District of New Hampshire

            CONCORD - Paul Gracey, 57, formerly of Vermont, pleaded guilty on Monday in federal court to theft of government funds, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, in October 2014, Gracey was found disabled and eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) through the Social Security Administration (SSA).  With limited exception, SSI benefits are available only to U.S. residents.  Beneficiaries who leave the United States for more than 30 days or more consecutively are not considered to be back in the United States until the individual resides in the United States again for 30 days in a row. 

            Gracey was required to report certain changes, including whether he moved, within 10 days after the month the change took place.  He moved to Mexico by February 2017 and was required to report that change to the SSA by March 2017.  However, he never informed SSA of his move.  Therefore, he was ineligible for SSI benefits until he reestablished residency in the United States.

            Facebook records showed that Gracey admitted to living in Mexico between February 2017 and May 2021 to multiple people.  During this timeframe, Gracey also asked several people in the United States to let him report their addresses to SSA as his own to cause the SSA to continue paying him SSI benefits.  Due to his improperly reporting false addresses to the SSA, Gracey obtained $37,743 in SSI benefits he was not entitled to receive.  

            Gracey is scheduled to be sentenced on April 26, 2022.

            “Federal benefits provide important financial support to qualified individuals,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “Those who lie to obtain federal benefits are committing a serious federal crime.  By moving to Mexico and creating a web of lies to continue to obtain SSI benefits, this defendant stole federal funds.  Thanks to the hard work of the Office of the Inspector General, he is now being held accountable for his criminal conduct.”

            “Supplemental Security Income is a needs-based safety net for the most vulnerable among us; Mr. Gracey intentionally concealed his living arrangements for several years to fraudulently receive benefits that he was not entitled to receive,” said Gail S. Ennis, Inspector General for the Social Security Administration.  “My office will continue to hold accountable those who improperly obtain Social Security benefits.  I thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander S. Chen for prosecuting this case.” 

            This matter was investigated by the Social Security Administration’s Office of the Inspector General.  The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander S. Chen.

###

            CONCORD - Christopher Pierro, 29, of North Hampton, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 3, 2020, postal inspectors and police officers executed a search warrant at Pierro’s North Hampton residence.  Investigators located nearly $80,000 in cash, a Rolex watch and other jewelry, body armor, drug packaging materials and an extensive amount of packaging consistent with mailed parcels.  Investigators also located over 84 grams of methamphetamine. 

            Pierro previously pleaded guilty on August 3, 2021.  Following his arrest, Pierro forfeited cash, cryptocurrency, and a substantial amount of additional property.    

            “Methamphetamine traffickers seek to reap profits from selling a very dangerous drug,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute these drug dealers and hold them responsible for their unlawful activities.”

            This matter was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John S. Davis.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Rabuck assisted in the forfeiture portion of the case.

###

             CONCORD – Christopher Yule, 30, and Jacob Brady, 30, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court to drug trafficking charges and related charges, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.  Yule pleaded guilty two counts of possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.  Brady pleaded guilty to participating in a conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.

             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 officers observed her drive to Lawrence and park in an area known as a distribution “hot spot.”  A vehicle registered to 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 the police for a traffic violation and suspicion of drug activity.  Brady was the driver of the vehicle. Yule and Brady 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 drugs.  He further disclosed the drugs were in the glove compartment. 

            During the encounter, an officer observed through the window a tied-off glassine baggie protruding from a side compartment area.  It contained a powder that appeared to be fentanyl.  Yule consented to a search of the vehicle and officers located over 78 grams of fentanyl and over six grams of cocaine base. 

            On March 27, 2021, Hooksett police officers responded to a call reporting a male “passed out” in a rental van in a hotel parking lot known as a hot spot for drug activity in Hooksett.  The caller stated a needle and firearm were visible in the vehicle.  Officers found Yule slumped over in the driver’s seat with a needle and tourniquet visible next to him.  Officers also saw a firearm in the open driver’s door compartment.  After securing the firearm, they woke Yule.

            Officers learned that Yule was a convicted felon and he was placed under arrest.  During a search incident to arrest, officers located syringes in his pockets, $3,170 in his wallet and two small bags of suspected drugs, which Yule identified as “crack.” 

            On March 30, 2021, pursuant to a search warrant, officers searched the van and found over 58 grams of methamphetamine and over five grams of fentanyl.  They also located holsters, loaded 9mm magazines, and other firearm accessories.  

Yule and Brady are both scheduled to be sentenced on April 15, 2022.

            “Drug trafficking continues to endanger the health and welfare of the residents of Manchester and other communities in New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “Armed drug dealers are an even greater danger because their illegal behavior increases the risk of violence.  By working with the Manchester Police Department to prosecute drug dealers like Yule and Brady, we are improving public safety in Manchester and throughout the Granite State.”

            This matter was investigated by the Manchester Police Department and the Hooksett 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. 

###

            CONCORD - Raylene Vaillancourt, 68, of Eliot, Maine sentenced to 24 months in federal prison for wire and mail fraud, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, Raylene Vaillancourt worked as the office manager for “Business A,” a limited liability company based in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Vaillancourt was responsible for accounting and making payments to vendors.

            Between at least April of 2009 and May of 2018, Vaillancourt embezzled money from Business A and its owner through various means, including: (a) making fraudulent checks drawn on Business A’s checking account; (b) making unauthorized transfers to her personal financial accounts for her personal expenses; and (c) making unauthorized online payments from Business A’s checking account to pay her personal credit card debt.  As part of Vaillancourt’s scheme, she altered Business A’s internal accounting records to conceal her embezzlement from her employer.  In total, Business A lost approximately $200,000 due to the defendant’s scheme. 

            Court documents also show that Vaillancourt stole money from at least three prior employers and previously was convicted of a federal charge of bank theft.

            Vaillancourt previously pleaded guilty on June 17, 2021.  In addition to her prison sentence, she was ordered to pay restitution and forfeit $203,106.32 to the United States. 

            “Like many white-collar criminals, this defendant took advantage of the trust of others to steal large sums of money,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “By embezzling over $200,000 from her employer, Ms. Vaillancourt’s brazen actions caused significant financial harm and showed that she was not deterred from crime by a prior federal conviction.  As this case demonstrates, we work closely with the FBI to identify and prosecute fraudsters and seek justice for the victims of their heartless crimes.”

            “On at least four occasions, Raylene Vaillancourt abused the trust of her employers by stealing from them. In this case, she embezzled more than $122,0000 to pay the mortgage on her home in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Ms. Vaillancourt has shown absolutely no remorse, and no respect for the law, and with today’s sentence, her crime spree has finally come to an end and she has been held accountable,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division.

             This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cam Le.  The forfeiture aspects of this matter were handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Rabuck.

###

            CONCORD - Gianno Koeiman, 31, of Lawrence, Massachusetts was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison for possession of fentanyl and cocaine with intent to distribute, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on February 22, 2017, an undercover Salem police officer observed what he believed to be a drug transaction in the shoe department of a local store between Koeiman and a drug customer.  The officer observed the men leave the store and get into separate vehicles.  The drug customer stayed in his car and began to inject himself with drugs.  After being approached by an officer, the customer confirmed he had just purchased one gram of heroin from the man in the shoe department. 

            In the meantime, a second Salem police officer followed Koeiman’s vehicle and stopped it.  After explaining what the first officer observed in the shoe department, Koeiman responded that those observations were accurate.  When asked if he had illegal substances in the car, Koeiman responded that he did and consented to a search of the trunk.  The search revealed 95 baggies which contained a total of approximately 67 grams of fentanyl and 23 baggies which contained a total of approximately 16 grams of cocaine. 

            Koeiman previously pleaded guilty on August 30, 2021.  In addition to his sentence, Koeiman was ordered to pay a $1,000 fine. 

            “Drug traffickers who come to New Hampshire to sell fentanyl and other dangerous substances should understand that their unlawful conduct will not be tolerated,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “By brazenly selling drugs inside a store, this defendant endangered members of the public.  We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the drug dealers whose illegal conduct jeopardizes public safety in the Granite State.”

             This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Salem Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John S. Davis.

###

CONCORD - Robert Gramolini, 63, of Malden, Massachusetts, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession or storage of stolen goods, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on May 16, 2020, Gramolini was seen on video stealing a black enclosed trailer from a business in Hampton, New Hampshire.  Law enforcement located the stolen trailer at a storage lot in Brentwood on September 11, 2020.  The owner of the storage lot confirmed Gramolini rented space on his lot to store trailers and other items and gave the officers permission to inspect the lot.  In Gramolini’s space on the lot officers found, among other things, the trailer stolen from Hampton as well as three other trailers stolen from Massachusetts. 

In a statement to law enforcement, Gramolini gave varying stories about how he acquired the trailers but admitted to stealing the Hampton trailer.  He also said that he took one of the other trailers “off the side of the road.”

Gramolini is scheduled to be sentenced on April 26, 2022.

            “I am grateful to the law enforcement officers whose hard work put an end to this defendant’s criminal activities and held him accountable for his unlawful conduct,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “We work each day with our law enforcement partners to protect residents of the Granite State from crime and to seek justice for crime victims.”

This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Hampton Police Department, and the Brentwood Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Hunter.

                           ###

           CONCORD – John J. Farley was appointed by Attorney General Merrick Garland to serve as the United States Attorney for the District of New Hampshire effective January 1, 2022. 

            As the U.S. Attorney, Farley serves at the chief federal law enforcement officer in New Hampshire.  He supervises all the attorneys and staff who prosecute federal criminal offenses and represent the United States in civil litigation.

            Chief Judge Landya B. McCafferty of the U.S. District Court for the District of New Hampshire administered the oath of office to U.S. Attorney Farley.

            “I am honored to serve as the United States Attorney in New Hampshire and am humbled by the Attorney General’s decision to entrust me with this significant responsibility,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “The men and women at the U.S. Attorney’s Office are dedicated public servants who work tirelessly to obtain just outcomes in all the civil and criminal matters handled by this office.  As U.S. Attorney, I will continue to work closely with our outstanding staff and our superb law enforcement partners to protect public safety and pursue justice on behalf of the citizens of the Granite State.” 

            U.S. Attorney Farley began serving as the Acting U.S. Attorney on March 7, 2021, following the resignation of U.S. Attorney Scott W. Murray.  As a result of the Attorney General’s appointment, he will serve as the U.S. Attorney for a period of 120 days or until a U.S. Attorney is nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate.  If a U.S. Attorney is not nominated and confirmed within that period, a U.S. Attorney will be appointed by the U.S. District Court for the District of New Hampshire.

            A career public servant, U.S. Attorney Farley has worked for the U.S. Department of Justice for over 26 years.  After clerking for U.S. District Judge Thomas F. Hogan in the District of Columbia, he joined the Justice Department through the Honors Program in 1995.  He first worked for the Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section in the Department’s Criminal Division where he prosecuted drug cases in multiple locations, including Texas, California, and Puerto Rico.  He then worked as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the District of Massachusetts from 1998 to 2004, where he prosecuted drug and public corruption cases.

            In 2004, he joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office in New Hampshire.  From 2004 to 2012, he worked in the Civil Division where he primarily handled civil health care fraud and civil rights matters.  He then moved to the Criminal Division, where he served as the Lead Task Force Attorney for the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force and prosecuted a wide variety of criminal cases.  In 2016, he became the First Assistant U.S. Attorney.  He previously served as Acting U.S. Attorney from March of 2017 to March of 2018.

            Originally from Philadelphia, U.S. Attorney Farley has resided in New Hampshire for over 20 years.  He is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame and the Georgetown University Law Center.  He and his wife are the proud parents of two teenage boys.

###

            CONCORD - Andre McBreairty, 45, previously of Keene, pleaded guilty in federal court to making false statements to obtain CARES Act funds, United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

             In response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Congress passed several measures designed to help small businesses, including the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.  The CARES Act created, among other things, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).  Under that program, businesses could obtain low-interest loans to meet payroll during the first few months of the pandemic.  If the money was spent on payroll and other approved purposes such as utilities and rent, the Small Business Administration (SBA) would forgive the loans in full.  Congress later passed the Economic Aid to Hard-Hit Small Businesses, Nonprofits and Venues Act, which authorized a second tranche of PPP loans.

            The SBA also opened up its Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program to businesses.  Under the program, businesses could obtain loans for working capital and normal operating expenses.  EIDL applicants were also eligible for advances of up to $15,000, provided certain conditions were met.  These advances generally do not need to be repaid.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, the defendant lied about his payroll and income to obtain three CARES Act loans.  For example, when applying for a loan under the EIDL program, McBreairty falsely claimed that his annual income was $100,000.  When applying for a PPP loan, he generated a false IRS form inflating his 2020 earnings.  Overall, McBreairty obtained and misused $55,316 in CARES Act proceeds that he was not entitled to receive.

            McBreairty, who now resides in Pennsylvania, is scheduled to be sentenced on April 14, 2022.

            “Although Congress passed the CARES Act to provide financial assistance during the pandemic, some greedy individuals have used fraud to obtain funds they are not entitled to receive,” said U.S. Attorney Farley.  “By submitting false documents and false information to obtain CARES Act funds, this defendant stole from the American taxpayers.  Thanks to the hard work of federal law enforcement agents, he is now being held responsible for his unlawful conduct.  As this case demonstrates, we are working closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who defraud federal assistance programs.”

            “The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration aggressively pursues those who endeavor to defraud programs afforded to the American people under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act,” said J. Russell George, Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA).  “We appreciate the efforts of the U.S. Department Justice and our law enforcement partners in this effort.”   

             This matter was investigated by the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration and Social Security Administration’s Office for the Inspector General.  The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander S. Chen and Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Hunter.

###

            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.

            CONCORD – Acting U.S. Attorney John J. Farley announced today that United States District Judge Joseph Laplante has approved a consent decree resolving claims that John J. Flatley, d/b/a John J. Flatley Company (Flatley), and a property manager employed by Flatley, violated the Fair Housing Act (FHA).

            In a complaint filed in April of 2021, the United States alleged that Flatley discriminated against a tenant in its apartment complex in Nashua by refusing to allow a reasonable accommodation of the tenant’s disability when the tenant sought to have an emotional support animal, a dog named Molly.  The tenant, who experienced anxiety and depression, used Molly as an emotional support animal.  After the tenant requested permission to have an emotional support animal at the apartment, Flatley and the property manager agreed to permit the tenant to have an emotional support animal, but not a dog.  The complaint alleged Flatley would not permit tenants to have dogs as emotional support animals.

            The United States and Flatley agreed to the entry of a consent decree, which Judge Laplante approved on December 27, 2021.  The Consent Decree resolved the claims in the government’s complaint.  Without admitting liability, Flatley agreed to pay the tenant $35,000, enact reasonable accommodation policies for its New Hampshire residential properties that comply with the FHA, and complete FHA training.

            “Under the Fair Housing Act, landlords must make reasonable accommodations for tenants with disabilities,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “We are pleased that the company has agreed to resolve this matter and is now instituting policies and conducting training so that individuals with disabilities are given equal housing opportunities.  As this case demonstrates, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to protecting the rights of individuals with disabilities and will vigorously enforce federal civil rights laws in the Granite State.”

            “Protecting the rights of individuals and families when their fair housing rights are violated is central to HUD’s mission,” said Demetria L. McCain, HUD’s Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity. “HUD commends the Department of Justice for reaching this settlement and for pursuing allegations of fair housing violations.”

            This lawsuit arose from an administrative complaint filed by the tenant with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Upon investigation, HUD determined that there was reasonable cause to believe that the FHA had been violated. The tenant elected, pursuant to the FHA, to have HUD’s determination resolved in federal court. 

            The FHA prohibits discrimination in housing on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, familial status, national origin and disability. Individuals who believe that they have been victims of housing discrimination can call the Housing Discrimination Tip Line at 1-800-896-7743, email the Justice Department at [email protected] or contact HUD at 1-800-669-9777. 

            The case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Raphael Katz.

###

            CONCORD – Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced that Joseph A. Foistner, 67, of Mont Vernon, was found guilty on Thursday of four counts of bank fraud, as well as charges of wire fraud, money laundering, and making misrepresentations during bankruptcy proceedings.  The verdict was returned by Senior U.S. District Judge Paul Barbadoro on Thursday, December 23, 2021, following a two-week bench trial.

            According to exhibits and witness testimony during the trial, Foistner used fraudulent means to apply for over $8 million in loans from five different financial institutions, laundered money, and made material misrepresentations during bankruptcy proceedings between 2015 and 2018.  Foistner, at the time of the scheme, was a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.  He did not have any paying clients and earned no income through his law firm.  In order to obtain millions of dollars in loans from multiple financial institutions, Foistner provided banks with misleading documents that suggested that he was operating a lucrative law firm.  For example, he claimed that he was a “seasoned attorney” with international clients and that his firm earned over a million dollars in annual income.  In fact, all the firm’s purported income was based upon bogus, unpaid invoices the firm submitted to entities that the defendant controlled, including bankrupt entities.  The defendant also made other false statements to obtain bank loans, including lying about whether he was involved as a party to any lawsuits and denying that he had an interest in other companies.  He also falsely represented that he had a salary by mischaracterizing loan proceeds as a salary.  In one of the bank fraud schemes, the defendant submitted false information to obtain a loan by claiming falsely that his wife was earning over $200,000 per year as a paralegal.  Each of the loans made to Foistner were backed by either the Department of the Veterans Affairs or the Small Business Administration.

            The evidence further showed that Foistner committed several crimes during Chapter 7 bankruptcy court proceedings in 2017 and 2018.  He made false representations by falsely denying that he held or controlled property owned by others when he actually controlled funds that were held in the name of a business.  He also made false statements under oath by lying about what happened to the proceeds of one of the fraudulent loans and lying about not knowing the location of a piece of real estate that had been purchased in part with funds he borrowed and had subsequently funneled into bank accounts not in his name.

            Foistner is scheduled to be sentenced on April 4, 2022. 

            “While no one is entitled to commit fraud, this defendant’s crimes were particularly egregious because they were committed by an attorney,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “The evidence in this case demonstrated that Foistner engaged in a shocking pattern of fraudulent and deceitful conduct to obtain millions of dollars from financial institutions and that he told a host of lies in his efforts to further his scheme and cover his tracks during bankruptcy proceedings.  With this guilty verdict, Foistner finally is being held accountable for his lengthy pattern of lying and manipulation.  I am grateful to all of the federal agents and prosecutors who worked hard to investigate and prosecute this significant fraud case.”

            “Joseph Foistner took advantage of programs that were designed to help veterans achieve home ownership, and small businesses expand and develop. In fraudulently collecting millions of dollars, his lies and deceit have not only hurt himself, but every citizen whose tax dollars support these federally funded programs,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “The FBI is determined to work with our partners to hold anyone who commits such fraud accountable.”

            This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Office of Inspector General of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and the Office of Inspector General of the Small Business Administration.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Charles L. Rombeau, Seth R. Aframe and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander S. Chen.  Former Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Kinsella, Assistant U.S. Attorneys John S. Davis and Kasey Weiland previously worked on this matter. 

###

            CONCORD - Ramon Guerrero, 39, of Manchester, was sentenced to 90 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and cocaine, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, between February 27, 2020, and March 11, 2020, a cooperating individual working with the Manchester Police Department arranged to purchase fentanyl on two occasions from Guerrero and Gabriel Rivera at an apartment in Manchester.  While in the apartment, the cooperator observed quantities of suspected fentanyl, crack, and methamphetamine.

            On May 15, 2020, detectives observed Guerrero and a woman check into a local motel at 3:30 am under the woman’s name.  After obtaining arrest and search warrants, officers entered the room.  Detectives discovered $9,254, cocaine, and fentanyl in pill form.  A subsequent search of the apartment found Rivera sitting on a couch with an open fanny pack next to him, an open safe at his feet, and a 9 mm handgun tucked behind the cushion.  On his person, detectives located $1,151.  The safe and pack contained over 4 grams of crack, over 76 grams of cocaine and over 162 grams of fentanyl.  Court records confirm that Rivera is a convicted felon prohibited from possessing a firearm. 

            At the time of this offense, Guerrero was on federal supervised release after serving a 102-month sentence for a prior drug trafficking crime.

            Guerrero and Rivera pleaded guilty on August 3, 2021.  Rivera was sentenced to 90 months on November 24, 2021.  The currency and firearms were forfeited to the United States.

            “Ramon Guerrero is a repeat offender who was not deterred by a prior federal prison sentence,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “Rather than conform his conduct to the law, he chose to return to drug trafficking and sought to profit from the sale of fentanyl and other extremely dangerous drugs.  Thanks to the hard work of the Manchester Police Department, this dangerous drug trafficker and his partner will no longer be able to endanger our community by selling deadly substances.”

            This matter was investigated by the Manchester Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joachim H. Barth.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Rabuck handled the forfeiture aspects of this matter.

            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. 

###

            CONCORD - Stephen Johnstone, 32, of Gilford, was sentenced to 180 months in federal prison for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on July 21, 2020, New Hampshire State Probation and Parole officers made contact with Johnstone, who was a state parolee under their supervision.  Johnstone appeared to be in possession of baggies of methamphetamine. The officers requested assistance from the Laconia Police Department. 

            Johnstone’s car was impounded and searched pursuant to a state search warrant.  Detectives found a backpack containing a Ruger .380 handgun with five rounds of ammunition, over 680 grams of methamphetamine, over 170 grams of cocaine, and other evidence of drug trafficking.  As a convicted felon, Johnstone was prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition.          

            “Armed drug dealers pose a significant threat to public safety,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “Although drug traffickers endanger the lives of our citizens by peddling deadly substances, the danger is enhanced when drug dealers possess firearms.  As this case demonstrates, we will seek substantial prison sentences for the armed drug traffickers whose conduct threatens the security of communities in the Granite State.”

             This matter was investigated by the Laconia Police Department and New Hampshire State Probation and Parole Office, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration.   The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joachim H. Barth.

###

            CONCORD – Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced that a federal jury found James Leonard, 36, of Henniker, guilty of unlawfully possessing a destructive device.  The verdict was returned on Thursday, December 16, 2021.

             According to trial exhibits and witness testimony during the three-day jury trial, on June 12, 2018, the Bennington Police Department was called to the defendant’s apartment for a noise complaint.  When the police arrived, they heard a male yelling and screaming.  The police attempted to contact the defendant by knocking at his front door but were unable to contact him. The police went around to the back side of the apartment to a slider door in an effort to speak with the defendant.  While they were at the back slider door, the police smelled an odor of burnt marijuana.  Officers later obtained and executed a search warrant for the defendant’s residence.  During the search, they located marijuana and the component parts for a pipe bomb.

            The police contacted the New Hampshire State Police Bomb Squad who responded to the defendant’s residence to assist in the investigation and gather the explosive material.  The ATF subsequently identified the explosive material and determined that the defendant had all the necessary component parts to readily assemble a destructive device, specifically, an explosive pipe bomb.  This combination of parts was not registered on the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record as required by law. 

            Leonard, who is detained, faces up to ten years in prison.  He is scheduled to be sentenced on March 28, 2022. 

            “By constructing a pipe bomb in his residence, this defendant placed his neighbors and the community in danger,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “Thanks to good police work, law enforcement officers were able to secure this potentially-deadly device and prevent any individuals from being harmed.  We will continue to work closely with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to protect public safety and prevent acts of violence in the Granite State.”

            This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the New Hampshire State Police, and the Bennington Police Department. The Hancock, Antrim, and Francestown Police Departments also assisted with this matter.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Debra M. Walsh.

###

            CONCORD –Michael Francis, 34, of Manchester, was indicted on Monday by a federal grand jury and charged in a superseding indictment with conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, cocaine; possession of over 500 grams of cocaine with intent to distribute; possession of over 400 grams of fentanyl and over 50 grams of methamphetamine with intent to distribute; possession of firearms and ammunition by a prohibited person, and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements in court, Francis was arrested on September 1, 2021, for parole violations.  At the time of his arrest, there was a holster under the driver’s seat of his vehicle.  Law enforcement agents later obtained a warrant to search Francis’ Manchester residence and recovered four loaded handguns, two of which were stolen.  Law enforcement officers also recovered over 400 grams of suspected fentanyl and over 400 grams of suspected methamphetamine.  The charges allege that Francis is prohibited from possessing firearms due to at least one prior felony conviction.

            Francis was originally indicted on September 15, 2021, and charged with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.  Francis has been detained pending trial.

            “To protect public safety in Manchester, we are working closely with the Manchester Police Department and all our law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute drug trafficking and firearms crimes,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “This case is an example of the close working partnership that we have with federal law enforcement agencies and the Manchester Police Department.  This collaborative effort to protect Manchester residents from drug trafficking and gun-related crimes is an important priority of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”

            “Shutting down the illegal gun and drug trade is key to reducing violent crime and saving lives. The FBI will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify individuals and criminal organizations that we believe pose threats to the safety of our neighborhoods,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division.

            “This proves how newly implemented crime reducing initiatives and collaboration with other law enforcement agencies has been successful,” says Manchester Police Chief Allen Aldenberg. “We hear the community concerns about safety, and we will continue to work hard to investigate, identify, and arrest those engaged in criminal activity.”

            The charges in the superseding 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 Manchester Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joachim Barth and Aaron Gingrande.

###

            CONCORD - Michael Rand, 36, of Rochester, pleaded guilty on Monday in federal court to distribution of fentanyl, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, in October of 2019 the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) received a tip that Rand was selling heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine in the Dover and Rochester areas. Working with a cooperating individual, the FBI arranged for a controlled purchase of fentanyl at Rand’s apartment in November of 2019. 

            Rand is scheduled to be sentenced on March 22, 2022.

            “Fentanyl trafficking endangers lives and damages communities,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “We work closely with the FBI and all our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the drug dealers who are peddling fentanyl and other dangerous drugs in the Granite State.”

            “Today, Michael Rand admitted to selling the deadly drug fentanyl which is associated with the vast majority of drug overdose deaths in New Hampshire,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “The FBI will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to stop the distribution of fentanyl and to bring to justice those like Rand who are pushing highly addictive drugs on our streets and into the hands of addicts.”

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

###

            CONCORD - Deborah Cross, 65, of Sanford, Maine pleaded guilty on Wednesday in federal court to distributing methamphetamine, Acting 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 is scheduled to be sentenced on March 30, 2022.

            “To protect our community from the dangerous effects of methamphetamine, we are working closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the dealers who are distributing this potentially-deadly substance,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “Given the horrific impact that methamphetamine can have on its users, we will not hesitate to bring federal charges against those who seek to profit from selling this dangerous illegal drug.”

             “It doesn’t matter if it’s a large-scale drug trafficking organization, or an individual like Deborah Cross who was distributing methamphetamine out of her home in Franklin, NH, the FBI and our law enforcement partners will do everything we can to put those who have furthered the scourge of drugs in our neighborhoods out of business,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division.

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

###

            CONCORD - Jason Martin, 36, and Heidi Compos, 54, of Keene, pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiracy to distribute, and possession with intent to distribute, controlled substances, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, in September of 2019, law enforcement officers learned that Compos was engaged in the distribution of drugs in the Keene area.  With the assistance of a cooperating individual, officers arranged for three separate controlled purchases of drugs in October and November of 2019.  Martin was at the residence he shared with Compos and provided fentanyl and crack cocaine to the cooperator during the first transaction.  Compos conducted the second transaction involving fentanyl and crack cocaine.  She also sold fentanyl during the third transaction.

            A search warrant was executed at the defendants’ Keene residence on November 21, 2019.  Both Compos and Martin were at the residence at the time of the search.  Located in their shared bedroom was a bag containing approximately $15,064 in cash and bags of fentanyl and cocaine.

            Compos pleaded guilty on December 6, 2021, and is scheduled to be sentenced on March 14, 2022. Martin is scheduled to be sentenced on March 17, 2022.

            “Drug traffickers endanger the community by selling illegal substances that have the potential to kill,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “To protect the public, we are working closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the drug dealers who are profiting from  the sales of dangerous and addictive substances in the Granite State.”

            “Compos and Martin sought to distribute fentanyl and cocaine—deadly drugs that have ruined lives and families in New Hampshire. HSI is committed to working alongside our law enforcement partners to investigate those seeking to sell these illicit substances in our communities,” said Matthew Millhollin, Special Agent in Charge for the Homeland Security Investigations’ Boston Field Office. 

             This matter was investigated by the Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Keene Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Rombeau.

###

$89,997 Awarded for projects in the District of New Hampshire

WASHINGTON – The Department of Justice announced today that it has awarded more than $17.5 million in grants to support the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program. Funding will support efforts across the country to address violent crime, including the gun violence that is often at its core. The New Hampshire Department of Justice was awarded $89.997 to administer PSN grant funds in the District of New Hampshire.  

The Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA), part of the department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), will administer the 88 grant awards, which are being made to designated fiscal agents to support local PSN projects that work in partnership with U.S. Attorneys’ Offices.

“This latest Project Safe Neighborhoods grant is critical to addressing the violent crime threatening cities and towns all across our country,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco. “Ensuring the safety of all Americans is the highest priority for the Department of Justice, but when it comes to violent crime, there is not a one-size-fits-all solution. We have to work closely with local public safety agencies as well as community organizations to craft individual strategies unique to each community’s needs. Programs like Project Safe Neighborhoods and the funding it provides allow us to do just that.”

“Project Safe Neighborhoods is a key part of our overall effort to keep the citizens of New Hampshire safe from violent crime,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “These funds will help our local law enforcement partners to keep our communities secure.  This is just one example of our ongoing work to protect public safety in the Granite State.”

Grant funds will be used to fund law enforcement efforts in several communities in New Hampshire. With approval from BJA, the Fiscal Agent will begin the process of making subawards for PSN grant projects.

“Investing in our communities, supporting victims and building a justice system that both keeps people safe and earns their trust – these are mutually reinforcing goals that stand at the heart of Project Safe Neighborhoods,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Amy L. Solomon for OJP. “The Office of Justice Programs is pleased to join with our U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, and with jurisdictions across the country, as we work together to meet the challenges of crime and violence and achieve our shared aspirations of public safety and community trust.”

In May 2021, Attorney General Merrick B. Garland announced a new effort to reduce violent crime, including the gun violence that is often at its core. Integral to that effort was the reinvigoration of PSN, a two-decade old evidence-based and community-oriented program focused on reducing violent crime. The updated PSN approach, outlined in the department’s Comprehensive Strategy for Reducing Violent Crime issued by Deputy Attorney General Monaco, is guided by four key principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities and measuring the results of our efforts. The fundamental goal is to reduce violent crime, not simply to increase the number of arrests or prosecutions.

This fall, U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country have enhanced their violent crime reduction efforts to ensure alignment with the department’s comprehensive violent crime reduction strategy. U.S. Attorneys’ Offices have engaged in outreach to law enforcement and other agencies and organizations serving communities to identify the most significant drivers of violence in their districts. Working together with a broad coalition of stakeholders, the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices are addressing the most pressing violent crime issues in their district to make our neighborhoods safer for all.

PSN programs are led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices in collaboration with local public safety agencies, community stakeholders and other agencies and organizations that work to reduce violent crime.

For a list of all grantees, please visit:

https://www.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh241/files/media/document/FY21-Project-Safe-Neighborhoods-Awards.pdf  

###

The Office of Justice Programs provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, advance racial equity in the administration of justice, assist victims and enhance the rule of law. More information about OJP and its components can be found at  www.ojp.gov.

            CONCORD - Brian Perez, 31, of Salem, pleaded guilty on Tuesday in federal court to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, Acting 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 by UPS from the greater Los Angeles, California area to an unspecified 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 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.  During a safety sweep of the van, investigators observed the subject package in plain view.  Perez had a receipt on his person showing a receipt for a parcel that was destined for Miami Beach.  The parcel was located and searched pursuant to a warrant.  Among other items, it contained a clear plastic bag containing orange pills that contained approximately 363 grams of methamphetamine.

            Perez is scheduled to be sentenced on March 17, 2022.

            “Drug traffickers are shipping large quantities of methamphetamine to the Granite State for distribution,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “These traffickers are seeking to profit from the sale of methamphetamine without regard to the drug’s harmful impact on our community.  As this case demonstrates, we are working closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the drug dealers who are bringing this dangerous substance into New Hampshire and selling it in our local communities.” 

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

###

            CONCORD - Quentin Simon, a/k/a "Q", 37, of Manchester, pleaded guilty on Tuesday in federal court to possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, in May of 2020, a cooperating individual told Manchester police detectives that Simon was selling crack, fentanyl and pills out of his apartment.  After completing a series of controlled buys between the cooperator and Simon between May 5 and August 12, 2020, detectives obtained an arrest warrant for Simon and search warrant for his apartment. 

            On August 18, 2020, detectives arrested Simon and executed the search warrant.  Throughout the apartment, detectives located items indicative of drug distribution and controlled substances.  Cash totaling $79,848 was also located.  Lab analysis confirmed the drugs totaled over 1,168 grams of cocaine and over 115 grams of crack cocaine.  A .380 caliber handgun and ammunition were in proximity to a large container of cocaine. 

            Simon is scheduled to be sentenced on March 14, 2022.   The cash, gun, and a large collection of sneakers were all seized and forfeited as a result of this prosecution.

            “Armed drug traffickers present a serious threat to public safety in our community,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “As part of our continued partnership with the Manchester Police Department, we are working to identify and prosecute the armed drug dealers who endanger the citizens of Manchester.  By prosecuting these dangerous individuals, we will reduce the risk of violent crime in the Granite State.”

             This matter was investigated by the Manchester Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joachim H. Barth.  Forfeiture aspects of this case were handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Rabuck.

             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. 

###

           CONCORD - Michael A Clemence, 36, of Rochester, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of child pornography, Acting 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.  Clemence made no admissions but volunteered that his wife had previously found disturbing material on their home computer and that they subsequently wiped the computer’s hard drive and gave the computer away.  Clemence’s wife later confirmed that in May of 2019, she discovered thousands of images of what appeared to be child exploitation material on Clemence’s laptop computer. 

            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.    

            Clemence is scheduled to be sentenced on March 21, 2022.

            “Protecting vulnerable young people from exploitation is among the most significant duties of law enforcement,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “Those who possess or distribute sexually explicit images of children are further exploiting the innocent youths who were abused during the creation of these images.  To protect young children from exploitation, we work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who commit crimes related to child pornography.”

            “Child exploitation material is an enduring record of the terrible abuse of children. Those who seek out and collect that material create a market for its production and the continued exploitation of children,” said Matthew Millhollin, Special Agent in Charge for the Homeland Security Investigations’ Boston Field Office. “Homeland Security Investigations will continue our work alongside our partners at the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children task force to ensure those like this individual face the consequences for their participation in these horrible crimes.”

             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 is being 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.

###

            CONCORD - Antwone Francis, 31, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court to distributing fentanyl, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on September 15, 2020, a cooperating source told a Nashua police detective that Francis was selling fentanyl in Nashua and provided pricing and a telephone number.  On October 7, 2020, an undercover law enforcement officer called Francis and arranged to purchase fentanyl from Francis at a fast food restaurant in Merrimack.  

            Francis is scheduled to be sentenced on March 14, 2021.  

            “Fentanyl is a deadly substance that continues to cause grave damage in communities throughout New Hampshire,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “By identifying and prosecuting the drug dealers who are selling fentanyl and other dangerous drugs, we are seeking to improve public safety in the Granite State.”

            This matter was investigated by the Nashua 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. 

 ###

            CONCORD - Marc Martin, 44, of Dover, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison for  two counts of possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, in June of 2019, Dover police were notified that Martin was suspected of distributing drugs from his Dover apartment.  On June 19, 2019, detectives conducted surveillance of Martin’s apartment and observed a male enter and leave the apartment within a few minutes.  Officers confronted the male and he admitted he had just purchased fentanyl from Martin in the apartment.  After obtaining a search warrant, officers entered the apartment and located over 32 grams of fentanyl, drug packaging, and a cell phone that contained evidence of drug activity. 

            On January 14, 2020, the same detectives followed Martin as he drove to Massachusetts and pulled into a parking lot in Amesbury.  After a brief period, Martin drove northbound back to New Hampshire, where he was stopped for speeding.  During the stop, Martin admitted he had drugs with him and relinquished a bag containing over 39 grams of fentanyl.

            Martin previously pleaded guilty on August 25, 2021.

            “Fentanyl traffickers continue to cause serious harm to communities throughout New Hampshire,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “To protect the public from the grave harm caused by fentanyl, we will continue to work closely with the Dover Police Department and all of our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the drug dealers who are selling fentanyl and other deadly substances in the Granite State.”

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

 ###

            CONCORD - Adam Beck, 26, of Boscawen, was sentenced to 84 months in federal prison for four drug trafficking charges related to the distribution of methamphetamine and fentanyl, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, in October of 2020, investigators with the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Drug Task Force received information from a cooperating individual that Beck was distributing drugs around Boscawen and Warner.  The cooperator assisted law enforcement officers in making controlled buys of methamphetamine and fentanyl from Beck.  Officers also conducted surveillance of Beck and observed him engaging in hand-to-hand drug transactions.

            On December 10, 2020, investigators arrested Beck on drug distribution charges.  On his person, they found approximately $1,200 and a small bag containing fentanyl.  That same day, investigators obtained a search warrant for a Webster residence associated with Beck.  During the search, investigators located nearly $15,000, approximately a pound and a half of methamphetamine, approximately 100 grams of fentanyl, and other incriminating items in a room that belonged to Beck.             

            Beck previously pleaded guilty on August 20, 2021.

            “Methamphetamine and fentanyl are dangerous drugs that are damaging far too many lives in New Hampshire,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “As this case demonstrates, we are working closely with our law enforcement partners to ensure that drug dealers who seek to profit from selling these deadly substances are held responsible for their unlawful conduct.  This substantial sentence will ensure that Mr. Beck cannot endanger further lives by selling drugs in the Granite State.”

            This matter was investigated by the New Hampshire Attorney General's Drug Task Force, Concord Police Department, Merrimack County Sheriff's Department, Webster Police Department, and the U.S. Marshals Service.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Rombeau.

###

            CONCORD - Eduardo Contreras, 31, of Lawrence, Massachusetts, was sentenced on Thursday to 60 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, between approximately 2015 and November 30, 2017, Contreras conspired with a New Hampshire-based drug distributor to distribute fentanyl.  Contreras provided the fentanyl to the New Hampshire trafficker for distribution to customers in New Hampshire and Maine.  On several occasions, Contreras used couriers to transport fentanyl and the proceeds of drug transactions.  

            Contreras previously pleaded guilty on August 26, 2021.

            “Fentanyl traffickers who seek to profit from the sale of this deadly substance are causing significant damage to communities throughout New Hampshire,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “As this prosecution demonstrates, we continue to work with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the drug dealers who are bringing fentanyl into the Granite State.  As Mr. Contreras has now learned, fentanyl traffickers who do business in New Hampshire will face substantial federal prison sentences.”

            “Today’s sentence not only holds Mr. Contreras accountable for his crimes but serves as a warning to those traffickers who are contributing to the drug crisis in America, trafficking narcotics across state lines,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle.  “This investigation demonstrates the strength of our interstate, collaborative law enforcement efforts in New Hampshire, Maine and Massachusetts and our strong partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”

            “Contreras was the conduit through which fentanyl flowed into New Hampshire and Maine. HSI is committed to working alongside our law enforcement partners to investigate and seek prosecution for those who seek to bring these deadly drugs into our communities,” 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 Manchester Police Department, the Tilton Police Department, the Massachusetts State Police, and the New Hampshire State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer Cole Davis and Seth R. Aframe.

###

            CONCORD - Kyle Mehlhorn, 28, of Merrimack, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for multiple drug trafficking and firearm charges, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on October 27, 2020, Manchester police officers observed a vehicle with wrongfully attached license plates and made a traffic stop.  Mehlhorn was the driver and he had a female passenger.  A records check of Mehlhorn revealed his license and registration were suspended and he was placed under arrest.  The passenger was cooperative and identified her belongings in the vehicle.  On November 2, 2020, after obtaining a search warrant, Manchester police officers searched the vehicle and found over 209 grams of methamphetamine, over 28 grams of fentanyl, various items used in drug packaging, $13,800 in cash, and two loaded firearms.  At the time of his arrest, Mehlhorn was a previously convicted felon and was prohibited from possessing firearms.

            In January of 2021, Mehlhorn was arrested in Boston on a complaint from the District of New Hampshire.  Mehlhorn was armed with a 9 mm handgun and was carrying a backpack containing over 196 grams of methamphetamine and over 187 grams of fentanyl.  A subsequent search warrant for the vehicle revealed an additional .22 caliber handgun. 

            Mehlhorn previously pleaded guilty on August 6, 2021.  He will forfeit the firearms and cash seized in January of 2021.  The money and firearms seized in October of 2020 have already been forfeited.

            “Armed drug traffickers like Kyle Mehlhorn pose a serious threat to the community by carrying deadly weapons and selling dangerous substances,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “As a convicted felon, Mehlhorn should not have had a gun.  Instead, he possessed multiple guns while peddling significant quantities of fentanyl and methamphetamine.  This lengthy sentence shows that the law enforcement community is working hard to protect the Granite State from violent crime and to hold armed criminals accountable for their actions.”

            “Armed with multiple firearms and deadly drugs, Kyle Mehlhorn is responsible for bringing danger and violence to our neighborhoods, and for this, he will spend significant time behind bars, said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division.  “The FBI’s New Hampshire Safe Streets Gang Task Force will continue to collaborate with our law enforcement partners to rid our communities of armed drug dealing criminals.”

            “This investigation and subsequent arrest of the defendant is another example of the outstanding work being done by the officers and detectives of the Manchester Police Department,” said Manchester Police Chief Allen Aldenberg. “We continue to value our state and local law enforcement partnerships which greatly assist in holding people such as this defendant accountable for their behavior.”

             This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the New Hampshire State Police, the Manchester Police Department, the Concord Police Department, the Gorham Police Department, and the Boston (MA) Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Rombeau.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Rabuck assisted with forfeiture aspects of this matter.

###

            CONCORD - Jesse Hernandez, 58, of Los Angeles, California pleaded guilty on Tuesday in federal court to wire fraud, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, in May of 2019, a Portsmouth- based marketing company (TH) was retained by a client for a marketing campaign to help introduce a new ice cream product in the San Francisco, California area.  The events would include a specialty-branded truck that was wrapped in the product’s marketing art and contained multiple specifications for ease of service and proper storage of the ice cream. TH vetted three companies for the job of creating the truck. Hernandez represented a company called Mobie Experiential Trucks (Mobie).  Hernandez appeared to be capable and less expensive than the next vendor.  He provided a slide presentation to TH personnel and talked through it over the telephone. The images in the presentation were later determined to display products done by other companies and pictures taken from the internet by Hernandez to misrepresent his experience and work. 

            TH selected Hernandez and Mobie as the company to perform the work in mid-June of 2019 with a delivery date of July 9, 2019.  Hernandez demanded full payment prior to delivery of the truck.  TH sent a check in the amount of $36,941 on July 3, 2019.   On July 8, 2019, TH personnel traveled to California to retrieve the truck.  The defendant never delivered any truck and was unresponsive to inquiries from TH. 

            After federal investigators became involved in the case in the fall of 2019, they interviewed Hernandez.  Hernandez stated that he received the check from TH, deposited the funds, and used them for purposes unrelated to the TH truck.  He acknowledged that he was not going to deliver the truck. 

            Hernandez is scheduled to be sentenced on March 8, 2022.   As part of his plea agreement, Hernandez agreed to pay restitution to TH in the amount of $46,615.29.

            “Fraudsters can use a host of different methods to steal from their victims and we all must remain vigilant to protect ourselves from scammers,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “This defendant’s fraud scheme used lies and misrepresentations to defraud a New Hampshire company out of thousands of dollars.  Thanks to the hard work of the FBI, this schemer has been held responsible for his criminal conduct.”

            “Jesse Hernandez defrauded a Portsmouth, NH marketing company out of tens of thousands of dollars by failing to deliver on his promises, while also misrepresenting his experience and work.  Today, his lies finally caught up with him and he accepted responsibility for this fraudulent scheme,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “Despite these challenging times we are all navigating, scammers are still doing everything they can to defraud people of their hard-earned money and we want everyone to know that the FBI is doing everything we can to make sure they don’t succeed.”

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

###

            CONCORD –Ryder Winegar, 34, of Amherst, was sentenced to 33 months in federal prison for six counts of threatening members of Congress and one count of transmitting interstate threatening communications, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, in the early morning hours of December 16, 2020, Winegar left voicemails at the offices of six members of the United States Congress in the District of Columbia.  The calls were directed at three Senators and three members of the House of Representatives.  In some of the messages, Winegar identified himself by name or identified his telephone number.  The voicemails threatened to hang the members of Congress if they did not “get behind Donald Trump.” 

            The messages included very specific threats of violence.  For example, in one message, Winegar allegedly said, “I got some advice for you.  Here’s the advice, Donald Trump is your president.  If you don’t get behind him, we’re going to hang you until you die.”  In another message, Winegar said, “And it really, really, it boils down to two camps.  You either support our president, support liberty, and f*** this global homo, uh, vaccination Jewish agenda, or you’re not.  In which case we’re going to f***ing kill you.  Do you understand?”

            Members of the U.S. Capitol Police attempted to interview Winegar on December 20, 2020.  Winegar refused to speak with the officers.  On the following day, before investigators could return with search and arrest warrants, Winegar flew to Brazil, leaving his family behind.  Winegar was taken into custody when he returned to the United States on January 11, 2021.

            Following his arrest on about January 11, 2021, investigators learned of a separate, e-mailed threat to a member of the New Hampshire State House of Representatives on December 14, 2020, in which Winegar threatened to pull the representative from his bed and hang him.

            Winegar previously pleaded guilty on August 6, 2021.  He has been in custody since his January arrest.  In addition to his sentence, Winegar was ordered to pay a $15,000 fine. 

            “Today’s sentencing sends a clear message that threats of violence have no place in our political discourse,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “While all citizens are free to express their political opinions, it is unlawful to threaten to commit acts of violence against members of Congress or members of the state legislature.  This defendant’s graphic threats were a troubling attempt to intimidate lawmakers and a direct assault on the functioning of our constitutional system.  This sentence should send a message to the community that those who threaten to commit acts of violence against duly-elected legislators will be held accountable for their unlawful conduct.”

            “Threatening to attack and kill six members of Congress and a member of the New Hampshire House of Representatives to prevent them from carrying out their constitutional duties is a federal crime, not protected speech. Let’s hope that today’s sentence finally teaches Ryder Winegar that important lesson,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “As the events of this past year have shown, the FBI will do everything it can to ensure those who seek to harm our public servants are brought to justice for their criminal conduct.”

            The case was investigated by the U.S. Capitol Police with assistance from the United States Marshals Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Amherst Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles L. Rombeau.

###

            CONCORD - Paul Channell, 31, of Nashua, was sentenced to 51 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on December 13, 2020, Channell was arrested for driving under the influence by the Hudson Police Department.  As a result of the arrest, a tow truck was called and the police began an inventory of the vehicle pursuant to their inventory policy.  The police located a Glock 26 handgun with an extended magazine and a round in the chamber. Channell was prohibited from possessing a firearm and ammunition because he was convicted of a felony in 2018. He was also on supervised release at the time of his arrest.

            Channell previously pleaded guilty on August 13, 2021.

            “To protect our community from violent crime, it is vital to keep guns out of the hands of criminals,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “A convicted felon in possession of a loaded handgun presents a clear danger to public safety.  We will continue to seek substantial prison sentences for armed criminals so that they cannot endanger the hardworking and law-abiding citizens of the Granite State.”

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

            This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. 

###

            CONCORD – Melissa Gazaway, 34, of Manchester, was sentenced to 40 months for conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, fentanyl and crack cocaine, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, in the spring of 2020, investigators received information from confidential sources that Gazaway and her co-defendants, Jovan and Chrystal Callaghan, were selling crack cocaine and fentanyl from their residence in Manchester. Law enforcement officers learned that Gazaway and Chrystal Callaghan would travel to New York to purchase crack cocaine. On three separate occasions, officers conducted lawful traffic stops of their vehicle returning from New York and seized over 300 grams of crack cocaine. In late 2020, confidential sources conducted six controlled purchases of fentanyl and crack cocaine from the three co-defendants.

            On December 24, 2020, investigators executed a search warrant at the residence and seized over one kilogram of fentanyl and a firearm, along with large amounts of cash and drug use and packaging materials.             

            Chrystal Callaghan was sentenced on July 28, 2021, to 54 months.  Jovan Callaghan was sentenced on September 21, 2021, to 60 months. 

            Gazaway previously pleaded guilty on April 20, 2021.    

            “This case is another example of our ongoing efforts to prosecute drug dealers in Manchester,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “Those who seek to profit by selling dangerous drugs like fentanyl and crack cocaine are endangering lives in our community.  To protect public safety, we are working closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the drug dealers who threaten the quality of life in Manchester and other communities in the Granite State.”

            “This case serves as another example of how frequently the Manchester Police Department is locating illegal drugs in the company of firearms. This is a dangerous combination and will not be tolerated within the City of Manchester,” says Manchester Police Chief Allen Aldenberg. “The Manchester Police Department will continue to seek federal charges for this type of behavior. We are thankful for the excellent relationship this agency has with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and their continued commitment to these cases.”

             This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the New Hampshire State Police, the Manchester Police Department, and the Nashua Police Department. The case was  prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Georgiana L. MacDonald and Jennifer Cole Davis.

###

            CONCORD - Jonathan McKnight, 39, of Manchester, pleaded guilty on Monday in federal court to interference with commerce by threats and violence by committing five robberies, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 25, 2020, McKnight robbed a convenience store in Manchester.  He passed a note to the clerk indicating he had a gun and that he wanted all the money.  On March 28, 2020, McKnight robbed another convenience store in Manchester.  He passed a note to the clerk ordering the clerk to give him the money.  He further 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 the had claimed to have a gun during the robberies, but 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 and told them that the robber had placed a note on the counter.  The cashier gave him approximately $100-$150 from the drawer, mostly $1.00 bills.  After reviewing the 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 is scheduled to be sentenced on March 7, 2021.

            “Robberies are violent crimes that can cause harm to victims and spread fear in communities,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “To protect the public from violent crime, we are working closely with all our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute criminals like Mr. McKnight who threaten the community.  Thanks to these joint efforts, McKnight’s robbery spree has been stopped and he has been held accountable for his unlawful actions.”

            “Today Jonathan McKnight confessed to a string of convenience store robberies in which he threatened a firearm and terrorized innocent bystanders just to get his hands on some quick cash. Had he not been identified and arrested by investigators, there’s a good chance he’d still be at it,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “The FBI and our partners at the Manchester Police Department are committed to taking violent criminals off the street to keep them from victimizing anyone else.”

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

###

            CONCORD - Jason Hart, 48, of Manchester, was sentenced to 100 months in federal prison for possession of fentanyl and methamphetamine with intent to distribute, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on October 9, 2019, a New Hampshire State Police trooper conducted a traffic stop of a truck operated by Hart.  Hart was ultimately arrested because he provided a false name and address and refused to provide his true identity. Troopers located over $3,500 in Hart’s pocket and during an inventory search of the vehicle found suspected drug paraphernalia.  After obtaining a search warrant, troopers found evidence of drug distribution, over 94 grams of fentanyl, and over 146 grams of methamphetamine. 

            On May 9, 2020, an officer observed an unoccupied vehicle parked at a gas station in Bow.  A check of the vehicle’s registration revealed the owner of the truck had an out-of-state warrant for his arrest.  Hart was a passenger in the vehicle.  Because Hart did not have a valid driver’s license, he was told he was free to go, but the vehicle would be towed.  During the inventory search of the vehicle, officers located a backpack that contained over 396 grams of fentanyl and a card that had Hart’s name on it.  The officers then arrested Hart.  After obtaining a search warrant for Hart’s phone, officers found text messages indicative of drug distribution.    

            Hart previously pleaded guilty on July 13, 2021.  The cash seized from Hart on October 9, 2019, was forfeited to the United States.

            “Fentanyl and methamphetamine are extremely dangerous drugs that are damaging lives throughout New Hampshire,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “We are working closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the drug dealers who seek to profit from selling these deadly substances.  As this case demonstrates, drug dealers who do business in the Granite State will find themselves serving significant time in federal prison.”

             This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, New Hampshire State Police, and Bow Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Krasinski.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Rabuck assisted with the forfeiture-related aspects of this case.

###

            CONCORD - Gabriel Rivera, 41, of Manchester, was sentenced on Monday to 90 months in federal prison for drug conspiracy and firearm charges, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on two occasions in early 2020, a cooperating individual (CI) working with the Manchester Police Department bought fentanyl from Rivera and Ramon Guerrero at their shared apartment.  While in the apartment, the CI observed quantities of suspected crack and methamphetamine as well as fentanyl.

            On May 15, 2020, detectives observed Guerrero and a woman check into a local motel at 3:30 am under the woman’s name.  After obtaining arrest and search warrants, officers entered the room.  Detectives discovered $9,254 and several baggies containing cocaine, as well as fentanyl in pill form.  Investigators executed a search of the apartment and found Rivera sitting on a couch with an open fanny pack next to him, an open safe at his feet, and a handgun tucked behind the cushion.  On his person, detectives located $1,151.  The safe and pack contained crack, over 76 grams of cocaine, and over 162 grams of fentanyl.  As a convicted felon, Rivera was prohibited from possessing a firearm. 

            Rivera and Guerrero previously pleaded guilty on August 3, 2021.  Guerrero is scheduled to be sentenced on November 23, 2021.

            “Drug traffickers continue to endanger our community by selling deadly substances,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “When drug dealers are armed, they also present a serious risk of violence.  As this case demonstrates, we are working closely with the Manchester Police to identify and prosecute the armed drug traffickers who pose a threat to the citizens of Manchester.”

            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. 

###

            CONCORD - Kizito Chukwujekwu, 38, of Morrow, Georgia, was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison for participating in a conspiracy to commit bank fraud, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, between June of 2016 and August of 2017, Chukwujekwu and others opened at least ten bank accounts at banks in New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Georgia using other persons’ identification information.  Chukwujekwu or his co-conspirators then deposited fraudulent checks into those accounts.  After the money was credited to the account but before the bank determined the check was false, one of Chukwujekwu’s co-conspirators withdrew money from the bank accounts.  During the scheme, the conspirators deposited fraudulent checks worth more than $119,000 and withdrew more than $69,000.

            Chukwujekwu previously pleaded guilty on July 13, 2021.  In addition to his sentence, Chukwujekwu was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $69,168.25.

            On January 3, 2020, Chinedu Ihejiere was sentenced to 25 months in prison for participating in the same scheme.

            “Financial fraud schemes cause real damage to their victims,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “We work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify those who are responsible for committing bank fraud and other fraud offenses.  As this case demonstrates, those who come to New Hampshire to commit fraud schemes will be prosecuted aggressively and will find themselves in federal prison.”

            “Fueled by nothing more than pure and simple greed, Kizito Chukwujekwu and his co-conspirators stole tens of thousands of dollars from people they figured would never miss it. However, he was clearly wrong,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “This case demonstrates how the FBI, and our partners won’t stand for criminals who seek to enrich themselves at the expense of innocent Americans.”

             This matter was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service and Federal Bureau of Investigation.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Hunter.

###

            CONCORD - Jake Laurence Mason, 28, of Franklin, was sentenced on Monday to 96 months in federal prison for drug trafficking and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, between March and July 2020, Franklin police were investigating Mason’s suspected drug distribution activities. Based on evidence gathered throughout the investigation, officers executed a search warrant on August 7, 2020.  Mason was arrested at the scene when officers located suspected drugs in plain view on a table in front of Mason.  A further search of the property revealed a loaded handgun stuffed in the couch cushions next to Mason.  A backpack was located containing items associated with drug distribution as well as a cell phone, ledger $1,200 in cash and drugs packaged in various containers.  Inside a locked closet, officers located a shotgun, handgun and AK-47 rifle as well as ammunition.  Safes in the closet contained more items associated with drug distribution, $1,600 in cash and suspected drugs in various containers.  Over 49 grams of methamphetamine and over 65 grams of fentanyl were located during the search.

           “Armed drug traffickers like Mr. Mason present a significant risk to the community,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “While distributing drugs like methamphetamine and fentanyl endangers the community, that danger is even greater when drug dealers possess multiple firearms.  In order to protect the citizens of the Granite State, we will continue to seek substantial prison sentences for the armed drug dealers who threaten public safety in our local communities.”

           “DEA and our state and local counterparts will do everything in our power to bring to justice those who distribute methamphetamine,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle.  “Today’s sentence not only holds Mr. Mason accountable for his crimes but serves as a warning that DEA and its local and state partners will work diligently to keep this highly addictive drug off the streets of New Hampshire.”

            This matter was investigated by Franklin Police Department with assistance from Drug Enforcement Administration, Merrimack County Sheriff’s Department, Andover Police Department, Tilton Police Department and Northfield Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joachim H. Barth.

###

WASHINGTON – The Department of Justice today announced more than $139 million in grant funding through the department’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) COPS Hiring Program (CHP). The awards provide direct funding to 183 law enforcement agencies across the nation, allowing those agencies to hire 1,066 additional full-time law enforcement professionals. In the District of New Hampshire, three towns were awarded funding totaling $500,000. 

“We are committed to providing police departments with the resources needed to help ensure community safety and build community trust,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “The grants we are announcing today will enable law enforcement agencies across the country to hire more than 1,000 additional officers to support vitally important community oriented policing programs.”

“To keep New Hampshire safe, it is important to have qualified and committed police officers working in our local communities,” said Acting U.S. Attorney John J. Farley.  “These grant funds will provide valuable funds so three towns can hire additional police officers.  These additional officers will enhance community policing efforts and help us in our ongoing work to reduce crime and protect public safety in the Granite State.”

The following towns in New Hampshire received awards:

• Town of Epping - $125,000
• Town of Groveton - $125,000
• Town of Salem - $250,000

CHP is a competitive award program intended to reduce crime and advance public safety through community policing. CHP provides funds directly to law enforcement agencies to hire new or rehire additional career law enforcement officers, thereby increasing their community policing capacity and crime prevention efforts. Of the 183 agencies awarded grants today, approximately half will use the funding to focus on building legitimacy and trust between law enforcement and communities; 41 agencies will seek to address high rates of gun violence; 21 will focus on other areas of violence; and 19 will focus CHP resources on combating hate and domestic extremism or supporting police-based responses to persons in crisis. The complete list of awards can be found here.  

Since its creation in 1994, COPS has invested more than $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local and Tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of more than 135,000 officers. CHP, COPS’ flagship program, continues to be in demand today: In FY21, COPS received 590 applications requesting nearly 3,000 law enforcement positions. For FY22, President Biden has requested $537 million for CHP, an increase of $300 million.

To learn more about CHP, please visit https://cops.usdoj.gov/chp-award. For additional information about the COPS Office, please visit https://cops.usdoj.gov/.  

The COPS Office is the federal component of the Department of Justice responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. The only Department of Justice agency with policing in its name, the COPS Office was established in 1994 and has been the cornerstone of the nation’s crime fighting strategy with grants, a variety of knowledge resource products, and training and technical assistance. Through the years, the COPS Office has become the go-to organization for law enforcement agencies across the country and continues to listen to the field and provide the resources that are needed to reduce crime and build trust between law enforcement and the communities served.

###

            CONCORD - Raheem Nigge Taylor, 28, of Manchester, was sentenced to 36 months in federal prison for possession of firearms by a prohibited person, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on April 2, 2021, investigators obtained a search warrant for Taylor’s residence after social media posts revealed he may have been in possession of firearms.  The search revealed two firearms that matched the weapons Taylor displayed in photos on his social media account.  Officers also recovered multiple rounds of ammunition.  Taylor, who is prohibited from possessing firearms due to prior felony convictions, admitted that the weapons belonged to him. 

            Taylor previously pleaded guilty on July 27, 2021.

            “To keep Manchester safe from violent crime, it is imperative that we keep guns out of the hands of criminals,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “Despite being a convicted felon, Mr. Taylor had no respect for the law and continued to possess multiple firearms.  Such unlawful conduct will not be tolerated.  The law enforcement community in the Granite State will continue to work tirelessly to protect our community by identifying and prosecuting armed criminals.”

            “Getting guns away from people who shouldn’t have them is a crucial part of our concerted effort to check violent crime in this city. If you’re a convicted felon, like Raheem Nigge Taylor, who blatantly brandished two firearms, along with multiple rounds of ammo on social media, you should know you’re not going to get away with it,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “We will continue to do all we can to make New Hampshire safer for the good folks who live, work, or visit here.”

            This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Manchester Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Rombeau.

            This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. 

###

            CONCORD - Trevor Allen, 29, of Bellows Falls, Vermont, pleaded guilty in federal court to bank robbery, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on June 28, 2018, Allen walked into a bank in Charlestown, New Hampshire and handed a teller a note demanding him to empty the money in his drawer.  Allen claimed he was armed.  Allen was given a total of $2,485 in cash by the teller.  Investigators later found Allen’s fingerprint on the note.   

            Allen is scheduled to be sentenced on February 22, 2022.   

            “Bank robberies are violent crimes that can present a real risk of danger to anyone inside or near the bank,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “As part of our effort to combat violent crime in New Hampshire, we work closely with the FBI and our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who commit bank robberies and other violent offenses in the Granite State.”

            “When anyone enters a bank intent on robbing it, even if a weapon isn’t shown, there is always a chance someone could get hurt, or worse. Trevor Allen instilled fear in innocent employees and bystanders while committing armed robbery, and today, he has finally accepted responsibility for his actions,” 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 aggressively investigate anyone who targets our financial institutions for their own personal benefit.”

            This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Charlestown Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Krasinski.

###

            CONCORD - Kazi Pervez, 42, of Methuen, Massachusetts was sentenced to 12 months and 1 day in federal prison for bank fraud, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, Pervez was a branch manager for a bank in Salem, New Hampshire.  From at least April of 2016 until September of 2017, Pervez used his position as branch manager to steal or attempt to steal more than $560,000 from the bank.  For example, Pervez opened or instructed bank employees to open accounts in the name of deceased bank customers.  Pervez then withdrew funds from the accounts that exceeded the balance of the accounts and used his authority as branch manager to authorize the overdrafts from the account.  Pervez also identified inactive bank accounts of deceased bank customers and transferred money out of those accounts to other accounts that he controlled. 

            Pervez sometimes transferred the stolen or overdrawn funds directly to accounts at other banks that he controlled or to pay his bills.  Other times, Pervez transferred the funds he stole or overdrew between several accounts in the bank that he controlled before transferring the money to accounts at other banks or to pay his bills.  In total, Pervez stole or fraudulently overdrew about $564,590.02 from other peoples’ bank accounts.  Of that amount, Pervez successfully transferred more than $450,000 to other accounts outside the bank for his personal use.    

            Pervez previously pleaded guilty on March 29, 2021.  In addition to his sentence, Pervez was ordered to forfeit $454,730.26, which will be used for restitution.

            “This defendant took advantage of his position at a bank to steal money from the bank accounts of deceased individuals,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “This significant breach of trust is also a serious federal crime.  As this case demonstrates, we work closely with the Secret Service to identify and prosecute white collar criminals and to seek justice for the victims of financial crimes.”

            “The US Secret Service is committed to investigating complex fraud schemes especially those that involve the exploitation of elderly and deceased victims.”  stated Timothy Benitez, Resident Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service’s New Hampshire Office. 

            This matter was investigated by the United States Secret Service.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew T. Hunter and John Kennedy and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Arnold Huftalen.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Rabuck assisted with the forfeiture aspects of the case.

###

           CONCORD - Miguel Skrl Guillermo-Graseki, 23, of Lawrence, Massachusetts was sentenced to 45 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, between June and September of 2020, Guillermo-Graseki conspired with a Lawrence-based fentanyl distributor (MA Source) to distribute fentanyl in New Hampshire and Massachusetts to a confidential source (CS) and undercover Drug Enforcement Administration Task Force Officer (DEA TFO).  Guillermo-Graseki was used as a “go-between” for the MA Source to negotiate prices and quantities of drugs and arrange meeting spots in Massachusetts and New Hampshire.  During this time frame, the CS and DEA TFO made purchases totaling over 98 grams of fentanyl powder and 8,844 fentanyl pills. 

            “Fentanyl trafficking continues to present a significant threat to communities throughout New Hampshire,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “By trafficking in pills that contained fentanyl, this defendant put customers’ lives at risk because even one fentanyl pill can kill.  To protect the residents of the Granite State, we will continue to work with the DEA to identify and prosecute those who distribute fentanyl and other deadly drugs.”

             This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Federal Bureau of Investigation Safe Streets Task Force and the New Hampshire State Police.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Cole Davis.

###

            CONCORD - Stefan Catalin Bereanda, 45, a Romanian citizen unlawfully present in the United States, pleaded guilty in federal court on Monday to bank fraud and identity theft, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, in November of 2019, Bereanda and his co-defendant, Adrian Redenciuc, devised a scheme to defraud a New Hampshire bank by obtaining account information belonging to the bank’s customers, re-encoding the information onto new cards, and using those cards to withdraw funds from customer accounts.  Surveillance footage revealed that on or about November 9, 2019, Redenciuc installed skimming devices on several ATMs in Claremont.  He also installed small hidden cameras designed to record the PIN number entered by the customer during an ATM transaction.   On November 10, 2019, surveillance footage captured Redenciuc removing the devices.  Over the next few days, the two men visited several ATM locations around Claremont and made unauthorized withdrawals totaling over $30,000 using the information obtained through the skimming devices.         

            Bereanda is scheduled to be sentenced on March 1, 2022.  Redenciuc has not yet been taken into custody.

            “Identity theft and bank fraud offenses are significant crimes that cause serious financial and emotional harm to victims,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “This defendant’s scheme used skimming devices and hidden cameras to steal information from innocent bank customers.  Thanks to the work of the Secret Service, this disturbing criminal scheme was stopped and this defendant has been held accountable for his unlawful conduct.”

             This matter was investigated by the United States Secret Service and Claremont Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kasey Weiland.

###

            CONCORD - Ariel Toribio, 22, of Lawrence, Massachusetts, pleaded guilty in federal court on Monday to aiding and abetting the making of a false statement during the acquisition of a firearm, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley 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 is scheduled to be sentenced on February 22, 2022.   Charges against Sicard remain pending.

            “By arranging for another person to buy guns for himself and others, this defendant committed a significant federal crime,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “In order to keep guns out of the hands of criminals, we work closely with the ATF and other law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who unlawfully obtain firearms.” 

            “Firearms trafficking remains ATF's top priority and this investigation is another example of how through the use of a straw purchaser, firearms are trafficked and end up in the hands of criminals. This case should send a clear message to straw purchasers of firearms,  if you are thinking about buying a gun for someone other than yourself, you better think again.”  Said James M. Ferguson, ATF Special Agent in Charge, Boston Field Division.  “Together, with our law enforcement partners, we will aggressively pursue and arrest anyone who had a role in putting guns onto the streets and into the hands of individuals who cannot legally purchase them”

            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. 

  ###

            CONCORD - Georges Mazraani, 57, of Windham, pleaded guilty in federal court on Wednesday to willful failing to file a foreign bank account report, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, federal law requires that a U.S. person having a financial interest in, or signature or other authority over, a bank or other financial account in a foreign country, must file a Foreign Bank Account Report (“FBAR”) with the Treasury Department identifying each foreign account if the aggregate balance of all foreign accounts exceeds $10,000 at any point in the calendar year.  FBAR information is used by the federal government in criminal, tax, or regulatory investigations or proceedings.  A willful failure to file a required FBAR is a felony.

            Defendant Mazraani owned and operated Dot Square, a New Hampshire corporation that exported computers and related goods primarily to Lebanon.  He also had a financial interest in bank accounts held in Lebanon, from which he sometimes wired money to Dot Square’s bank account held in Salem, New Hampshire.  For calendar year 2012, Mazraani filed an FBAR identifying three accounts in Lebanon.  During the years 2013 through 2017, however, Mazraani did not file FBARs, even though he had an interest in at least one Lebanese bank account holding more than $10,000 during each of those years.  For example, in calendar year 2017, $554,245 was wired, in 13 separate wire transmissions, from Mazraani’s account at a bank in Beirut to Dot Square’s business checking account in New Hampshire.  Although Mazraani’s tax preparer advised the defendant’s bookkeeper about the FBAR filing requirement and Mazraani acknowledged on his 2016 and 2017 tax returns that he was required to file an FBAR, he nevertheless failed to file the report. 

           Mazraani is scheduled to be sentenced on February 14, 2022.

           “Failing to file a Foreign Bank Account Report is a federal crime,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “By failing to file these reports from 2013 to 2017, the defendant concealed information about foreign bank accounts that he was required to disclose.  We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who commit tax crimes and other financial offenses.”

           “The law requires companies who use our country’s financial system to provide financial institutions with truthful information about their business operations, but Georges Mazraani admitted today that he knowingly and willfully failed to do that, over the course of five years. In fact, he went out of his way to conceal his bank accounts in Lebanon, despite a reminder from his bookkeeper,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “The FBI will not hesitate to aggressively investigate companies who are doing business in the United States but failing to adhere to our laws.”

            “The accurate reporting of foreign bank accounts ensures fairness and integrity in the U.S. tax system. By his own admission today, Mr. Mazraani deliberately avoided his reporting requirements in an attempt to hide assets. As a result of his actions, he is now subject to a federal felony conviction,” said Joleen D. Simpson, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Division, Boston Field Office. 

            This matter was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, the Department of Commerce, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John S. Davis.

###

            CONCORD - Michelle Marone, 52, of Middleton, pleaded guilty in federal court to access device fraud, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, Marone’s boyfriend went missing in April 2019.  Her boyfriend was receiving Social Security Disability Insurance payments that were deposited onto a debit card.  The Social Security Administration was unaware of the boyfriend’s disappearance and continued to deposit funds onto the card each month.  In June of 2020, Marone entered her boyfriend’s personal identifying information into an automated dialing system and obtained a replacement debit card, which she used over the next year to access the stored funds.  She withdrew most of the funds from ATMs in Farmington and Rochester.  Overall, Marone obtained $23,591.50 in benefits that she was not entitled to receive.

            Marone is scheduled to be sentenced on February 24, 2022.

            “This defendant fraudulently obtained thousands of dollars in Social Security Disability benefits that she was not entitled to receive,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “By accessing benefits that she was not entitled to, she committed a serious federal crime.  We work closely with the Social Security Administration’s Inspector General to identify and prosecute those who steal Social Security benefits that are intended for individuals with disabilities.”

            “After her boyfriend went missing, Ms. Marone intentionally took steps to redirect his Social Security benefits for her own personal gain,” said Gail S. Ennis, Inspector General for the Social Security Administration. “We will continue to pursue and hold those accountable who defraud SSA. I want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander S. Chen for prosecuting this case.”

            This matter was investigated by the Social Security Administration’s Office of Inspector General.  The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander S. Chen.

###

            CONCORD - Adrian Hardin, 27, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon, Acting 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 is scheduled to be sentenced on February 7, 2022.

            “To protect our community from violent crime, we must keep guns out of the hands of criminals,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley. “Despite being a convicted felon, this defendant nevertheless continued to arm himself with firearms.  Such unlawful conduct cannot be tolerated.  In our efforts to keep the Granite State safe, we will not hesitate to pursue federal prosecutions of criminals who endanger our community by possessing guns.”       

            This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Manchester Police Department, and the Merrimack Police Department.  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. 

###

            CONCORD - Shawn Helstein, 45, of Iowa, pleaded guilty in federal court on Wednesday to conspiracy to launder monetary instruments, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on November 8, 2018, Helstein was observed by law enforcement agents in the presence of a large-scale methamphetamine trafficker, Jacob MacQuarrie, at a hotel in Bow, New Hampshire.  MacQuarrie was arrested on an outstanding warrant.  Helstein was found in possession of $2,080 in cash, which was seized.  In later statements to investigators, Helstein admitted that he knew that MacQuarrie was trafficking methamphetamine.  He said the money belonged to MacQuarrie and that they were planning to deposit the money into a cryptocurrency ATM.  Helstein said MacQuarrie had given him the money earlier in the day and had him download a bitcoin app.  MacQuarrie gave Helstein his password and said he would show him how to convert the money into crypto currency at a location in Concord.  Helstein stated that he believed MacQuarrie was ordering drugs and moving money on the dark web.

            Helstein is scheduled to be sentenced on February 7, 2022.  MacQuarrie is serving a ten-year sentence for participating in a drug trafficking conspiracy and possessing a firearm during a drug crime.

            “Money laundering crimes help drug dealers and other criminals disguise the illegal source of their funds,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “Because money laundering activities provide important financial support to drug traffickers, we will not hesitate to bring criminal charges against those who aid criminals by laundering their drug proceeds.”

             This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Bow Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John S. Davis.

###

            CONCORD - Jonathan Sargent, 38, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of fentanyl and methamphetamine with intent to distribute and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, Acting 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 is scheduled to be sentenced on February 2, 2022.  As part of his plea, Sargent agreed to forfeit four firearms that were in his possession at the time of his arrest. 

            “Armed drug traffickers present a serious threat to public safety,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley. “To protect the citizens of Manchester and other communities, we are working closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the armed criminals who are profiting from sales of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and other dangerous substances.  Through this and other successful prosecutions of armed drug dealers, we are working to make the Granite State a safer place.”

            This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Manchester Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joachim H. Barth and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander Chen.

            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. 

 ###

            CONCORD, N.H. – Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced that a federal jury found Corey Donovan, 38, of Wilmot, guilty of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.  The verdict was returned on Friday, October 15, 2021.

            According to trial exhibits and witness testimony during the four-day jury trial, Donovan was prohibited from possessing firearms due to prior felony convictions.  In March of 2021, law enforcement officers received a tip that Donovan possessed firearms.  After investigating the matter, law enforcement officers obtained search warrants for Donovan’s property and vehicles associated with him.  Located in Donovan’s Jeep, strapped to the roll bar, was a loaded 20-gauge shotgun.  There were several rounds of ammunition on and in the weapon.  Additional ammunition was in the Jeep’s center console.   A companion 20-gauge shotgun barrel, several shotgun parts, multiple rounds of ammunition, and various gun accessories also were located on Donovan’s property. 

            Donovan, who is detained, faces up to 10 years in prison.  He is scheduled to be sentenced on January 31, 2022. 

            “To protect our community from violent crime, it is essential to keep guns out of the hands of criminals,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “As this prosecution demonstrates, we will not hesitate to bring federal criminal charges against convicted felons who unlawfully possess firearms.  By prosecuting dangerous criminals like Mr. Donovan, we are working to keep families and communities in the Granite State safe from violence.”

            “ATF is committed to pursuing the illegal possession of firearms by prohibited persons. In this circumstance, Mr. Donovan had a previous violent felony conviction. These investigations are of high priority for the ATF because they directly impact public safety,” said Special Agent in Charge James Ferguson.

            This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the United States Marshals Service, New Hampshire State Police, New Hampshire Information and Analysis Center, New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, Andover Police Department, and United States Probation and Pretrial Services.  Special assistance was also provided by the Somersworth Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Anna Krasinski and Charles Rombeau. 

###

            CONCORD - Howard Poole, 43, of Pittsburg, was sentenced on Thursday to 42 months in federal prison for possession of fentanyl and methamphetamine with intent to distribute, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

             According to court documents and statements made in court, on December 16, 2020, law enforcement officers received information that Poole was distributing drugs and was the subject of multiple arrest warrants.  Based on the information, investigators set up surveillance and observed Poole leaving a Manchester motel in a car driven by his wife.  The vehicle pulled into a gas station and a state trooper conducted a motor vehicle stop.  After the trooper informed Poole of the active warrants, Poole admitted he possessed methamphetamine, opiates, and cash.  The trooper observed a large amount of currency and a baggie containing methamphetamine in the vehicle.  A consensual search of the vehicle and a search of Poole’s person revealed $6,786 in cash, over 278 grams of fentanyl, and over 25 grams of methamphetamine.

            Poole previously pleaded guilty on June 4, 2021.

            “Drug traffickers like Mr. Poole endanger our communities by peddling deadly and addictive substances,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “In order to protect our community, we continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify those who are profiting from the sale of illegal drugs and hold them accountable for their unlawful conduct.”

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

# # #

             CONCORD - Charles Paul Jansen, 35, of Pittsfield, pleaded guilty in federal court to distribution of child pornography, Acting 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 users who were 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 is scheduled to be sentenced on January 18, 2022.

           “Protecting innocent children is one of the foremost duties of law enforcement,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “As part of our effort to fulfill this duty, the law enforcement community is committed to identifying and prosecuting those who engage in child pornography crimes.  Those who distribute these horrific images are further victimizing innocent victims of child sexual abuse.  As this case demonstrates, such unlawful conduct will not be tolerated in New Hampshire.” 

            “Simply put, Charles Jansen is a predator who admitted today to sexually exploiting children by distributing and exchanging their images online for his own gratification,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “What he did is despicable, and the FBI and our partners won’t ever stop fighting to protect children and making sure their abusers are held accountable.” 

          This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pittsfield Police Department.  The case is being 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.                           

###