District of New Hampshire
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Lawrence Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A Lawrence man was sentenced in federal court for drug trafficking in New Hampshire, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Santo Evangelista Soto, 36, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Joesph N. Laplante to 60 months in prison and three years of supervised release. On February 21, 2023, Soto plead guilty to distributing heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine.
From February 12, 2020 through October 9, 2020, the defendant conspired with other individuals to sell heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. On one occasion during the investigation, the defendant sold 1,000 counterfeit oxycodone pills that contained heroin and methamphetamine. Soto was arrested by the Drug Enforcement Administration on October 9, 2020. At the time of the arrest, Soto intended to sell one and a half kilograms of crystal methamphetamine.
“The defendant has a long history of drug dealing, and has already been convicted for drug trafficking twice,” U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young. “Today’s lengthy sentence ensures he will serve a significant period of incarceration for this serious crime.”
The DEA’s Manchester District Office, New Hampshire State Police’s Narcotics Investigations and Mobile Enforcement Units and the Dover Police Department led the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer C. Davis is prosecuting the case.
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Rochester Man Indicted for Possession of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
CONCORD – Heath Gauthier, 46, of Rochester, New Hampshire, was indicted on one count of possession of child pornography on August 2, 2023. Gauthier will appear in federal court in Concord at a later date.
According to the charging documents, Gauthier was indicted on February 15, 2023, on charges of wire fraud, attempted wire fraud, and aggravated identity theft in connection with his alleged fraudulent applications for more than $1 million in CARES Act loans. Gauthier was arrested on February 16, 2023, and investigators executed a search warrant on his residence and person. The search warrant authorized the search of his electronic devices. Subsequently, investigators located one or more computer disks and other material that contained one or more images of child sexual abuse material.
The charge of possession of child pornography provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. If a defendant has a qualifying prior conviction, the charge of possession of child pornography provides for a sentence of up to 20 years and at least 10 years. 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.
IRS Criminal Investigations and the Federal Bureau of Investigations led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration and the Social Security Office of the Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Hunter 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.
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Former Hampton Falls Man Pleads Guilty to Making False Statements to Obtain Social Security BenefitsRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A former Hampton Falls man pleaded guilty in federal court to making false statements to obtain additional Social Security benefits, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Kenneth Simard Jr., 37, pleaded guilty to False Statements. U.S. District Court Judge Landya B. McCafferty scheduled sentencing for November 30, 2023.
Simard applied for Social Security Supplemental Security Insurance benefits on behalf of a disabled minor child in October 2018. In the application, Simard represented that the child lived with him and that he would use the benefits on behalf of the child. However, Simard lost custody of the child in February 2019. Although he was required to notify the Social Security Administration (SSA) if the child moved, Simard continued to tell the SSA that he lived with the child and obtained $23,148 in benefits that he was not entitled to receive.
The charging statute provides a sentence of no greater than 5 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 Social Security Administration’s Office of the Inspector General led the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexander S. Chen and Matthew T. Hunter are prosecuting the case.
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U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young to Participate in Manchester Police Department’s National Night Out EventRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young will join community organizers, neighbors, and law enforcement partners at Manchester Police Department’s National Night Out on Tuesday, August 1, 2023. The event is scheduled from 5:00pm-8:00pm at the Beech Street School and JFK Coliseum.
“National Night Out is a special night of the year that allows law enforcement and the public a tangible opportunity to build vitally important relationships and mutual trust,” said U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young. “I hope the people of Manchester will join me and my colleagues on Tuesday night to celebrate our partnership as a community.”
National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes partnerships and camaraderie between law enforcement and the communities they serve to make our neighborhoods safer places to live. Millions take part in National Night Out across thousands of communities throughout the country on the first Tuesday of August in most areas of the country.
National Night Out was established in 1984 with funding from the Bureau of Justice Assistance of the U.S. Department of Justice. The program is administered by the National Association of Town Watch, a nationwide non-profit organization.
Coordinated by local law enforcement and trained volunteers, National Night Out provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances. Neighborhoods host block parties, cookouts, festivals, parades, safety demonstrations, seminars, youth events, visits from emergency personnel, and more. National Night Out sends a message that neighbors are united and working together to keep their communities and each other safe.
For more information, visit https://natw.org/.
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New York Man Pleads Guilty to String of Retail TheftsRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A New York man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Concord to transporting stolen goods across state lines, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announced.
Jalil McIntyre, 32, pleaded guilty to Transportation of Stolen Goods. U.S. District Court Judge Paul J. Barbadoro scheduled sentencing for November 6, 2023.
McIntyre and his co-defendant, Deshun 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 $195,604.76 worth of products across 23 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.
Jackson is currently in state custody in New York and will be transported by law enforcement to New Hampshire.
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.
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, Seabrook Police Department, Nashua Police Department, Windham Police Department, and Derry Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander S. Chen is prosecuting the case.
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Goffstown Man Sentenced to 55 Months in Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A Goffstown man was sentenced in federal court for drug trafficking in New Hampshire, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Zachary Janas, 40, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Joesph N. Laplante to 55 months in prison and three years of supervised release. On April 17, 2023, Janas plead guilty to distribution of and unlawful possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl.
“Individuals trafficking in fentanyl, whether acting alone or as a participant in an organized drug trafficking organization, will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” said U.S. Attorney Young. “Drug traffickers, like the defendant, import and distribute fentanyl in New Hampshire at an alarming rate. As evident by the work done in this case, our law enforcement partners will deploy the necessary assets to investigate and bring to justice those who sell drugs knowing full well the potentially deadly consequences of their actions.”
“Zachary Janas deserves the prison sentence he received today for distributing a significant amount of fentanyl and possessing multiple firearms in his home in Goffstown,” said Christopher DiMenna, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “Fentanyl is an insidious drug that has destroyed countless lives in New Hampshire, and the FBI’s Major Offender Task Force will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to remove from our streets the dangerous criminals who peddle this poison."
On September 21, 2021, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents arranged the purchase of approximately one-half kilogram of fentanyl from Janas at his Goffstown residence. On September 24, 2021, FBI agents executed a search warrant at Janas’ residence and seized an additional one-half kilogram of fentanyl packaged for distribution, approximately $7,000 cash, multiple firearms, and ammunition.
The FBI’s Major Offender Task Force, New Hampshire State Police’s Narcotics Investigations Unit and the Goffstown Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer C. Davis is prosecuting the case.
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Manchester Man Charged with Fentanyl and Crack Cocaine Distribution OffensesRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A Manchester man has been charged in connection with the distribution of fentanyl and crack cocaine, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Walter Velez, 41, was arrested and charged with distribution of controlled substances in connection with the sale of fentanyl to a confidential informant. Velez made an initial appearance in federal court on Friday, July 21, 2023. Velez was ordered temporarily detained and a detention hearing is scheduled for July 26, 2023, at 4:00 p.m.
According to the charging documents, Velez sold fentanyl and crack cocaine on four separate occasions totaling over 200 grams of fentanyl and over 20 grams of crack cocaine.
The charge of distribution of a controlled substance provides for a sentence of at least 5 years and up to 40 years in prison, at least 4 years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $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 U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Manchester Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey Ward 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.
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Vermont Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison for Trafficking Methamphetamine and Cocaine in New HampshireRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A Vermont man was sentenced in federal court in Concord for unlawfully possessing quantities of methamphetamine and cocaine in New Hampshire, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Damien Rousseau, Jr., 31, formerly of Vershire, Vermont was sentenced by U.S. District Court Chief Judge Landya B. McCafferty to 60 months in prison and three years of supervised release. On April 10, 2023, Rousseau plead guilty to unlawful possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine.
“This office is committed to prosecuting drug traffickers who possess firearms and large quantities of narcotics for distribution in New Hampshire, and surrounding states, to the fullest extent of the law,” said U.S. Attorney Young. “Methamphetamine and cocaine are insidiously dangerous drugs that continue to ravage New Hampshire. Thanks to the coordinated efforts of federal, state, and local law enforcement, the defendant was brought to justice and our communities will be free from his drug dealing.”
“DEA is committed to investigating and dismantling Poly Drug Trafficking Organizations like this one headed by Mr. Rousseau, who are responsible for distributing drugs like methamphetamine and cocaine to the citizens of New Hampshire,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle. “Illegal drug distribution ravages the very foundations of our families and communities so every time we take these poisons off the streets, lives are saved. This investigation demonstrates the strength of collaborative local, state and federal law enforcement efforts and our strong partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”
On May 11, 2022, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center security personnel determined that Rousseau was in a patient’s room while in possession of a bag that contained a small quantity of narcotics and a drug ledger. The Lebanon Police Department responded and observed that Rousseau’s BMW vehicle, in the medical center’s parking-lot, had methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. A drug detecting canine also alerted the presence of narcotics in the vehicle. The defendant was arrested and released on bail. The following day, May 12, 2022, the Lebanon Police Department observed Rousseau trespassing in their secure-impound lot. After finding him hidden in the BMW, officers arrested him and executed a search warrant on the vehicle. Law Enforcement seized approximately 436 grams of methamphetamine, 98.66 grams of cocaine, 10.5 grams of fentanyl, three loaded firearms, assorted loose ammunition, $2,179, and 20 assorted silver and gold-colored coins.
This matter was investigated by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration- Manchester District Office and Burlington Vermont Resident Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Lebanon Police Department, and the Vermont State Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer C. Davis.
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Inmate at FCI Berlin Indicted for Possessing a WeaponRead the Press Release
CONCORD – An inmate at FCI Berlin was indicted in connection with his possession of a homemade weapon within the prison, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Jawan Fernanders, 21, was indicted on one count of possession of contraband in prison. Fernanders will make an initial appearance in federal court on a later date.
According to the charging documents on May 6, 2023, Fernanders, an inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution in Berlin, New Hampshire, possessed a prohibited object—namely, a homemade knife with a serrated blade.
The charge of possession of contraband in prison provides for a sentence of up to five 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.
Federal Bureau of Investigation led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by FCI-Berlin’s Office of the Special Investigative Supervisor. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Hunter 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.
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Webster Man Indicted in Connection with Two Pipe Bomb ExplosionsRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A Webster man was indicted in connection with two pipe bomb explosions in Weare, New Hampshire, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Dale G. Stewart, Jr., 54, was indicted on three counts of possessing an unregistered firearm, specifically a destructive device. Stewart made an initial appearance in federal court on May 3, 2023, and is detained.
According to the charging documents, Stewart allegedly constructed and detonated two destructive devices in Weare, New Hampshire, on April 26, 2023 and April 27, 2023. In response to the explosions, law enforcement obtained a search warrant for Stewart’s vehicle and retrieved an additional destructive device, constructed of white PVC pipe, with glued end caps, wrapped in black electrical tape, with a green hobby fuse protruding from one of the end caps. The destructive device found in the vehicle contained more than 4 ounces of an explosive material, consistent with the manufacturing of the two recovered suspected pipe bombs from the two separate detonation scenes in Weare, New Hampshire.
The charge of possessing an unregistered destructive device provide for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, and a fine of up to $10,000. 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; the Weare Police Department, and the Federal Protective Service led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the New Hampshire State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cesar Vega 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.
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Convicted Felon Indicted for Possessing a Firearm and Conspiring to Make False Statements in the Acquisition of FirearmsRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A Woonsocket, Rhode Island man was indicted and arrested in connection with federal firearms charges, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Mario Marques, 25, was indicted on one count of conspiracy to make false statements during the acquisition of firearms, and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Marques will appear in federal court in Concord at a later date.
According to the charging documents, Marques was legally prohibited from purchasing firearms but conspired with another person to purchase six firearms for him. The guns were purchased from five separate federally licensed firearms dealers in New Hampshire, between September 30 and November 20, 2021. Marques is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm for possessing a Springfield Armory Model XD, .40 caliber semiautomatic pistol purchased in New Hampshire during the course of the conspiracy.
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.
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Lawrence Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Steal Firearms from New Hampshire Gun StoresRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A Lawrence man was sentenced in federal court in Concord for conspiring to steal firearms from three different New Hampshire gun stores, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
William Mejia, 20, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Samantha Elliot to 30 months in prison and 2 years of supervised release. Mejia was also ordered to pay $23,915.02 in restitution. Mejia and his two co-defendants, Johariel Quezada and Ethan Ayala, were indicted on June 13, 2022. On March 29, 2023, Mejia pleaded guilty to conspiring to steal firearms from a federal firearms licensee.
“The defendant and his confederates traveled to New Hampshire multiple times for one purpose – to steal 43 firearms. Such brazen behavior poses risks to our communities and will simply not be tolerated,” said U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young. “As is apparent from this investigation, law enforcement will continue to work together to ensure that those who target federal firearm licensees will be caught, prosecuted, and incarcerated for lengthy periods upon conviction.”
“ATF works closely with our law enforcement partners as well as Federal Firearms Licensees to ensure firearms that are stolen and diverted into the community to further criminal activity, are held accountable for their actions. This sentence illustrates ATF’s abiding commitment to justice,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge James Ferguson.
Between August 29, 2021 and October 4, 2021, Mejia conspired with others to steal firearms from three New Hampshire Federal Firearms Licensees. Throughout the conspiracy, 43 firearms were stolen from Milford Firearms in Milford, Second Amendment Arms in Windham, and MacPherson Firearms in Brentwood. Multiple stolen firearms were recovered from a co-defendant’s residence, including one with Mejia’s fingerprints on it. Videos recovered from a co-defendant’s phone as well as from social media showed numerous stolen firearms and admissions of Mejia’s involvement in the conspiracy.
Mejia’s codefendant, Johariel Quezada, was sentenced to 24 months in prison and 3 years of supervised release on May 12, 2023. Ethan Ayala is scheduled to be sentenced on April 15, 2024.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Andover Police Department, the Brentwood Police Department, the Haverhill Police Department, the Lawrence Police Department, the Massachusetts State Police, the Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office, the Salem Police Department, the Somersworth Police Department, the Saugus Police Department, the Wellesley Police Department, and the Windham Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney John J. Kennedy 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.
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Executive Pastor Sentenced for Stealing Approximately $130,000 from Journey Baptist Church in BarringtonRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A Barrington man was sentenced in federal court for defrauding the church where he worked, Journey Baptist Church in Barrington, out of approximately $130,000, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Gregory Neal of Barrington, age 45, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Samantha Elliott to 18 months in prison and 2 years of supervised release. Neal was also ordered to pay $129,960.13 in restitution to the victims of the fraud, including the church and the insurance company that covered a portion of the losses incurred by the fraudulent activity. On April 12, 2023, Neal pleaded guilty to a one-count information charging him with wire fraud.
“Today, a man who abused his position of trust- as a leader of his church- and stole from his congregation to support his gambling habit has been brought to justice,” United States Attorney Jane Young stated. “Criminals like the defendant who defraud organizations and public institutions in our community will be prosecuted by this office to the full extent of the law.”
Between January 2017 to March 2020, as the Executive Pastor of the Journey Baptist Church, Neal made unauthorized withdrawals of the church’s funds to pay off his gambling debts. He also made unauthorized purchases with the church’s credit cards for his own benefit, including items from various vendors and retail stores. These unauthorized transactions amounted to $129,960.13.
The United States Secret Service led the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Gingrande prosecuted the case.
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Derry Man Charged in Connection with Importing, Manufacturing, and Distributing SteroidsRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A Derry man has been charged in connection with importing, manufacturing, and distributing steroids, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Ralph Cardarelli, 44, was charged with distribution or possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and causing a drug to become misbranded after shipment in interstate commerce. Cardarelli will make an initial appearance in federal court on July 17, 2023, at 2:00 p.m.
According to the charging documents, 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 charge of distribution or possession with intent to distribute controlled substances provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, at least 2 years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $500,000.00. The charge of causing a drug to become misbranded after shipment in interstate commerce provides for a sentence of up to 1 year in prison and a fine of up to $1,000.00. 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 and 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.
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.
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Nashua Man Sentenced to over Seven Years in Prison for Attempted Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A Nashua man was sentenced in federal court for attempting to rob Bank of America and East Hollis Variety in Nashua, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Shawn Soucy, 53, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Chief Judge Landya McCafferty to 89 months in prison and 3 years of supervised release. On March 9, 2023, Soucy pleaded guilty to attempted bank robbery and interference with commerce by threats or violence.
“People who threaten others and attempt to steal from businesses in our communities will be held accountable and significantly punished for their crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office prioritizes working with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to keep our communities safe. No one should have to go to work and have their safety and security jeopardized by another person.”
“Shawn Soucy is a dangerous criminal who threatened innocent victims, bank tellers and bystanders, during the commission of his violent crimes,” said Christopher DiMenna, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “This case should be a warning to others that if you commit a bank robbery or any other violent crime in New Hampshire, you will face serious consequences. The FBI’s Major Offender Task Force is committed to taking violent criminals off the street and stopping them from continuing to victimize others.”
On January 18, 2022, Soucy entered Bank of America and threatened to shoot the teller if that individual did not give him money. He then went to East Hollis Variety, where he held his hand in the shape of a gun and demanded money from the clerk. He did not take any money from either establishment.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Nashua Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather A. Cherniske and Anna Dronzek prosecuted the case.
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Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty to Possessing Heroin, Fentanyl, Firearms, and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A Lebanon man pleaded guilty in federal court to possessing with intent to distribute controlled substances, and firearms crimes, United States Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Marshall Dimick, 32, pleaded guilty to possessing with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, as well as being a felon in possession of a firearm and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. U.S. District Court Judge Landya McCafferty scheduled sentencing for October 30, 2023. The defendant was previously charged on March 9, 2021.
On July 9, 2020, an officer of the Lebanon Police Department conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle being driven by the defendant. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed a handgun in the center console with a loaded magazine, 540 small bags containing approximately 10g 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 defendant is a convicted felon and cannot legally possess a gun.
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. The charging statute for the felon in possession offense provides a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, a term of supervised release of not more than three years, and a maximum fine of $250,000. The charging statute for offense of carrying a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking provides a sentence of up to life in prison, and a mandatory minimum of five years in prison, a term of supervised release of not more than five years, and a maximum 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 and Firearms and the Lebanon Police Department led the investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Gingrande.
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Former Keene Woman Indicted for Embezzling over a Half Million DollarsRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A former Keene woman was indicted in connection with stealing more than $500,000 from her employer between 2015 and 2021, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Stephanie Pratt, 38, was indicted on six counts of wire fraud. Pratt will appear before Magistrate Judge Andrea K. Johnstone for an initial appearance in federal court today at 2:00pm.
According to the charging documents, Pratt was the office administrator for a company based in Hinsdale, New Hampshire. She had full access to the company’s finances, including its bank accounts and credit cards. Over the course of six-and-a-half years, Pratt stole more than $500,000 from the company. She cashed unauthorized checks to herself and entered them as payments to legitimate vendors in the company’s accounting system. Pratt also used the company’s credit cards to make unauthorized personal purchases, including for items like plane tickets, a smart TV, a hot tub, Patriots tickets, and miscellaneous herbs and spices.
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 gross gain or loss, 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation led the investigation. 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.
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School Employee Sentenced to Prison for Stealing over $130,000 from Barnstead and Hampton School DistrictsRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A bookkeeper from Barnstead was sentenced today in federal court for stealing money from both Barnstead and Hampton School Districts, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Amy Burley, 48, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Paul J. Barbadoro to 12 months and one day in federal prison and 2 years of supervised release. Burley was also ordered to pay $131,261.81 in restitution. On February 23, 2023, Burley pleaded guilty to two counts of Theft from a Program Receiving Federal Funds.
“These public-school districts placed trust in Burley as their bookkeeper, and she blatantly abused that trust by stealing funds intended for the school children in these districts,” U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young said. “I’m proud that we were able to bring restitution to the taxpayers while sending a deterrent message that this type of thievery will result in incarceration.”
“Instead of working honestly on behalf of two financially struggling school districts, Amy Burley took advantage of them, betraying the trust they placed in her, by stealing tens of thousands of dollars to line her own pockets,” said Christopher DiMenna, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “Her selfish greed is an affront to all the hard-working students and taxpayers struggling to make ends meet, and today’s sentence ensures she’s held accountable for her criminal conduct.”
Burley was employed as a bookkeeper for Barnstead School District and then Hampton School District. In her role, Burley processed payroll and handled the payment of invoices.
Burley used her access at Barnstead School District to alter her payroll information, make personal student loan payments and payments to personal creditors, and pay for an Amazon account charged to Barnstead but controlled by Burley, totaling $110,295.26. Following her termination from Barnstead, Burley was hired as a bookkeeper at Hampton School District, where she used again her position to use district funds to pay student loans and credit cards belonging to her or her family members, totaling $20,966.52
Federal Bureau of Investigation led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Department of Education Office of the Inspector General, the Barnstead Police Department, and the Hampton Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney John J. Kennedy prosecuted the case.
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Man to Appear Today in Federal Court After Being Arrested for Trafficking 25 Pounds of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
CONCORD – Narquin Antonio Sanchez-Unbes, 23, will appear before Magistrate Judge Andrea K. Johnstone for an initial appearance in federal court today at 4:00pm for trafficking approximately 25 pounds of alleged crystal methamphetamine to New Hampshire from Massachusetts, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
According to the charging documents, Sanchez-Unbes delivered 25 pounds of crystal methamphetamine to law enforcement on Monday, July 10, 2023 in Rochester. Sanchez-Unbes took an Uber from Massachusetts to traffic the package containing 25 pounds of alleged crystal methamphetamine in exchange for $58,000 in U.S. currency, of which $3000 was a delivery fee.
Sanchez was charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. The charging statute has a penalty of not more than 20 years of imprisonment.
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.
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New York Man Indicted for Human SmugglingRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A Brooklyn, New York man was indicted in connection with smuggling unauthorized immigrants across the Canadian border, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Abraham Hernandez, 27, was indicted on three counts of bringing in and harboring certain aliens. Hernandez will appear in federal court in Concord at a later date.
According to the charging documents, on June 13, 2023, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police advised the U.S. Border Patrol that individuals with backpacks were walking southbound from Canada toward Halls Stream Road in Pittsburg, New Hampshire. Hernandez was later stopped by law enforcement in Pittsburg, New Hampshire while transporting nine unauthorized immigrants in a white Honda SUV.
The charge of bringing in and harboring certain aliens 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.
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.
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Rochester Man Sentenced to 9 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Fentanyl and MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A Rochester man was sentenced today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine in New Hampshire, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Bradford Sargent, 42, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Joseph N. Laplante to 108 months in prison and 3 years of supervised release. On March 28, 2023, Sargent pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Sargent’s co-defendant, Jennelle Brown, was sentenced to 5 years in federal prison on May 12, 2023.
“The defendant and his co-defendant were significant fentanyl and methamphetamine dealers in the Seacoast,” said U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young. “Law enforcement in the Granite State will continue their concerted efforts to disrupt conspiracies to distribute vast quantities of these dangerous drugs.”
“Today’s sentence holds Bradford Sargent accountable for trafficking significant amounts of deadly fentanyl and methamphetamine in New Hampshire, and perpetuating the destructive cycle of drug addiction,” said Christopher DiMenna, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “The FBI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to identify and disrupt other large-scale drug traffickers like him who are intent on flooding our communities with their poison.”
Sargent, and his co-defendant Jennelle Brown, sold drugs multiple times from their hotel room in Portsmouth. When law enforcement searched their room, they uncovered large quantities of money, drugs, and drug ledgers. Searches of two vehicles, storage units, and safety deposit boxes uncovered more currency and drugs. In total, law enforcement seized over $130,000, approximately 1.3 kilograms of fentanyl, 650 grams of methamphetamine, and cocaine.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Strafford County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexander S. Chen and Jarad E. Hodes prosecuted the case.
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Prohibited Person Indicted in Connection with Firearm Recovered During a Homicide Investigation in FranklinRead the Press Release
CONCORD – Justin Gebo was indicted in connection with his possession of firearm as a prohibited person, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Gebo, 28, was charged with three counts of being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm, including (1) being in possession of a firearm while under indictment; (2) being a felon in possession of a firearm; and (3) being a user of illegal drugs in possession of a firearm.
According to the charging documents, on or about January 1, 2023, Gebo was in receipt of a Ceska Zrojovka (“CZ”) model Scorpion EVO 3, S2, 9x19mm short-barreled rifle, with an attached armbrace, while he was under felony indictment for a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. That firearm was later recovered during a homicide investigation on June 3, 2023 in Franklin, New Hampshire. In addition, on or about February 3, 2023, Gebo was in possession of a 17 Design and Manufacturing, model 17DM-15, multicaliber rifle, after he had been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year and while he was an unlawful user of any controlled substance.
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.
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Statement from United States Attorney Jane E. Young on the Rainbow Family GatheringRead the Press Release
CONCORD – Special sessions of the U.S. District Court’s Central Violations Bureau were convened by U.S. Magistrate Judge Andrea K. Johnston at the Littleton District Courthouse in Littleton on Friday, June 30, 2023, and the Warren B. Rudman United States Courthouse in Concord on Wednesday, July 5, 2023.
The purpose of these special sessions was to process violation notices that were issued by the U.S. Forest Service at the Rainbow Family Gathering, being held in the White Mountain National Forest. There were 121 violations issued by the U.S Forest Service, of which 37 were resolved by the defendants agreeing to pay a fine, ranging between $25-$200 per violation. Circumstances, or the evidence, warranted a dismissal of 58 violations. 24 were unresolved and will be rescheduled for the next hearing date, as the individuals failed to appear. Bench trials have been scheduled for two defendants on September 23, 2023, and November 13, 2023.
“The orderly resolution of these violations was a testament to the coordination of this office, the U.S. Forest Service, and the U.S. District Court, who agreed to host these two special sessions,” U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young said.
Any additional violations issued during the Rainbow Family Gathering will be processed during the U.S. District Court’s normal business.
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PillPack by Amazon to Pay $300,000 to Settle Alleged Controlled Substances Act ViolationsRead the Press Release
CONCORD – U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces today that PillPack, LLC dba PillPack by Amazon Pharmacy (PillPack) will pay $300,000 to resolve allegations that it violated the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) by failing to keep accurate records of controlled substances.
In 2020, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) began investigating PillPack for potential violations of the CSA, and in October of 2020 conducted an audit of PillPack, which revealed recordkeeping deficiencies. Specifically, DEA investigators found that PillPack’s records did not accurately reflect its inventory for ten Schedule III-V substances: Codeine #4, Tramadol, Zolpidem, Butalbital, Alprazolam, Acetaminophen with Codeine #3, Clonazepam, Lorazepam Carisoprodol, and Lyrica.
“PillPack’s failure to maintain accurate records risked the diversion of drugs that are often abused in our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young. “As a pharmacy, they have a responsibility to safeguard these controlled substances, and their penalty for failing to do so, serves as a warning to other entities handling medications improperly.”
“The DEA is committed to ensuring that all registrants are in compliance with the required regulations, which are enforceable through the Controlled Substances Act,” said Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle. “When a pharmacy like PillPack fails to comply, that increases the potential for diversion and puts the safety of the public in jeopardy. DEA pledges to work with our law enforcement and regulatory partners to ensure these rules are followed.”
The CSA deters the illegal distribution, possession, dispensing, and improper use of controlled substances. The CSA requires the accurate inventorying, tracking and recordkeeping of each controlled substances to prevent misuse.
The Drug Enforcement Administration led the investigation leading to the settlement agreement. The case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Raphael Katz.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
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Manchester Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing with Intent to Distribute More Than 8 Pounds of CocaineRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A Manchester man pleaded guilty in federal court to possessing with intent to distribute controlled substances, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Bryam Toribio Frias, age 24, pleaded guilty to possessing with intent to distribute controlled substances, namely, cocaine. U.S. District Court Judge Samantha Elliott scheduled sentencing for October 10, 2023. The defendant was previously indicted on February 1, 2023.
On December 15, 2021, the defendant signed for and accepted a package addressed to him. A search revealed that the package contained over 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 yielded additional cocaine in his bedroom.
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.
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Massachusetts Man Sentenced for Trafficking FirearmsRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A Massachusetts man was sentenced in federal court for conspiring to traffic firearms, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Julius Clemente, 26, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Landya B. McCaffery to the statutory maximum penalty of 60 months in prison and 3 years of supervised release. On February 9, 2023, Clemente pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit firearms trafficking.
“The defendant’s criminal conduct resulted in more than two dozen firearms being illegally trafficked into Massachusetts,” said U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young. “The consequences of his crime led to a juvenile being armed with a weapon, a weapon that was used in multiple shootings, one of which injured another juvenile. In addition, the defendant’s crime was motivated by pure greed. The imposition of the highest possible sentence under the law sends a clear message that such conduct will result in a significant period of imprisonment.”
“Trafficking firearms results in additional crimes being committed and this sentence demonstrates ATF’s continued perseverance to stopping these crimes,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge James Ferguson.
Clemente conspired to traffic 25 firearms, four of which have since been recovered in Massachusetts. One of the firearms was recovered from the waistband of a 14-year-old boy. That firearm was previously used in four shootings in Boston, including a non-fatal shooting of a 16-year-old. The defendant’s text messages indicated that he identified customers, controlled pricing, kept a substantial portion of the profits, and destroyed firearm serial numbers, making them harder for law enforcement to trace. In addition, the defendant solicited a drug customer to serve as a straw purchaser of firearms.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives led the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexander S. Chen and Seth R. Aframe prosecuted the case.
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Nashua Man Pleads Guilty to Transporting Stolen Apple Products Worth $2 MillionRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A Nashua man pleaded guilty in federal court to transporting stolen property, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Guangwei “William” Wu, 30, pleaded guilty to the interstate transportation of stolen property. U.S. District Court Judge Samantha D. Elliott scheduled sentencing for October 4, 2023. Wu was charged on June 1, 2023.
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 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. As part of the plea agreement, the defendant is repaying $2 million in restitution to the victim.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and U.S. Postal Inspection Service led the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander S. Chen is prosecuting the case.
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CVS to Pay $70,000 to Resolve Allegations That It Filled Fake PrescriptionsRead the Press Release
CONCORD –CVS has agreed to pay $70,000 to resolve allegations that it violated the Controlled Substances Act at CVS stores in New Hampshire, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
“Pharmacies have a legal responsibility to ensure that controlled substances are dispensed only pursuant to valid prescriptions,” said United States Attorney Jane E. Young. “When pharmacies ignore red flags that a prescription is fraudulent, they miss a critical opportunity to prevent prescription drugs from being misused or diverted for unlawful uses or into the black market. We will use the Controlled Substances Act along with all other available tools to protect the residents of New Hampshire. I am grateful to the DEA’s diversion investigators for their investigative work in this case.”
“Pharmacies are responsible for handling controlled substances responsibly and staying in compliance with the Controlled Substance Act,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle. “Any violation of that will not be tolerated. We are committed to working with our law enforcement and regulatory partners to ensure that these rules and regulations are followed.”
The U.S. Attorney’s Office contended that CVS pharmacists filled 41 forged prescriptions of Adderall, Ritalin, and Xanax. This affirmative civil enforcement resulted from two separate criminal investigations into individuals who filled prescriptions at multiple CVS pharmacies in New Hampshire. Theodoros Bahtsevanos pled guilty in June 2019 to two counts of misuse of a DEA registration number and one count of possession of five or more false identification documents, based on his presentment and obtaining numerous prescriptions under fictitious names. He was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Joseph Laplante to 3 years of probation on April 30, 2020. Jane Mastrogiovanni pled guilty to ten counts of obtaining controlled substances by fraud, forgery, deception or subterfuge in July 2020 based on her use of forged prescriptions to obtain controlled substances. She was sentenced to 3 years of probation on February 5, 2021, following transfer of the case to the U.S. District Court for New Jersey.
Under the Controlled Substances Act, a valid prescription for a controlled substance must be issued for a legitimate medical purpose by an individual practitioner acting in the usual course of his or her practice. Based on its investigation, the government alleged that the pharmacists at CVS should have known that they were presented with invalid prescriptions that should not have been filled.
The Drug Enforcement Administration led the investigation. The case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Raphael Katz.
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Cheshire Medical Center to Pay $2 Million to Settle Allegations of Controlled Substances Act ViolationsRead the Press Release
CONCORD – U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces today that Cheshire Medical Center (CMC) in Keene will pay $2 million to resolve allegations that it violated the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) by failing to keep accurate records of controlled substances, including opioids.
“Cheshire Medical Center’s failure to fulfill its obligations under the Controlled Substance Act enabled the theft of prescription narcotics – including powerful opioids such as fentanyl, which led to a shockingly high percentage of drugs missing from CMS’s inventory. The failures uncovered warranted a multi-million-dollar penalty and a stringent corrective action plan,” said U.S. Attorney Jane Young. “This is one of the largest settlements of drug diversion claims against a hospital in the country.”
“The DEA is committed to ensuring that all registrants are in compliance with the required regulations, which are enforceable through the Controlled Substances Act,” said Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle. “Failure to do so increases the potential for diversion and jeopardizes public health and public safety. DEA pledges to work with our law enforcement and regulatory partners to ensure these rules and regulations are followed.”
The CSA deters the illegal distribution, possession, dispensing, and improper use of controlled substances, all of which have contributed to the opioid epidemic. The CSA requires the accurate inventorying, tracking and recordkeeping of each controlled substances to prevent misuse.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) began an investigation of CMC after a nurse had stolen twenty-three intravenous bags of fentanyl solution from an automatic medication dispensing machine. CMC initially disclosed this theft to the DEA in February 2022. CMC later reported that an additional six hundred thirty-four bags of fentanyl were unaccounted for. The nurse that allegedly stole these drugs died on March 3, 2022. In April 2022, DEA investigators conducted audits of eight controlled substances at CMC’s inpatient pharmacy, which included audits of fentanyl 2ml vial; fentanyl 50 ml vial; fentanyl 50 ml IV bag; midazolam 2ml vial; lorazepam 1ml vial; hydromorphone 4mg tablet; hydromorphone 1 ml vial; and morphine sulfate 1ml vial.
This audit revealed an additional 17,961 missing controlled substance units and various related recordkeeping deficiencies on the part of CMC, such as failing to maintain accurate purchase and dispensation records. The audit also revealed that, among other things, CMC failed to regularly review reports to look for possible diversion, to have sufficient structures in place to alert it to the greatly increased purchasing of controlled substances from one month to the other, and to enforce various controlled substance security policies.
The settlement resolved the allegations that CMC violated the recordkeeping requirements of the CSA and its regulations. As part of the settlement, in addition to the improvements voluntarily undertaken by CMC before and after the DEA investigation, CMC has agreed to additional security and recordkeeping measures.
The Drug Enforcement Administration led the investigation leading to the settlement agreement. The case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Raphael Katz.
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A Former Concord Man Sentenced to 3 Years in Federal Prison for Distributing FentanylRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A former Concord man was sentenced today in federal court for possessing fentanyl and cocaine, and distributing fentanyl in New Hampshire, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Juan Abud, 39, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Joseph N. Laplante to 36 months in prison and 2 years of supervised release. On February 23, 2023, Abud pleaded guilty to two counts of distribution of fentanyl and one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine.
“The defendant will serve a lengthy sentence for dealing dangerous drugs in New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young. “His incarceration should serve as a warning to those that traffic controlled substances across state lines that law enforcement in New Hampshire will investigate and prosecute these crimes to the greatest extent that we can.”
On both January 4 and January 10, 2022, Abud sold 50 grams of fentanyl to a cooperating source. Following the sale on January 10, Abud was observed by law enforcement in Lawrence, Massachusetts with an unidentified male carrying a bag. When Abud returned to New Hampshire later that day, Law enforcement stopped his vehicle and seized 683 grams of fentanyl and 140 grams of cocaine. Abud was arrested on September 7, 2022 in Concord, New Hampshire. At the time of his arrest, law enforcement seized a .45-caliber Ruger handgun with a magazine and nine bullets, as well as 150 grams of cocaine, 17 grams of fentanyl, 13.8 grams of methamphetamine, and 4.3 grams of cocaine base from Abud’s vehicle.
The New Hampshire State Police Narcotics Unit led the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney John J. Kennedy prosecuted the case.
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U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young Announces Assistant U.S. Attorney AppointmentsRead the Press Release
CONCORD – U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces the appointment of career prosecutor Jeff Strelzin as an Assistant U.S. Attorney, and the appointments of Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kasey Weiland as the Senior Litigation Counsel (SLC) and Jarad Hodes as the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) Coordinator.
AUSA Strelzin has over 25 years of experience as a prosecutor. AUSA Strelzin most recently served as the Associate Attorney General, Director of the Division of Public Protection at the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office, where he oversaw the Criminal Bureau, Consumer Protection and Antitrust Bureau, and the Environmental Protection Bureau. During his career, AUSA Strelzin prosecuted murder cases as the Chief of the Homicide Unit for nearly 15 years and investigated hundreds of suspicious deaths. He also served as a Special Assistant United States Attorney at the United States Attorney’s Office in 2003. AUSA Strelzin is expected to investigate and prosecute a variety of federal crimes, including violent crime, firearm and drug offences, and immigration cases.
“Assistant U.S. Attorney Strelzin has devoted his career to serving New Hampshire,” said Jane E. Young. “Not only has he spent the past three decades working to make our communities safer, but he has been a committed granite-stater, attending college and law school here.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kasey Weiland has been appointed to serve as the district’s Senior Litigation Counsel. The SLC is a federal prosecutor with at least five years of experience who has been recognized as an outstanding litigator. The SLC is responsible for in-office trainings of other Assistant U.S. Attorneys. Weiland will continue to serve as the Project Safe Childhood Coordinator and the Human Trafficking Coordinator.
“Assistant U.S. Attorney Weiland has had a distinguished career both in the District of New Hampshire and the Western District of Tennessee,” U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young said. “She is an exceptional attorney that has earned the respect of her colleagues. She will be an outstanding mentor for this generation of prosecutors.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarad Hodes has been promoted to serve as the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Coordinator in the District of New Hampshire. The OCDETF Coordinator is responsible for leading the district’s specialized investigation and prosecutions of drug trafficking and money laundering criminal conspiracies.
AUSA Hodes previously served as a Trial Attorney in the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section, as well as an Associate Deputy Attorney General, and an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Southern District of California. AUSA Hodes will continue to serve as the National Security Coordinator in the District of New Hampshire.
“Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarad Hodes’ experience in the U.S. Department of Justice makes him uniquely suited to lead the organized crime and drug enforcement task force for the District of New Hampshire,” U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young said. “The OCDETF program requires cohesion and coordination among our federal investigative partners, and Jarad is undoubtedly equipped to work with this specialized group of agents.”
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Inmate at FCI-Berlin Pleads Guilty to AssaultRead the Press Release
CONCORD – An inmate at FCI Berlin pleaded guilty today in federal court in Concord to assaulting and seriously injuring another prisoner, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Aniel Gomez, 48, pleaded guilty to an assault resulting in serious bodily injury. U.S. District Court Judge Steven J. McAuliffe scheduled sentencing for September 26, 2023. Gomez was charged on March 15, 2023.
On December 19, 2022, Gomez beat another inmate with a homemade weapon consisting of two padlocks strapped together. Prison video footage showed Gomez waiting for the victim. After the victim exited a shower, Gomez followed him and beat him with the homemade weapon. As a result, the victim suffered head trauma including lacerations above the right eyebrow and back of the head.
At the time of the assault, Gomez was serving a 365 month imprisonment for conspiracy to maintain a residence for manufacturing and distributing marijuana, and conspiracy to manufacture and distribute 100 or more marijuana plants.
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 and FCI-Berlin’s Office of the Special Investigative Supervisor led the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Hunter is prosecuting the case.
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Dover Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Distributing FentanylRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A Dover man was sentenced today in federal court for distributing fentanyl and possessing additional fentanyl with intent to distribute in New Hampshire, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Tyler Ward, 36, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Joseph Laplante to 60 months in prison and 3 years of supervised release. On March 3, 2023, Ward pleaded guilty to two counts of distributing fentanyl, and one count of possessing fentanyl with intent to distribute it.
“The Dover Police Department and our federal partners successfully stopped these dangerous drugs from entering our communities,” U.S Attorney Jane E. Young said. “The defendant’s sentence should serve as a warning to those who traffic deadly drugs, that upon conviction, this office will seek significant periods of incarceration.”
“Tyler Ward dealt deadly fentanyl right out of his home in Dover and is now heading to prison for endangering his community,” said Christopher DiMenna, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “The lengthy federal sentence Mr. Ward received today illustrates how the FBI and our law enforcement partners will work together to investigate, disrupt, and ensure those who insist on bringing harmful crime to our neighborhoods are held accountable.”
On February 2, 2022, and February 11, 2022, law enforcement officers conducted two controlled purchases of five grams of fentanyl each from Ward at his apartment in Dover. At the time of his arrest on March 3, 2022, Ward possessed eight grams of fentanyl. Law enforcement officers located an additional 625 grams of fentanyl in his apartment. Ward admitted to law enforcement in a post-arrest interview that he had intended to sell this fentanyl.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Dover Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Gingrande prosecuted 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.
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Prohibited Person Charged in Connection with Firearm Recovered During a Homicide Investigation in FranklinRead the Press Release
CONCORD – Justin Gebo will appear before Magistrate Judge Andrea K. Johnstone for an initial appearance in federal court today for being a prohibited person in possession of firearms, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
According to the charging documents, one of the alleged firearms was recovered during a homicide investigation on June 3, 2023 in Franklin, New Hampshire.
Gebo, 28, was charged with three counts of being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm, including (1) being in possession of a firearm while under indictment; (2) being a felon in possession of a firearm; and (3) being a user of illegal drugs in possession of a firearm.
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.
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Former School Bus Driver Pleads Guilty to Cyberstalking ChildRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A Maine man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Concord to cyberstalking an eight-year-old child, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Michael Chick, age 40, pleaded guilty to cyberstalking. U.S. District Court Judge Landya McCafferty scheduled sentencing for September 25, 2023. Chick was arrested on a criminal complaint in August 2022 and was indicted on September 6, 2022.
Chick, a former school bus driver, began stalking an eight-year-old child on his bus route at least as early as March 2022. Chick gave the victim candy and small toys, and asked for permission to attend the child’s sporting events. Later, Chick provided the victim with cell phones and instructed the child to call Chick when he was alone. Chick told the child lies about a secret organization that would kidnap and torture the victim and kill the child’s family if the child did not fulfill various demands, which Chick purported to be relaying to the victim on behalf of the organization. Chick traveled to the child’s home at night and photographed the inside of their home by peering through the windows. Chick also placed GPS trackers on both of the victim’s parents’ vehicles. A forensic examination of Chick’s cell phone revealed surreptitiously recorded images and videos of the child and their family at various public locations such as retail stores, theme parks, and sporting events.
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.
Homeland Security Investigations led the federal investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Greenland Police Department, the Eliot Police Department in Maine, the Old Town Police Department in Maine, the New England State Police Information Network, the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Massachusetts State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kasey Weiland is prosecuting the case.
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Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty to Possessing Fentanyl, Firearms, and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A Weare man pleaded guilty today in federal court to possessing firearms and ammunition as a prohibited person, and possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl in New Hampshire, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Brian Elliott, age 32, pleaded guilty to one count of possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl, and two counts of being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition. U.S. District Court Judge Landya McCafferty scheduled sentencing for September 21, 2023. The defendant was indicted on March 21, 2022.
Elliott fled on foot following a vehicle stop by an officer of the Goffstown Police Department on May 22, 2021. During flight, Elliott dropped a backpack containing approximately 138 grams of fentanyl and various types of ammunition. A loaded firearm was also recovered from the scene the next day. On May 24, 2021, Elliott was apprehended at a Holiday Inn in Manchester, where negotiators succeeded in getting him out of his room. A subsequent search of his hotel room yielded additional fentanyl, as well as another firearm and ammunition. Elliott is a convicted felon and is legally prohibited from possessing firearms.
The charging statute for the drug offense provides a sentence of at least five years and no greater than 40 years in prison, a term of supervised release of at least four years, and a maximum fine of $5,000,000. The charging statute for the felon in possession of firearms and ammunition offenses provides a sentence of no greater than 10 years in prison, a maximum term of supervised release of four years, and a maximum 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Goffstown Police Department and Manchester Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Gingrande is prosecuting the case.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (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.
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22 Defendants Charged in Connection with Manchester Drug Trafficking RingRead the Press Release
CONCORD – 21 defendants have been indicted and an additional defendant has been charged in connection with an organized drug trafficking ring operating out of Manchester and Boston, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Over the past day and a half, law enforcement arrested 12 of these defendants on conspiracy to distribute controlled substance charges. During these arrests, law enforcement seized approximately 1.6 kilograms of suspected cocaine, 150 grams of suspected cocaine case, 250 grams of suspected fentanyl, 100 bags of suspected controlled substances packaged for sale, $26,000 in cash, and four firearms. The defendants are scheduled to appear in federal court at various times this week.
The following defendants have been charged in federal court:
- Juan Ramon Soto Baez aka “Ricky,” aka “Nicolas Lopez Rosado”, 53, of Dorchester, Massachusetts. Soto Baez is in custody. He is scheduled for a detention hearing in federal court in Concord on June 8, 2023 at 2:00pm.
- Osvaldo David Soto Jimenez aka “Tony”, 29, of Dorchester, Massachusetts. Soto Jimenez is in custody.
- Flemin Soto Baez aka “Carlos” aka “Joel Rodriguez”, 38, of Manchester, New Hampshire. Soto Baez is in custody.
- Antonio Aguasvivas aka “Toni”, 27, of Providence, Rhode Island. Aguasvivas is in custody.
- Melissa Rey Ramos aka “Ralphie”, 34, of Peabody, Massachusetts. Rey Ramos is in custody.
- Angel Leonel Fuentes Pizarro, 42, of Boston, Massachusetts. Pizarro is in custody. He is scheduled for a detention hearing in federal court in Concord on June 9. 2023 at 11:30am.
- Alejandro Reyes Rosado, 29, of UNKNOWN.
- Maria Camacho aka “Christina”, 43, of Manchester, New Hampshire.
- Luis Maldonado aka “Tony”, 48, of Manchester, New Hampshire. Maldonado is in custody. He is scheduled for a detention hearing in federal court in Concord on June 8, 2023 at 10:00am.
- Yefris Cruz Andujar, 23, of Providence, Rhode Island.
- Hidequell Gonzalez Viscaino, 22, of Waterbury, Connecticut.
- Katie Girgus, 29, of Manchester, New Hampshire. Girgus is in custody.
- Nickolas Starkey, 34, of Manchester, New Hampshire. Starkey is in custody.
- Daniel Beldin, 33, of Manchester, New Hampshire.
- Dari Rafael Baez Martinez aka “Chino”, 32, of Boston, Massachusetts. Baez Martinez is in custody.
- Leander Jose Rivera Soto, 28, of Boston, Massachusetts.
- Gabriel Hernandez, 30, of Boston, Massachusetts. Hernandez is in custody.
- Jose Cordero Ortiz, 37, of Boston, Massachusetts.
- Victor Arias Mejia, 38, of Manchester, New Hampshire.
- Jhonattan Jimenez, 36, of Boston, Massachusetts.
- Alesha Neault, 37, of Manchester, New Hampshire.
- Brandon Rivera, 21, of Boston, Massachusetts. Rivera is in custody.
According to court records, this drug trafficking ring, led by Juan Ramon Soto Baez (also known by various aliases, including “Ricky”) and his associates, has allegedly been supplying the Manchester area with fentanyl and crack cocaine for at least the past 4 years. These individuals trafficked large quantities of fentanyl and crack cocaine from Massachusetts to New Hampshire. They utilized a business model indicative of a sophisticated drug trafficking operation, which included using dispatch telephone numbers that customers would call to order drugs. Drug runners would drive vehicles to meet customers at predetermined locations to sell them drugs, often inside the runners’ vehicles.
The charge provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison. 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, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Manchester Police Department led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Marshal Service, the New Hampshire State Police, the Nashua Police Department, the Boston Police Department, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, and the New Hampshire Department of Corrections, Probation & Parole. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Gingrande and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarad Hodes, OCDETF Coordinator, 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.
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.
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Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty to the Illegal Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A former Ohio man pleaded guilty today in federal court to the illegal possession of firearms, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Bernard Murphy, a/k/a Bernard Malik El, 38, pleaded guilty to the illegal possession of two firearms as a prohibited person. Chief U.S. District Court Judge Landya McCafferty scheduled sentencing for September 18, 2023.
On May 2021, the defendant had been residing at the Days Inn in Campton for several months when Campton Police Department received a tip about his potential involvement in narcotics trafficking at the hotel. Upon searching the defendant’s hotel room, law enforcement seized a 9MM handgun and a loaded 12-gauge shotgun. Murphy is prohibited from possessing firearms due to a prior felony conviction in the State of Ohio in 2008.
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 Federal Bureau of Investigations and the Campton Police Department led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles L. Rombeau is prosecuting the case.
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Franklin Man Arrested and Charged with Threatening to Kill a U.S. SenatorRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A Franklin man has been charged in connection with threatening to kill a United States Senator, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Brian Landry, 66, was charged with threatening to assault, kidnap or murder a United States official in connection with the official’s performance of official duties. Landry will make an initial appearance in federal court today in Concord at 2:30pm.
According to the charging documents, Landry called a district field office of a United States Senator and left a voicemail on May 17, 2023, stating:
“Hey stupid. I’m a veteran sniper. And unless you change your ways, I got my scope pointed in your direction and I’m coming to get you. You’re a dead man walking, you piece of f***ing sh**.”
Investigators identified the phone call as coming from a number associated with Landry. When they interviewed Landry, he admitted to having called the Senator’s office but did not initially recall exactly what he said in the voicemail.
The charge provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, up to 3 years of supervised release, and a fine 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 United States Capitol Police led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the New Hampshire State Police, and the Franklin and the Manchester Police Departments. 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.
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Consumer Alert - COVID-19 Test Medicare ScamsRead the Press Release
CONCORD, NH – United States Attorney Jane E. Young and New Hampshire Attorney General John M. Formella announce that New Hampshire is seeing a rise in complaints from Medicare beneficiaries receiving COVID-19 tests they did not request, a signal someone may be using, and could continue to use their Medicare information fraudulently to bill the federal government, potentially impacting a recipient’s Medicare coverage or benefits.
“Stealing taxpayer-funded resources from our vulnerable neighbors will not be tolerated in the Granite State. We are actively working with our law enforcement partners to detect and disrupt this type of fraud,” said Attorney General Formella. “Signs of this illegal activity should be immediately reported, as experts warn Medicare information can be as valuable to bad actors as credit card or social security numbers.”
“Unfortunately, the pandemic provided fraudsters with many opportunities to take advantage of medical needs and services to benefit themselves,” said U.S. Attorney Young. “This new and emerging scam is directed at stealing from U.S. taxpayers, by charging Medicare for unwanted and unnecessary COVID-19 test kits. Please protect yourselves- do not ever give personal or medical information to obtain free pandemic related products, including test kits, vaccines, and other services. Medicare will not call you and offer COVID-19 related products.”
If you or a loved one are receiving unsolicited COVID-19 test kits or requests for your Medicare information, you are urged to report it to the U.S. Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General (www.oig.gov/fraud/report-fraud) or call 1-800-HHS-TIPS (1-800-447-8477).
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Man Pleads Guilty to Robbing the Service Credit Union in KeeneRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A Keene man pleaded guilty in federal court to robbing the Service Credit Union on Winchester Street in Keene, New Hampshire, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Ethan Clark, 31, pleaded guilty to bank robbery. U.S. District Court Judge Joseph Laplante scheduled sentencing for September 7, 2023. Clark was charged on May 10, 2023.
On November 28, 2022, Clark gave a bank teller at the Service Credit Union in Keene a note demanding money, stealing more than $4,700. Surveillance footage shows that Clark left the bank and walked to a van he stole from his former employer. Later that day, Clark was seen driving the van in Lawrence, Massachusetts. When law enforcement searched the vehicle, they found a note consistent with the robbery note given to the teller.
The charging statute provides a sentence of no greater than 20 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 FBI led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Keene Police Department and the Lawrence Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Hunter is prosecuting the case.
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Doctor Pleads Guilty to $1.9M Medicare Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A former New Hampshire doctor pleaded guilty today in federal court to health care fraud, in connection with a scheme to defraud Medicare by prescribing durable medical equipment without ever seeing, speaking to, or otherwise examining patients, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Steven Powell, 53, of Alpharetta, Georgia, pleaded guilty to one count of health care fraud. U.S. District Court Judge Paul Barbadoro scheduled sentencing for August 30, 2023. Powell was charged via Information on April 27, 2023.
Powell agreed to electronically sign orders for durable medical equipment (DME), such as knee and ankle braces, that he knew were used to submit more than $1.9 million in false and fraudulent claims to Medicare. Powell received kickbacks in exchange for each doctor’s order he signed authorizing DME that were not medically necessary, and not legitimately prescribed.
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 or twice the pecuniary gain. 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 U.S Department of Health and Human Services – Office of the Inspector General led the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Kennedy and First Assistant United States Attorney Jay McCormack are prosecuting the case.
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California Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking Methamphetamine in California and New HampshireRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A California man was sentenced today in federal court for trafficking methamphetamine in California and New Hampshire, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Robert Perez, Jr., 33, formerly of Perris, California was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Steven J. McAuliffe to 10 years in prison and three years of supervised release. On February 8, 2023, Perez plead guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
“This office continues to aggressively prosecute those who traffic large quantities of narcotics into New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Young. “Like fentanyl, methamphetamine is an insidiously dangerous drug, and its use directly contributes to New Hampshire’s overdose death toll. Thanks to the coordinated efforts of federal, state, and local law enforcement, we were able to bring the defendant to justice and ensure his incarceration for a lengthy period.”
Beginning in late-2020 or early 2021, Perez conspired with individuals in California and New Hampshire to ship a total of approximately 30 pounds of methamphetamine through the U.S. Postal Service from California to several individuals in New Hampshire for distribution. In August 2022, United States Drug Enforcement agents from New Hampshire travelled to Riverside, California, and arrested Perez.
“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. Perez accountable for his crimes but serves as a warning to those traffickers who are contributing to the drug crisis in the Granite State. This investigation demonstrates the strength of collaborative law enforcement efforts and our strong partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”
“The U.S. Postal Inspection Service aims to identify and disrupt drug traffickers across the country, more importantly, here in our community” said Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division. “Postal Inspectors accomplish this by focusing on illicit drug mailers and by maintaining an aggressive drug parcel-detection program. We will continue to coordinate with our law enforcement partners to dismantle drug trafficking involving the U.S. Mail.”
The United States Drug Enforcement Administration and the United States Postal Inspection Service lead the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the New Hampshire State Police and the Nashua Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer C. Davis.
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United States Attorney’s Office in the District of New Hampshire Allocated 2 Additional Federal Prosecutors in FY23 BudgetRead the Press Release
CONCORD – The U.S. Attorney’s Office was allocated 2 new attorney positions in the federal budget to address civil rights, domestic terrorism, and violent crime in New Hampshire, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
“These new positions will allow us to focus added resources on enforcing federal laws aimed at curbing violence, domestic terrorism and civil rights violations,” said U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young. “Furthermore, it has been a priority of our office to enhance our civil rights work in various communities throughout the state, and this dedicated position is a step forward in achieving that goal.”
One attorney will be the first Assistant U.S. Attorney dedicated to promoting civil rights in the State of New Hampshire, handling both criminal and civil cases. The second hire will address domestic terrorism and other violent crimes throughout the state.
Job solicitations for the two new positions will be posted on www.usajobs.gov, expected early summer 2023.
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Convicted Felon Sentenced to 6 Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing Eight Firearms and over 600 Rounds of AmmunitionRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A former Jefferson man was sentenced today in federal court for possessing eight firearms and 600 rounds of ammunition as a prohibited person, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Hunter Ramsay, 29, was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Court Judge Landya McCafferty to 72 months in prison and 3 years of supervised release. On January 23, 2023, Ramsay pleaded guilty to one count of possession of firearms as a previously convicted person.
“The defendant illegally possessed an arsenal of ammunition and firearms, which included three sawed-off shotguns. He compounded his threat to the community by leading law enforcement on a dangerous high-speed pursuit,” said U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young. “I commend the brave acts and poise under pressure of the officers and State troopers who successfully brought Ramsay to justice.”
“ATF will continue to actively pursue individuals with firearms and/or ammunition, who are legally prohibited from doing so. These weapons continue to be used to further criminal activity, and ATF is committed to stopping it,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge James Ferguson.
On July 7, 2021, Ramsay was wanted on outstanding state warrants for probation violations in both New Hampshire and Vermont when he was observed by New Hampshire State Police driving a truck in Bethlehem. Ramsay initially fled, so his vehicle was disabled by law enforcement’s deployment of spike strips in Littleton. Ramsay was taken into custody, and a total of eight firearms and over 600 rounds of ammunition were recovered on him and in his vehicle. At the time, Ramsay was prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition under federal law as a result of a prior felony conviction in Vermont state court. Ramsay has been detained since his July 2021 arrest.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the New Hampshire State Police, the Littleton Police Department, the Coos County Attorney’s Office, and the New Hampshire Department of Corrections. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Charles L. Rombeau.
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Former Plaistow Man Sentenced for Trafficking More Than 2 Pounds of Cocaine in New HampshireRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A former Plaistow man was sentenced today in federal court for his intent to traffic more than 2 pounds of cocaine in New Hampshire, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announced.
Corey Buckley, 43, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Joseph Laplante to 37 months in prison and 3 years of supervised release. Buckley was also ordered to pay a fine of $5000. On February 2, 2023, Buckley pleaded guilty to charges of possession with intent to distribute cocaine.
As a result of a months-long investigation into Buckley’s drug trafficking, law enforcement found approximately 1.1 kilograms cocaine in the kitchen of a residence where Buckley was living in May 2022. Law enforcement also seized a ledger and a scale, along with $50,000 in U.S. currency, and two firearms. Buckley has been detained since his arrest on May 19, 2022. The $50,000 in currency, firearms, and a Rolex watch were forfeited as part of the resolution.
The Drug Enforcement Administration led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided from the Massachusetts State Police and the Haverhill Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Charles L. Rombeau, with assistance from Assistant United States Attorney Robert Rabuck on the forfeiture part of the case.
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United States Attorney’s Office Honors Law Enforcement Personnel for Exceptional ServiceRead the Press Release
CONCORD – United States Attorney Jane E. Young announces the recipients of the 2023 Law Enforcement Awards in honor of National Police Week. More than 30 federal, state, and local law enforcement personnel are being recognized for their contributions to the success of federal cases during the 2022 calendar year.
These awards recognize the outstanding collaboration, investigative achievement, victim service, and exceptional contributions to identifying critical intelligence by federal agents, state, and local officers, and a K9. The U.S. Attorney’s Office in the District of New Hampshire will host a formal ceremony to honor these individuals in September 2023.
“Law enforcement personnel, and their families, make sacrifices every day in order to put their service to our communities first,” said U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young. “The Law Enforcement Awards are an opportunity for us to thank the officers for their hard work, their families for their sacrifices, and to recognize their part in obtaining justice.”
The category of the Outstanding Collaboration Award recognizes individuals who demonstrated outstanding efforts or overcame significant challenges in collaborating with multiple agencies. The following departments and agencies are being honored:
- Alton Police Department
- Internal Revenue Service
- Federal Bureau of Investigation
- New Hampshire State Police
- Merrimack County Sheriff’s Office
- U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General
- U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations
- U.S. Postal Inspection Service
The Investigative Achievement Award is limited to those whose activities have substantially and significantly contributed to a particular USAO prosecution. The following departments and agencies are being honored:
- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives
- Department of Defense, Office of Inspector General
- Federal Bureau of Investigation
- Manchester Police Department
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General
- U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration
- U.S. Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General
- U.S. Small Business Administration, Office of Inspector General
- U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration
The Exceptional Contribution to a Federal Investigation/Prosecution Award is reserved for recipients whose actions impact law enforcement’s ability to achieve certain capabilities. In this case, the recipients enabled law enforcement to identify critical intelligence. The following department is being honored:
- Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office
Recipients in two cases will also receive the Victim Service Award for extraordinary assistance to victims of a federal crime. The following departments and agencies are being honored:
- Alton Police Department
- U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations
- Merrimack County Sheriff’s Office
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Salem Man Sentenced for Unlawful Possession of Machine GunsRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A Salem man was sentenced today in federal court for the unlawful possession of machine guns, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Kyle Morris, 23, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Samantha D. Elliott to 18 months in prison and 3 years of supervised release. Morris was also ordered to pay a fine of $1000. On January 17, 2023, Morris pleaded guilty to the unlawful possession of machine guns. He was ordered to forfeit to the government the two machine guns seized during the execution of the search warrant at his home.
“The defendant expressed an interest in perpetrating horrific acts of violence against racial and religious minorities,” said U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young. “Those beliefs coupled with his illegal possession of machine guns pose a danger to our communities and today’s sentence sends a clear message that such conduct will result in not only a felony conviction but in incarceration.”
"Today, Kyle Morris learned his fate for illegally possessing two machine guns, while advocating for a race war and the bombing of mosques and synagogues. Weapons, he collected in furtherance of his desire to commit racially motivated violence,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “I commend the diligent work conducted by our New Hampshire Joint Terrorism Task Force for removing this threat from our community."
Morris kept the machine guns in a locked gun room in his home. This locked room also contained over 20 other firearms and various Nazi paraphernalia, including a Nazi uniform, two Nazi flags, and a framed photo of Adolf Hitler.
In private correspondence, he advocated for bombing mosques, synagogues, and diversity centers, and for starting a race war. He expressed an interest in participating in lone wolf attacks in Massachusetts involving shootings in Lawrence, culminating in a plan to drive a truck bomb into the Massachusetts State House. Morris also wanted to “mag dump a crowd of Black Lives Matter protesters, especially the darker ones.”
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and New Hampshire State Police led the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anna Z. Krasinski and Alexander S. Chen prosecuted the case.
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Rochester Woman Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl and MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A Rochester woman was sentenced today in federal court for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine in New Hampshire, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Jennelle Brown, 38, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Joseph N. Laplante to 60 months in prison. On January 18, 2023, Brown pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine. Brown’s co-defendant, Bradford Sargent, also pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine and will be sentenced on July 6, 2023.
“Today’s sentence sends a message to the defendant and other drug traffickers that such illegal conduct will be prosecuted and will result in significant periods of incarceration,” said U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young. “The outstanding collaborative efforts of federal and local law enforcement stopped those drugs from entering the community.”
Brown and Sargent sold drugs multiple times from their hotel room in Portsmouth. When law enforcement searched their room, they uncovered large quantities of money, drugs, and drug ledgers. Searches of two vehicles, storage units, and safety deposit boxes uncovered more currency and drugs. In total, law enforcement seized over $130,000, 1.3 kilograms of fentanyl, almost 650 grams of methamphetamine, and smaller amounts of cocaine.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Strafford County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexander S. Chen and Jarad E. Hodes prosecuted the case.
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Nashua Man Sentenced to 8 Years in Federal Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A Nashua man was sentenced on May 11, 2023 in federal court for trafficking methamphetamine in New Hampshire, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Philip Wetmore, 32, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Samantha D. Elliott to 8 years in federal prison and 4 years of supervised release. On February 3, 2023, pleaded guilty to two counts of distributing methamphetamine and one count of possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute.
“The sentence imposed reflects the severity of the defendant’s criminal conduct, that being trafficking methamphetamine into our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young. “Drug traffickers like the defendant will be prosecuted and will serve lengthy periods of incarceration.”
“In selling crystal meth on the streets of Nashua, while carrying a firearm when he was prohibited from doing so, Philip Wetmore has continued to demonstrate why he is a serious threat to the citizens of New Hampshire,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “Today’s sentence is another example of our Major Offender Task Force’s commitment to removing criminals that plague our communities with drugs, guns, and violence from our streets.”
On two occasions in February 2022, Wetmore sold approximately 81 grams of crystal methamphetamine to an individual in Nashua. The FBI arrested Wetmore after the second drug sale. At the time of his arrest, Wetmore had a loaded firearm on him. The FBI subsequently seized approximately 671 grams of crystal methamphetamine, a second loaded firearm, and other items associated with drug trafficking from Wetmore’s car. Wetmore is legally prohibited from possessing firearms.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Major Offender Task Force led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Nashua Police Department. The case was 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 at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
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