District of New Hampshire

CONCORD – A California man was sentenced today in federal court in Concord for wire fraud charges, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Jesse Hernandez, a/k/a Kevin Zarbalas, 61, previously of Los Angeles, California, was sentenced by senior U.S. District Court Judge Paul Barbadoro to 30 months in prison and 3 years of supervised release. Hernandez was also ordered to pay restitution to three separate victims in the amount of $88,815.29.

 “Not only did Hernandez victimize three companies in three states, but he continued this financial scheme while he was facing charges here in New Hampshire,” U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young said.  “The sentence imposed today ensures that he will be prevented from harming business owners during his incarceration. The defendant was also ordered to pay restitution to the victims, which is always a priority of this office.”

“Jesse Hernandez’s clients thought he was a man of his word. Little did they know he would take full advantage of that trust, using tens of thousands of dollars of their money as his own,” said Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “The FBI is fighting every day to shut down financial fraudsters like this, find justice for their victims, and protect the public. With today’s sentence, Mr. Hernandez has finally been held accountable.”

In May of 2019, Hernandez executed a scheme to illegally obtain funds from a New Hampshire business (TH) in connection with a customized ice cream truck for an experimental marketing event in California. TH sought a specialty-branded truck that was wrapped in the product’s marketing art and contained multiple specifications. TH found the defendant’s company, Mobie Experiential Trucks (Mobie), to be knowledgeable about the experiential vehicle industry and that his pricing was competitive. Hernandez provided a 22-slide presentation to TH personnel and discussed the presentation over the phone. The images in the presentation were later determined to display products done by other companies and pictures taken from the internet by Hernandez to misrepresent his experience and work. Ultimately, the ice cream truck was never delivered, and the defendant used the funds from TH for other purposes.

On December 1, 2021, Hernandez pleaded guilty to committing wire fraud in connection with the above.  After noticing a press release announcing the guilty plea, a Minnesota based company (AA) contacted authorities to report that it too had recently been defrauded by Hernandez under similar circumstances.  Later, in 2022, Hernandez attempted to defraud a New York based company in connection with another marketing truck, this time utilizing an alias of “Kevin Zarbalas.”  Hernandez’s bail was subsequently revoked, and he has been in custody since his arrest in California in March 2023.  

The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles L. Rombeau prosecuted the case.

###

CONCORD – A Manchester woman pleaded guilty today in federal court for her role in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl in New Hampshire.  She is the third of the 22 defendants in the conspiracy to plead guilty, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Alesha Neault, age 38, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance, namely, fentanyl. U.S. District Court Judge Samantha Elliott scheduled sentencing for May 3, 2024. The defendant was indicted on April 26, 2023.

On September 13, 2022, the defendant sold approximately 10 grams of fentanyl, and another 10 grams of fentanyl on October 6, 2022.  Customers called a phone number for a “dispatch” line used to purchase narcotics and would speak to a dispatcher who would put the defendant in touch with the customer to complete the drug sale.  The defendant or her associate would then arrange a meeting place for the drug transaction.  On both occasions, the defendant met the customer at an agreed-upon location in Manchester, picked the customer up in a car in which she was a passenger, and provided the customer with fentanyl in exchange for money inside of the car. 

The charging statute provides a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, at least three (3) years of supervised release, and a maximum fine of $1,000,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Manchester Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Aaron Gingrande and Jarad Hodes are prosecuting the case.  

This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

###

CONCORD – A Concord man was sentenced today in federal court for sexual exploitation of a minor and possession of child sexual abuse material, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Scott Wilkinson, age 39, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Joseph Laplante to 240 months in prison and 10 years of supervised release.  Wilkinson was also ordered to pay $6,000 in restitution.

“The pain and trauma that Wilkinson caused the survivor and the survivor’s family is inconceivable,” U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young said. “Not only did Wilkinson sexually exploit a child, but he produced child sexual abuse material from his crime. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to prioritize cases that involve harming children, and we will work tirelessly to obtain justice for survivors of heinous crimes like those committed by the defendant.”

“Scott Wilkinson admitted to unimaginably abhorrent behavior. He sought out sex with a child and perpetuated that trauma by recording and reliving it. The harm he has done is vast, and today’s sentence is richly deserved,” said Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “Locking up predators like Wilkinson is one of the most important actions that the FBI and our partners can take to help protect kids, the most vulnerable members of our community.”

In April 2022, Wilkinson traveled from New Hampshire to New Jersey, where he engaged in sexual acts with a 12-year-old child.  Wilkinson had been corresponding with the child online for approximately one year prior to traveling to New Jersey to meet the child.  A video that Wilkinson created of himself engaged in sexual acts with the child was found on his cell phone, as were other images and videos of child sexual abuse material.

The Egg Harbor Township Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation led the investigation.  Valuable assistance was provided by the Concord Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kasey Weiland from the District of New Hampshire and Assistant U.S. Attorney Lindsey Harteis from the District of New Jersey prosecuted the case.  

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.

###

CONCORD – An Antrim man pleaded guilty today in federal court to faking a disability to get $662,871.77 in veteran’s benefits of which he was not entitled, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Christopher Stultz, 49, pleaded guilty to one count of making false statements. U.S. District Court Judge Joseph N. Laplante scheduled sentencing for May 6, 2024. Stultz was charged on September 13, 2023.

Beginning in January 2003, Stultz falsely represented to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that he was no longer able to use his feet.  This caused the VA to rate him as 100% disabled, increasing his monthly VA benefits.  In addition, because the VA believed Stultz was unable to use his feet, he was also awarded funding through the VA’s Automobile Adaptive Equipment program to purchase special cars and vehicle adaptations designed to help mobility-impaired veterans.

However, Stultz did not need a wheelchair or other ambulatory device to move around.  He was surveilled on multiple occasions and recorded walking normally.  For example, on October 28, 2021, Stultz went to the VA Medical Center in Jamaica Plain in Boston.  He used a wheelchair while inside the VA facility.  After leaving the VA, he stood up, lifted the wheelchair into his car, and drove off to a shopping mall.  There, Stultz walked normally through multiple stores.  Similarly, on October 3, 2022, Stultz went to the VA Medical Center in Manchester.  Again, he used a wheelchair while inside the VA facility.  After leaving the VA facility, Stultz drove to the Mall of New Hampshire and was recorded walking normally through multiple stores.  In addition, multiple witnesses reported that they had never known Stultz to use a wheelchair or other ambulatory devices as far back as the early 2000s.

In total, from January 2003 through December 2022, Stultz received $662,871.77 in VA benefits he was not entitled to.

The charging statute provides a sentence of no greater than 5 years in prison and 3 years of supervised release. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

The Department of Veterans Affairs’ Office of the Inspector General led the investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander S. Chen is prosecuting the case.

###

CONCORD – An Alexandria man was sentenced in federal court in Concord for failing to register as a sex offender, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Rex Jason Sumner, 53, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Landya McCafferty to 12 months and 1 day in prison and 5 years of supervised release.

“Prosecuting violations of the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act is critical in our effort to keep the most vulnerable members of our community safe,” U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young said.  “Today’s sentence reinforces this Office’s dedication to protecting the public and ensuring accountability for those who attempt to circumvent their registration requirements.”

“If not for the valuable assistance and resources dedicated to overseeing the deceptive movements of registered sex offenders throughout the country and abroad, offenders such as Mr. Sumner would unknowingly lay dormant in our communities,” proclaimed Deputy U.S. Marshal Andrew Grillo. “This case highlights the efforts of local, state and federal law enforcement networks efficiently coming together to resolve an important matter central to public safety.”   

“The Alexandria Police Department was glad to be part of this investigation. Sumner is a potentially dangerous individual who thought that he could come and hide in a small town in New Hampshire,” said Chief David Suckling of the Alexandria Police Department. “This was a great collaboration between many agencies, and we were proud to do our share.”

According to Court documents and statements made in Court, Sumner is a Tier III sex offender with a duty to register for life.  Sumner was released from prison in Oklahoma in 2018 and had been registering with Oklahoma authorities at an address in Oklahoma despite residing in New Hampshire since early 2023.  Sumner would return to Oklahoma periodically to update his registration and continued to represent to authorities that he still resided in Oklahoma.

The United States Marshals Service led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Alexandria (NH) Police Department, the Plymouth (NH) Police Department, the New Hampshire State Police, and the Garvin County (OK) Sherriff’s Office.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kasey Weiland is prosecuting the case.  

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc

###

CONCORD – A Manchester woman pleaded guilty today in federal court for her role in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and cocaine. Katie Girgus, age 30, is the second of the 22 defendants in this conspiracy to plead guilty, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

The defendant pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, namely, fentanyl and cocaine. U.S. District Court Judge Samantha Elliott scheduled sentencing for April 30, 2024. The defendant was indicted on April 26, 2023.

According to the plea agreement and statements made in court, the defendant sold a total of approximately 50 grams of fentanyl and 3.5 grams of crack cocaine between June and November of 2022.  Customers would call a phone number for a “dispatch” line used to purchase narcotics and would speak to a dispatcher who would put the defendant in touch with the customer to complete the drug sale.  The defendant would then arrange to meet with the customer, primarily in Manchester, to sell them drugs.  She would often meet the customer at an agreed-upon address, pick the customer up in her car, and complete the drug transaction inside the car. 

The charging statute provides a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, at least three (3) years of supervised release, and a maximum fine of $1,000,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Manchester Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Aaron Gingrande and Jarad Hodes are prosecuting the case.  

This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

###

CONCORD – Six defendants were arrested on January 17, 2024, in connection with a conspiracy to distribute cocaine sent through the U.S. Postal Service to New Hampshire.  The defendants were indicted on December 20, 2023, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Three defendants appeared in federal court in Concord for an initial appearance on January 17, 2024. The remaining defendants will appear in federal court for initial appearances on a later date.

The following defendants were indicted in connection with these charges:

1. Lewistone Baez Miranda, 48, of Manchester, NH. Baez Miranda is in custody.
2. Joshua Baez Core, 25, of Bayamon, Puerto Rico. Baez Core is in custody.
3. Euris Rosario Rodriguez, 38, of Manchester, NH. Rosario Rodriguez is in custody.
4. Siul Mary Rosa Cruz, 28, of Manchester, NH. Rosa Cruz is in custody.
5. David Orme, 51, of Manchester, NH. Orme is in custody.
6. Sasha Ramirez Muniz, 42, of Manchester, NH. Ramirez Muniz is in custody.

According to the charging document and statements made in court, each of the defendants was involved in a drug trafficking organization that shipped large amounts of cocaine from Puerto Rico to Manchester, New Hampshire, using the United States Postal Service.  Members of the organization would pick up the packages of cocaine in Manchester and provide them to Lewistone Baez Miranda and others for distribution.  The largest mail parcel shipped by the drug trafficking organization recovered by the United States Postal Inspection Service contained 4 kilograms of cocaine.

The charging statute for the drug offense provides a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a term of supervised release of at least three years, and a maximum fine of $1,000,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

The United States Postal Inspection Service led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Manchester Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Gingrande is prosecuting the case.  

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

###

CONCORD – A Brooklyn, New York man pleaded guilty on January 17, 2024 in federal court in connection with smuggling unauthorized immigrants, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Abraham Hernandez, 27, pleaded guilty to three counts of bringing in and harboring certain aliens. U.S. District Court Judge Samantha Elliott scheduled sentencing for April 19, 2024. Hernandez was indicted on July 5, 2023.

According to the charging documents, on or about June 13, 2023, Abraham was stopped in Pittsburg, New Hampshire while transporting in a Honda SUV nine unauthorized immigrants who were in the United States in violation of law.

The charging statute provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, up to 3 years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

United States Border Patrol led the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey Ward is prosecuting the case.

###

CONCORD – A former Belmont man was sentenced today in federal court for trafficking methamphetamine in New Hampshire, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

David Sweeney, 47, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Paul J. Barbadoro to 160 months in federal prison and 5 years of supervised release. On July 5, 2022, Sweeney pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.

“The U.S. Attorney’s Office working in conjunction with our federal and state law enforcement partners is committed to investigating and prosecuting recidivist drug traffickers, like the defendant, who pose an ongoing danger to our state by flooding our communities with thousands of doses of methamphetamine,” United States Attorney Jane E. Young said. “The significant sentence imposed today will protect our citizens from Sweeney’s unabated drug trafficking.”

“DEA stands committed to keeping highly addictive drugs like methamphetamine off the streets of New Hampshire,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle.  “Today’s sentence not only holds Mr. Sweeney accountable for his crimes but serves as a warning to those traffickers who are contributing to the drug crisis in America.  This investigation demonstrates the strength of collaborative law enforcement efforts and our strong partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”

“David Sweeney pushed massive amounts of methamphetamine onto New Hampshire’s streets, and today’s lengthy prison sentence officially puts him out of business,” said Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “The FBI and our partners are committed to taking down and locking up prolific drug traffickers like Sweeney – people with no regard for the incredible damage they inflict on so many lives and communities.”

According to court documents and statements made in court, in January 2016, United States District Court Chief Judge Landya B. McCafferty sentenced Sweeney to 54 months imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release for possession with the intent to distribute heroin.  Sweeney was released from federal custody in January 2018, and placed on three years of federal supervision in New Hampshire. On December 13, 2019, while under the term of his supervised release, Sweeney sold a quantity of methamphetamine to a Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) confidential informant. As the investigation continued, the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the FBI determined that Sweeney conspired with other individuals located in New Hampshire, the Caribbean and Mexico to import multiple kilograms of methamphetamine into New Hampshire for distribution.

This matter was investigated by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration and the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the United States Postal Inspection Service and the New Hampshire State Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer C. Davis.

This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found athttps://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

###

CONCORD – A Colombian national was sentenced on January 9, 2024 in federal court in Concord for his illegal reentry into the United States after previously being deported, United States Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Jheisson Rizo Suarez, 39, was sentencing by Chief U.S. District Court Judge Landya B. McCafferty to 24 months in prison and one year of supervised release. Rizo Suarez pleaded guilty to one count of reentry after deportation.  On September 18, 2023, the defendant pleaded guilty to the illegal reentry charge.

“The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to aggressively prosecute those, like the defendant, who commit violent crimes while in the United States illegally,” U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young said.

On July 9, 2021, the defendant was arrested by the Dover Police Department in connection with a residential burglary in progress.  The subsequent investigation revealed that the defendant was illegally in the United States, after having been previously deported on or about January 28, 2013.

The Dover Police Department and the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement led the investigation.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey Ward.

###

CONCORD – A Concord man was sentenced today in federal court for possessing with intent to distribute controlled substances, First Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay McCormack announces.

Ethan Lea, 33, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Chief Judge Landya B. McCafferty to 72 months in prison and 3 years of supervised release. On April 14, 2022, Lea pleaded guilty to two counts of possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and one count of possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl.

“Law enforcement will hold those that poison our communities with dangerous narcotics accountable,” First Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay McCormack said. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to working with our local, state, and federal partners to reduce the supply of fentanyl and methamphetamine in New Hampshire by incarcerating prolific drug dealers.”

“Today’s sentence is a win for the FBI, our law enforcement partners, and the people of New Hampshire as we work together to remove dangerous drugs and criminals off the street,” said Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division.

After a motor vehicle stop on June 13, 2021, law enforcement seized approximately 245 grams of methamphetamine and 71 grams of fentanyl from Lea’s car.  On July 30, 2021, Lea was caught again with large quantities of drugs and evidence of drug dealing in his car, including 448 grams of methamphetamine, digital scales, and over $2,000 in cash. He later admitted to law enforcement that the drugs recovered from the car stops belonged to him, and that he intended to distribute them.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Manchester Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Gingrande prosecuted the case.

###

CONCORD – A North Carolina woman was indicted in connection with charges arising out of her embezzlement of funds from her previous employer, Farwell Funeral Service in Nashua, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

LaSaundra Simmons, 51, previously of Nashua, was indicted on 10 counts of wire fraud on December 6, 2023.  Simmons was arrested in North Carolina on December 11, 2023, and was ordered released on conditions on January 3, 2023.

According to the charging documents, Simmons worked as the bookkeeper for Farwell Funeral Service, Inc. for several years.  Starting in 2015, and continuing until it was discovered in January 2023, Simmons employed a scheme to embezzle funds from the company.  On more than 100 occasions, she either made unauthorized wire transfers of funds from the funeral home’s bank account to her own account, or drafted unauthorized checks which she deposited by electronic wire transfer into her own account.  She would often describe these checks as “commissions” or “consulting fees.”  She embezzled more than $500,000 over the course of the scheme.

Each charge of wire fraud provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, and up to 3 years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Nashua Police Department led the investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles L. Rombeau is prosecuting the case.

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

###

CONCORD – A Rhode Island woman was sentenced today in federal court in Concord for her role in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl in New Hampshire, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Maylerin Urena, a/k/a/ Janet, 40, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Steven McAuliffe to 27 months in prison and 3 years of supervised release.  On May 10, 2023, she pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl.

“The distribution of large quantities of drugs from northern Massachusetts into New Hampshire is a persistent problem,” said United States Attorney Jane Young.  The “Ronnie and Janet” drug organization had been a substantial contributor to this problem for some time, distributing many kilograms of fentanyl and crack into our state.  Today’s sentence shows that the people who operate these organizations will receive substantial punishment for their criminal conduct.”

“Illegal drug distribution ravages the foundations of our families and communities here in New Hampshire,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle.  “Let this sentencing serve as an example to those who distribute poisons like fentanyl and crack cocaine, that DEA will aggressively pursue and hold you accountable.  This investigation demonstrates the strength and continued commitment of our local, state and federal law enforcement partners here in New Hampshire and our solid relationship with the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”

Urena’s husband, Marbin Cruz-Gonzalez, a/k/a “Ronnie” was the leader of the drug organization. Urena’s primary role was to operate the telephones maintained by the organization as a dispatcher to coordinate the meetings between drug customers and drug runners. The defendant also trained other people to work for the organization as dispatchers.

The United States Drug Enforcement Administration and the United States Department of Homeland Security led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the United States Marshal Service; the Nashua Police Department; the Manchester Police Department; the New Hampshire State Police; the Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office; the Hudson Police Department; the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office; the Bedford Police Department; the Merrimack Police Department; the Keene Police Department; the Goffstown Police Department; the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Drug Task Force; the Massachusetts State Police; the Essex County Sheriff’s Department (Massachusetts); the Methuen Police Department (Massachusetts); the Haverhill Police Department (Massachusetts); the North Andover Police Department (Massachusetts); the Springfield Police Department (Vermont); the Maine State Police; the New Jersey State Police; the Essex County Sheriff’s Office (New Jersey); the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office (New Jersey); the Edison Police Department (New Jersey); the North Bergen Police Department (New Jersey); the Newark Police Department (New Jersey); the Bloomfield Police Department (New Jersey); the Edgewater Police Department (New Jersey); the Ridgefield Park Police Department (New Jersey); the Teaneck Police Department (New Jersey). Assistant U.S. Attorneys Seth Aframe and Jarad Hodes prosecuted the case.

###

CONCORD – A New York man was sentenced today in federal court in Concord for transporting stolen goods from Home Depot and Lowe’s across state lines, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Deshun Jackson, 24, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Joseph N. Laplante to 13 months in prison and 3 years of supervised release. Jackson was also ordered to pay $204,969.02 in restitution, of which $179,606.25 is payable to Lowe’s and $25,362.77 is payable to Home Depot.  On September 15, 2023, Jackson pleaded guilty to Transportation of Stolen Goods.  Jackson’s co-defendant, Jalil McIntyre, pled guilty on July 31, 2023, and was sentenced to 24 months in prison on November 6, 2023. 

“Organized retail thefts have a significant impact on consumers by causing both financial loss and safety risks,” said U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young.  “Today’s sentence demonstrates that federal law enforcement will continue to protect retail industry and consumers from this increasingly widespread problem by investigating, prosecuting and incarcerating offenders like the defendants.”

“What DeShun Jackson did –in stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars in high-end merchandise from home improvement retailers all over New England - drives up costs for consumers and businesses everywhere,” said Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “Today’s sentence should be a warning to others that if you engage in organized retail theft and transport stolen goods across state lines like Mr. Jackson did, you too will face serious consequences for your criminal conduct.”

Jackson and McIntyre traveled to Lowe’s and Home Depots across the northeastern United States, including New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey. They stole high-value commercial items, such as circuit breakers. They were seen on surveillance footage grabbing products off shelves, placing them into large plastic bags, and walking out of the stores.  In total, they stole $204,969.02 worth of products across 24 separate thefts.  They also attempted to steal another $46,619.07 worth of products during 11 additional unsuccessful thefts.  The stolen products were brought back to New York, where both defendants lived.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Hillsborough County Attorney’s Office, the Rockingham County Attorney’s Office, the Rochester Police Department, the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office in New York, the Seabrook Police Department, the Nashua Police Department, the Windham Police Department, and the Derry Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander S. Chen prosecuted the case.

###

CONCORD – The New Hampshire charity NuDay, a/k/a NuDay Syria, was sentenced today in federal court for export offenses, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces. 

NuDay was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Joseph N. Laplante to five years of probation, the maximum penalty for an organizational defendant.  NuDay was also ordered to pay a $25,000 fine.  On September 8, 2023, NuDay pleaded guilty to three counts of Failure to File Export Information.

“Our national security depends on exporters truthfully disclosing where goods are being shipped to ensure that hostile foreign actors do not get their hands on potentially dangerous items,” said U.S. Attorney Jane E Young. “This prosecution shows that willful violations of export law, even by a non-profit charity, will result in criminal consequences.”

“This charity blatantly violated U.S. export control laws when it sent over 100 shipments of humanitarian goods to Syria, a country that is a designated state sponsor of terrorism, and in many instances, lied about where those shipments were going,” said Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “This case highlights the FBI’s ongoing commitment to working with our law enforcement partners to prevent the erosion of public trust in charitable organizations by ensuring that anyone who engages in criminal activity in order to evade our laws and regulations is held accountable.”

“Customs and export laws exist to protect the integrity of our systems of commerce and to protect our national security. The individuals involved with NuDay knew they were breaking the law but did so anyway, sending shipments whose contents were falsely undervalued to Syria, a country subject to export restrictions and sanctions. As today’s sentence shows, these actions have consequences,” said Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England.

“Despite the availability of a limited waiver of the restrictions allowing for the export and re-export of a wide range of items necessary to provide humanitarian support to the Syrian people, NuDay devalued $8.3 million of goods to avoid reporting requirements and transshipped the items through a third country without disclosing their ultimate destination.  The end did not justify the means in this case,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Aaron Tambrini of the Office of Export Enforcement’s Boston Field Office.

NuDay was founded by Nadia Alawa as a non-profit charity in 2013 and is headquartered in Windham, New Hampshire.  Alawa served as NuDay’s President, and several family members served as board members and employees.  Between 2013 and 2019, NuDay claimed significant growth of in-kind donations, starting from approximately $231,000 in 2013 and reaching almost $71 million in 2019.   By way of comparison, in 2019 OXFAM America reported approximately $73.5 million in donations, and the Syrian American Medical Society Foundation reported approximately $41.4 million in donations.

Between 2018 and 2021, NuDay made over 100 shipments to Syria, a country that was subject to sanctions and export restrictions.  NuDay claimed that these shipments were worth over $100 million.  NuDay had the items shipped to Mersin, Turkey, where another company would transship them into Syria.  U.S. Department of Commerce regulations require exporters, such as NuDay, to report true and accurate information about the items being exported, including the shipment’s description, end user, and monetary value.  However, NuDay falsely reported that the end destination of the shipments was Turkey and not Syria, and artificially deflated the value of the goods to be below the $2,500 reporting threshold.  Alawa’s Facebook messages indicated that she and NuDay were aware of export restrictions, including the need to obtain export licenses, but ignored them. 

As a condition of the plea, Nadia Alawa and her family members have ceased involvement with NuDay.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Department of Commerce’s Office of Export Enforcement, Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigations, and Homeland Security Investigations led the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander S. Chen prosecuted the case. 

###

CONCORD – A grand jury returned a superseding indictment against a Hampton man in connection with four fraud schemes, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Anthony M. Silva, 39, was indicted on a total of 10 counts of wire fraud, 3 counts of mail fraud, and 8 counts of aggravated identity theft.   Silva is scheduled to appear in federal court in Concord on January 8, 2024.  Previously, on March 21, 2022, Silva was indicted on 3 counts of wire fraud, 3 counts of misuse of a Social Security number, and 3 counts of aggravated identity theft. 

According to the charging documents and statements made in court, Silva orchestrated four separate fraud schemes using stolen identities.  Specifically, Silva used stolen names, dates of birth, Social Security Numbers, and other identifiers to fraudulently obtain (1) unemployment insurance benefits from Vermont, (2) unemployment insurance benefits from Massachusetts, (3) American Express credit cards, and (4) CARES Act funds.  The fraudulently obtained unemployment benefits and CARES Act funds were deposited either by check or direct deposit into dozens of accounts Silva controlled at multiple banks.  Many of these accounts were in the names of individual victims or fictional organizations, with Silva listed as the trustee.  Silva obtained more than $400,000 from Vermont, over $150,000 from Massachusetts, and $600,000 from the U.S. Small Business Administration.  Silva was also able to use the credit cards to make a variety of purchases from retailers such as Victoria’s Secret.  Silva also tried unsuccessfully to obtain additional CARES Act funding. 

The charge of wire fraud and mail fraud provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison and a fine of either $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is higher.  The charge of aggravated identity theft provides for a mandatory sentence of 2 years to be served consecutive to any other sentence imposed.  Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Department of Labor’s Office of the Inspector General and United States Secret Service led the investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexander S. Chen and John J. Kennedy are prosecuting the case.

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

###

CONCORD – A Dover man has been indicted in connection with sending threatening text messages to three presidential candidates, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Tyler Anderson, 30, was charged with three counts of transmitting in interstate commerce a threat to injure the person of another. Anderson was arrested on December 9, 2023, and he made an initial appearance in federal court on December 11, 2023. On December 14, 2023, the Court released him on conditions.

According to the charging documents, Anderson sent a series of threatening text messages to three separate presidential campaigns going back to November 2023.  On November 22, 2023, Anderson threatened to “impale” and “disembowel” one candidate. On December 6, 2023, Anderson threatened a second candidate in a series of text messages, including that he would “blow” the head off of the candidate and conduct a “mass shooting.” On December 8, 2023, Anderson threatened via text message that he would “blow” the “brains out” of a third candidate and “kill everyone” who would attend a then-upcoming campaign event.

Each charge provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Dover Police Department and the Portsmouth Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Rombeau is prosecuting the case.

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

###

CONCORD – A Vermont man pleaded guilty in federal court in Concord to conspiring to distribute a controlled substance in New Hampshire, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Lamar Carter, 32, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance, namely, cocaine base, also known as crack cocaine. U.S. District Court Judge Samantha Elliott scheduled sentencing for March 29, 2024. The defendant was indicted on August 29, 2022.

Carter was a leader of a drug distribution organization that obtained powder cocaine from New Jersey, “cooked” the cocaine to manufacture crack, and distributed the crack in and around Keene, New Hampshire. The organization had several employees who worked for Carter and conducted hand-to-hand drug transactions with customers. The group operated out of a local resident’s home, as well as several hotel rooms. During the investigation 364 grams of cocaine base and 2 handguns were seized.

The charging statute provides a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, at least three (3) years of supervised release, and a maximum fine of $1,000,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

Homeland Security Investigations led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Keene Police Department.

###

CONCORD – A Nashua man appeared in federal court, after being indicted on firearms charges, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Mikell Baez, 25, was indicted on November 15, 2023 with six counts of making a false statement during the acquisition of a firearm. Baez made an initial appearance in federal court on December 19, 2023, and was released on conditions.

According to the charging document, on six separate occasions between August 3, 2021 and November 5, 2021, Mr. Baez straw purchased eight guns for someone else.  He bought the guns from federally licensed firearms dealers in Merrimack, Hudson and Amherst, New Hampshire.  Mr. Baez lied on the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) form for the purchases when he said he was the actual buyer/transferee of each firearm. 

The charges provide for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes, which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) led the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Gingrande is prosecuting the case.

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

###

CONCORD – A Boston, Massachusetts man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Concord for conspiring to distribute fentanyl in New Hampshire, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Victor Cuevas Romero, 27, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance, namely, fentanyl. U.S. District Court Judge Samantha Elliott scheduled sentencing for April 3, 2024. The defendant was originally charged on June 6, 2023.

On May 19, 2023, at law enforcement’s direction, a cooperating source called a number that law enforcement knew to be operated by a drug trafficking organization and placed an order for fentanyl. The individual who answered the phone, who was not the defendant, directed the confidential source to an address on Belmont Street in Manchester to make the drug transaction.  The confidential source went to the address, and shortly thereafter, the defendant drove there and picked up the cooperating source in his car.  Inside his car, the defendant provided the cooperating source with fentanyl in exchange for $100. 

The charging statute provides a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, at least three (3) years of supervised release, and a maximum fine of $1,000,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Manchester Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Aaron Gingrande and Jarad Hodes are prosecuting the case.  

This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

###

CONCORD – A Derry man pleaded guilty in federal court to possession with intent to distribute steroids and causing a drug to become misbranded after shipment in interstate commerce, United States Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Ralph Cardarelli, 44, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute steroids and causing a drug to become misbranded after shipment in interstate commerce. U.S. District Court Judge Steven J. McAuliffe scheduled sentencing for April 2, 2024. Cardarelli was indicted on August 16, 2023.

During the execution of a search warrant at Cardarelli’s residence on March 23, 2023, federal investigations discovered over 4800 vials and bottles of suspected controlled substances and prescription drugs, including: Nandrolone Phenylpropionate; Trenbolone Acetate; Dromostanolone Propionate; Boldenone Undecylenate; Testosterone Propionate; Trenbolone Enanthate; Nandrolone Decanoate; Testosterone Enanthate; and Testosterone Cypionate.  These drugs are commonly known as steroids.  Evidence was also discovered through the search warrant that Cardarelli was importing these drugs, manufacturing, and packaging them in his residence, and dispensing the drugs without requiring a prescription.

The charging statute provides a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, at least 4 years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

The Food & Drug Administration - Office of Criminal Investigations led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by Customs and Border Protection, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Derry Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey Ward is prosecuting the case.  

###

CONCORD – A Maine man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Concord to charges in connection to the online threats he made to the Portsmouth High School on April 12, 2023, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Kyle Hendrickson, 25, pleaded guilty to one count of interstate threatening communications and one count of possessing a firearm in a school zone.  U.S. District Court Judge Samantha Elliot scheduled sentencing for March 15, 2024.  Hendrickson was initially arrested on a criminal complaint on April 13, 2023, and a grand jury returned the two-count indictment on September 13, 2023.

Hendrickson posted a video to his SnapChat account on Wednesday, April 12, 2023, in which he brandished a handgun while in a vehicle outside of the Portsmouth High School.  The video includes a text overlay that reads “imma shoot up the school.”  School surveillance footage placed Hendrickson’s vehicle outside the high school at the time of the video. Law enforcement later recovered an AR-15 rifle, a shotgun, camouflage body armor, a handgun holster, a red-dot sight, and numerous rounds of ammunition from Hendrickson’s vehicle.  The handgun that Hendrickson used in the SnapChat video was also recovered near a motel where Hendrickson had stayed in Maine on the night of April 12, 2023.  

Each charge provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000.  Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division, and the Portsmouth Police Department led the investigation.  The Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Somersworth Police Department, the Portland (Maine) Police Department, and the Berwick (Maine) Police Department provided valuable assistance.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles L. Rombeau is prosecuting the case.

###

CONCORD – A Dover man has been arrested and charged in connection with sending text messages that threatened a presidential candidate and attendees at a campaign event scheduled to take place in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Tyler Anderson, 30, was charged with transmitting in interstate commerce a threat to injure the person of another. Anderson will make an initial appearance in federal court in Concord today, December 11, 2023, at 2:30 p.m.

According to the charging documents, Anderson received a text message from the victim’s campaign notifying him of a political event in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.  Anderson responded to the text message on December 8, 2023, stating: “Great, another opportunity for me to blow his brains out!” and “I’m going to kill everyone who attends and then f*** their corpses.”

The charge provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Dover and Portsmouth Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jarad Hodes and Matthew Hunter are prosecuting the case.

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

###

CONCORD – A Newbury woman and Northfield woman, two former nurses, were indicted in connection to the diversion of dangerous narcotics by medical professionals, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Robin Nichols, 63, of Newbury, was indicted on one count of Tampering with Consumer Products and one count of Obtaining a Controlled Drug by Misrepresentation, Fraud, Deception, or Subterfuge.  Nichols will appear in federal court in Concord on December 8, 2023.

Lisa Richardson, 47, of Northfield, was indicted on one count of Tampering with Consumer Products and one count of Obtaining a Controlled Drug by Misrepresentation, Fraud, Deception, or Subterfuge.  Richardson will appear in federal court in Concord on December 8, 2023.

According to the charging documents related to Robin Nichols, on April 15, 2023, while working as a nurse at Catholic Medical Center, Nichols removed a quantity of fentanyl, a narcotic painkiller drug in liquid form, from a syringe intended for an operating room patient and which she knew was intended for that patient and replaced the fentanyl with a quantity of saline.

According to the charging documents related to Lisa Richardson, on December 30, 2022, while working as a nurse at Concord Hospital, Richardson entered the room of a patient in the Intensive Care Unit (“ICU”) and removed a quantity of fentanyl, a narcotic painkiller drug in liquid form, from an intravenous line bag attached to the patient and which she knew was being dispensed to that patient, and replaced the fentanyl with a quantity of saline.

Nichols and Richardson’s charges of tampering with a consumer product provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of obtaining a controlled drug by misrepresentation, fraud, deception, or subterfuge provides for a sentence of up to 4 years in prison, up to one year of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000.  

Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

The Food & Drug Administration Office of Criminal Investigations and the Drug Enforcement Administration jointly led these investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey Ward is prosecuting the cases.

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Law enforcement in the District of New Hampshire has utilized resources to enforce federal laws in connection to the diversion of dangerous narcotics by medical professionals. In June 2023, the U.S. Attorney’s Office settled a $2 million civil action with Cheshire Medical Center for their failure to fulfill obligations under the Controlled Substances Act, which enabled a nurse to steal twenty-three intravenous bags of fentanyl solution from an automatic medication dispensing machine. Also in June 2023, the U.S. Attorney’s Office settled a $300,000 civil action with PillPack by Amazon, a pharmacy, to resolve allegations that they violated the Controlled Substances Act, which risked the division of drugs that are often abused in our communities.

###

CONCORD – A former Nashua man was sentenced in federal court for transporting stolen Apple products worth $2 million, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Guangwei “William” Wu, 31, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Samantha D. Elliott to one year and one day in prison, one year of supervised release, and a $10,000 fine.  Wu was also ordered to pay $2 million in restitution, which he has already repaid.  On June 22, 2023, Wu pleaded guilty to the interstate transportation of stolen property.

“The defendant engaged in a sophisticated fraud scheme where he accepted a bribe of significant value, diverted shipments of stolen Apple products worth approximately $2 million, and then forged a federal agent’s signature to cover his tracks. These are serious offenses,” said U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young. “The Court’s imposed sentence of incarceration in federal prison and full restitution are just consequences for his bold crimes.”

“Guangwei Wu accepted a bribe, shipped $2 million worth of stolen Apple products to Hong Kong, and then lied about it. Actions like his hurt hard-working business owners trying to make an earnest living, and today’s sentence holds Mr. Wu accountable for his crimes,” said Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division.

“The U.S. Postal Inspection Service continuously seeks to identify and stop complex fraud schemes.  Guangwei Wu’s reshipping scheme of stolen Apple products resulted in millions of dollars in losses,” said Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division.  “We will continue our work with our law enforcement partners to stop those who are engaged in these types of criminal activities.”

The defendant owned and operated a transshipping company in Manchester called Hai Xing Qiao.  In fall 2022, the victim company purchased Apple products, including iPads, iPhones, Apple Watches, and Macbooks, and then hired Hai Xing Qiao to forward the products onto Hong Kong.  However, Yongfu Huo, another Hong Kong-based company, paid a bribe of over $700,000 to the defendant to have the products shipped to Yongfu Huo instead.  To cover up his tracks, the defendant claimed that law enforcement had seized the Apple products and sent the victim company a false document titled “Disclaimer of Ownership” purportedly issued by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.  The defendant also forged the signature of a federal agent on the document.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and U.S. Postal Inspection Service led the investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander S. Chen prosecuted the case.

###

CONCORD – A Manchester man was indicted and arrested in connection with his possession of a firearm and ammunition, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.   

Eric Edmondson, 45, was indicted with one count of illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition by a previously convicted felon on November 15, 2023.  Edmondson appeared in federal court on November 28, 2023, and was detained.   

On September 11, 2023, Edmondson was found in possession of a privately manufactured 9mm firearm (also known as a ghost gun) and 5 rounds of commercially available ammunition after a motor vehicle stop.  As a previously convicted felon, Edmondson is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition under federal law.

The charge provides for a maximum sentence of up to 15 years in prison, up to a three-year term of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

The New Hampshire State Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives led the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles L. Rombeau is prosecuting the case.

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

###

CONCORD – A Sanbornton man pleaded guilty today in federal court to possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Timothy Ryan, 35, pleaded guilty to an information charging him with possession of child sexual abuse material.  U.S. District Court Judge Steven McAuliffe scheduled sentencing for March 12, 2024.

According to court records and statements made in court, the defendant was identified as a top offender in the state of New Hampshire for supplying CSAM through the peer-to-peer network BitTorrent.  Investigators traced the illicit internet activity to his residence, and later obtained a federal search warrant to seize and search his electronic devices.  Forensic examination of the defendant’s cell phone revealed the presence of approximately 2,600 files of apparent CSAM.

The charging statute provides a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, a minimum 5 years of supervised release, a fine of $250,000 and mandatory restitution. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

Homeland Security Investigations led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the New England Cyber Fraud Task Force, the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Nashua Police Department, the Grafton County Sheriff’s Department, and the Sanbornton Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kasey Weiland is prosecuting the case. 

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.

###

CONCORD – A Manchester man was sentenced today in federal court in Concord for Hobbs Act Robbery and Bank Robbery, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Hector Rivera Ayala, 34, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Steven McAuliffe to 130 months in prison and 3 years of supervised release. Rivera Ayala was also ordered to pay $171,677.37 in restitution. On April 18, 2023, Rivera Ayala pleaded guilty to Hobbs Act Robbery and Bank Robbery.

“The defendant’s brazen and repeated criminal conduct placed the lives of numerous people in jeopardy as he robbed gas stations and a bank,” said U.S. Attorney Jane Young. “As demonstrated by the sentence of more than a decade in federal prison, people who threaten, steal and place others in physical jeopardy will be removed from society for significant periods of time. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to prioritize prosecuting and incarcerating violent offenders like the defendant in order to keep our communities safe.”

“Hector Rivera Ayala went on a robbery spree in Manchester, using what appeared to be a real firearm to threaten and intimidate his victims, to steal tens of thousands of dollars. Today’s significant sentence removes this dangerous individual from our community and highlights the tenacity of the FBI and our law enforcement partners to identify and apprehend criminals like him who threaten public safety,” said Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division.

“This man terrorized business owners in our city, threatening them with a weapon and putting them on edge,” said Chief Allen Aldenberg of the Manchester Police Department. “I am very pleased with Mr. Ayala’s sentence. It sends a strong message that this criminal behavior will not be tolerated in Manchester.”

In December 2019, Rivera Ayala robbed four gas stations and one bank in Manchester, including Rapid Refill on Second Street; Brother’s Express Gas Station on Union Street; Shell Gas Station on Eddy Road; Shell Gas Station on Hanover Street; and the Bank of New England on Elm Street.  Each robbery was captured on video surveillance.  For each robbery, the defendant was seen entering the gas station and bank with his face partially obscured and carrying what appeared to be a firearm. During the first robbery, at the Shell Gas Station on Eddy Road, the defendant approached the store clerk from behind and demanded money from both registers. He also ordered a customer to withdraw money from an ATM. During the second Shell Gas Station robbery, on Hanover Street, the defendant wore white face paint and used what appeared to be a double-barreled shotgun. He demanded money from the safe and registers and stole money and other items from customers who were present. One victim reported that the defendant threatened:

If you call the police within 30 minutes after I leave, I will come back and blow your brains out.

Investigators recovered a shawl and a BB gun from the crime scene of one gas station.  The defendant’s DNA was found on the shawl.  In total, the defendant stole more than $5,500 from the gas stations and more than $160,000 from the bank.  

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Manchester Police Department led the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Hunter prosecuted the case.

###

CONCORD – A Mexican national was sentenced today in federal court for his illegal reentry into the United States after being deported twice, United States Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Luis Aragon-Lara, 40 was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Steven J. McAuliffe to 24 months in prison and one year of supervised release. On August 16, 2023, the defendant pleaded guilty to one count of illegal reentry.

“The defendant was using counterfeit United States currency, which impacts our local businesses and economy. Even worse, he conducted this criminal behavior after having been removed from this country repeatedly,” said U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young.  “Today’s sentence sends a deterrent message that this office will vigorously prosecute individuals that are in the United States illegally and committing crimes in New Hampshire.”  

“Those who seek to exploit our immigration law and engage in fraudulent financial crimes will not be allowed to use our immigration system to victimize the residents of New Hampshire,” said Todd M. Lyons, Field Office Director, Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Boston. “We applaud the commitment of the U.S. Attorney for New Hampshire in prosecuting this case. Together with the great teamwork of our law enforcement partners at the Office of the U.S. Attorney for New Hampshire and the Keene Police Department we remain committed to protecting communities in New Hampshire from criminal immigration violators.”

On October 26, 2022, the Keene Police Department arrested the defendant in connection with the passing of counterfeit currency at retail stores in the area. A subsequent investigation revealed that the defendant was again illegally in the United States, after having been deported on or about June 9, 2009, and April 3, 2020.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Keene Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey Ward prosecuted the case.

###

CONCORD – A Derry man pleaded guilty in federal court in Concord to passport fraud and wire fraud in connection with hacking a telecommunications company, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young and Acting U.S. Attorney Morris Pasqual announce.

Andrew Mahn, 28, pleaded guilty to one count of passport fraud and one count of wire fraud.  U.S. District Court Judge Landya B. McCafferty scheduled sentencing for March 7, 2024. Mahn was charged with passport fraud by indictment in the District of New Hampshire on February 15, 2023.  Mahn was charged with hacking a telecommunications company by complaint in the Northern District of Illinois on March 17, 2021, and by indictment on October 4, 2021.

Mahn previously worked as a radio technician for a telecommunications company based in Chicago.  He later worked for the Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport).  While working for Massport, Mahn sent spear-phishing emails to several employees at his former employer and tricked them into entering their login credentials into a fake website.  The defendant also sent text messages to the employees and deceived them into providing him their multi-factor authentication code.  Eventually, Mahn was able to get access to the telecommunications company’s servers.  He used anonymous Internet Protocol (IP) addresses, an account tied to his Massport email address, and bitcoin to help facilitate the hack. 

While on release pending trial for hacking the telecommunications company, Mahn applied for a passport in a false name in Atkinson, New Hampshire.  He provided false documents, including a falsely generated New Hampshire birth certificate and state identification card.  Mahn wrote to a congressional office seeking to expedite the passport, stating the following:

I have just found out I need to book international travel shortly for family reasons in the coming weeks to Germany.  I am trying to figure out the status of the application and when I can expect it to be processed and shipped.

The charge of wire fraud provides a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, 3 years of supervised release, a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, and restitution.  The charge of passport fraud provides a sentence of no greater than 10 years in prison, 3 years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000.  Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

The U.S. State Department’s Diplomatic Security Service, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and U.S. Postal Inspection Service led the investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexander S. Chen and John J. Kennedy from the District of New Hampshire and Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Bond from the Northern District of Illinois are prosecuting the case.  

###

CONCORD – A Lebanon man was sentenced in federal court today for possessing with intent to distribute controlled substances, namely, heroin and fentanyl, as well as two firearms charges, United States Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Marshall Dimick, 32, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Chief Judge Landya McCafferty to 78 months in prison and 3 years of supervised release.  On July 17, 2023, the defendant pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, and one count of carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking crime. 

“The defendant was prohibited from having firearms and ammunition as a previously convicted felon, yet he continued to carry a loaded gun while also in possession of dangerous drugs he intended to traffic into our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young. “New Hampshire law enforcement is committed to pursuing and incarcerating individuals like the defendant that use gun violence to distribute drugs.”

"ATF will continue to work with our federal, state and local law enforcement counterparts to vigorously combat drug traffickers and the threat they pose to the citizens of New Hampshire by illegally possessing firearms in furtherance of their illegal drug trade,” said James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division.

On July 9, 2020, an officer of the Lebanon Police Department conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle being driven by the defendant.  A search of the vehicle revealed a handgun in the center console with a loaded magazine, 540 small bags containing 10 grams of a mixture containing heroin and fentanyl, over $2,000 in cash, and a cell phone.  The phone contained texts of drug activity between the defendant and others, as well as a conversation between the defendant and his mother referencing the gun in the car. 

The Lebanon Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms led the investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Gingrande.

CONCORD – Two Manchester residents have been indicted for conspiring to manufacture methamphetamine in their home and possessing the necessary chemicals and equipment to do so, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Charles Winchell and Catherine Quinn, both 42 years old, were charged with conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine in a place where a person under the age of 18 was residing or was present, and possession of equipment, chemicals, products, and materials to manufacture methamphetamine.  Winchell and Quinn were previously charged by complaint and arrested on September 18, 2023. They were released on conditions.  

According to the charging documents, in 2023 Quinn and Winchell frequently purchased pseudoephedrine, an over-the-counter medication and the primary ingredient used for the manufacturing of methamphetamine.  Law enforcement executed a search warrant at their residence and found pseudoephedrine and other ingredients used to manufacture methamphetamine, such as lighter fluid, drain cleaner, and batteries, which contain lithium strips used to create a chemical reaction. 

The charge of conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, at least 3 years of supervised release and a fine of up to $1,000,000.  Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Manchester Police Department are leading the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather A. Cherniske is prosecuting the case.

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

###

CONCORD – A Manchester man was arrested for distributing fentanyl, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Thomas Holland, 37, was indicted on three counts of distribution of fentanyl.  Holland was arrested this afternoon in Manchester.  He will make an initial appearance in federal court in Concord tomorrow.  

The charge of drug distribution provides for a sentence up to 20 years in prison, at least a three-year term of supervised release, and a maximum fine of $1,000,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

The Drug Enforcement Administration is leading the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Manchester Police Department and the Nashua Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather A. Cherniske is prosecuting the case.

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

###

CONCORD – A Manchester man pleaded guilty today in federal court to producing visual depictions of four different minor survivors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Chad Lawlor, 48 pleaded guilty to four counts of sexual exploitation of a minor. U.S. District Court Judge Landya McCafferty scheduled sentencing for February 29, 2024.  Lawlor was charged on October 12, 2021.

Lawlor was identified during an online undercover investigation as being the administrator of an online chat group that was devoted to the exchange of child sexual abuse material (CSAM).  Lawlor used the chat group to both send and receive images of CSAM with other users.  Lawlor is a registered sex offender based on a 2005 Massachusetts conviction for indecent assault and battery on a person over 14.

In April 2021, federal agents seized and examined two cell phones belonging to Lawlor, one of which contained numerous videos Lawlor created while engaged in online video chats with minors.  During the chats, Lawlor directed the minors to engage in sexually explicit conduct while livestreaming the video feed.  Lawlor used the screen recording function of his cell phone to create videos of the minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct from the livestream video chats.  Lawlor pled guilty to charges relating to four identified minor survivors ranging in age from 8 to 13 years old.

The charging statute provides a sentence of no greater than 30 years in prison, a minimum of 5 years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and other monetary assessments, including restitution. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

Homeland Security Investigations led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Nashua Police Department, the Manchester Police Department, the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kasey Weiland is prosecuting the case.  

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.

###

CONCORD – A Manchester man pleaded guilty today in federal court to possessing with intent to distribute a kilogram of cocaine in New Hampshire, First Assistant Jay McCormack announces.

Michael Francis, 36, pleaded guilty to possessing with intent to distribute a controlled substance. U.S. District Court Judge Steven McAuliffe scheduled sentencing for February 20, 2024. The defendant was charged by superseding indictment on December 13, 2021.

On September 1, 2021, law enforcement conducted a search of the defendant’s vehicle and found a gift bag containing a brick of cocaine that weighed 1000.5 grams and $10,000 in cash.  The defendant intended to distribute the cocaine for profit.

The charging statute provides a sentence of no less than 5 years and no greater than 40 years in prison, at least four years of supervised release, and a fine of no greater than $5,000,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Manchester Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Aaron Gingrande, Charlie Rombeau, and Jarad Hodes prosecuted the case.

###

CONCORD – A former Manchester man was sentenced in federal court for drug trafficking and firearm offenses, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

John Rivera, Jr., 24, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Joseph N. Laplante to 96 months in prison and three years of supervised release. On April 14, 2023, Rivera plead guilty to unlawfully possessing fentanyl and crack cocaine with the intent to distribute and being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm.    

On September 16, 2021, the New Hampshire State Police, working in conjunction with the Manchester Police Department, conducted a traffic stop on Rivera’s vehicle in Manchester. During the stop, officers observed a firearm under the driver’s seat. During a subsequent search of the vehicle, officers found approximately 1.2 kilograms of fentanyl, approximately 19.68 grams of crack cocaine, a stolen firearm, a loaded magazine, loose ammunition, drug packaging materials, and a digital scale.  Rivera was prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition based on a prior felony conviction.

“The defendant was a felon that had lost his right to carry firearms and ammunition, and even worse, he illegally possessed a stolen gun while also in the possession of dangerous narcotics,” said U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young. “This Office and our law enforcement partners will continue to thwart efforts to distribute drugs, which often includes enforcing the laws that keep the tools of the trade, like guns, out of drug dealer’s hands.”

“I am very encouraged by this sentence,” says Manchester Police Chief Allen Aldenberg. “John Rivera, Jr represents the dangerous offenders we are targeting in Manchester. Drug sales and associated gun violence are a top priority for this agency.  I would like to commend the Manchester detectives and our law enforcement partners on their commitment to this case. The positive outcome is a testament to their hard work.”

This investigation was led by the Manchester Police Department and the New Hampshire State Police.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer C. Davis prosecuted the case.  

###

CONCORD – A Manchester man was arrested for his involvement in a scheme to fraudulently obtain CARES Act funds from the United States government and the State of New York, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces. 

Kyereem Sackey, 23, was indicted on October 25, 2023, on one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of bank fraud. Sackey was arrested this morning and released on conditions.

According to the charging documents, Sackey used social media to conspire with others to file false and fraudulent unemployment insurance claims.  Sackey filed unemployment insurance claims in the State of New York on behalf of a co-defendant, of which he was not entitled.  When the money was deposited into the co-defendant’s bank account, a portion of the money was sent to Sackey and another co-defendant.  The indictment alleges that Sackey and his co-defendants filed approximately $50,000 in fraudulent unemployment insurance claims.

Sackey also used a co-defendant’s information to apply for a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan using a false and fraudulent business that did not exist.  Sackey provided the bank with false documents, including fabricated tax documents.  The indictment alleges that Sackey fraudulently applied for approximately $13,000 in PPP loans.

The charge of conspiracy to commit wire fraud provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater.  The charge of bank fraud provides for a sentence of up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $1 million.  Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.   

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Labor Office of Inspector General led the investigation.  Valuable assistance was provided by the Manchester Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney John J. Kennedy is prosecuting the case.

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations.  The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

###

CONCORD – A New York man was sentenced today in federal court in Concord for transporting stolen goods from Home Depot and Lowe’s across state lines, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Jalil McIntyre, 32, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Paul J. Barbadoro to 24 months in prison and 3 years of supervised release.  McIntyre was also ordered to pay $204,969.02 in restitution, of which $179,606.25 is payable to Lowe’s and $25,362.77 is payable to Home Depot.  On July 31, 2023, McIntyre pleaded guilty to Transportation of Stolen Goods. McIntyre’s co-defendant, Dushun Jackson, pled guilty on September 15, 2023, and is currently in federal custody. Jackson is scheduled to be sentenced on December 28, 2023.

“Organized theft rings cause significant financial losses to the retail industry, which ultimately impacts consumers,” said U.S. Attorney Young.  “Today’s sentence sends a strong message that federal law enforcement will enforce laws protecting the retail industry from organized theft, with federal felony convictions and imprisonment as a consequence.”

“Jalil McIntyre didn’t think twice about stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars in high-end merchandise from home improvement retailers all over New England to pad his pockets, and today, he learned there are serious consequences for such brazen criminal conduct,” said Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division.  “Organized retail theft costs businesses, retailers, and consumers—and puts the public at risk—which is why the FBI and our law enforcement partners are doing everything we can to combat it.”

McIntyre and Jackson traveled to Lowe’s and Home Depots across the northeastern United States, including New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey. They stole high-value commercial items, such as circuit breakers. They were seen on surveillance footage grabbing products off shelves, placing them into large plastic bags, and walking out of the stores.  In total, they stole $204,969.02 worth of products across 24 separate thefts.  They also attempted to steal another $46,619.07 worth of products during 11 additional unsuccessful thefts.  The stolen products were brought back to New York, where both McIntyre and Jackson lived.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Hillsborough County Attorney’s Office, the Rockingham County Attorney’s Office, the Rochester Police Department, the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office in New York, the Seabrook Police Department, the Nashua Police Department, the Windham Police Department, and the Derry Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander S. Chen is prosecuting the case. 

###

CONCORD – A Georgia man was convicted today by a federal petit jury in Concord for bank fraud conspiracy and identity theft after a five-day trial, United States Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Lestor Aceituno, 40, of Atlanta, Georgia was convicted of one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and two counts of aggravated identity theft. Chief Judge Landya B. McCafferty scheduled sentencing for February 12, 2024.

“Today’s swift verdict by the jury sends a clear message to fraudsters like the defendant that these crimes will be prosecuted and will result in convictions,” said U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young. "This office and our law enforcement partners will continue to investigate those that brazenly steal and use other identities for their personal gain.”

Between June of 2016 and October of 2017, Aceituno and others used stolen identities to open accounts at banks in New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Georgia.  Aceituno opened or accessed post office boxes in Massachusetts and Georgia to receive debit cards and pin numbers to access these accounts. Aceituno’s co-conspirators then deposited fraudulent checks totaling more than $119,000.  After the money was credited to the accounts, but before the bank determined the checks were false, one of Aceituno’s co-conspirators withdrew the money and gave it to another co-conspirator, the leader of the scheme.

The charging statute provides a sentence of no greater than 30 years in prison for conspiracy to commit bank fraud and a mandatory consecutive 2-year sentence for aggravated identity theft. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

The United States Postal Inspection Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Brockton, Massachusetts Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew T. Hunter and Geoffrey W.R. Ward are prosecuting the case.  

###

CONCORD – A Guatemalan man has been arrested by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) following an international manhunt, announces U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young and Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI, Boston Division.

Roberto Montano, a/k/a Jorge Roberto Montano Midence, a/k/a Roberto Pellegrini, a/k/a Alberto Yardi, 57, was arrested yesterday at the Miami International Airport. He will make an initial appearance in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida at a later time.

Montano was charged with wire fraud by complaint in 2015 and indictment in 2021 by the District of New Hampshire. According to the charging documents, Montano is a citizen of Guatemala who managed two forestry projects in Guatemala for a New Hampshire-based investment adviser between 2007 and 2014.  Beginning in approximately late 2009, Montano’s management company, Green Millennium, embezzled the projects' funds by (1) diverting cash and concealing the diversions using altered bank and financial statements; (2) mortgaging the Projects' properties without authorization and investing the proceeds in business ventures; and (3) stealing teak forestry subsidies paid by the Guatemalan government.  Authorities believe the total loss of this fraud may be approximately $10 million. 

After Montano was alerted to an investigation into the fraud in 2014, he fled the United States for Guatemala. Eventually, he moved to Nicaragua, where he has been living for several years under an alias.  Since 2014, the FBI has been actively engaged in efforts to locate and arrest Montano and his wanted poster has now been updated to reflect his capture: https://www.fbi.gov/wanted/wcc/jorge-roberto-montano-pellegrini/download.pdf. Montano is also wanted in Guatemala for an alleged embezzlement scheme.

The charge of wire fraud provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the amount stolen, whichever is greater.  Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

The FBI is leading the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL), Republic of Guatemala, the FBI’s Legal Attaché in Panama City, Panama, the FBI Miami Field Office, Department of Homeland Security, the U.S. State Department, specifically the U.S. Embassy in Managua, Nicaragua and the Embassy of Italy in Managua, Nicaragua. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander S. Chen is prosecuting the case. 

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

###

CONCORD – U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces the appointment of Tiffany Scanlon as an Assistant U.S. Attorney. AUSA Scanlon will handle domestic terrorism and other violent crimes in the District of New Hampshire.

Since 2012, AUSA Tiffany Scanlon served as an Assistant District Attorney in the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office in the Major Felony Unit, the Motor Vehicle Homicide Unit, Gang Unit, and the District Court and Juvenile Court Units. Over the last decade, AUSA Scanlon prosecuted numerous criminal cases, including homicides, armed robberies, non-fatal shootings, firearm offenses, and aggravated assaults.

“Assistant U.S. Attorney Scanlon is a veteran violent crime prosecutor,” said U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young. “The District of New Hampshire is fortunate to have gained an attorney with the breadth of Tiffany’s experience in prosecuting violent crimes coupled with her outlook and tenacious approach to investigating and prosecuting complex cases.”

In May 2023, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the District of New Hampshire was allocated two new attorney positions to address civil rights, domestic terrorism, and violent crime. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is still in the hiring process for an Assistant U.S. Attorney that will focus on Civil Rights.

###

CONCORD – An Arizona company and CEO pleaded guilty today in federal court in Concord for distributing drugs into the interstate commerce that were not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Centera Bioscience, d/b/a Nootropics Depot, and its CEO, Paul Eftang, 38, pleaded guilty to the introduction of misbranded drugs into interstate commerce.  U.S. Magistrate Judge Talesha Saint-Marc scheduled sentencing for February 5, 2024.

Between April 2017 and December 2021, Centera Biosicence and Mr. Eftang marketed pharmaceutical drugs, including tianeptine, adrafinil, phenibut, and racetams, on Nootropicsdepot.com and online platforms like Facebook and Google.  They sold the drugs to customers across the United States.  Centera Bioscience employees and Mr. Eftang also regularly made representations about the company’s drugs through a Reddit forum dedicated to Centera Bioscience products.  As part of the plea, Centera Bioscience has agreed to forfeit $2.4 million.  Centera Bioscience has also agreed to forfeit all tianeptine, adrafinil, phenibut, and racetams seized by the FDA and Customs and Border Protection.

FDA has not approved drugs containing tianeptine, adrafinil, phenibut, and racetams for use in the United States.  Racetam drugs include piracetam, aniracetam, and coluracetam, and phenylpiracetam. 

The Food and Drug Administration’s Office of Criminal Investigations and U.S. Postal Inspection Service led the investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexander S. Chen and Geoffrey W.R. Ward, and FDA Special Counsel Sarah Hawkins are prosecuting the case.  

###

CONCORD – A Littleton man was sentenced today in federal court for trafficking methamphetamine in New Hampshire, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Eric Briggs Jr., 33 was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Steven J. McAuliffe to 42 months in prison and 3 years of supervised release. Mr. Briggs pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances on June 20, 2023.

 “Federal law enforcement’s partnership with the Littleton Police Department on this case sends a strong message that there will be consequences for trafficking drugs to the North Country,” said U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young. “This office will continue to aggressively prosecute those trafficking dangerous drugs in all corners of the Granite State.”

“DEA stands committed to keeping highly addictive drugs like methamphetamine off the streets of New Hampshire,” said Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle.  “Today’s sentence not only holds Mr. Briggs accountable for his crimes but serves as a warning to those traffickers who are contributing to the drug crisis.  This investigation demonstrates the strength of collaborative law enforcement efforts and our strong partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”

“The Littleton Police Department remains committed to working with our federal and state law enforcement partners in the ongoing effort to curb the trafficking of illicit drugs to the Town of Littleton and Northern New Hampshire," said Chief Paul Smith of the Littleton Police Department. 

On April 1, 2021, law enforcement conducted a motor vehicle stop of Mr. Briggs while he was driving in Carol, New Hampshire.  Upon a search of his vehicle, investigators located approximately 43 grams, or 1.5 ounces, of methamphetamine, which Mr. Briggs admitted he possessed.

The Drug Enforcement Administration led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the New Hampshire State Police and the Littleton Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather A. Cherniske prosecuted the case.

###

CONCORD – A Dover man pleaded guilty in federal court to possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Evan Gadarowski, 29, waived indictment and pleaded guilty to an information charging one count each of possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material.  U.S. District Court Judge Samantha Elliott scheduled sentencing for February 2, 2024. 

Between 2018 and 2021, Gadarowski solicited, received, and disseminated sexually explicit images and videos depicting numerous minor survivors.  Gadarowski posed as a teenage girl using sexually explicit images and videos of one minor survivor and adopting them as part of a fictious online persona, a practice sometimes referred to as “catfishing.” Using this fictious persona, Gadarowski posed as a bisexual female and pursued online relationships with high-school aged girls. Gadarowski sent sexually explicit images and videos depicting one minor survivor to others and induced unsuspecting minor survivors to send him sexually explicit images and videos of themselves in return.  The investigation also revealed that Gadarowski sold collections of sexually explicit images depicting some of the minor survivors to others online.

The charging statute provides a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, a minimum of 5 years of supervised release, a fine of $250,000 and mandatory restitution. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

Homeland Security Investigations led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Nashua Police Department and the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kasey Weiland is prosecuting the case.  

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.

###

CONCORD – A Sanbornville man pleaded guilty today in federal court in connection to his role in a romance-scam money laundering scheme, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Steven Ferrill, 72, waived his right to indictment and pleaded guilty to an information charging one count of concealment money laundering.  U.S. District Court Judge Joseph Laplante scheduled sentencing for January 26, 2024.  

In October 2019, federal agents approached Ferrill to question him about financial transactions totaling more than $1 million involving his bank accounts.  The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) provided the defendant a “money mule” warning letter, which explicitly warned him that engaging in wire transfers on behalf of people he did not know could facilitate fraudulent schemes and expose him to criminal liability.  Despite the warning, the defendant continued to engage in transactions involving victims of romance scams. For example, in February 2020, Ferrill facilitated a wire transfer to his bank account from a victim, which he then re-routed overseas.

The charging statute provides a sentence of no greater than 10 years in prison, 3 years of supervised release, a fine of $250,000 and restitution.  Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles L. Rombeau is prosecuting the case.  

The case is part of the Department of Justice’s Elder Justice Initiative.   If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has experienced financial fraud, experienced professionals are standing by at the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD- 11 (1-833-372-8311). This U.S. Department of Justice hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, can provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim and identifying relevant next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting, connect callers directly with appropriate agencies, and provide resources and referrals, on a case-by-case basis. Reporting is the first step. Reporting can help authorities identify those who commit fraud and reporting certain financial losses due to fraud as soon as possible can increase the likelihood of recovering losses. The hotline is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET. English, Spanish and other languages are available.

More information about the Department’s efforts to help American seniors is available at its Elder Justice Initiative webpage. For more information about the Consumer Protection Branch and its enforcement efforts, visit its website at https://www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch. Elder fraud complaints may be filed with the FTC at www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov or at 877-FTC-HELP. The Department of Justice provides a variety of resources relating to elder fraud victimization through its Office for Victims of Crime, which can be reached at https://www.ovc.gov.

###

CONCORD – A Manchester man was sentenced today in federal court for trafficking cocaine through the United States Postal Service (USPS), U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Bryam Toribio Frias, age 24, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Samantha Elliott to 30 months in prison and three years of supervised release.  On June 27, 2023, Frias pleaded guilty to possessing with intent to distribute controlled substances, namely, cocaine. 

“The United States Postal Inspection Service’s proactive work intercepting shipments of narcotics through the mail kept these drugs out of our communities,” United States Attorney Jane E. Young stated. “It is a priority of this office to prevent individuals like the defendant from using USPS as a means to traffic dangerous drugs, and today’s sentence sends a deterrent message that drug traffickers will be apprehended, prosecuted, and incarcerated.”

"The U.S. Postal Inspection Service and our law enforcement partners will continue to dedicate the resources necessary to keep drug traffickers out of our communities,” said Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division. “Today’s sentencing demonstrates our commitment to keeping these and other highly addictive drugs from destroying lives.  Combatting illicit drugs in the mail is a top priority and we will continue to prioritize our resources in areas with high levels of illicit drug activity.”

On December 15, 2021, the defendant signed for and accepted a Priority Mail package addressed to him, which contained approximately four kilograms of cocaine.  The defendant was arrested shortly after he received the package.  A later search of the defendant’s phone showed communications he sent about the package, and a search of his residence revealed additional cocaine.

The United States Postal Inspection Service led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Manchester Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Gingrande prosecuted the case.  

###

CONCORD – A Vermont man was sentenced today in federal court in Concord for the unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, First Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay McCormack announces.

Brian Woodburn, 40, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Samantha D. Elliott to 48 months in prison and three years of supervised release.  On May 11, 2023, Woodburn pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.

“The defendant’s previous felony conviction took away his right to own a gun,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney John J. McCormack.  “Our office will continue to enforce the laws that keep dangerous weapons out of the hands of those who are prohibited from having them.”

“Today’s sentence makes it clear that criminals who repeatedly break the law and continue to possess illegal firearms and ammunition, will be held accountable,” said Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “Our Major Offender Task Force and our law enforcement partners are hard at work every day, sharing resources and intelligence with the goal of making our communities safer.”

Woodburn was found passed out in the driver’s seat of a car on a campground in Lancaster, New Hampshire.  He consented to a search of his car, and law enforcement recovered a 9 mm pistol, ammunition, brass knuckles, and drug paraphernalia, including substances that tested positive for suboxone, buprenorphine, and fentanyl.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Lancaster Police Department led the investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander S. Chen prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

###

CONCORD – A Rhode Island man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Concord to the unlawful possession of a firearm as a convicted felon, First Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay McCormack announces.

Garrito (“Tony”) Fort, 39, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.  U.S. District Court Judge Joseph N. Laplante scheduled sentencing for January 25, 2024.  Fort was charged on August 1, 2022.

According to court documents, on the morning of November 1, 2021, Fort believed a man had scratched his car the night before, so he left a residence in Seabrook to confront him.  Armed with a Taurus 9 mm pistol, Fort confronted the man for approximately three minutes. During the confrontation, two witnesses tried separating Fort and the man.  One of the witnesses also told Fort to “put that gun away.”  Fort fired two shots.  The first shot seriously injured another man, and the second shot killed the man that Fort thought scratched his car.  The shooting was captured on video camera. 

The charging statute provides a sentence of no greater than 10 years in prison, 3 years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Seabrook Police Department, and New Hampshire State Police led the investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexander S. Chen and Charles L. Rombeau are prosecuting the case.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Cam T. Le also previously worked on this matter.

###

CONCORD – An Alexandria man pleaded guilty today in federal court to one count of failing to register as a sex offender in New Hampshire, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Rex Jason Sumner, 52, pleaded guilty to failure to register as a sex offender.  U.S. District Court Judge Landya McCafferty scheduled sentencing for January 22, 2024.  Sumner was charged on July 19, 2023.

Sumner is a Tier III sex offender with a duty to register for life.  Sumner was released from prison in Oklahoma in 2018 and had been registering with Oklahoma authorities at an address in Oklahoma despite residing in New Hampshire since early 2023.  Sumner would return to Oklahoma periodically to update his registration and continued to represent to authorities that he still resided in Oklahoma.

The charging statute provides a sentence of no greater than 10 years in prison, a minimum of 5 years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

United States Marshals Service led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Alexandria Police Department, the Plymouth Police Department, the Meredith Police Department, the New Hampshire State Police, the New England State Police Information Network, the Garvin County (OK) Sherriff’s Office, and the Oklahoma Department of Corrections. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kasey Weiland is prosecuting the case.  

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.

###

CONCORD – A Concord man pleaded guilty in federal court in connection to the exploitation of a minor in New Jersey and possession of child sexual abuse material in Concord, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young and U.S. Attorney Philip Sellinger announce. 

Scott Wilkinson, age 38, pleaded guilty to one count of sexual exploitation of a minor and possession of child sexual abuse material.  U.S. District Court Judge Joseph Laplante scheduled sentencing for January 22, 2024.  Wilkinson was charged by complaint on November 14, 2022, and indicted December 5, 2022. 

Wilkinson traveled from New Hampshire to New Jersey in April 2022, where he engaged in sexual acts with a 12-year-old child.  Wilkinson had been corresponding with the child online for approximately one year prior to traveling to New Jersey to meet the child.  A video that Wilkinson created of himself engaged in sexual acts with the child was found on his cell phone in Concord, as were other images and videos of child sexual abuse material. 

 Wilkinson faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison, up to lifetime supervised release, a fine of $250,000 and mandatory restitution.  Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.   

 The Egg Harbor Township Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation led the investigation.  Valuable assistance was provided by the Concord Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kasey Weiland from the District of New Hampshire and Assistant U.S. Attorney Lindsey Harteis from the District of New Jersey are prosecuting the case.   

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc. 

###