District of New Hampshire

            CONCORD - Michael Cicciu, 42, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court on Wednesday to one count of possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute and one count of maintaining a drug-involved premises, United States Attorney Jane E. Young announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on August 31, 2020, Manchester police detectives obtained a state search warrant for Cicciu’s residence based on surveillance and post-arrest statements from both buyers and suppliers of drugs. After executing the warrant, officers located a baggie of fentanyl and an apparent drug ledger.

            In 2018, Cicciu purchased a residential building in Manchester.  The premises were managed and controlled by Cicciu and made available for others to unlawfully store, distribute, and use controlled substances.   Specifically, on eight separate occasions between October 22, 2019 and November 20, 2020, Manchester police detectives executed search warrants at the residence that resulted in the arrests of people renting rooms from Cicciu who were distributing and using heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine and crack cocaine.  On one of these occasions, officers also located several assault-style weapons, a handgun, and brass knuckles.

            Cicciu is scheduled to be sentenced on August 25, 2022.  As part of his plea agreement, he has agreed to forfeit his interest in the property, which is located on East High Street in Manchester.

            “Drug trafficking endangers our community in many different ways,” said U.S. Attorney Young.  “Not only do drug traffickers sell deadly substances, but their unlawful activities damage the peace and security of our neighborhoods.  By allowing dangerous drug dealers to do business inside his building, this defendant jeopardized public safety and broke the law.  Thanks to the hard work of our law enforcement partners, he has now been held responsible for his crimes.”

            This matter was investigated by the Manchester Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joachim H. Barth.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Rabuck assisted with the forfeiture portion of the case.

            This case is part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S.).  In July of 2018, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the creation of S.O.S., which is being implemented in the District of New Hampshire and nine other federal districts.  The goal of S.O.S. is to combat the large number of overdoses and deaths associated with fentanyl and other synthetic opioids.   In New Hampshire, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is focusing its efforts on prosecuting synthetic opioid trafficking cases arising in Hillsborough County, which includes Manchester and Nashua. 

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            CONCORD - Jonathan McKnight, 39, of Manchester, was sentenced to 70 months in federal prison for interference with commerce by threats and violence by committing five robberies, United States Attorney Jane E. Young announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 25, 2020, McKnight robbed a convenience store in Manchester by passing a note to the clerk indicating he had a gun and wanted money.  On March 28, 2020, McKnight robbed another convenience store in Manchester by again passing a note to the clerk ordering the clerk to give him the money.  On this occasion, he  gestured toward his back waistband while lifting up his sweatshirt.  An officer who reviewed the store video footage recognized McKnight as the person in the video.  On March 30, 2020, Manchester police officers conducted a post-arrest interview with McKnight.  He admitted to committing both robberies and passing the same note at each robbery.  While acknowledging he had claimed to have a gun during the robberies, he stated he did not possess a gun during the robberies. 

            On July 7, 2020, Manchester police officers responded to another robbery.  The cashier gave the officers a description of the robber and told them that the robber had placed a note on the counter.  The cashier gave the robber approximately $100-$150 from the drawer, mostly $1.00 bills.  After reviewing the store video footage, officers located McKnight wearing the same clothing worn by the robber.  He had approximately $60, including approximately 25 $1.00 bills. 

            On March 7, 2021, and March 10, 2021, McKnight committed additional robberies at two separate locations in Goffstown.  Investigators received a tip that McKnight committed both robberies and McKnight later admitted that he committed both robberies. 

            McKnight previously pleaded guilty on November 29, 2021.

            “Robberies and other violent crimes not only endanger lives but also spread fear throughout the community,” said U.S. Attorney Young.  “Thanks to excellent police work in this case, Mr. McKnight has been held responsible for his criminal conduct.  This successful prosecution is an example of how local and federal law enforcement partners work collaboratively and diligently to protect public safety and keep our citizens safe from violent crime.” 

            “Jonathan McKnight has repeatedly demonstrated why he is a serious threat to the community, confessing to a string of robberies during which he threatened to use a firearm,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “Today’s sentence should be a reminder to everyone of the serious consequences that come with putting people in danger. New Hampshire is much safer with him behind bars.”

            These matters were investigated by the Manchester Police Department and Goffstown Police Department with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Debra Walsh.

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            CONCORD - In honor of National Police Week, United States Attorney Jane E. Young  recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local law enforcement. This year, the week is observed Wednesday, May 11 through Tuesday, May 17, 2022.

            “This week, we gather to pay tribute to the law enforcement officers who sacrificed their lives in service to our country,” said Attorney General Garland. “We remember the courage with which they worked and lived. And we recommit ourselves to the mission to which they dedicated their lives. On behalf of a grateful Justice Department and a grateful nation, I extend my sincerest thanks and gratitude to the entire law enforcement community.”

            “During National Police Week, we all must reflect, with gratitude, on those officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.  We also must remember the families and loved ones left behind,” said United States Attorney Young.  “Each day the dedicated men and women who protect our communities encounter significant risks, yet they bravely face those risks to fearlessly protect our communities, state and nation.  And for that, we extend our heartfelt thanks.”

             In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices.  Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. Based on data submitted to and analyzed by the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), 472 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2021.  Of that number, 319 succumbed to COVID-19.  

             On October 28, 2021, New Hampshire State Police Staff Sgt. Jesse E. Sherrill died in the line of duty in the District of New Hampshire.

             Additionally, according to 2021 statistics reported by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 73 law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty in 2021 were killed as a result of felonious acts, whereas 56 died in accidents.  Deaths resulting from felonious acts increased in 2021, rising more than 58 percent from the previous year.  In 2021, unprovoked attacks[1] were the cause of 24 deaths significantly outpacing all other line of duty deaths resulting from felony acts and reaching the highest annual total in over 30 years of reporting.  Additional LEOKA statistics can be found on FBI’s Crime Data Explorer website for the LEOKA program. 

           The names of the 619 fallen officers added this year to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial will be read on Friday, May 13, 2022, during a Candlelight Vigil in Washington, D.C., starting at 8:00 PM EDT. Those who wish to view the vigil live online, can watch on the NLEOMF YouTube channel found at https://www.youtube.com/TheNLEOMF. The schedule of National Police Week events is available on NLEOMF’s website.

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            Reference to any specific organization or service(s) offered by an organization is for the information and convenience of the public, and does not constitute endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the United States Department of Justice.

[1] An unprovoked attack is defined as an attack on an officer not prompted by official contact at the time of the incident between the officer and the offender.  Source:  Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program.

            CONCORD - Zachary Poisson, 27, of Rochester, was sentenced on Friday to 72 months in federal prison for drug and firearm charges, United States Attorney Jane E. Young announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on September 27, 2020, Somersworth police officers were dispatched to a local store for a report of an attempted theft.  One of the suspects, Poisson, who was on probation at the time, was placed under arrest.  A satchel strapped across his body was searched incident to arrest and revealed $4,304 and a bag containing over 67 grams of fentanyl. 

            Officers later searched Poisson’s vehicle, where they found a 9mm handgun and a quantity of crack cocaine.  As a convicted felon, Poisson was prohibited from possessing a firearm.

            “Armed drug traffickers present a significant threat to public safety in New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Young.  “By dealing fentanyl, this defendant was profiting from the sale of a deadly substance.  This danger was further enhanced by his unlawful possession of a firearm.  As this case demonstrates, we are working closely with our law enforcement partners to hold armed drug dealers accountable for their unlawful conduct.”

            “Removing armed drug dealers from our streets has an immediate impact on the safety of our communities,” said Special Agent in Charge James M. Ferguson of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). “ATF is absolutely committed to working with our law enforcement partners to ensure that those who bring dangerous drugs and firearms into our neighborhoods are held accountable for their actions.”

            This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Somersworth Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Gingrande.

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            CONCORD - Donna Silva, 44, of Lowell, Massachusetts pleaded guilty in federal court to bank fraud, United States Attorney Jane E. Young announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, in February of 2019, Silva was involved in a scheme to defraud several financial institutions.  The defendants in the scheme applied for and obtained multiple loans to purchase cars purportedly sold by Allied Imports, a Manchester car wholesaler, and Cap’s Auto Sales, a Manchester car retailer.  The sales were fraudulent because the defendants never owned or greatly inflated the value of the cars.  In total, the defendants defrauded the financial institutions of several hundred thousand dollars. 

            Silva signed a fraudulent purchase contract and Assignment of Title with Cap’s Auto Sales purporting to state that she would buy a car sold by the company.  She then used the documents to apply for and obtain a car loan secured by the vehicle, which Cap’s Auto Sales did not own or have the title to.

            Silva is scheduled to be sentenced on August 15, 2022.

            “By submitting false documents to obtain fraudulent loans, the defendant participated in a substantial criminal scheme,” said U.S. Attorney Young.  “As this case demonstrates, we work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who commit fraud.  By working together, we strive to hold these criminals accountable for their unlawful conduct and seek justice for victims.”

             This matter was investigated by the United States Secret Service and U.S. Postal Inspection Service.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Rombeau and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander S. Chen.

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            CONCORD - Ariel Toribio, 22, of Lawrence, Massachusetts, was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison for aiding and abetting the making of a false statement during the acquisition of a firearm, United States Attorney Jane E. Young announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on five separate occasions in November and December 2019, Toribio’s co-defendant, Samantha Sicard, purchased 11 firearms for Toribio and others.  Toribio solicited Sicard to buy the firearms, instructed her about which firearms to purchase and paid for the firearms.  Toribio traveled with Sicard to a federally licensed firearms dealer where she would fill out the necessary paperwork and falsely state she was the actual purchaser of the firearms when she was in fact purchasing them for Toribio and others.       

            Toribio previously pleaded guilty on November 8, 2021.   Sicard pleaded guilty on November 9, 2021 and is scheduled to be sentenced on August 8, 2022.

            “Criminals who use lies and deception to obtain guns are often planning to use those firearms to commit crimes of violence,” said U.S. Attorney Young.  “In order to protect the public from violent crime, we work closely with the ATF to identify and prosecute those who are involved in the straw purchases of firearms.  As this sentence demonstrates, those who commit federal gun crimes will be held accountable for their unlawful conduct.”

            “Firearms trafficking continues to be a top priority for ATF and our law enforcement partners,” said James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol Firearms and Explosives Boston Field Division.  “ATF is committed to identifying and disrupting the sources of illegal firearms which jeopardize the safety of our communities.” 

            This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Debra Walsh.

            The case is part of ATF’s Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative, which is a federally-funded program intended to reduce gun violence through law enforcement training, public education, and aggressive law enforcement efforts to investigate and prosecute gun-related crimes. 

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            CONCORD - Sean Chaput, 34, of Bangor, Maine, pleaded guilty on Monday in federal court to conspiracy to possess fentanyl with intent to distribute, United States Attorney Jane E. Young announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on November 27, 2020, a New Hampshire state police trooper stopped Chaput’s car for a traffic violation.  Over the course of the encounter, the trooper developed suspicions that the car contained evidence of drug trafficking.  The trooper obtained a search warrant for the vehicle, and subsequently located cylinders of pressed powder hidden in the car that contained 762 grams of fentanyl.  The defendant later admitted to driving to Massachusetts to purchase the fentanyl found in the vehicle so he could bring it to Maine to be sold.        

            Chaput is scheduled to be sentenced on August 11, 2022.

            “The U.S. Attorney’s Office works closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the drug dealers who are distributing fentanyl and other deadly drugs,” said U.S. Attorney Young.  “I am grateful to the New Hampshire State Police for stopping the distribution of this very substantial amount of fentanyl that could have endangered many lives.”

            This matter was investigated by the New Hampshire State Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Dronzek.

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            CONCORD – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Hampshire announced that the Honorable Jane E. Young was sworn in on Monday as the United States Attorney for the District of New Hampshire.  Chief U.S. District Judge Landya McCafferty administered the oath of office at the federal courthouse in Concord.

            U.S. Attorney Young is the 58th U.S. Attorney for the District.  She was nominated by the President on January 26, 2022 and confirmed by the U.S. Senate on April 27, 2022.  As the U.S. Attorney, Ms. Young is the chief federal law enforcement officer in New Hampshire.

            Jane E. Young served as the Deputy Attorney General for the New Hampshire Department of Justice from 2018 to 2022. She has held various leadership positions in the office since she joined in 1992, including Director of the Division of Public Protection from 2017 to 2018, Chief of the Criminal Justice Bureau from 2007 to 2017, and Chief of the Drug Unit from 2006 to 2007. From 1990 to 1992, Ms. Young served as an Assistant County Attorney in the Hillsborough County Attorney’s Office.

            Ms. Young received her J.D. from the University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce School of Law in 1989 and her B.A. from Saint Anselm College in 1986.

            “I thank President Biden and the Senate for the privilege to serve the State of New Hampshire as the United States Attorney,” said U.S. Attorney Young.  “I also thank Senator Shaheen and Senator Hassan for recommending me to the President.  I look forward to serving the people of New Hampshire in my new role and will work tirelessly to ensure that the federal laws are enforced and that those who violate those laws are held accountable.”

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            CONCORD – A federal grand jury returned a 33-count superseding indictment on Monday charging Ian Freeman, 41, and Aria DiMezzo, 35, both of Keene, with a variety of financial and fraud crimes, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to the superseding indictment, Freeman, DiMezzo, and others operated a business that enabled customers to exchange fiat currency for virtual currency.  The superseding indictment alleges that the unlicensed business violated federal anti-money laundering laws and regulations.  Among other things, the superseding indictment alleges that the defendants opened bank accounts at financial institutions while deceiving financial institutions about the nature of the business being transacted through the accounts.  The superseding indictment alleges that some of the transactions conducted by Freeman facilitated the transfer of the proceeds of scams, such as “romance scams.”

           Freeman and DiMezzo are charged with participating in a conspiracy to operate an unlicensed money transmitting business.

           Freeman also is charged with: (1) operating an unlicensed money transmitting business; (2) conspiracy to commit wire and bank fraud; (3) twelve counts of wire fraud; (4) four counts of money laundering; (5) conspiracy to commit money laundering: (6) four counts of attempting to evade taxes; and (7) operating a financial crimes enterprise.

           DiMezzo also is charged with (1) operating an unlicensed money transmitting business; (2) four counts of wire fraud; and (3) three counts of money laundering.

           Freeman and DiMezzo, along with four others, were previously arrested on March 16, 2021. 

           Three co-defendants, Nobody F/K/A Richard Paul, of Keene, and Andrew and Renee Spinella of Derry, have pleaded guilty.  The government has moved to dismiss the charges against the fourth co-defendant without prejudice.

           The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service, and the United States Postal Inspection Service in coordination with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Georgiana L. MacDonald, Seth R. Aframe, and John Kennedy.

           The charges in the superseding indictment are only allegations.  The defendants are presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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            CONCORD - Kermit Ceasar, 45, of Manchester, pleaded guilty on Tuesday in federal court to six counts of distribution of cocaine, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, in mid-April 2021, Ceasar’s  cocaine base dealing was brought to the attention of the Manchester Police Department. Working with law enforcement officers, a cooperating individual (CI) arranged for controlled purchases from Ceasar between April 22, 2021, and August 13, 2021.  During a total of six hand-to-hand drug transactions, Ceasar sold over 86 grams of cocaine base and over 341 grams of cocaine. 

           Ceasar is scheduled to be sentenced on July 27, 2022.

           “Drug traffickers in New Hampshire are seeking to profit from the sale of dangerous substances in our state,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “As part of our ongoing effort to improve public safety, we are working closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the drug dealers who are damaging our communities.  By working together, we are holding drug dealers like Kermit Ceasar accountable for their dangerous and unlawful conduct.”

           “On at least six occasions, we caught Kermit Ceasar dealing cocaine or crack cocaine out of his vehicle in the city of Manchester, in exchange for thousands of dollars in cash, and today, he finally admitted to committing these crimes,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “Targeting illegal drug traffickers like him who degrade the quality of life in our communities and bring with them unacceptable levels of violence will continue to be a collective focus of the FBI and our law enforcement partners because no one should have to live in fear of this activity in their neighborhoods.”

            “Individuals like this defendant are a danger to society. I am grateful for the detectives who dedicated a great deal of time and effort to this lengthy investigation,” says Manchester Police Chief Allen Aldenberg. “This case is an excellent example of the partnership that we have with the FBI. We will continue to collaborate with them as we target the drug trade within Manchester and also work to reduce the associated violence.”

            This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Manchester Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Seth Aframe and Jennifer Cole Davis.

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            CONCORD - Niurka Lebron, 45, of Dorchester, Massachusetts, pleaded guilty in federal court to bank fraud on Wednesday, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, in February 2019, the defendant was involved in a scheme to defraud several financial institutions.  The defendants in the scheme applied for and obtained multiple loans to purchase cars purportedly sold by Allied Imports, a Manchester car wholesaler, and Cap’s Auto Sales, a Manchester car retailer.  The sales were fraudulent because the defendants never owned or greatly inflated the value of the cars.  In total, the defendants defrauded the financial institutions of several hundred thousand dollars.

            Lebron participated in the scheme by signing a fraudulent car purchase contract from Allied Imports. She then used the contract to apply for a car loan secured by the vehicle, which Allied Imports did not own or have the title to.

            Lebron is scheduled to be sentenced on August 22, 2022.

            “Criminals use a wide variety of schemes to commit financial crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “We work closely with our law enforcement partners to uncover fraud schemes in the Granite State and to hold wrongdoers accountable for their unlawful activities.”

            This matter was investigated by the United States Secret Service and U.S. Postal Inspection Service.  The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander S. Chen and Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles L. Rombeau.

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            CONCORD – Andrew Spinella, 36, of Derry, Renee Spinella, 24, of Derry, and Nobody, a/k/a Richard Paul, 53, of Keene, pleaded guilty last week in federal court to wire fraud, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, between approximately 2016 and 2021, the defendants opened and operated accounts at financial institutions as personal accounts in their names or as business accounts in the names of churches in order to allow their co-defendant, Ian Freeman, to use them to sell virtual currency.

            Andrew Spinella pleaded guilty on April 12, 2022.  He admitted to opening personal accounts in his name for Freeman to use to sell virtual currency. He signed blank checks and gave Freeman the login information for those accounts.

            Renee Spinella pleaded guilty on April 14, 2022.  She admitted that she opened a business account in the name of Crypto Church of NH, which she told the bank was an international ministry. She opened the account in person at a bank branch in New Hampshire where she was accompanied by Freeman.  Although the account was purported to be for the receipt of church donations, the account was used almost exclusively to support Freeman’s virtual currency exchange business.

            Nobody pleaded guilty on April 15, 2002.  He admitted that he opened accounts in his name and in the name of the Church of the Invisible Hand. At the time he opened the accounts or provided Freeman with access to the accounts, he knew they would not be used as personal accounts or for a church, but instead would be used by Freeman to trade virtual currency.

            Each of the defendants was aware that banks would close these accounts if the banks knew the accounts were used to operate an unlicensed virtual currency business.   

            Andrew and Renee Spinella are scheduled to be sentenced on July 26, 2022.  Nobody is scheduled to be sentenced on July 28, 2022.   

            A total of six individuals have been charged in this case.  Freeman and two other co-defendants are scheduled to go to trial on November 1, 2022.

            “By using fraudulent means to mislead banks about the true purpose of these bank accounts, the defendants assisted in the operation of an unlawful virtual currency business,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “To protect the integrity of our financial system, we will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute individuals who participate in fraud schemes involving virtual currency.”

            “Andrew and Renee Spinella, along with Nobody, confessed to opening and operating bank accounts, using their names or the names of religious organizations, to help their co-defendant run his virtual currency business. They knew it was wrong and they continued their conduct anyway," said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. "Last week’s court proceedings show such criminal actions have serious consequences. The FBI is uniquely situated to investigate and dismantle these elaborate schemes, and we urge folks, whether investing in cash or virtual currency, to exercise due diligence and report suspicious activity to us.”

            “This investigation and the subsequent admissions by the defendants are a clear reminder that IRS Criminal Investigation is committed to following the money trail and will not be deterred by sophisticated financial transactions,” said Joleen D. Simpson, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Boston Field Office. “These federal felony convictions have effectively shut down this scheme and should serve as a stark warning to those engaged in similar criminal activities.” 

             This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service, and the United States Postal Inspection Service.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Georgiana L. MacDonald, John Kennedy, and Seth R. Aframe.

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            CONCORD - Jacob Brady, 30, of Manchester, was sentenced on Friday to 84 months in federal prison for conspiracy to possess controlled substances with intent to distribute, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on April 29, 2020, Manchester police detectives received information that a female would be traveling from Manchester to Lawrence, Massachusetts to obtain a significant amount of drugs for redistribution in New Hampshire.  Surveillance observed her drive to Lawrence and park her car in a lot known as a distribution “hot spot.”  A vehicle registered to Brady’s co-conspirator, Christopher Yule, parked close by and extinguished its lights.  Within a minute, the cars departed.  Surveillance units followed both vehicles.

            When Yule’s vehicle entered Manchester, it was stopped by police for a traffic violation and suspicion of drug activity.  Brady, the driver of the vehicle, and Yule both engaged in furtive movements within the vehicle as officers approached.  Both individuals were instructed to step out of the vehicle.  Brady explained that he and Yule traveled to Lawrence so Yule could meet with his source and purchase illegal drugs.

            During the stop, an officer observed a tied-off glassine baggie of suspected drugs inside the vehicle. Yule consented to a search of the vehicle and officers found over 78 grams of fentanyl and over six grams of cocaine base (crack).

            Brady previously pleaded guilty on January 7, 2022.   Yule also has pleaded guilty and is awaiting sentencing.

            “Fentanyl and other dangerous drugs continue to cause serious damage to communities throughout New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “We are working closely with the Manchester Police Department to identify the drug traffickers who are bringing fentanyl into Manchester and endangering the lives of the city’s citizens.  As this case demonstrates, fentanyl dealers in the Granite State will be held accountable for their dangerous and unlawful conduct.”      

            This matter was investigated by the Manchester Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joachim H. Barth.

            This case is part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S.).  In July of 2018, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the creation of S.O.S., which is being implemented in the District of New Hampshire and nine other federal districts.  The goal of S.O.S. is to combat the large number of overdoses and deaths associated with fentanyl and other synthetic opioids.   In New Hampshire, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is focusing its efforts on prosecuting synthetic opioid trafficking cases arising in Hillsborough County, which includes Manchester and Nashua. 

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            CONCORD - Anthony Rimas, 48, of Newton, was sentenced on Monday to 108 months in federal prison for receipt of child sexual abuse material, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, in October 2020, law enforcement officers with the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (NHICAC) were conducting online investigations into individuals using digital applications that share images of child sexual abuse material.  During the investigation, investigators uncovered evidence that Rimas received and possessed images and video files of child sexual abuse materials.        

           “Those who obtain and view child sexual abuse material are further victimizing the innocent children whose abuse is depicted in these images,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “To protect young people from exploitation, we will continue to seek substantial penalties for those who commit crimes related to child sexual abuse material.  Along with the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and our other law enforcement partners we are working tirelessly to hold these criminals accountable for their unlawful actions.”

            Rimas previously pleaded guilty on September 2, 2021.  After completion of his prison sentence, Rimas will be under 8 years of supervised release.

            This matter was investigated by the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the Nashua Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Krasinski.

            In February 2006, the Department of Justice introduced Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

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            CONCORD - Michael Dukette, 31, of Nashua, pleaded guilty on Tuesday in federal court to possession of child sexual abuse material, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, in June of 2018 an individual reported potential child exploitation images to the Hudson Police Department.  The individual had lent an iPhone to another person and after it was returned, the woman found an email containing four videos that showed Dukette masturbating while standing over a sleeping child.  Dukette subsequently admitted to police during voluntary interviews that he made and kept the videos.  Further investigation revealed the child in the videos was five years old at the time the videos were made.           

            Dukette currently is scheduled to be sentenced on August 23, 2022.

            “Protecting children from exploitation is an important priority of the law enforcement community in New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “Thanks to the hard work of our law enforcement partners, this individual is being held accountable for his disturbing and illegal conduct.  We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who commit crimes related to sexual abuse material.”

            “Cases like this emphasize how critical the community is in our investigations. Without the assistance of the citizen who brought this material to police attention, the evidence of this exploitation may have gone unnoticed and unreported,” said Matthew Millhollin, Special Agent in Charge for the Homeland Security Investigations’ Boston Field Office. 

             This matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Hudson Police Department and the Nashua Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Dronzek.

             In February 2006, the Department of Justice introduced Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

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            CONCORD - Ryan Cortina, 34, of Somersworth, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of an unregistered firearm, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on September 23, 2019, the Somersworth Police Department received information from a confidential information (CI) that Cortina possessed destructive devices at his Somersworth residence.  The CI claimed Cortina showed him a “grenade” he had built.  Officers applied for a search warrant for Cortina’s residence. While executing the warrant on September 27, 2019, officers located five suspected destructive devices in a duffle bag.  Further analysis showed that one of the devices was an improvised explosive bomb which therefore should have been registered in accordance with Federal Firearms Registrations

            Cortina is scheduled to be sentenced on July 18, 2022.

            “By possessing an improvised bomb, the defendant placed residents of Somersworth in danger,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “Had the device been detonated, it could have threatened the lives of innocent people.  Thanks to the hard work and responsiveness of law enforcement officers, a potential tragedy was averted.  This case provides an example of how law enforcement officers are working each day to protect public safety in the Granite State.”

             This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Somersworth Police Department with the assistance of New Hampshire State Police and Federal Bureau of Investigation.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Debra M. Walsh.

             The case is part of ATF’s Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative, which is a federally-funded program intended to reduce gun violence through law enforcement training, public education, and aggressive law enforcement efforts to investigate and prosecute gun-related crimes. 

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            CONCORD - Deborah Cross, 65, of Sanford, Maine was sentenced on Thursday to 37 months in federal prison for distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on December 4, 2018, a cooperating individual purchased over 60 grams of methamphetamine from Cross at a residence in Franklin, New Hampshire.  The cooperating individual made the purchase while working with law enforcement agents and wearing a video and audio recording device.   

            Cross previously pleaded guilty on December 8, 2021.

            “Methamphetamine is a dangerous drug that is causing tremendous harm in communities throughout New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “To protect our citizens, we are working closely with the FBI and all our law enforcement partners to identify traffickers who are distributing this deadly substance and hold them accountable for their crimes.”

            “Today, Deborah Cross learned that there are serious consequences to distributing methamphetamine out of your home, and endangering your community,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “Given the horrific impact this drug has on its users, the FBI will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to keep it, and other dangerous drugs, out of New Hampshire.”

             This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joachim H. Barth.

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            CONCORD - Robesteur St. Felix, 47, of Manchester, pleaded guilty on Monday in federal court to bank fraud, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, between February and July of 2019, the defendant was involved in a scheme to defraud several financial institutions.  The defendants in the scheme applied for and obtained multiple loans to purchase cars purportedly sold by Allied Imports, a Manchester car wholesaler, and Cap’s Auto Sales, a Manchester car retailer.  St. Felix was the CEO of Cap’s Auto Sales.  The sales were fraudulent because the defendants never owned or greatly inflated the value of the cars.  In total, the defendants defrauded the financial institutions of several hundred thousand dollars. 

            St. Felix participated in the scheme by fabricating three purchase contracts which were used to apply for three fraudulent loans.  On August 20, 2020, St. Felix entered into a consent order with the New Hampshire Banking Department in which he admitted to falsifying the purchase contracts for two of the vehicles in question. 

            St. Felix is scheduled to be sentenced on June 29, 2022. 

            A total of six defendants were charged in this case.  Four defendants are awaiting trial and one has not yet been arrested.

            “By submitting false documents to obtain fraudulent loans, the defendant participated in a substantial criminal scheme,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “As this case demonstrates, we work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who commit fraud.  By working together, we strive to hold these criminals accountable for their unlawful conduct and seek justice for victims.”

            “The U.S. Secret Service is committed to investigating complex fraud schemes in New Hampshire.”  stated Timothy Benitez, Resident Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service’s New Hampshire Office. “The success of this investigation is due to the collaboration between the U.S. Secret Service, New Hampshire Banking Department and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.”

            This matter was investigated by the United States Secret Service and U.S. Postal Inspection Service.  The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander S. Chen and Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles L. Rombeau.

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            CONCORD - Jessica Pechtel, 35, of Springvale, Maine pleaded guilty in federal court to wire fraud, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, Pechtel was the office manager for a company in Somersworth, New Hampshire.  In that role, she had full access to the company’s finances, including its accounting records, bank accounts, and company credit card. 

            Between January 2019 and March 2021, Pechtel used her access to the company’s finances to make unauthorized purchases and transfers of funds to accounts that she controlled.  This scheme had four distinct components.  First, she transferred funds from the company’s bank accounts to her own accounts.  Second, she used the company’s credit card to make unauthorized purchases from retailers such as Amazon or make payments via the online payment transfer system Venmo.  Third, she drafted 17 unauthorized checks payable to herself that were drawn on the company’s bank account.  And fourth, she stole almost $44,000 in COVID-19 relief funds that were intended for the company.  Overall, Pechtel fraudulently obtained at least $587,219 from her employer.

            Pechtel is scheduled to be sentenced on July 7, 2022.

            “This defendant stole a significant amount of money and betrayed the trust of her employer,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “As this case demonstrates, we work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute white collar criminals to ensure they are held accountable for their crimes.”

            “The U.S. Secret Service is committed to investigating complex fraud schemes especially those that involve the exploitation of New Hampshire based businesses.”  stated Timothy Benitez, Resident Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service’s New Hampshire Office.  “The success of this investigation is due to the collaboration between the U.S. Secret Service, Somersworth Police Department, and Nashua Police Department.”

            This matter was investigated by the United States Secret Service, the Somersworth Police Department and the Nashua Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Hunter and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander S. Chen.

            On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.

            Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

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           CONCORD - Michael A Clemence, 36, of Rochester, was sentenced to 78 months in federal prison for possession of child pornography, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, in February of 2020, the Homeland Security Investigations New Hampshire office received information that on April 28, 2019, an individual originating from an IP address at a Rochester residence had accessed a website known for sharing child sexual abuse and exploitation material.  Clemence was identified as the subscriber of the target IP address. 

            On May 26, 2021, agents conducted a consensual interview with Clemence.  They advised him they were investigating internet activity associated with child exploitation material and that some of the activity occurred in April of 2019 from the IP address associated with his previous address.  After further investigation, a search warrant was executed at Clemence’s residence, which resulted in the seizure of numerous electronic devices.  Forensic examination of the devices confirmed the presence of child exploitation material.  The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children identified 1,351 images as depicting known minor victims.  It was determined by law enforcement that no other household members were involved in Clemence’s criminal activity.  

            Clemence previously pleaded guilty on December 7, 2021. In addition to his sentence, Clemence was ordered to pay $52,000 in restitution and will be under supervised release for 10 years after his release from prison.

            “Innocent children are exploited and harmed during the creation of child sexual abuse material,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “By amassing a significant quantity of graphic images of minors, this defendant furthered the exploitation of these youthful victims.  To protect innocent children from harm, we will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who possess or distribute these horrific images of sexual abuse.”

            “Clemence downloaded material that depicted the horrific abuse of children. HSI is proud to work alongside our partners at the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force to investigate and seek prosecution of those who download child exploitation material,” said Matthew Millhollin, Special Agent in Charge for the Homeland Security Investigations’ Boston Field Office. “We are grateful for the additional assistance of the Rochester Police Department and Merrimack County Sheriff’s Office in this case.”

            This matter was investigated by the Homeland Security Investigations and the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, with assistance from the Rochester Police Department and Merrimack County Sheriff’s Office.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kasey Weiland.

             In February 2006, the Department of Justice introduced Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

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            CONCORD - Brian Perez, 31, of Salem, was sentenced to 63 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on May 11, 2021, agents opened a suspicious package sent via UPS from the greater Los Angeles, California area to an apartment at an address in Salem.  The box contained over two kilograms of methamphetamine.  Additional shipping records revealed that since April 10, 2021, this was the ninth package sent from the Los Angeles area to the same address in Salem. 

            On May 19, 2021, investigators intercepted another suspicious UPS package destined for the Salem address.  After obtaining a search warrant, they discovered over 2.2 kilograms of 100 percent pure methamphetamine.  The contents were replaced with an innocuous filler and an undercover officer delivered the package to the front foyer of the Salem address.  Later that day agents observed a van arrive at the Salem address.  Perez entered the foyer and examined the package.  Perez then left the foyer and entered the van.  Investigators detained Perez and his passenger and observed the package in the van.  Perez had a receipt for parcel that was sent to Miami Beach.  The parcel was located and searched pursuant to a warrant.  Inside the package were orange pills containing approximately 363 grams of methamphetamine.

            Perez previously pleaded guilty on December 6, 2021.

            “Methamphetamine is a dangerous drug that is causing increasing harm in communities throughout New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “When methamphetamine is distributed in counterfeit pills it creates an even greater risk to public health and safety.  We are working closely with our law enforcement partners to identify methamphetamine traffickers in the Granite State and hold them responsible for their unlawful conduct.”

            “As methamphetamine seizures are on the rise, DEA stands committed to keeping this highly addictive drug out 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 who attempt to ship this poison to the Granite State.”

             This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, New Hampshire State Police, and Salem Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joachim H. Barth.

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            CONCORD – Jason Ellis, 45, of Derry was indicted by a federal grand jury on Monday and charged with one count of attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor, one count of distribution of child pornography, and one count of possession of child pornography, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            Ellis was arrested on a criminal complaint on February 16, 2022, and is being detained pending trial.  The original complaint filed in court alleges that on February 12, 2021, Ellis engaged in sexually graphic online chats with an undercover law enforcement officer posing as a 13-year-old girl.  During those chats, Ellis sent an image of an erect penis to the officer.  In another online chat in January of 2022, Ellis sent to the undercover officer an image of a nude, prepubescent female child engaged in sexually explicit conduct.  

            The charges in the indictment are only allegations.  The defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

            The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Derry Police Department.

             In February 2006, the Department of Justice introduced Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

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            CONCORD - Patrick R. Baker, 32, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on February 23, 2020, Hooksett police officers were surveilling a local motel generally associated with drug use and distribution.  After an encounter with Baker, additional investigation revealed that Baker’s girlfriend was the subject of several outstanding warrants and was likely inside the motel with Baker. Officers went to the motel room and located Baker and his girlfriend.  Baker was located in the bathroom where officers observed evidence of drug use in plain view.  The room was secured and officers obtained a search warrant. While executing the warrant, officers seized Baker’s wallet and ID as well as a backpack belonging to Baker which contained a ledger consistent with drug activity, $1,951 in cash, a loaded 9mm handgun, and various baggies containing 112 grams of methamphetamine.     

            Baker is scheduled to be sentenced on June 22, 2022.  In addition to his sentence, Baker will forfeit $1,951 in cash and the handgun.

            “Armed drug traffickers pose a substantial threat to our community,” said U.S. Attorney Farley. “By selling a dangerous and addictive drug while armed, this defendant’s actions endangered public health and safety. We are working closely with our law enforcement partners to prevent violent crime by holding armed drug dealers responsible for their dangerous and illegal conduct.”

             This matter was investigated by the Hooksett Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joachim H. Barth.  The forfeiture portion of the case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Rabuck. 

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            CONCORD - Stuart Adams, 61, of Hooksett, was sentenced to 12 months and one day in federal prison for attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, in August, 2020, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) received information pertaining to a mobile application that allows users to exchange materials over the internet.  The information provided that a particular user, later identified as Adams, expressed interest in and was attempting contact with underage females.  Adams established contact with an undercover FBI agent (UC) with an online persona portraying a 13-year-old girl. The two maintained contact throughout the month of October 2020. 

            On October 19, 2020, Adams sent the UC sexually explicit pictures and a video of himself and engaged the UC in a sexually explicit conversation. A federal search warrant was executed at Adams’ home and many electronic devices were seized.  Forensic review revealed Adams was engaged in sexually-oriented chats with numerous minor females.  Adams denied ever meeting in person anyone he has chatted with online.

            Adams previously pleaded guilty on November 23, 2021.

            “The defendant’s conduct in this case was appalling,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “By seeking out young females for sexual conversations and sending explicit photographs to an individual that he believed to be a 13-year girl, the defendant engaged in unacceptable and illegal behavior.  Although this case is a painful reminder to parents of the dangers that lurk on the internet, it also demonstrates our ongoing commitment to working with the FBI and our other law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the predators who seek to use the internet to exploit children.”

            “Stuart Adams admitted to sending sexually explicit images of himself to underage girls over the course of several years and while today’s sentence doesn’t erase the harm he inflicted upon his victims, it does hold him accountable for engaging in criminal conduct,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “This case is another example of how easy it is for young people to become victims, and how the FBI’s Child Exploitation-Human Trafficking Task Force will do everything it can to protect them from predators.”

            This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kasey Weiland.

            In February 2006, the Department of Justice introduced Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

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            CONCORD - Dylan Greene, 40, of Dover, was sentenced to 72 months in federal prison for possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on June 11, 2020, a Dover police officer observed Greene conduct what appeared to be a drug transaction between two buildings in Dover.  Greene was subsequently stopped for a traffic violation. The officer learned Greene had a warrant for theft and he was arrested.  During a search incident to the arrest, the officer located 20 grams of fentanyl in Greene’s possession.

            On September 15, 2020, law enforcement officers received information that Greene would be traveling from Hampton to Dover transporting drugs. After observing Greene and another male interact in Hampton and then depart in a truck, officers made a traffic stop.  A later search of the truck pursuant to a search warrant yielded approximately 361 grams of fentanyl, $2,190 in cash, and various items indicative of drug trafficking, including drug ledgers.       

            “Despite fentanyl’s deadly impact in our state, heartless drug dealers continue to sell this dangerous drug in our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “Drug traffickers who choose to do business in New Hampshire should understand that there will be significant penalties for their unlawful conduct.  We are working closely with our law enforcement partners to protect public safety by holding drug dealers responsible for their crimes.”

            “Dylan Greene will now spend the next six years behind bars after being caught red-handed trafficking fentanyl, furthering the scourge of opioids in our communities, for his own personal profit,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “This case is a testament to the strength of our law enforcement partnerships in New Hampshire and illustrates how there really is no such thing as a routine traffic stop.”

            This matter was investigated by the Dover Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Gingrande.

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            CONCORD - Edwin Quezada, 33, of Lawrence, Massachusetts pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiracy to transfer firearms to an out-of-state resident by unlicensed persons, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

             According to court documents and statements made in court, a New Hampshire resident agreed to sell firearms to a resident of Massachusetts. Quezada agreed to act as an intermediary for the Massachusetts resident.  On multiple occasions, Quezada traveled to New Hampshire to pick up firearms to deliver to the Massachusetts resident. None of the individuals involved were licensed importers, manufacturers, dealers or collectors of firearms.  As part of the scheme, Guzman obtained at least six handguns.

            Quezada is scheduled to be sentenced on June 15, 2022.

            “To protect citizens from violent crime, it is important to enforce federal laws regarding firearms,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “Those who seek to buy guns unlawfully often are planning to use them to commit crimes.  In our effort to protect public safety and prevent violence, we are working closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who participate in unlawful gun trafficking.”

             This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Debra Walsh.

             The case is part of ATF’s Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative, which is a federally-funded program intended to reduce gun violence through law enforcement training, public education, and aggressive law enforcement efforts to investigate and prosecute gun-related crimes. 

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            CONCORD – United States Attorney John J. Farley announced that the United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit has rejected Edward Brown’s appeal of his 300-month prison sentence.

            Brown, 79, formerly of Plainfield, was convicted in 2009 of a series of offenses arising from his role in leading an armed standoff with the United Marshals Service after his conviction and sentencing for tax-related charges.  Brown was initially sentenced to 444 months of imprisonment for his role in the standoff.  Because of new legal precedent from the United States Supreme Court, one of Brown's convictions was no longer valid and he was entitled to be resentenced.  At his resentencing, the court imposed a 300-month prison sentence.

            In a 45-page opinion issued on Wednesday, the Court of Appeals rejected Brown’s argument that the district judge erred by imposing a 300-month sentence. 

            “Thanks to this decision, Edward Brown will remain in federal prison, which is exactly where he belongs,” said U.S. Attorney Farley. “Brown’s dangerous and reckless actions could have led to an extensive loss of life. This lengthy sentence holds him accountable for his criminal conduct and ensures that he cannot endanger lives in the Granite State again.”

             This case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service with substantial assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Internal Revenue Service, the New Hampshire State Police, the Plainfield Police Department, the Lebanon Police Department, and the Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office.  The appeal was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth R. Aframe. 

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            CONCORD - Dylan Miles, 28, of Laconia, pleaded guilty on Tuesday in federal court to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on May 9, 2019, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents received information about a suspicious parcel sent from Phoenix, Arizona, to New Hampshire addressed to Miles in Laconia. After obtaining a warrant to open the package, investigators found a stereo system with vacuum-sealed bags containing over 665 grams of methamphetamine.

            Investigators obtained an anticipatory search warrant for Miles’ residence and on May 10, 2019, conducted a controlled delivery of the package with the drugs removed.  Once Miles took the package into the residence, agents executed the warrant and located methamphetamine, drug distribution materials, and firearms.  Miles is prohibited from possessing firearms due to a prior felony conviction.   

            Miles is scheduled to be sentenced on May 24, 2022.  

            “Methamphetamine is an extremely dangerous drug that is threatening large and small communities throughout New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “When methamphetamine traffickers are armed, the risk to public safety is greatly increased.  Good law enforcement work prevented this large quantity of methamphetamine from being sold in the Granite State and put this armed drug dealer out of business.”

            This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, the New Hampshire State Police, the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Drug Task Force, the Hartford, Vermont Police Department, and the Lebanon Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Krasinski.

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            CONCORD - Kyle Amaral, 29, of Center Ossipee, pleaded guilty on Tuesday in federal court to sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, in February 2021, investigators identified a series of chats involving images and videos of child sexual abuse that were posted by Amaral over a social networking platform. Evidence obtained through the execution of search warrants at his residence and the social networking platform confirmed that Amaral created images and videos of child sexual abuse at his residence, which he later distributed to other individuals over the social networking platform.

            Amaral is scheduled to be sentenced on May 24, 2022. 

            “Sexual exploitation of children is a horrific crime,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “By sexually abusing minors and distributing videos of these terrible acts, this defendant stole the innocence of his victims and caused immeasurable harm. To protect the safety of our community’s children, we work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who victimize young people in the Granite State.”

            "The NH Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force is proud to work with our local and federal law enforcement partners in an effort to fight child exploitation,” said Lt. Eric Kinsman, Commander, NH ICAC Task Force. “NH ICAC urges parents to talk to their kids about internet safety and to not hesitate to reach out to law enforcement for help.  Helpful resources can be found at nhicac.org."

            “The abuse and exploitation of a child is among the cruelest and most heinous crimes our agents investigate. The children who are preyed upon will live with the effects of this trauma for the rest of their lives,” said Matthew Millhollin, Special Agent in Charge for the Homeland Security Investigations’ Boston Field Office. “HSI is proud to work with the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force to detect crimes like these and hold the perpetrators to account to prevent them from inflicting more harm.”

            This matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cam Le.

            In February 2006, the Department of Justice introduced Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

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            CONCORD - Christopher Kelley, 45, of Gonic, pleaded guilty in federal court to three counts of bank robbery and one count of attempted bank robbery, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, between September 11, 2020, and October 9, 2020, Kelley committed three bank robberies in Rochester. He attempted to rob another bank in Wolfeboro on October 13, 2020.  In each of the incidents, Kelley claimed to have a bomb.

            Kelley is scheduled to be sentenced on May 23, 2022.

            “Bank robberies are violent crimes that endanger innocent people and cause untold emotional damage to bank employees and bystanders,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “By robbing multiple banks while claiming to have a bomb, this defendant left behind victims in each location who may be affected by these incidents for years to come.  As this case demonstrates, we are working closely with our law enforcement partners to fight back against violent crime and to hold violent criminals accountable for their unlawful and dangerous conduct.”

            “Today, Christopher Kelley finally admitted to putting innocent bystanders in fear for their lives when he walked into four different banks in Rochester and Wolfeboro, claiming he had a bomb, and demanding cash from the tellers,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division.  “While no one was physically injured, Mr. Kelley’s actions have had a lasting impact on everyone who was there. That’s why the FBI and our law enforcement partners will do everything possible to seek justice for the victims and protect the public from violent criminals like him.”

             This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Rochester Police Department and Wolfeboro Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anna Krasinski and Aaron Gingrande.

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            CONCORD - Christopher R Ross, a/k/a Chris R. Ross, 41, of Waterboro, Maine pleaded guilty in federal court to distribution of fentanyl, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on July 2, 2020, and July 8, 2020, at the direction of agents, a cooperating individual arranged through text and phone conversations to purchase fentanyl from Ross at two separate locations in Rochester. 

            Ross is scheduled to be sentenced on May 24, 2022.

            “To protect our community from harm, we are working closely with our law enforcement partners to identify the criminals who are distributing fentanyl and other deadly drugs in New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “By prosecuting the drug traffickers who are seeking to profit from drug sales, we are helping to improve the quality of life in the Granite State.”

            “Fentanyl is a deadly drug that continues to cause significant harm in communities throughout New Hampshire,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “In identifying and disrupting dealers like Mr. Ross, the FBI and our law enforcement partners are able to prevent traffickers like him from continuing to endanger public health and safety.”

            This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joachim H. Barth.

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         CONCORD - Jeffrey Paul Hatch, 42, of Savannah, Georgia, formerly of Manchester, was sentenced to three years of probation for using a telephone to facilitate drug trafficking, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, federal, state and local law enforcement officers conducted an investigation in 2017 of fentanyl traffickers, including an individual in Lawrence, Massachusetts who provided quantities of fentanyl to a Manchester-based fentanyl trafficker.  Couriers assisted the Manchester-based trafficker by transporting drugs and money.  On July 25, 2017, Hatch used his cellular telephone to arrange to pick up fentanyl from the Massachusetts-based trafficker on behalf of the Manchester-based trafficker.  

            From 2002 to 2005, Hatch played in the National Football League for the New York Giants and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.     

            Hatch previously pleaded guilty on August 1, 2019.  In addition to his probationary sentence, Hatch was ordered to pay a $5,000 fine.  

            “Fentanyl is a deadly drug that has been responsible for hundreds of overdose deaths and has damaged countless individuals and their families in New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “As this case demonstrates, people from all walks of life can end up participating in the illegal drug trade.  As a result of his illegal conduct, this professional athlete is now a convicted felon.  I hope that his experience serves as a lesson to young people about the dangers of fentanyl and the consequences of drug trafficking.”

            “Homeland Security Investigations is proud to work closely with our law enforcement partners to uncover and disrupt trafficking networks that bring fentanyl and other deadly drugs into New England,” said Matthew Millhollin, Special Agent in Charge for the Homeland Security Investigations’ Boston Field Office. 

            This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, Portsmouth Police Department, New Hampshire State Police, and Manchester Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer Cole Davis and Seth R. Aframe.

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            CONCORD - Thomas Blanchette, 45, of Farmington, was sentenced to 84 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and unlawful possession of a firearm, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, Blanchette conspired with others between approximately 2016 and December 20, 2018 to distribute fentanyl.  As part of the conspiracy, on November 17, 2017, a New Hampshire State Police (“NHSP”) trooper made a motor vehicle stop of co-conspirator Christopher Stearns’ vehicle after observing several motor vehicle violations.  Blanchette and his wife, co-conspirator Amy Blanchette, were passengers in the vehicle, along with another individual.   The trooper subsequently seized the vehicle, executed a search warrant, and seized 176 grams of fentanyl from a box near the rear passenger seat where Amy Blanchette had been seated.  Arrest warrants were obtained for Blanchette, Stearns and Amy Blanchette.

            On January 2, 2018, DEA agents observed Stearns and Thomas Blanchette in Stearns’ vehicle travel to the area of Lawrence, Massachusetts and return to New Hampshire a short time later.  A NHSP trooper stopped the vehicle and arrested Stearns and Thomas Blanchette on the outstanding arrest warrants.  The NHSP subsequently executed a search warrant on Stearns’ vehicle and seized over 28 grams of fentanyl.

            On December 20, 2018, DEA agents executed federal arrest warrants for Thomas and Amy Blanchette at their residence.  A search of the residence resulted in the seizure of quantities of fentanyl, cocaine, and several firearms.  Thomas Blanchette was prohibited from owning firearms due to a felony conviction in 2010.

            Blanchette previously pleaded guilty on June 9, 2021.  Amy Blanchette and Christopher Stearns also pleaded guilty and have been sentenced.

            “Fentanyl traffickers are selling a deadly substance that has caused immeasurable harm to the citizens of New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “When drug dealers are armed, the risk to the public is even greater.  As this case demonstrates, we are working closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the fentanyl dealers who peddle this dangerous substance in the Granite State.”

             This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the New Hampshire State Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the New Hampshire State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Cole Davis.

            This investigation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

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           CONCORD - Adrian Hardin, 27, of Manchester, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison for possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

           According to court documents and statements made in court, on June 5, 2020, Manchester police officers responded to a domestic violence call and observed Hardin inside the residence.  The caller advised police that Hardin possessed a firearm.  While speaking with the caller, officers observed Hardin walking away from the residence.  Officers followed Hardin and saw him run into a parking garage and exit moments later.  A police dog went through the garage and located a handgun in the area of the garage where an officer had observed Hardin. After his arrest, Hardin agreed to speak to officers and admitted he possessed the firearm.

           On March 18, 2021, Hardin was arrested by Merrimack police officers on a state warrant.  At the time, Hardin was driving a stolen vehicle.  After the vehicle was towed, an employee of the towing company located two loaded firearms in the center console.  Hardin is forbidden from possessing firearms and ammunition due to a previous felony conviction in 2016.    

           Hardin previously pleaded guilty on November 1, 2021.  He will serve his sentence concurrent to a state prison sentence.

           “To protect our community from violent crime, it is vital to keep guns out of the hands of criminals,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “This defendant’s possession of multiple firearms created a clear risk to public safety.  Thanks to good law enforcement work, this defendant has been held responsible for his unlawful conduct and our community has been protected from potential violence.”

            “The unlawful possession of firearms by a convicted felon is a violation of federal law that ATF takes very seriously as it threatens the safety of our communities,” said James M. Ferguson ATF Boston Special Agent in Charge.  “This investigation exemplifies ATF’s mission to work with our local and state law enforcement partners to combat the illegal possession of firearms, which in the wrong hands, could be used in crimes of violence against our citizens or law enforcement officers.” 

            This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Manchester Police Department, and the Merrimack Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Debra M Walsh.

            The case is part of ATF’s Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative, which is a federally-funded program intended to reduce gun violence through law enforcement training, public education, and aggressive law enforcement efforts to investigate and prosecute gun-related crimes. 

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            CONCORD - Jonathan Sargent, 39, of Manchester, was sentenced on Tuesday to 156 months in federal prison for possession of fentanyl and methamphetamine with intent to distribute and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on October 22, 2019, Manchester Police detectives and Drug Enforcement Administration agents executed a search warrant at Sargent’s apartment and arrested him on a warrant for distributing controlled substances.  The search revealed several assault-style rifles, a handgun, ammunition, cash, and other items consistent with drug trafficking.  Law enforcement officers also seized approximately 850 grams of methamphetamine and approximately 56 grams of fentanyl from Sargent’s apartment.     

            Sargent previously pleaded guilty on October 20, 2021.  As part of his plea, Sargent agreed to forfeit multiple firearms that were in his possession at the time of his arrest. 

            “This case demonstrates the danger that armed drug traffickers pose to our community,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “Not only was this defendant distributing significant quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl, but he also possessed multiple guns to further his drug trafficking activities.  These firearms could have been used to endanger innocent people.  Thanks to excellent law enforcement work, this armed drug dealer will spend 13 years in prison and will no longer be a threat to the citizens of Manchester.”

            This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Manchester Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joachim H. Barth and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander S. Chen.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Rabuck handled the forfeiture aspects of this case.

            This case is part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S.).  In July of 2018, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the creation of S.O.S., which is being implemented in the District of New Hampshire and nine other federal districts.  The goal of S.O.S. is to combat the large number of overdoses and deaths associated with fentanyl and other synthetic opioids.   In New Hampshire, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is focusing its efforts on prosecuting synthetic opioid trafficking cases arising in Hillsborough County, which includes Manchester and Nashua. 

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            CONCORD – United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today that Catholic Medical Center (CMC) has agreed to pay $3.8 million to resolve allegations that it violated the civil False Claims Act by providing free call coverage services to a cardiologist to induce patient referrals, in violation of the Anti-Kickback Statute.

            According to the settlement agreement, the United States asserted that CMC, a hospital in Manchester, paid its own cardiologists to cover for, and to be available to provide medical services for, another cardiologist’s patients when she was on vacation or otherwise unavailable.  The United States further alleged that CMC provided these call coverage services at no charge. The cardiologist who received the free call coverage referred millions of dollars in medical procedures and services to CMC over the decade in which the free services were provided.  Because CMC submitted claims for payment to Medicare, Medicaid, and other federal health care programs for the services referred by the cardiologist, the United States alleged that these claims were the result of unlawful kickbacks.

            “The False Claims Act and the Anti-Kickback Statute protect patients and federal health care programs from fraud and abuse by removing the corrupting influence of money,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “When patients are referred for medical services, those referrals should be based solely on medical need and not affected by financial considerations.  We work closely with our law enforcement partners to protect the integrity of federal health care programs and we will use all appropriate enforcement tools to combat health care fraud in New Hampshire.”

            “Kickback schemes can undermine our healthcare system, compromise medical decisions, and waste taxpayer dollars.  As today’s settlement makes clear, the FBI will aggressively investigate those who seek to bolster their bottom line by paying illegal kickbacks—whether directly or indirectly—to circumvent safeguards designed to protect the integrity of federal health care programs,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division.

            “Today’s settlement sends a clear message that these types of financial arrangements will not be tolerated. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to ensure that all medical providers properly follow health care rules and regulations,” said Phillip M. Coyne, Special Agent in Charge for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General. “I appreciate the partnership with the New Hampshire U.S. Attorney's Office in identifying and prosecuting this type of fraud.”

            "Protecting TRICARE, the health care program for active-duty military personnel, retirees, and dependents, is a top priority for the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General's Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS)," said Special Agent in Charge Patrick J. Hegarty, DCIS Northeast Field Office.  "When health care facilities submit claims to TRICARE for services that are driven by financial reasons and not strictly medical ones, it undermines the integrity of the TRICARE program.  Today's settlement agreement demonstrates the DCIS' ongoing commitment to work with the U.S. Attorney's Office, District of New Hampshire, to investigate health care fraud."

            The Anti-Kickback Statute makes it illegal for a hospital to pay physicians in exchange for referrals of government insured health care programs, such as Medicare, Medicaid, or Tricare.  It arose out of congressional concern that remuneration given to those who can influence health care decisions would result in the provision of medically unnecessary services, or services of poor quality or otherwise harmful to patients. 

            The False Claims Act permits whistleblowers to file civil lawsuits alleging that false claims have been submitted to the United States. This False Claims Act settlement resolves allegations originally brought in a lawsuit filed by a whistleblower, David Goldberg, M.D., a former CMC employee, who is represented by Douglas, Leonard & Garvey, P.C.  As part of the settlement the whistleblower will receive a portion of the settlement amount.

            CMC did not admit liability as part of this settlement agreement.

            This case was investigated by the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Office of Inspector General of the Department of Defense, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Raphael Katz.

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            CONCORD - Robert Audette, 32, of Manchester, was sentenced to 96 months in federal prison for possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on July 12, 2019, Manchester police detectives executed a search warrant at an apartment Audette shared with his girlfriend, Quinn Pollock.  A search of their room yielded $1,200 in counterfeit currency, drug paraphernalia, various drugs, and a loaded 9 mm handgun in the bed headboard.  A search of Pollock’s vehicle revealed a backpack that Audette had been seen carrying during police surveillance.  Officers had observed Audette place the backpack into the vehicle just prior to the search. The backpack contained a scale, 9 mm ammunition, and baggies containing over 40 grams of fentanyl.  

            Audette previously pleaded guilty on October 18, 2021.  Pollock pleaded guilty to drug charges on November 20, 2020, an received a time-served sentence.    

            “Armed drug dealers present a serious threat to public health and safety,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “Fentanyl traffickers endanger the community by selling a potent and deadly substance.  When these drug peddlers are armed with firearms, the risk of violence and death is further increased. As this case demonstrates, we are working closely with the Manchester Police Department to identify and prosecute armed drug traffickers and hold them accountable for their unlawful conduct.”

            This matter was investigated by the Manchester Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joachim H. Barth.

            This case is part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S.).  In July of 2018, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the creation of S.O.S., which is being implemented in the District of New Hampshire and nine other federal districts.  The goal of S.O.S. is to combat the large number of overdoses and deaths associated with fentanyl and other synthetic opioids.   In New Hampshire, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is focusing its efforts on prosecuting synthetic opioid trafficking cases arising in Hillsborough County, which includes Manchester and Nashua. 

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Department Strategy Supports National Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking

           On Monday, U.S. Attorney General Merrick B. Garland released the Justice Department’s new National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking pursuant to the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act.

           Rooted in the foundational pillars and priorities of the interagency National Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking, which President Biden released on Dec. 3, 2021, the Justice Department's National Strategy is expansive in scope.  It aims to enhance the department's capacity to prevent human trafficking; to prosecute human trafficking cases; and to support and protect human trafficking victims and survivors.

           “Human trafficking is an insidious crime,” said Attorney General Garland. “Traffickers exploit and endanger some of the most vulnerable members of our society and cause their victims unimaginable harm. The Justice Department’s new National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking will bring the full force of the Department to this fight.”

            “This national strategy will enhance the important work that is already being done in New Hampshire to combat human trafficking,” said U.S. Attorney John J. Farley.  “Through the New Hampshire Human Trafficking Collaborative Task Force, we work closely with a broad coalition of entities to address human trafficking using a victim-centered, trauma-informed, and culturally-responsive approach.  This joint effort is not just focused on prosecuting human traffickers.  It is a comprehensive approach that includes training citizens to identify victims of human trafficking and providing victims with the assistance they need to escape from harmful situations and rebuild their lives.”

            Among other things, the Justice Department’s multi-year strategy to combat all forms of human trafficking will:

•        Strengthen engagement, coordination and joint efforts to combat human trafficking by prosecutors in all 94 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and by federal law enforcement agents nationwide.
•        Establish federally-funded, locally-led anti-human trafficking task forces that support sustained state law enforcement leadership and comprehensive victim assistance.
•        Step up departmental efforts to end forced labor by increasing attention, resources and coordination in labor trafficking investigations and prosecutions.
•        Enhance initiatives to reduce vulnerability of American Indians and Alaska Natives to violent crime, including human trafficking, and to locate missing children.
•        Develop and implement new victim screening protocols to identify potential human trafficking victims during law enforcement operations and encourage victims to share important information.
•        Increase capacity to provide victim-centered assistance to trafficking survivors, including by supporting efforts to deliver financial restoration to victims.
•        Expand dissemination of federal human trafficking training, guidance and expertise.
•        Advance innovative demand-reduction strategies.

           The department’s strategy will be implemented under the direction of the National Human Trafficking Coordinator designated by the Attorney General in accordance with the Abolish Human Trafficking Act of 2017.

            If you believe that you or someone you know may be a victim of human trafficking, please contact the National Human Trafficking Resource Center Hotline at 1-888-373-7888, or Text 233733.

            To read the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking click here.

            For more information about the New Hampshire Human Trafficking Collaborative Task Force, please visit:  https://www.nhhumantraffickingtaskforce.com/

# # #

           CONCORD –Joshua Fields, 39, of Manchester was indicted by a federal grand jury on Monday and charged with bank robbery, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

           Fields is presently detained in Massachusetts on unrelated charges.   

           The indictment filed in court alleges that on December 29, 2021, Fields robbed a Citizens Bank branch located in Londonderry, New Hampshire.

           An indictment is only an allegation.  The defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

           The case was investigated by the Londonderry Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

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           CONCORD - Tara Hoisington, 34, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court to two charges of possessing drugs with intent to distribute, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

           According to court documents and statements made in court, on July 20, 2020, a Manchester police officer was surveilling a house that was known to be used for drug activity and observed a vehicle operated by Hoisington leave the location.  After stopping the vehicle for a traffic violation, the officer observed a crack pipe on the driver’s seat.  Hoisington refused consent to search the vehicle.  When the officer told her he would seek a search warrant, she asked for the $10,000 in the trunk that she claimed to be holding for a friend.  After the officer denied her request, Hoisington and her passenger walked away from the scene.

           Officers later obtained a search warrant for the vehicle and found $14,293.92, scales, cellphones, fentanyl, and crack cocaine. A data extraction of Hoisington’s cellphone included communications related to drug distribution.

           On August 24, 2020, Manchester police officers again stopped Hoisington for a traffic violation.  After the stop, Hoisington was arrested on outstanding warrants. After her arrest, Hoisington admitted that drugs were in the car.  A search pursuant to a warrant yielded $3,120, packaging materials, cellphones, methamphetamine, and approximately 140 grams of fentanyl.  She further admitted to drug distribution activities and confirmed the $14,293.29 that had been previously recovered from her vehicle was the proceeds of drug trafficking. 

           Hoisington is scheduled to be sentenced on June 1, 2022.

           “Drug traffickers continue to threaten public safety in Manchester by seeking to profit from the sale of deadly substances,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “Through Operation SOS, we are working closely with the Manchester Police Department to identify and prosecute the criminals who are selling fentanyl and other dangerous drugs in the Queen City.  These important enforcement efforts are taking drug dealers off the street and sending the message that those who choose to sell drugs in Manchester will face substantial consequences in federal court.”        

            This matter was investigated by the Manchester Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joachim H. Barth.

            This case is part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S.).  In July of 2018, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the creation of S.O.S., which is being implemented in the District of New Hampshire and nine other federal districts.  The goal of S.O.S. is to combat the large number of overdoses and deaths associated with fentanyl and other synthetic opioids.   In New Hampshire, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is focusing its efforts on prosecuting synthetic opioid trafficking cases arising in Hillsborough County, which includes Manchester and Nashua. 

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            CONCORD - Raymond Ted Estes, 56, of Candia, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for distributing and possessing child sexual abuse material, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 18, 2019, a Federal Bureau of Investigation undercover agent logged into a website known to be involved in the sexual exploitation of minors.  Through the investigation, agents identified the defendant as one administrator for the website and determined that the defendant distributed child sexual abuse images to the undercover agent and others.  Following additional investigation, on June 5, 2019, agents executed a federal search warrant for Estes’ residence.  After agreeing to speak to agents, Estes admitted to uploading and downloading images of child sexual abuse material and that the images were on his phone and his gaming computer.  In total, approximately 22,000 images/videos of child sexual exploitation were located on the defendant’s devices, from which 1207 images and 75 videos of known victims of child sexual exploitation were identified by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.   

            “By possessing thousands of child exploitation images and distributing them online, this defendant perpetuated the abuse of the children who appeared in these horrific images,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “This substantial prison sentence demonstrates that these crimes are unacceptable.  We will continue to work closely with the FBI and all our law enforcement partners to protect children from exploitation and pursue federal prosecutions of those who possess or distribute child sexual abuse material.”

            "Sadly, online predators like Raymond Estes who exploit children are becoming too common. Today’s sentence should make it crystal clear that there is nowhere in cyberspace they can escape justice,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “The FBI is grateful for our collaborative partnerships across the state, and in this case the Candia Police Department, as we continue to combat crimes against New Hampshire’s youth.”

             Estes previously pleaded guilty on October 25, 2021. He was also ordered to pay $26,000 in restitution and to forfeit computer media.  Once his sentence is completed, Estes will be under supervised release for five years. 

            This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Candia Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cam Le.  The forfeiture portion of the matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Rabuck. 

            In February 2006, the Department of Justice introduced Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

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            CONCORD – United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today that Rite Aid has agreed to pay $30,000 in civil monetary penalties to resolve allegations that it violated the Controlled Substances Act when its pharmacists filled forged prescriptions at a Rite Aid store in Manchester.

            In the agreement, Maxi Drug North, Inc. d/b/a Rite Aid agreed to pay $30,000 to resolve allegations that its pharmacists filled 15 forged prescriptions for the same individual at its location at Mammoth Road in Manchester between October of 2016 and March of 2018. 

            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 Rite Aid should have known that they were presented with invalid prescriptions that should not have been filled. 

            Rite Aid denied liability in this matter and cooperated with the government’s investigation.

            “Criminals use a wide variety of methods to obtain controlled substances, including passing forged prescriptions,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “When pharmacies dispense controlled substances to customers, they have an obligation to ensure that the prescriptions they fill are legitimate.  If a pharmacy does not adequately scrutinize prescriptions, potentially dangerous drugs can be diverted to unlawful uses that jeopardize public safety.  We will use the Controlled Substances Act and all available tools to protect public health and safety in the Granite State.  I am grateful to the DEA’s diversion investigators for their investigative work in this case and their ongoing efforts to protect the residents of New Hampshire.”

            The case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Raphael Katz.  The matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration.

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            CONCORD, N.H. –Laveneur Jackson, 41, of Lowell, Massachusetts, was sentenced to 66 months in federal prison for unlawfully possessing a firearm on two separate occasions.  Jackson was found guilty by a federal jury on September 28, 2021.

            According to trial exhibits and witness testimony during the two-day jury trial, Jackson was prohibited from possessing firearms due to multiple prior felony convictions.  Despite this, on two separate occasions in December of 2016, Jackson unlawfully obtained firearms by having an acquaintance purchase them for him at two separate federally licensed gun stores in New Hampshire.  Jackson then sold the guns to others in Massachusetts. 

            “When convicted felons get their hands on guns, they present a grave risk to the public,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “By obtaining guns unlawfully and selling them in Massachusetts, the defendant not only committed a serious crime, but also put guns into the hands of others who may use them to commit crimes of violence.  To protect public safety, we work closely with the ATF and our other law enforcement partners to prosecute gun crimes and keep dangerous felons off the streets.”

            “ATF remains dedicated to investigating violent crime and disrupting straw purchasing schemes and today’s sentence is yet another example of the commitment we have made to tirelessly pursue those who violate federal firearms laws.” said James M. Ferguson Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Boston Field Division. “Together, with our law enforcement partners, we will continue to take measures to ensure the safety of our communities and stop the flow of guns to individuals who cannot legally purchase them.”

            This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Manchester Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Anna Krasinski and Seth R. Aframe, as well as former Assistant United States Attorney Shane B. Kelbley. 

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            CONCORD - Chad Rombow, 47, of Grafton, pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, methamphetamine, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on May 9, 2019, Drug Enforcement Administration agents received information about a suspicious package sent from Phoenix, Arizona to New Hampshire addressed to an individual in Lebanon (Person 1). After obtaining a warrant, investigators opened the package and found over 336 grams of methamphetamine.

            Investigators obtained a search warrant for Person 1’s residence.  On May 10, 2019, after removing the drugs from the package, the investigators conducted a controlled delivery of the package.  A co-defendant collected the package from the porch of the residence.  Investigators subsequently learned that Rombow paid the co-defendant in methamphetamine to pick up packages of methamphetamine for him.  Rombow intended to further distribute the methamphetamine that was in the package.

            Rombow is scheduled to be sentenced on May 5, 2022.

            “Drug traffickers have been flooding New Hampshire with large quantities of methamphetamine,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “This dangerous and addictive drug is being brought into our state by drug dealers who are seeking to profit from the misery caused by this illegal substance.  As this case demonstrates, we are working closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the criminals who are bringing this drug into the Granite State and distributing it in our communities.”

            “Rombow conspired to bring methamphetamine—a drug that has caused death and destruction in communities across the United States— into New Hampshire. HSI is proud to work alongside our local and federal partners to keep dangerous drugs out of New England,” said Matthew Millhollin, Special Agent in Charge for the Homeland Security Investigations’ Boston Field Office, which covers all of New England. 

            This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, the New Hampshire State Police, the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Drug Task Force, the Hartford, Vermont Police Department, and the Lebanon Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Krasinski.

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            William Guerrero, 20, of Brighton, Massachusetts was arrested today on a complaint charging him with participating in a conspiracy to steal firearms from federally licensed firearm dealers, U.S. Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to the complaint, law enforcement agents have been investigating a series of efforts to conduct burglaries at federally licensed firearms dealers on January 22 and 23, 2022.  On January 23, 2022, at approximately 5:00 a.m., a vehicle pulled into the front of a firearms business in Hooksett, New Hampshire.  Four males were captured on video surveillance attempting to gain access to the store by smashing a window of the rear door, but were unable to gain access. Similar attempted burglaries occurred at firearms dealers on January 22, 2022, in Salem, Plaistow, and Kingston. 

            Guerrero was arrested on January 24, 2022, in Massachusetts.  Guerrero had an initial appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge and was detained pending further proceedings.

            The investigation is ongoing.  Members of the public with information about these crimes are encouraged to contact the ATF at 1-800-ATF-GUNS.

            This matter is investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and multiple local and state police agencies in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana MacDonald.

            The charges in the complaint are only allegations.  The defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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            CONCORD - Zachary Cote, 24, of Franklin, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison for possession of child sexual abuse material, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on October 27, 2020, a federal search warrant was executed at a residence in Franklin where Cote was residing.  The investigation stemmed from activity that occurred on a social media platform through an account that resolved back to Cote. Various electronic devices were seized during the search.  Forensic review of the devices revealed the presence of over 2,500 images and over 300 videos depicting child sexual exploitation material.

            During a consensual interview, Cote admitted viewing and possessing child sexual abuse material on his phone and trading the material with others online. 

            Cote previously pleaded guilty on September 20, 2021.  Cote was ordered to pay $26,000 in restitution and will be under supervised release for eight years after the completion of his sentence. 

            “Protecting the innocence of children is one of the foremost obligations of law enforcement,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “Those who possess and distribute graphic sexual images of children are drawing pleasure from horrific acts of child abuse and committing a serious federal crime.  In our ongoing effort to protect young people from abuse, we will continue to work closely with the FBI and all of our law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute crimes related to images of child sexual abuse.”

            “Now more than ever, our children need to be protected from predators seeking to exploit their innocence. Today’s sentence helps us do that by keeping Zachary Cote behind bars for quite some time. By his own admission, Mr. Cote had four phones filled with thousands of explicit images and hundreds of videos depicting kids under the age of 12 being sexually abused,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “Sadly, his despicable actions revictimized the minors featured in these images and videos all over again. Investigating violent crimes against children is a top priority of ours at the FBI, and this case exemplifies how we will work with our law enforcement partners to ensure people like him are brought to justice.”

            This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance by the Franklin Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kasey Weiland.

             In February 2006, the Department of Justice introduced Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

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            CONCORD - Charles Paul Jansen, 36, of Pittsfield, was sentenced on Tuesday to 97 months in federal prison for distribution of child pornography, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on April 11, 2020, an undercover officer (UC) was conducting an investigation on Kik in an attempt to identify individuals using the platform to exchange child sexual abuse material.  Kik is a social media platform that facilitates communication by users over the internet.  The UC identified an individual who posted an image to a Kik group devoted to the exchange of child sexual abuse material.  Further investigation indicated identified Jansen as the individual who posted the image.  A search warrant was executed at his residence in Pittsfield.  During a voluntary interview, Jansen admitted using Kik and other online applications to view, download, and store pornographic images, some of which contained child sexual abuse material.  Jansen also admitted to committing contact sexual offenses against two children.

            Jansen previously pleaded guilty on October 8, 2021.  After serving his prison sentence, he will be on supervised release for 5 years.

            “Child pornography crimes are particularly harmful offenses that cause incalculable damage to young victims,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “While distributing child sexual abuse material is a serious crime, this defendant’s behavior was even more egregious because he admitted to sexually abusing two children.  This substantial sentence holds Mr. Jansen accountable for his conduct and ensures that he cannot harm any more children.  To protect the safety of innocent children, we work closely with the FBI and our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the predators who prey on children and distribute child pornography so they cannot cause more harm in our community.”

            “Charles Jansen is a predator who admitted to sexually abusing two children, and using online platforms to view, download, and share images of child sexual abuse. What he did is absolutely despicable, and he is without a doubt, a serious danger to the community. While today’s sentence will keep him behind bars for quite some time, it will never make up for the lifetime of painful memories and harm he has inflicted on his victims and their families,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “Cases like this one fuel the FBI’s commitment to identify, investigate, and hold others like him accountable.”

            This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pittsfield Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kasey Weiland.

             In February 2006, the Department of Justice introduced Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

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            CONCORD - Nicholas Jewett, 30, formerly of Woburn, Massachusetts, pleaded guilty on Tuesday in federal court to transportation of stolen property and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on August 26, 2020, Salem police responded to a report of suspicious activity involving a Cadillac at a motel.  The officer sought to speak to Jewett, who was the operator of the Cadillac.  Although, Jewett initially ignored the officer, the officer was able to stop him and approached the vehicle. 

            Jewett initially provided incorrect identifying information and was placed under arrest.  He had an empty gun holster in his possession.  The Cadillac was later searched pursuant to a warrant.  Investigators found that the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) was covered up with a label containing a fraudulent VIN.  Investigators determined that the vehicle had been stolen from a Woburn car dealership.  Also located in the vehicle was a .22 caliber handgun with an obliterated serial number and a key fob for a Ford Fusion.

            Further investigation revealed that Jewett had presented a false identity to rent the Fusion in Nashua on August 5, 2020.  The car was never returned and was later reported stolen.  The Fusion was subsequently located in a parking lot in Woburn on September 8, 2020.

            Jewett is scheduled to be sentenced on April 28, 2022.

            “When an armed criminal like this defendant appears at a motel while possessing a handgun and operating a stolen car, the risk to public safety is substantial,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “Thanks to good police work, this criminal was stopped in his tracks before he could do more harm.  This case is a great example of the way that law enforcement agencies work together to investigate crimes and protect the public from potential violence.”

            “This case is a good example of what police officers face every day and how there is no such thing as a routine car stop. Today, Nicholas Jewett admitted to possessing two stolen vehicles, fake IDs, and a handgun with an obliterated serial number that he went to great lengths to conceal,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “The FBI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to keep guns out of the hands of criminals and reduce violent crime in our communities.”

            This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Salem Police Department, Woburn Police Department, and Nashua Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Rombeau.

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            CONCORD - Sean R.  Meola, 51, of Hampton, was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison for unlawful possession of ammunition and 10 additional months for a supervised release violation, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on January 17, 2021, Hampton police officers responded to a domestic disturbance at Meola’s residence.  Officers encountered an injured victim who reported that Meola had assaulted her and threatened to shoot her approximately two days earlier.  The victim reported that Meola had a 9mm handgun. Officers obtained a search warrant for Meola’s residence.  Officers seized 18 rounds of 9mm ammunition from the residence.  Meola is legally prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition by virtue of prior felony convictions. 

            At the time of the offense, Meola was on federal supervised release for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.  He has prior federal convictions for bank robbery and using a firearm during a crime of violence.

            Meola previously pleaded guilty on August 16, 2021.  

            “To protect the public from violent crime, it is imperative that we keep firearms and ammunition out of the hands of criminals,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “This dangerous felon committed multiple prior gun-related crimes and yet continued to possess ammunition while on federal supervised release.  Such unlawful conduct threatens public safety and will not be tolerated.  As this case demonstrates, we work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute violent criminals whose conduct threatens the residents of New Hampshire.”

            “Keeping firearms and ammunition out of the hands of dangerous criminal offenders is one of the ATF’s top priorities,” said James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge ATF Boston Field Division.  “This is especially important when it comes to individuals who commit domestic violence. ATF is committed to aggressively pursuing individuals who are prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition, this is another way we prevent gun violence in our communities.”

             This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Hampton Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cam Le.

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            CONCORD – Santo Benito Lara, 48, of Lawrence, Massachusetts was sentenced on Monday to 120 months in federal prison for participating in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.  Lara was convicted by a federal jury on May 10, 2019.

            Evidence presented during the four-day trial showed that beginning at least in May of 2018, the defendant participated in a conspiracy to sell fentanyl to a customer in Salem, New Hampshire.  After the DEA received information about the conspiracy, it began an investigation into the Lara's activities.  Between May and September of 2018, Lara and another individual sold fentanyl in Lawrence to a cooperating individual on multiple occasions.

            Lara will likely face removal from the United States after serving his sentence. 

            “Drug traffickers who come to New Hampshire to sell fentanyl are endangering the lives of our state’s residents,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “This ten-year sentence demonstrates that those who sell fentanyl in the Granite State will be held accountable for their unlawful conduct.  We will continue to work closely with the DEA and all our law enforcement partners to protect public safety by identifying and prosecuting the drug dealers who seek to profit from selling deadly substances in New Hampshire.”

            This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the New Hampshire State Police and the Essex County (MA) Sheriff’s Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anna Dronzek and Jarad Hodes.

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