowledge and expertise against his clients and the IRS, but fortunately an IRS CI special agent was able to identify, investigate and recommend prosecution of this abusive return preparer," said Amanda Prestegard, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the IRS Criminal Investigation division in the St. Louis Field Office. "IRS Criminal Investigation and the United States Attorney’s Office remain committed to protect the integrity of the tax system and innocent victims that suffer monetary loss."
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations, and Assistant United States Attorney Megan A. Healy prosecuted the case.
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Fargo Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for His Involvement in a Violent RobberyRead the Press Release
FARGO - Acting United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase announced today that U.S. District Court Chief Judge Peter D. Welte sentenced Shelton Lee Moseby, IV, age 21, Fargo, ND, to 51 months in federal prison for the charge of Interfere with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery. Judge Welte also sentenced Moseby to three years of supervised released and $100 in special assessment fees.
On May 30, 2019, Moseby and a group of others robbed a customer seeking commercial sex. Moseby’s co-defendants posted an advertisement on "Skip the Games" promoting prostitution with adult women. The victim arranged to meet an individual for the purpose of commercial sex at an apartment building in Fargo. Using a taser, Moseby and his co-defendants robbed the commercial sex customer by threats of force after he arrived at the apartment building. Moseby sought to take advantage of a customer of commercial sex whom he believed would be unwilling to go to law enforcement if he was robbed, but the victim called 911 immediately following the robbery.
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security Investigation and the Fargo Police Department, and Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Puhl prosecuted the case.
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Fargo Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for His Involvement in a Violent RobberyRead the Press Release
FARGO - Acting United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase announced today that U.S. District Court Chief Judge Peter D. Welte sentenced Teon Tyrik Berry, age 20, of Fargo, ND, to 57 months in federal prison for the charge of Interfere with Commerce by Threats and Violence – Hobbs Act Robbery. Judge Welte also sentenced Berry to three years of supervised released and $100 in special assessment fees.
On June 6, 2019, Berry and a group of young males and one female robbed a customer of commercial sex. Berry’s co-defendants posted an advertisement on "Skip the Games" promoting prostitution with adult women. The victim arranged to meet an individual for the purpose of commercial sex at an apartment building in Fargo. Using dangerous weapons, Berry and his co-defendants robbed the commercial sex customer by threats of force and actual force after he arrived at the apartment building just after midnight. Berry sought to take advantage of a customer of commercial sex whom he believed would be unwilling to go to law enforcement if he was robbed, but fortunately the victim called 911 immediately following the robbery.
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security Investigation and the Fargo Police Department, and Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Puhl prosecuted the case.
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U.s. Attorney’s Office Recognizes National Police WeekRead the Press Release
NORTH DAKOTA - In honor of National Police Week, Acting U.S. Attorney Nicholas W. Chase recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement. This year, the week is observed Sunday, May 9 through Saturday, May 15, 2021.
"This week is a time to honor our law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation," said Attorney General Garland. "I am constantly inspired by the extraordinary courage and dedication with which members of law enforcement act each day, putting their lives on the line to make our communities safer. To members of law enforcement and your families: we know that not a single day, nor a single week, is enough to recognize your service and sacrifice. On behalf of the entire Department of Justice, you have our unwavering support and eternal gratitude."
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty, and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities that they have sworn to serve.
During the Roll Call of Heroes, a ceremony coordinated by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), more than 300 officers will be honored. Based on data submitted to and analyzed by the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), of the law enforcement officers who died nationwide in the line of duty in 2020, nearly 60 percent succumbed to COVID-19.
Additionally, according to statistics reported by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 46 law enforcement officers died as a result of felonious acts and 47 died in accidents in 2020. LEOKA statistics can be found on FBI’s Crime Data Explorer website.
The names of the 394 fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial will be read on Thursday, May 13, 2021, during a Virtual Candlelight Vigil, which will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 PM EDT. The Police Week in-person public events, originally scheduled for May, have been rescheduled due to ongoing COVID-19 concerns to October 13-17, 2021. An in-person Candlelight Vigil event is scheduled for October 14, 2021.
Those who wish to view the Virtual Candlelight Vigil on May 13, 2021, can watch on the NLEOMF YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF. The FOP’s Roll Call of Heroes can be viewed at www.fop.net. To view the schedule of virtual Police Week events in May, please view NLEOMF’s Police Week Flyer.
To learn more about National Police Week in-person events scheduled for October, please visit www.policeweek.org.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office Commemorates National Crime Victims’ Rights WeekRead the Press Release
FARGO – Acting United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase announced that on April 23, 2021, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of North Dakota recognized individuals throughout the state who provide outstanding services to victims.
Victim assistance awards were presented to the following individuals:
Assistant United States Attorney Victim Assistance Award – Dawn M. Deitz, Assistant U.S Attorney, U.S. Attorney’s Office, Fargo.
Support Staff Victim Assistance Award – Nick Larson Probation Officer, U.S. Probation, Devils Lake.
Victim-Witness Advocate Assistance Award –Miriam Smette, McHenry County Victim Witness.
Special Agent Victim Assistance Award – Randy Helderop, Special Agent, Homeland Security Investigations, Bismarck.
Crime Victim Service Legacy Assistance Award – Rick L. Volk, Assistant U.S. Attorney, U.S. Attorney’s Office, Bismarck.
Special Courage Victim Assistance Award – Katelyn Workman, Survivor.
The U. S. Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) leads communities throughout the country in their annual observances of the National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. This year’s theme - Support Victims. Build Trust. Engage Communities - celebrates the contributions that we all can make toward building trust in our community’s capacity to support the healing journeys of crime victims.
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Lisbon, ND, Man Pleads Guilty to the Violent Ax Attack on U.S. Senator John Hoeven’s Office in December 2020Read the Press Release
FARGO – Acting United States Attorney Nick Chase announced Thomas Alexander Starks, age 30 of Lisbon, ND, pleaded guilty before Chief Judge Peter D. Welte, U.S. District Court, Fargo, ND, for the charge of Destruction of Government Property, 18 USC 1361.
On December 21, 2020, Starks went to the downtown Fargo office of United States Senator John Hoeven and, using an ax, smashed the window and caused substantial damage to the intercom system and doorframe. The monetary damages caused by Starks’ exceeded $1,000.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations, United States Capital Police, Fargo Police Department and Cass County Sheriff’s Office, and the case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s office, with Assistant United States Attorney Richard Lee assigned to the case.
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Mandan, ND, Man Sentenced to 4 years in Federal Prison for Bank Fraud and Interstate Transportation of Stolen LivestockRead the Press Release
Bismarck – Acting United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase announced, on April 6, 2021, United States District Judge Daniel M. Traynor sentenced Kelly Anthony Glatt, age 39, of Mandan, ND, for the offenses of Bank Fraud and Interstate Transportation of Stolen Livestock. On October 13, 2020, after a multi-day trial, a federal jury found Glatt guilty of these offenses. The jury found Glatt not guilty of a single count of Interstate Sale of Stolen Livestock. Judge Traynor sentenced Glatt to serve 48 months’ imprisonment on the Bank Fraud charge and 36 months’ imprisonment on the Interstate Transportation of Stolen Livestock charge to run concurrent with one another; serve a three year term of supervised release on both counts to run concurrent with one another; pay $1,839,846.30 in restitution; and pay a $200 special assessment.
On February 20, 2014, Glatt, a rancher, took out a loan from a North Dakota financial institution in the amount of $1,500,000 to purchase cattle and livestock-related supplies. The financial institution obtained a security interest in the cattle, which were left in Glatt’s custody. Additionally, Glatt took custody of multiple other individuals’ cattle as either cattle caretaker, cattle manager, or cattle partner. Evidence introduced at trial demonstrated, between 2014 and 2017, Glatt took affirmative steps to hide collateral from the financial institution; hid assets from the financial institution and other victims; fraudulently filed an agricultural statutory lien in another person’s name with the intent to deprive the financial institution of future foreclosed funds; and finally, transported stolen cattle belonging to the financial institution and the other victims from North Dakota to South Dakota.
"The defendant took advantage of, and defrauded, both hard-working ranchers and a North Dakota financial institution," said Acting United States Attorney Nick Chase. "The United States Attorney's Office is committed to identifying, investigating, and prosecuting financial and agricultural based crimes."
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the North Dakota Stockmen’s Association, and the Morton County Sheriff’s Department, and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan J. O’Konek and Eric Lundberg and Department of Justice Trial Attorney Joseph McFarlane.
This trial was completed during the COVID-19 pandemic and utilized COVID-19 safety protocols.
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Moorhead Man Sentenced to Two Years in Federal Prison for Civil Disorder during the May 30th, 2020, Fargo Violent ProtestsRead the Press Release
Fargo – Acting United States Attorney Nick Chase announced that U.S. District Court Chief Judge Peter D. Welte sentenced Jonathan Montanezage, age 31 of Moorhead, MN, to serve two years in federal prison with 3 years of supervised release to follow for the charge of Civil Disorder, 18 USC 231 (a)(3), during violent protests in Fargo, ND.
On May 30, 2020, what started as peaceful protest in Fargo turned violent when some individuals, including Montanezage, jumped on top of an occupied Fargo Police Department vehicle and slammed his fists on the police vehicle causing extensive damage. Montanezage was also provoked other protesters to become violent and destructive. That criminal behavior caused many serious injuries to law enforcement officers and caused thousands of dollars in damages to businesses in downtown Fargo.
"The FBI’s mission is to uphold the Constitution, which includes freedom of speech and the right to assemble. Jonathan Montanez took personal advantage of what was supposed to be a peaceful protest that day, to engage in criminal activity," said FBI Minneapolis Special Agent in Charge, Michael Paul. "The FBI will continue to work closely with our state, local and federal law enforcement partners and prosecutors to protect our citizens' right to engage in lawful protest from individuals seeking to engage in violence and criminal activity."
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Fargo Police Department, and was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s office, with Assistant United States Attorney Richard Lee assigned to the case.
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