District of New Hampshire

            CONCORD – Arnetta Harris, 60, of Fitchburg, Massachusetts, pleaded guilty in federal court on Tuesday to one count of aiding and abetting the distribution of a controlled substance, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on April 14, 2018, Harris sold crack cocaine to another individual who in turn sold the crack cocaine to an undercover officer.  Shortly after the sale, officers conducted a traffic stop of the vehicle Harris was driving and a search revealed crack cocaine in a DVD case located in the footwell of the car.  After her arrest, Harris admitted that she drove another individual to conduct the drug transaction.  She further confirmed the DVD case was used in the drug transaction.

            Harris is scheduled to be sentenced on August 31, 2021.

            Harris is one of eleven individuals charged in this drug trafficking case.  All have pleaded guilty.   Several members of the conspiracy have received substantial prison sentences.  Melvin Nooks, Jr. was sentenced on April 2, 2020, to 120 months. George Cruz was sentenced on July 30, 2020, to 63 months.  Mallory Nooks was sentenced on February 25, 2020, to 60 months.  Marvin Morrison was sentenced on May 13, 2020, to 15 months.  Don Johnson was sentenced on February 13, 2020, to 42 months.  Isaiah Kinard pleaded guilty on December 18, 2019, Lawrence Fortenberry pleaded guilty on January 7, 2020, William Greenleaf pleaded guilty on January 14, 2020, and Melvin Stanford pleaded guilty on April 9, 2021.  They are all awaiting sentencing.

            “Drug trafficking endangers public health and safety in our communities,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “Working closely with our law enforcement partners, we are targeting the organizations that distribute dangerous drugs in Nashua and throughout the Granite State.  While this organization has been dismantled, we continue to work each day to identify and target other criminal organizations that threaten our citizens.” 

            “Arnetta Harris and her criminal cohorts thought they were above the law and could traffic crack cocaine in the neighborhoods of Nashua without getting caught. The hard work of the NH Safe Streets Gang Task Force in dismantling this organization and disrupting the flow of dangerous drugs to our area has paid off, but there is much more work to be done to ensure that other criminal enterprises don’t try to fill the void left by this one,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division.

            The case was a collaborative investigation that involved the FBI New Hampshire Safe Streets Gang Task Force; the Nashua Police Department; the New Hampshire State Police; the Manchester Police Department; New Hampshire Probation and Parole; DEA; Massachusetts State Police Department; Portsmouth Police Department and the Federal Protective Service.  The United States Marshals Service also assisted in the investigation.

            The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Georgiana MacDonald and Anna Krasinski.

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

 

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           CONCORD - Hayder Lefta, 24, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court to six counts of access device fraud, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, while working as a customer service representative at the Manchester Boston Regional Airport in 2018 and 2019, Lefta copied the credit card numbers of customers he served at the airport. He then used those credit card numbers, without authorization, to purchase airline flights and meals for himself and for friends, to pay for hotels for his personal leisure travel, and for other personal expenses.

            Lefta is scheduled to be sentenced on August 17, 2021. The defendant’s plea agreement requires him to pay restitution to the victims of the offense.

            “Crimes that involve the theft of credit card numbers or other personal information have serious consequences for their victims,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “In order to seek justice for victims, we will work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who commit fraud crimes.”

            “This individual stole customer information he was entrusted with safeguarding through his employment to commit fraud, stealing from unsuspecting members of the public. Homeland Security Investigations takes financial fraud schemes seriously and is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to investigate and seek prosecution,” said acting Special Agent in Charge William S. Walker for the Homeland Security Investigations Boston field office.

            This matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Air Marshal Service, and the Londonderry Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana L. MacDonald.

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           CONCORD - Jim Pham, 36, of Rowland Heights, California, was sentenced to 121 months in federal prison for participating in a conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, methamphetamine, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

           According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2018, Pham met a drug trafficker from New Hampshire via the internet on the dark web.  The trafficker purchased shipments of highly-pure methamphetamine from Pham, which he received in New Hampshire via Federal Express and other means.  The drugs were distributed throughout New Hampshire and New England and the proceeds were used to purchase additional methamphetamine from Pham.  Pham was typically paid by the trafficker using cryptocurrency.  During the conspiracy, Pham shipped at least 30 kilograms of methamphetamine to the trafficker in New Hampshire.            

           “Methamphetamine is a very dangerous drug that is jeopardizing the health and safety of the citizens of New Hampshire,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “We are committed to working with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the interstate drug traffickers who are shipping methamphetamine to New Hampshire.  Methamphetamine traffickers who do business in the Granite State should understand that they will face substantial federal prison terms for their conduct.”

           “As methamphetamine seizures are on the rise, DEA stands committed to keeping this highly addictive drug out of New Hampshire,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle.  “Today’s significant sentence not only holds Mr. Pham accountable for his crimes but serves as a warning to those who attempt to bring this poison to the Granite State.”

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

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            CONCORD- The First Circuit Court of Appeals has upheld the conviction of a former resident of Malden, Massachusetts who raised multiple challenges to his conviction for obtaining weapons and grenades as part of a plot to kill his ex-wife’s husband, a federal judge in Boston, and a former Massachusetts Attorney General.

            Edward McLarnon, 72, was found guilty by a jury following six-day trial in January of 2018.  Evidence presented at trial showed that in October of 2015, McLarnon made contact with a person he believed to be an arms dealer (who was actually an undercover FBI agent) for the purpose of buying illegal weapons.  McLarnon negotiated with the undercover agent at a store in Chichester, New Hampshire and paid a total of $700 in cash to obtain the weapons.  On November 6, 2015, the defendant took possession of a .22 caliber pistol with a silencer, an AK-47-style semi-automatic rifle, ammunition, and two hand grenades containing high explosives at a rest stop in Seabrook.  He was taken into custody shortly after taking possession of these items.  The evidence further showed that McLarnon intended to use the weapons to kill his ex-wife's husband, as well as a Boston federal judge, and a former Massachusetts Attorney General.  

            The First Circuit rejected all of McLarnon’s arguments on appeal and affirmed his conviction.  He is serving a 300-month prison sentence. 

            “This defendant’s dangerous plot could have resulted in multiple deaths,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “Now that his appeal has been unsuccessful, he will remain incarcerated where he can no longer pose a danger to the community.”

             This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John S. Davis and Matthew T. Hunter.

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            CONCORD – Dennis Bousquet, 31, of Lisbon, was indicted by a federal grand jury on Monday and charged with one count of production of child pornography and one count of distribution of child pornography, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            Bousquet was arrested on a criminal complaint on March 31, 2021.  The complaint alleges that on March 30, 2021, Bousquet took sexually explicit images of a minor female and sent them to an undercover law enforcement officer through an online chat group.  

            Bousquet is being detained pending trial.  A trial date has not yet been scheduled.

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

            The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the New Hampshire State Police.

            CONCORD - Derek Wright, 32, of Bristol, pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, controlled substances, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on multiple occasions between May 18, 2020, and September 17, 2020, Wright purchased fentanyl from a supplier and re-sold it to customers in New Hampshire.  Wright was arrested on an outstanding warrant on September 17, 2020. During a lawful search of Wright’s vehicle, officers found over 30 grams of fentanyl, approximately 10 small bags of methamphetamine and other items indicative of drug distribution.  Wright later admitted to purchasing 50-60 grams of fentanyl at a time, which he re-sold to customers for profit. 

           Wright is scheduled to be sentenced on August 16, 2021.

           “Drug traffickers who peddle fentanyl and methamphetamine are attempting to profit from the sale of dangerous substances,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “Their unlawful actions pose a serious risk to public health and safety.  To protect our community from these deadly drugs, we are working closely with our law enforcement partners to put drug dealers in the Granite State out of business.” 

            This matter was investigated by the New Hampshire State Police, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, and the Tilton Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana L. MacDonald.

 

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           CONCORD - Jason Manley, 32, of Concord, pleaded guilty in federal court to attempted possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and possessing 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 March of 2019, the United States Postal Inspection Service identified Manley as a customer of an illegal drug vendor operating on the internet.  Between March of 2019 and July of 2020, postal inspectors intercepted four parcels addressed to Manley at his residence.  Pursuant to search warrants, the seized parcels were found to contain a total of over 2.3 kilograms of highly-pure methamphetamine.  On July 10, 2020, an undercover agent made a controlled delivery of an intercepted parcel to Manley’s residence.  After Manley accepted the parcel, investigators executed a search warrant of his residence and recovered additional methamphetamine, a handgun and ammunition, $54,483 in cash, and additional items consistent with drug distribution activities.     

           Manley is scheduled to be sentenced on August 2, 2021.   As part of his plea agreement, Manley has agreed to forfeit cash, a firearm, ammunition, jewelry, and other items seized during the investigation.

           “Methamphetamine traffickers present a significant threat to the community because they are distributing an extremely dangerous drug,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “When drug dealers are armed, the risk to public safety is even greater.  As this case demonstrates, we are working closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the armed drug traffickers who do business in the Granite State.”

            This matter was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service with assistance from the New Hampshire State Police.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cam Le.

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           CONCORD - Robert Severance, 61, of Manchester, was sentenced to 180 months in federal prison for distributing and possessing child pornography, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.  

           According to court documents and statements made in court, on July 15, 2019, the Manchester Police Department (“MPD”) received a tip previously submitted to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children by the social media website Instagram.  The tip reported that on June 6, 2019, a file uploaded to Instagram was identified as a Child Sexual Abuse Image. MPD investigators later determined that the Instagram account was associated with Severance, who was a registered sex offender in Manchester, New Hampshire.

           MPD investigators spoke with Severance at his residence in Manchester on July 22, 2019. He voluntarily went to the MPD and consented to an interview.  Severance admitted to creating the Instagram account and explained that he portrayed himself as a 15-year-old female in order to talk with other young females.  He stated that he had a laptop at home and admitted to receiving thousands of pictures and/or videos of child pornography via email.

           A search warrant executed at Severance’s home the following day resulted in the seizure of numerous electronic devices and other media items.  Forensic review of all items seized from the defendant revealed thousands of images and over one hundred videos of child pornography.    

           Severance previously pleaded guilty on November 23, 2020.  In addition to the prison sentence, Severance must spend 10 years on supervised release and pay a total of $9,000 in restitution to three victims.

           “Child pornography crimes exploit innocent youngsters and cause immeasurable damage to their lives,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “This sentence reflects the seriousness of the defendant’s conduct and demonstrates the commitment of the law enforcement community to protecting children in the Granite State.  As Mr. Severance has learned, those who engage in child pornography offenses in New Hampshire will face substantial consequences for their illegal conduct.”

           "The dedicated men and women associated with the NH ICAC Task Force will continue to be vigilant and partner with hard working agencies like the Manchester Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Department of Justice in an effort to hold individuals accountable and keep our children safe,” said Lt. Eric Kinsman, Commander, NH ICAC Task Force.  “For more information and tips about internet safety, please go to http://www.nhicac.org."

            This matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the NH Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Manchester Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kasey Weiland.

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

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           CONCORD – Melissa Gazaway, 33, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court to 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.             

            Jovan and Chrystal Callaghan previously pleaded guilty and are scheduled to be sentenced on July 6, 2021.

            Gazaway is scheduled to be sentenced on August 9, 2021.    

            “Drug trafficking continues to threaten public health and safety in communities throughout New Hampshire,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “In order to protect the citizens of the Granite State, we are working closely with our law enforcement partners to stop the flow of illegal drugs into New Hampshire.  Today’s conviction is another example of our efforts to target the drug dealers who seek to profit from the sale of fentanyl and other dangerous drugs.”

             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 is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana L. MacDonald.

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           CONCORD - Travis Dunn, 31, of Chichester, was sentenced on Monday to 21 months in federal prison for distribution of fentanyl, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

           According to court documents and statements made in court, on August 27, 2019, Dunn aided and abetted two co-defendants by driving them to Lawrence, Massachusetts to pick up drugs for redistribution in New Hampshire.  On the return trip, the co-defendants sold fentanyl to an individual who was cooperating with Nashua Police detectives.  Immediately following the drug deal, detectives arrested Dunn and the co-defendants.    

           Dunn previously pleaded guilty on November 19, 2020.  Dunn’s codefendants also have pleaded guilty.  Michael Briand, 29, of Bow, was sentenced to 22 months on December 8, 2020.  Megan Judd, 27, of Bow, pleaded guilty on November 30, 2020 and was sentenced to time served. 

           “Fentanyl traffickers endanger our citizens and communities by peddling an extremely dangerous and addictive drug,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “Through Operation SOS, we are protecting public safety by identifying and prosecuting the drug dealers who sell fentanyl in Nashua and other communities in Hillsborough County.”

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

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

 

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            CONCORD - Christopher Hodgeman, 29, of New Ipswich, pleaded guilty in federal court on Tuesday to possession of child pornography, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

             According to court documents and statements made in court, on or about November 28, 2018, Hodgeman began communicating with an undercover officer on a social media platform used to exchange child pornography. The officer pretended to be an uncle with a nine-year-old niece.  Hodgeman repeatedly asked the officer to send him pictures of his niece and allow him to talk to her.  Hodgeman sent images of child pornography to the officer.  Investigators traced the social media account to Hodgeman’s residence and executed a search warrant on April 15, 2019, where they seized various devices including a cellular phone.  A forensic examination of the phone revealed images of child pornography.  Hodgeman admitted to using the account, communicating with minor females online, and possessing and distributing child pornography.

            Hodgeman is scheduled to be sentenced on August 10, 2021.

            “Child pornography contains horrific images of children being exploited,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “In order to protect children from exploitation and harm, we work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who manufacture, distribute or possess child pornography.”

            “The individual in this case not only traded in child exploitation material, but also sought to make direct contact with children online. Homeland Security Investigations is committed to investigating crimes against children online to prevent their exploitation and stop predators from making contact with potential victims,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge for the Homeland Security Investigations Boston Field Office, William S. Walker.

            This matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana MacDonald.

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

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            CONCORD – Walter Rodriguez, of Manchester, was sentenced today to 18 months in prison for employment tax fraud.

            According to court documents, from 2011 to 2013, Rodriguez aided and abetted several drywall companies that were evading the payment of employment taxes. Rodriguez found workers for the companies for construction jobs. The companies then issued checks in the names of fictitious or fraudulent identities and provided those checks to Rodriguez.  He then converted the checks to cash at local check-cashing businesses and paid the workers off-the-books. In total, Rodriguez enabled the payment of $1.7 million in unreported wages, causing a tax loss of $416,000.

            In addition to the term of imprisonment, U.S. District Judge Steven J. McAuliffe ordered Rodriguez to serve 1 year of supervised release and to pay approximately $416,163 in restitution to the United States.

            Rodriguez previously pleaded guilty on January 12, 2021.

            Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley and Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division made the announcement.

            “The defendant committed a serious violation of federal law,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley. “The defendant’s elaborate scheme generated a significant number of false documents, allowed individuals to work off-the-books, and resulted in over $400,000 in unpaid taxes.  As this case shows, tax cheaters in New Hampshire will face significant consequences for their unlawful conduct.”

            “Under-the-table schemes like those perpetrated by the defendant are an affront to the hardworking businesses who play by the rules,” stated Ramsey E. Covington, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, Boston Field Office. “The terms handed down in today’s sentencing will hopefully serve as a clear warning about the penalties that await those involved in this type of criminal activity.”   

             IRS-Criminal Investigation investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Aframe of the District of New Hampshire and Trial Attorney Brittney Campbell of the Justice Department’s Tax Division prosecuted the case.

                       

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            CONCORD - Justin McInnes, 32, of Manchester, was sentenced to 144 months in federal prison on Tuesday for unlawful possession of a firearm, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense and possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.  

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on September 6, 2018, Manchester police officers approached McInnes as he was in the driver’s seat of a vehicle that had just backed out of a parking spot.  As officers approached, McInnes accelerated toward the officers causing at least one to jump out of the way.  Officers fired at the vehicle and, once the vehicle came to a stop, officers arrested McInnes.  During a search incident to his arrest, officers found suspected cocaine and crack cocaine on McInnes’ person. 

            Officers obtained a search warrant for the vehicle and found three firearms, counterfeit money, and materials for manufacturing counterfeit money.  Multiple cellular telephones were also seized that contained text messages related to drug distribution. 

            McInnes is legally prohibited from possessing firearms by virtue of prior felony convictions in 2008, 2013, 2014 and 2018.

            “Armed criminals present a serious threat to the community,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “Thanks to the work of the Manchester Police Department and ATF, this dangerous armed drug trafficker will be in federal prison where he can no longer endanger the citizens of Manchester.  We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the violent criminals who threaten public safety in the Granite State.”

            “I am very pleased with the sentence that the defendant received in this matter. His actions directly put the lives of Manchester Police officers and the community as a whole in grave danger and for that he is being held accountable. I am grateful to the officers, detectives and prosecutors who dedicated a great amount of effort and time to this case which directly impacted the defendant receiving the sentence that he did,” says Manchester Police Chief Allen Aldenberg.

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

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

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            CONCORD – William McKay, 48, of Rochester, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison for participating in a conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute, and to distribute, methamphetamine, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, McKay conspired with James Nesbit and Haley Hansler to distribute crystal “ice” methamphetamine.  In 2018, McKay ordered three packages totaling approximately 742 grams of “ice” methamphetamine from vendors on the Dark Web that were intended for McKay’s personal use and for McKay, Nesbit and Hansler to distribute to drug customers in New Hampshire.

            McKay previously pleaded guilty on October 23, 2020.  In April 2020, Hansler was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison. James Nesbit was sentenced in November 2020 to 120 months in federal prison.

            “Methamphetamine is a dangerous and addictive drug that can ruin lives and damage communities,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “We are working closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the drug traffickers who are distributing methamphetamine in the Granite State.  As this case demonstrates, those who choose to sell methamphetamine in New Hampshire will face substantial consequences for their unlawful conduct.”

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

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

             This case was investigated by the DEA’s Tactical Diversion Squad, the New Hampshire State Police, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Strafford County Drug Task Force. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Cole Davis.

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            CONCORD – Jafet Centeno, 23, of Manchester, was indicted by a federal grand jury on Monday and charged with unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            Centeno initially was charged by complaint and brought into custody last week.  He is detained pending trial.

            The original complaint filed in court alleges that on April 1, 2021 officers executed a state search warrant at Centeno’s residence.  During the search, officers seized a loaded firearm and ammunition.  The complaint alleged that Centeno is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to previous felony convictions in 2017.  

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

            The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Manchester Police Department. 

            The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Krasinski.  

 

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CONCORD – Acting U.S. Attorney John J. Farley announced today that the United States filed a lawsuit on Friday against John J. Flatley d/b/a John J. Flatley Company (Flatley), and a property manager employed by Flatley, for violating the Fair Housing Act.  The United States alleges that Flatley discriminated against a tenant by refusing to allow a reasonable accommodation of the tenant’s disability when the tenant sought to have an emotional support dog.   

As alleged in the complaint, the tenant leased an apartment in Nashua, which is owned by Flatley.  The tenant, who was diagnosed with anxiety and depression, had used a dog for emotional support for several years.  After the tenant requested permission to have an emotional support animal at the apartment, Flatley and the property manager indicated that they would permit the tenant to have an emotional support animal, but not a dog.  The complaint alleges Flatley would not permit tenants to have dogs as emotional support animals.

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

In these circumstances, the Fair Housing Act authorizes the Justice Department to commence an action in U.S. District Court on behalf of the tenant.  The complaint seeks declaratory, injunctive, and monetary relief for the tenant.

“The Fair Housing Act serves to provide equal opportunity to individuals with disabilities by obligating landlords to provide tenants with reasonable accommodations,” said Acting U.S. Attorney John Farley of the District of New Hampshire.  “One commonly-needed accommodation for an individual with a disability is access to an assistance animal, such as a service animal or a support animal.  In order to protect the rights of individuals with disabilities and prevent discrimination, we will not hesitate to pursue litigation to enforce the Fair Housing Act and other federal civil rights laws.”

“Many individuals with different types of disabilities rely on assistance animals to maintain their independence and fully enjoy the place they call home,” said HUD’s Acting Assistant Secretary Jeanine Worden.  “HUD applauds today’s action and will continue working with the Justice Department to ensure that housing providers meet their obligation to comply with the reasonable accommodation requirements of the Fair Housing Act.”

The federal Fair Housing Act 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 is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Raphael Katz.

The complaint is an allegation of unlawful conduct.  The allegations must still be proven in federal court.

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           CONCORD – Melvin Stanford, 43, of Nashua, pleaded guilty in federal court to distributing crack cocaine, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

           According to court documents and statements made in court, Stanford distributed crack cocaine and other drugs to various customers in the Nashua area.

           Stanford is scheduled to be sentenced on August 3, 2021. 

           In addition to Stanford, three defendants in this case have pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing.  The following defendants have already been sentenced to federal prison: Donald Johnson received 42 months; Marvin Morrison received 15 months; Terray Morrison received 120 months; Melvin Nooks received 120 months; and Mallory Nooks received 60 months.  One other defendant is awaiting trial.

           “This prosecution is another example of our ongoing effort to fight back against drug trafficking in New Hampshire,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the drug dealers who are damaging our community by selling dangerous drugs.” 

           “Putting Melvin Stanford and his fellow drug traffickers out of business is a win for the citizens of Nashua. The FBI and our partners will not cede our cities to drug pushers who have no regard for the harm and violence they bring into our neighborhoods,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division.

            This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the New Hampshire State Police, Nashua Police Department, Manchester Police Department, Dover Police Department and Portsmouth Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Georgiana L. MacDonald and Anna Krasinski.

            This case was supported by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF).  The OCDETF program is a federal multi-agency, multi-jurisdictional task force that supplies supplemental federal funding to federal and state agencies involved in the identification, investigation, and prosecution of major drug trafficking organizations. 

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           CONCORD - John Leon Rupert, 29, of Scarborough, Maine pleaded guilty in federal court to making interstate threats, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

           According to court documents and statements made in court, on February 3, 2021, two calls were received by employees at Somersworth City Hall in which a computer-generated voice stated there was a bomb inside the building.  The building was evacuated and it was determined there were no explosive devices.   The calls were tracked to an IP address at Rupert’s residence in Scarborough, Maine.

           On February 15, 2021 agents executed a federal search warrant at the residence.  Rupert admitted he was the person who made the calls because he was angry about an injury received at a massage parlor in Somersworth. 

           Rupert is scheduled to be sentenced on July 14, 2021.

           “Bomb threat hoaxes are serious crimes that can disrupt communities and divert law enforcement resources from other priorities,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “As a result of this defendant’s conduct, Somersworth City Hall was evacuated and many innocent people were inconvenienced.  I am grateful to the FBI and the Somersworth Police Department for their rapid efforts to identify the individual responsible for making these threats.  As this case demonstrates, we will work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those responsible for making bomb threats.”

           “Upset over an injury he blamed on a local massage parlor, John Rupert misplaced his anger and used poor judgment in making two hoax calls to Somersworth City Hall stating that there was a bomb inside the building. With today’s guilty plea, he has finally realized the error of his ways,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “Hoax threats instill fear, waste limited law enforcement resources, and put first responders in unnecessary danger. They are also federal crimes with serious consequences as demonstrated by this case.”

           This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Somersworth Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana MacDonald.

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          CONCORD - Raheem Taylor, 28, of Manchester, has been charged in federal court with unlawfully possessing firearms, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

          According to court documents, Taylor was arrested on Friday following the execution of a search warrant in Manchester.  He initially was charged in state court with the possession of firearms while being a convicted felon and possession of a controlled drug.  Taylor has prior felony convictions that prohibit him from possessing firearms.

          Taylor was taken into federal custody today and charged in a federal criminal complaint with unlawfully possessing firearms.  Federal law prohibits convicted felons from possessing firearms.  The complaint alleges that two handguns were seized from Taylor’s residence, including one with an extended high capacity magazine capable of holding 17 rounds of ammunition.

          Taylor is scheduled to appear for a United States Magistrate Judge later today.           

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

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

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

                         

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            CONCORD - Nadine Jacques, 46, of Pembroke, was sentenced to 129 months in federal prison for methamphetamine trafficking on Friday, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

             According to court documents and statements made in court, in February and March of 2020, a cooperating individual made four controlled purchases of methamphetamine from Jacques in Suncook, Concord, and Dover, New Hampshire. 

             Agents conducting surveillance at the final purchase on March 4, 2020, witnessed Jacques obtaining the drugs from her source, Tyler Cady, in Dover.  Agents arrested Jacques and Cady and recovered over 111 grams of methamphetamine. 

             Jacques previously pleaded guilty on August 7, 2020.  Cady, 30, of Concord, pleaded guilty on February 26, 2021.  He is scheduled to be sentenced on June 4, 2021.

            “Methamphetamine is a very dangerous drug that continues to pose a significant threat to the citizens of New Hampshire,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “To protect the community, we are working closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the drug traffickers who are peddling methamphetamine.  As Ms. Jacques has learned, methamphetamine dealers in the Granite State will face substantial consequences for their unlawful actions.”

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

                       

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           CONCORD – William Soto, 29, of New York, pleaded guilty in federal court on Friday to aiding and abetting the possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

           According to court documents and statements made in court, on February 25, 2020, a New Hampshire state trooper pulled over a vehicle operated by co-defendant Lorenzo Vasquez for traffic violations.  The trooper identified Soto by his driver’s license.  A drug detection dog later indicated that there were drugs in the vehicle.  After obtaining a search warrant, officers located over 202 grams of cocaine base, over 90 grams of heroin, and a digital scale within the vehicle.

           Vasquez previously pleaded guilty on March 12, 2021 and is scheduled to be sentenced on June 18, 2021.  Soto is scheduled to be sentenced on July 12, 2021.

           “Interstate drug traffickers are endangering the lives of New Hampshire’s citizens,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “In order to protect the community, we will not hesitate to bring federal charges against the criminals who come to the Granite State to sell illegal drugs.  I am grateful to the State Police for helping us to put this drug dealer out of business.”

           This matter was investigated by the New Hampshire State Police Mobile Enforcement Team.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joachim H. Barth.

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            CONCORD - Robin Stephan, 43, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of ammunition by a convicted felon, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

             According to court documents and statements made in court, on October 21, 2019, the Manchester Police Department responded to a call of a theft from a motor vehicle.  After receiving a description of the suspect, police officers stopped and spoke with Stephan who denied involvement in the theft.  As the officers spoke with Stephan, she rummaged through her backpack.  The officers observed ammunition and a magazine within Stephan’s backpack.  As a convicted felon, Stephan is prohibited from possessing ammunition under federal law.

             Stephan is scheduled to be sentenced on June 17, 2021.

             “In order to keep our community safe, it is important to keep guns and ammunition out of the hands of criminals,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “I am grateful to the officers of the Manchester Police Department whose good work resulted in this federal prosecution.”

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

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

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           CONCORD - Frailin Manuel Gomez-Gil, 29, a citizen of the Dominican Republic most recently residing in Lawrence, Massachusetts, was sentenced to 75 months in federal prison on Friday for participating in a fentanyl trafficking conspiracy, Acing United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

           According to court documents and statements made in court, Gomez-Gil participated in a drug trafficking organization that was led by Sergio Martinez.  Martinez, who is now serving a 45-year prison sentence, employed numerous individuals to sell fentanyl to customers from various New England states, including New Hampshire. Gomez-Gil assisted Martinez with testing, diluting, and packaging the drugs for sale.

           Gomez-Gil previously pleaded guilty on November 18, 2020.  After serving his prison sentence, he faces likely removal to the Dominican Republic.

           “Over the past few years, fentanyl has caused tremendous damage to communities throughout New Hampshire,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley. “Together with our law enforcement partners, we are fighting back against the organizations that distribute this deadly substance in the Granite State.  Drug traffickers who seek to profit from selling opioids in the Granite State will be prosecuted and sent to federal prison.”

           “The state of New Hampshire is faced with an opioid crisis unlike ever before,” said Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle.  “Those responsible for distributing lethal drugs like fentanyl to the citizens of New Hampshire need to be held accountable for their actions.  DEA will aggressively pursue Drug Trafficking Organizations and individuals who are coming from out of state to distribute this poison in order to profit and destroy people’s lives.  This investigation demonstrates the strength and continued commitment of our local, state and federal law enforcement partners.” 

            The case was a collaborative investigation that involved the DEA; the New Hampshire State Police; the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office; the Nashua Police Department; the Massachusetts State Police; the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office; the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office; the Essex County District Attorney’s Office; the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations; Homeland Security Investigations; United States Customs and Border Protection Boston Field Office; the United States Marshals Service; the United States Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service; the Manchester Police Department; the Lisbon Police Department; the Littleton Police Department; the Seabrook Police Department; the Haverhill (MA) Police Department; the Methuen (MA) Police Department; the Lowell (MA) Police Department; and the Maine State Police.

           The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Georgiana L. MacDonald and Seth R. Aframe.

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

 

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            CONCORD - William Cote, 49, and Kelly Cote, 52 of Claremont, pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiracy to defraud the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

             According to the information and plea agreements, from 2011 through 2016, the Cotes filed false tax returns using the identities of Kelly’s sons and William’s stepsons, J.E. and T.E.  While J.E. was deployed overseas for the United States military, the Cotes prepared a false tax return for tax year 2011 using his identity.  While T.E. was stationed overseas for the United States military, the Cotes prepared and filed false tax returns for tax years 2012 through 2015 using his identity.  To obtain larger refunds, the Cotes falsely listed J.E. and T.E. as head of household on the false tax refunds for these returns and deposited the money into their own joint bank account.

             In February 2013, while T.E. was stationed overseas, the IRS audited the false 2012 tax return the Cotes filed using T.E.’s identity.  On May 6, 2013, in a phone call with the auditor, William impersonated T.E. and “confirmed” the details in the false 2012 tax return.  That same day, to support the false tax return, the Cotes prepared and faxed the auditor lease agreement that falsely stated that T.E. rented William and Kelly’s home.  Kelly forged T.E.’s signature on the lease agreement.

             All told, the Cotes received more than $36,700 in fraudulent tax refunds.

             Kelly Cote pleaded guilty on March 24, 2021 and is scheduled to be sentenced on June 30, 2021.  William Cote pleaded guilty on April 5, 2021 and is scheduled to be sentenced on July 15, 2021.

            “Knowingly submitting a fraudulent tax return is a serious federal felony offense,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “These defendants not only submitted false claims for tax refunds, but supplemented their efforts using lies and a forged document to further their scheme.  Those who might be tempted to file fraudulent claims for tax refunds should understand that this illegal conduct can have significant legal consequences.”

             “Filing false tax returns is not a victimless crime,” stated Ramsey E. Covington, Special Agent in Charge of Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation.  “When the Cotes intentionally filed fraudulent tax returns claiming refunds they were not entitled to, they showed a blatant disregard for the American tax system and left the burden of paying for these fraudulent refunds on the shoulders of the American taxpayers.  Hopefully the guilty pleas of William and Kelly Cote demonstrate to the public that protecting taxpayer money is a matter we take very seriously at the IRS.”

             This matter was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General, and the United States Postal Inspection Service.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Hunter.

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           CONCORD - Boaz BenMoshe, 58, of Israel, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for bail jumping and participating in a conspiracy to engage in the unlicensed wholesale distribution of prescription drugs, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

           According to court documents and statements made in court, in November 2006, a federal grand jury charged BenMoshe with conspiracy to launder monetary instruments and conspiracy to engage in unlicensed wholesale distribution of prescription drugs.  Members of the conspiracy unlawfully purchased Serostrim (a drug for HIV and AIDS patients) from patients and then re-sold the drugs to wholesale drug distributors at a high profit.  As part of the conspiracy, the group created false drug pedigrees that suggested that the drugs had been obtained through legitimate distributors.

           After an initial appearance hearing in California on January 29, 2007, BenMoshe was released on conditions including his promise to notify the pretrial services officer of any plans to change his residence and to travel outside of the Central District of California and the District of New Hampshire.

           On January 9, 2009, BenMoshe pleaded guilty to conspiracy to engage in unlicensed wholesale distribution of prescription drugs. The Court accepted his guilty plea and permitted him to continue on the same conditions of release pending sentencing.  The sentencing hearing was scheduled for June 23, 2009.  On or about April 29, 2009, in violation of his conditions of release, BenMoshe moved to Israel and failed to appear for his sentencing hearing on June 23, 2009.

           On December 16, 2009, a federal grand jury charged BenMoshe with bail jumping for his failure to appear at his sentencing hearing.  In August 2020, BenMoshe was extradited from Israel to the United States to face the charges pending against him in New Hampshire.  He pleaded guilty to the bail jumping charge on January 27, 2021.

          The Court sentenced BenMoshe to 18 months in prison for the conspiracy offense and an additional 12 months for the bail jumping offense.  He will receive credit for the time he has been in custody prior to sentencing.

          “Mr. BenMoshe committed a serious federal crime by participating in an unlawful scheme involving prescription drugs and committed yet another federal crime by failing to appear for his sentencing hearing,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “Although he fled from the United States, he was not able to avoid being held responsible for his criminal actions.  As this case demonstrates, those who fail to appear in court will be held accountable for their actions and will face additional federal prison time.”

           “U.S. consumers rely on FDA oversight to ensure that the drugs they receive are safe and effective. Improper distribution of prescription drugs of unknown origin put the health of all patients at significant risk,” said Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey J. Ebersole, Food and Drug Administration Office of Criminal Investigations’ New York Field Office. “We will continue to pursue and bring to justice those who put the public’s health at risk.”

           “Mr. BenMoshe sought to enrich himself by engaging in illegal activity that may have put lives at risk,” said Phillip M. Coyne, Special Agent in Charge for the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.  “His decision to flee the country only compounded his crime and the penalty that will ensue.”

           “The U.S. Marshals Service applauds the US Attorney’s Office and other law enforcement agencies, to include the Israeli government, who worked tirelessly to bring about this sentence, and we are proud to have been a partner in the furtherance of justice,” said Nick Willard, U.S. Marshal for the District of New Hampshire.

            The bail jumping matter was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service.  The underlying criminal case was investigated by the FDA’s Office of Criminal Investigations, the Office of the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation.  The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs assisted in securing BenMoshe’s extradition from Israel. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cam Le and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Hawkins.

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           CONCORD – Andrew Dufresne, 49, previously of Gardner, Massachusetts pleaded guilty in federal court to several violations of his term of special supervised release on Wednesday, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

           According to court documents and statements made in court, Dufresne had been incarcerated after pleading guilty to the April 2014 robbery of a bank in Manchester, New Hampshire.  In October 2020, the Court granted his request for compassionate release as result of the COVID-19 pandemic.  As a result, he was released from federal custody in advance of his original August 2023 release date and placed on special supervised release.

           In a court proceeding on Wednesday, Dufresne admitted that he committed six violations of his conditions of special supervised release between January 3, 2021, and February 20, 2021.  He was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison to be followed by an additional three years of supervised release. 

          “During the pandemic, many convicted criminals have been granted compassionate release from prison based upon health concerns,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “While compassionate release can be appropriate in some circumstances, it is imperative that prisoners who are granted the benefit of compassionate release comply with their release conditions.  As this case demonstrates, those who are unable to comply with their release conditions will find themselves back in federal prison.”

           The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles L. Rombeau.

                                                                                                                                                                                                             

           CONCORD - James Jackson, 35, of Lebanon, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of ammunition by a prohibited person, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on May 29, 2020, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Jackson’s residence.  Officers seized over 20 rounds of ammunition.  Jackson admitted to officers that he knew he was not allowed to possess ammunition due to his status as a convicted felon.  Jackson is prohibited from possession of firearms and ammunition by virtue of a prior conviction incurred in October of 2016. 

            Jackson is scheduled to be sentenced on July 12, 2021.

            “In order to keep our communities safe, it is important to keep dangerous weapons out of the hands of criminals,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “When convicted felons possess guns or ammunition, they pose a threat to public safety.  To prevent violent crime, we will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who violate federal gun laws in the Granite State.”

            This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Lebanon Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana L. MacDonald.

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

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           CONCORD – Jovan Callaghan, 25, and Chrystal Callaghan, 42, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court to 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 Jovan and Chrystal Callaghan and a co-defendant were selling crack cocaine and fentanyl from their residence in Manchester. Law enforcement officers learned that Chrystal Callaghan and a co-conspirator 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.             

           Jovan and Chrystal Callaghan are scheduled to be sentenced on July 6, 2021.

           Charges against a third defendant, Melissa Gazaway, remain pending.

           “Drug traffickers endanger our citizens and damage our neighborhoods,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “We are working closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the drug dealers who are peddling fentanyl and other deadly drugs in the Granite State.  Thanks to the hard work of our federal, state, and local partners, these individuals will no longer be selling deadly drugs in Manchester.”                       

            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 is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana L. MacDonald.

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            CONCORD – Michael Cicciu, 41, of Manchester was indicted by a federal grand jury on Monday and charged with one count of possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute and one count of maintaining a drug-involved premises, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

             According to the indictment, on September 3, 2020, Cicciu possessed a quantity of fentanyl with intent to distribute.  The indictment also alleges that between October 26, 2019, and September 3, 2020, Cicciu managed and controlled a property on High Street in Manchester and made the premises available for storing, distributing, and using controlled substances.

             Cicciu was arrested on state charges on September 3, 2020, and currently is being detained.

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

             The case was investigated by the Manchester Police Department.

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

 

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            CONCORD - Robert Corleto, 43, of Hudson, was sentenced to 276 months in federal prison on Friday for sexual exploitation of a minor, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, Corleto used a social media account on KIK Messenger to entice and coerce a minor to take images of herself engaging in sexually explicit conduct.  Corleto sent at least one of those images to an undercover officer over KIK Messenger on March 18, 2019.  During the course of the investigation, officers obtained a warrant to search Corleto’s cell phone.  A forensic extraction of the device revealed that Corleto had between 10 and 150 images depicting the victim, as well as other minor children. 

           Corleto previously pleaded guilty on December 18, 2020.  

           “This case demonstrates the dangers that lurk on the internet,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “Sadly, there are predators who use the internet to exploit children for their own sexual gratification.  The law enforcement community is working to identify these predators, but parents and the community must also make sure that children understand that they must be careful when using social media.  Thanks to this substantial prison sentence, children will be protected from Mr. Corleto for a long time.”

            “Today’s sentence effectively ends Robert Corleto’s ability to sexually exploit children and underscores our collective commitment to keep our children safe by going after those who seek to exploit their innocence online,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “This case illustrates how easy it is for a child to be victimized in the safety of their own home, and the need to talk to them about the steps they should take to safeguard their safety.”

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

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

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           CONCORD - Richard E. Goulet, Jr., 51, of Ocala, Florida, was sentenced to five years of probation for failing to pay child support, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, in December of 2007, a decree of divorce was issued in the Portsmouth Family Division Court ordering Goulet to pay support in a specified amount for his three children, all of whom are residents of New Hampshire.

           Since the date of the decree in 2007, the defendant failed to pay child support as ordered by the court.  He owed over $100,000.00 in unpaid support at the time of his arrest.  Prior to sentencing, he paid over $107,000 of past-owed child support to bring his obligations current.  His sentence also includes a mandatory condition requiring him to keep his monthly support obligations current.

           Goulet previously pleaded guilty on October 23, 2019.

           “Out-of-state parents who fail to meet their child support obligations are committing a federal crime,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “Unfortunately, it took a federal prosecution to make this defendant finally pay over $100,000 in child support.  This case should send a serious message to deadbeat parents that failing to pay court-ordered child support can result in serious consequences, including a federal felony conviction.”

            “Failing to pay court-ordered child support is a federal crime,” said Phillip M. Coyne, Special Agent in Charge for the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.  “We appreciate our partnership with the New Hampshire United States Attorney’s Office in the investigation and prosecution of such cases.”

            This matter was investigated by the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Rombeau and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Helen Fitzgibbon.

 

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           CONCORD - Kazi Pervez, 41, of Methuen, Massachusetts pleaded guilty in federal court to 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 overdraft 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 is scheduled to be sentenced on August 5, 2021.

           “White collar criminals can sometimes steal large sums of money from multiple victims with a few keystrokes on a computer,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “We will continue to work closely with the Secret Service and all of our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute criminals who commit bank fraud and fraud offenses.  Those who commit these crimes in New Hampshire should understand that they will be prosecuted in federal court for their unlawful conduct.”

            “The US Secret Service is committed to investigating complex fraud schemes that involve the exploitation of vulnerable 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 is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Hunter and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Arnold Huftalen.

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            CONCORD - Nicholas Snow, 26, of Merrimack, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison for 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, on February 1, 2020, Hudson patrol officers stopped a car in which Snow was a passenger. Both the driver and Snow had suspended licenses.  An officer later determined that Snow was in possession of a pouch containing fentanyl, a scale, packaging materials, and $655 in cash. In his post-arrest interview, Snow admitted to drug distribution activities in Hudson.  Snow’s cell phone also revealed communications about drug deals. 

            Snow previously pleaded guilty on December 14, 2020.

            “Fentanyl traffickers are endangering our citizens by selling a potentially-lethal substance,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “In order to combat this menace, we are working closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the drug dealers who are distributing fentanyl in the Granite State.”

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

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

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           CONCORD - Jacob Valley, 26, of Newport, pleaded guilty in federal court to unlawful possession of firearms, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on November 15, 2019, law enforcement officers searched Valley's home pursuant to a federal search warrant. During the search, they found firearms and ammunition. As a person with felony convictions, Valley is legally prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition.        

            Valley is scheduled to be sentenced on July 13, 2021.

            “In order to protect the public from violent crime, it is vitally important to keep guns out of the hands of criminals,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute felons who possess guns unlawfully.”

             This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, with assistance from the New Hampshire Attorney General's Drug Task Force; the Sullivan County Sheriff's Office; the Manchester Police Department, Claremont Police Department, Charlestown, Police Department; and the New Hampshire State Police.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Dronzek.

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

 

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           CONCORD - Vahan Aghajanyan, 25, of Glendale, California, and Garnik Saroyan, 26 of Sun Valley, California, pleaded guilty in federal court on Thursday to conspiracy to commit bank fraud, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

           According to court documents and statements made in court, in October of 2018, Aghajanyan and Saroyan traveled from California to New Hampshire and Maine to use fraudulent debit cards encoded with other persons’ bank account information to make ATM withdrawals and purchase postal money orders.  On October 31, 2018, postal employees in New Hampshire and Maine reported suspicious transactions involving the two men.  The York, Maine police department located and stopped their vehicle.  Three cell phones were seized from the men and a federal search warrant was sought to search the phones.  A search of the phones revealed a map of post office locations in New Hampshire and photographs of Aghajanyan holding stacks of cash and postal money orders.

           Bank records and surveillance videos showed that, on at least 15 occasions, Aghajanyan or Saroyan used a fraudulent debit card to check the balance of a bank account at an ATM.  Subsequently, the card was used to purchase a postal money order at a post office in New Hampshire.  Records confirm that between October 25, 2018, and October 31, 2018, the two men withdrew at least $2,673 from other persons’ bank accounts and purchased at least 35 postal money orders worth more than $22,000 using fraudulent debit cards. 

           Aghajanyan and Saroyan are scheduled to be sentenced on June 24, 2021.

           “As this case shows, fraudsters may use sophisticated schemes, including fraudulent debit cards, to steal money from innocent victims,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “This criminal conduct can impact victims in many ways and will not be tolerated.  I want to thank the law enforcement officers whose work put a stop to this fraud scheme before it could impact more victims.”

            This matter was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service with assistance from the York, Maine, Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Hunter.

 

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           CONCORD - Matthew Gittings, 37, of Rochester, pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiracy to possess fentanyl with intent to distribute, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

           According to court documents and statements made in court, on December 19, 2018, a New Hampshire state trooper initiated a traffic stop on I-95 after observing a motor vehicle violation.  Gittings was one of two passengers and was seated in the rear of the vehicle.  After speaking to the driver outside of the vehicle, the trooper asked Gittings for his identification.  When the trooper opened the rear passenger door to retrieve Gittings’ identification, he observed a large knotted plastic baggie of fentanyl in the rear door compartment.  A consensual search of Gittings’ backpack revealed two digital scales, unused plastic baggies, and rubber bands.  The trooper conducted a pat search of Gittings and located additional fentanyl.

           Gittings is scheduled to be sentenced on June 23, 2021.  

           “The damage that fentanyl has caused to our communities cannot be overstated,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “We continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the drug traffickers who are responsible for peddling this dangerous substance in the Granite State.”

           This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and New Hampshire State Police Mobile Enforcement Team.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Cole Davis.

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

 

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           CONCORD - Edwin Laboy, 45, with a last known address of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court on Tuesday to escaping from custody, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

           According to court documents and statements made in court, Laboy was confined at the Hampshire House Residential Reentry Center in Manchester.  He had previously been convicted of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances in the District of Vermont.  On December 31, 2020, Laboy received approval to go to a gym, but did not return at the agreed upon time.  Attempts to reach him were unsuccessful.  Laboy was arrested on January 28, 2021 in Springfield, Massachusetts.

            Laboy is scheduled to be sentenced on May 7, 2021.

            “Fleeing from custody is a federal crime,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “Thanks to the hard work of the United States Marshals, this defendant was not a fugitive for long.  This case should send a message that those who attempt to flee from custody will not be fugitives for long.  We will work hard to locate fugitives and we will prosecute them in for their unlawful conduct.”

            This matter was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Debra Walsh.

 

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            CONCORD:  Six individuals were indicted by a federal grand jury in New Hampshire and charged with participating in a conspiracy to operate an unlicensed money transmitting business and other offenses, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.  Those charged in the indictment are:

             Ian Freeman (formerly Ian Bernard), 40, of Keene

             Colleen Fordham, 60, of Alstead

             Renee Spinella, 23, of Derry

             Andrew Spinella, 35, of Derry

             Nobody (formerly Richard Paul), 52, of Keene

             Aria DiMezzo (formerly James Baker), 34, of Keene

            Freeman, Fordham, Renee Spinella, Andrew Spinella, and Nobody also are charged with wire fraud and participating in a conspiracy to commit wire fraud.  Ian Freeman is charged with money laundering and operating a continuing financial crimes enterprise.  Freeman and DiMezzo  also are charged with operating an unlicensed money transmitting business.

            According to the indictment, since 2016, the defendants have operated a business that enabled customers to exchange over ten million dollars in fiat currency for virtual currency, charging a fee for their service. They operated their virtual currency exchange business using websites, as well as operating virtual currency ATM machines in New Hampshire. The indictment alleges that the defendants knowingly operated the virtual currency exchange business in violation of federal anti-money laundering laws and regulations. In furtherance of their scheme, the indictment alleges that some defendants opened bank accounts in the names of purported religious entities. According to the indictment, some defendants then engaged in substantial efforts to evade detection of their unlawful virtual currency exchange scheme by avoiding answering financial institutions’ questions about the nature of the business and misleading financial institutions into believing their unlawful virtual currency exchange business was instead a religious organization receiving charitable contributions.

            All of the defendants were arrested during a coordinated law enforcement action on Tuesday.  They are scheduled for initial appearances before a United States Magistrate Judge on Tuesday afternoon.

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

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

 

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           CONCORD - Alex Stoltman, 23, of Manchester, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison for bank robbery, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.  

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on September 2, 2020, Stoltman entered a Citizens Bank branch in Manchester and handed a note to the bank teller that read, in part, “This is a robbery. Keep your hands where I can see them.  Do not look at anyone.  Do not think about hitting the alarm, I will blow your brains out.  Give me all the money you can reach.”  The victim bank teller gave Stoltman all of the money in the teller’s cash drawer. 

            Stoltman was arrested two days after the robbery.

            Stoltman previously pleaded guilty on November 9, 2020.  He was ordered to pay $2,767 in restitution to the bank.

            “Bank robberies are violent crimes that endanger bank employees and members of the public,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “Although no one was physically injured in this crime, the defendant’s threatening actions may have an enduring impact on his victims.  To protect the public and seek justice for victims, we work collaboratively with the FBI, the Manchester Police Department, and all our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who commit violent crimes in the Granite State.”

           “Shortly after he put innocent bystanders in fear for their lives by threatening an armed bank robbery, Alex Stoltman told an acquaintance that he was going to continue robbing banks until he got caught. But thanks to the quick work of law enforcement, his crime spree was brought to an end,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “The collaborative effort to address violent crimes is just one example of how the FBI and our partners at the Manchester Police Department are working together to make our communities safer.”

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

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           CONCORD - Lorenzo Vasquez, 29, of New York, pleaded guilty in federal court to aiding and abetting the possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

           According to court documents and statements made in court, on February 25, 2020, a New Hampshire state trooper pulled over a vehicle operated by Vasquez for traffic violations.  Vasquez stated he did not have a license and the vehicle was a rental in his sister’s name.  The trooper learned through further investigation that Vasquez had a suspended license and a warrant out of Pennsylvania.  A drug detection dog later indicated that there were drugs in the vehicle.  After obtaining a search warrant, officers located over 202 grams of cocaine base, over 90 grams of heroin, and a digital scale within the vehicle.

           Vasquez is scheduled to be sentenced on June 18, 2021.

           “Criminals who travel to New Hampshire to sell drugs should understand that their illegal conduct will not be tolerated,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “The hard work of the New Hampshire State Police prevented this cocaine base and heroin from being distributed in the Granite State.  As this case shows, we are working closely with our law enforcement partners to stop the flow of illegal drugs into New Hampshire and to put drug dealers out of business.”

            This matter was investigated by the New Hampshire State Police Mobile Enforcement Team.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joachim H. Barth.

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            CONCORD - Keith Robertson, 47, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of 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 12, 2019, Robertson was a passenger in a vehicle that was stopped by the Barnstead Police for a defective headlight.  During the stop, the officer determined that Robertson was the subject of an arrest warrant and placed him under arrest. 

            The driver subsequently consented to a search of the vehicle.  During the search, the officer found evidence of drug use and a scale, as well as a bag containing a drug ledger, approximately $1,600 in cash, and Robertson’s identification card.  

            After being transported to the police station, Robertson admitted that he had methamphetamine concealed on his person and removed a bag from his pants containing over 132 grams of methamphetamine.

            Robertson is scheduled to be sentenced on June 17, 2021.

            “Methamphetamine is a very dangerous drug that can cause serious health problems or death,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “In order to protect the community, we will not hesitate to bring federal charges against the drug traffickers who are distributing this dangerous substance. Thanks to good police work, this methamphetamine dealer has been put out of business.”      

             This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the Barnstead Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kasey Weiland.

 

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            Fourteen individuals were indicted by a federal grand jury on Monday and charged with participating in a conspiracy to distribute, and possession with intent to distribute, fentanyl, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.  Those charged in the indictment are:

            Manuel Emilio Delacruz-Diaz, 41, of Lawrence, MA

            Francisco Valdez-Aybar, 36, of Lawrence, MA

            Santo Luis Araujo-Guerrero, 48, of Lawrence, MA

            Edwin Flores, 41, of Lawrence, MA

            Ramon Jacquez-Diaz, 50, of Methuen, MA

            Ambiory Monegro-Reynoso, 51, of Methuen, MA

            Wandy Rosario, 29, of Methuen, MA

            Maribel Benjamin, 57, of Lawrence, MA

            Vivian Last Name Unknown (“LNU”) of Lawrence, MA

            Carlos Patricio Ozuna Gonzalez, 39, of Lawrence, MA

 

            Victor Tejada-Gonzalez, 30, of Connecticut

            Mikael Canario-Batista, 45, of Lawrence, MA

 

            Estiviz Estepan-Ortiz, 37, unknown residence

            Danaury Espinal-Lara, 40, unknown residence

 

            Of those charged, Delacruz-Diaz, Valdez-Aybar, Araujo-Guerrero, Jacquez-Diaz, Monegro-Reynoso, Rosario, Benjamin, and Gonzalez were arrested during a coordinated law enforcement action on Wednesday.   Tejada-Gonzalez and Canario-Batista were already in custody on other charges.  Espinal-Lara, Estepan-Ortiz, Flores and Vivian LNU have not yet been taken into custody.  Those arrested appeared before a magistrate judge on Wednesday. 5 of those arrested were ordered detained pending further proceedings.

            This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, the Massachusetts State Police, the Methuen Police Department, the Lawrence Police Department, and the Nashua Police Department.

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

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

 

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           CONCORD - Terray Morrison, 32, of Nashua, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, controlled substances, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, Morrison was one of the leaders of a drug trafficking organization that distributed crack cocaine and other drugs to customers in the Nashua area.  During an investigation that included the use of wiretaps, Morrison took orders from customers and sent other members of the conspiracy to make drug deliveries on his behalf.  He and his co-conspirators operated two stash houses in Nashua and were responsible for the distribution of substantial quantities of crack cocaine.

            Morrison is one of eleven individuals charged with participating in this conspiracy.  Nine have pleaded guilty and two are awaiting trial.   Several members of the conspiracy have received substantial prison sentences.  Melvin Nooks, Jr. was sentenced on April 2, 2020, to 120 months. George Cruz was sentenced on July 30, 2020, to 63 months.  Mallory Nooks was sentenced on February 25, 2020, to 60 months.  Marvin Morrison was sentenced on May 13, 2020, to 15 months.  Don Johnson was sentenced on February 13, 2020, to 42 months.  Isaiah Kinard pleaded guilty on December 18, 2019, Lawrence Fortenberry pleaded guilty on January 7, 2020, and William Greenleaf pleaded guilty on January 14, 2020.  Kinard, Fortenberry and Greenleaf all await sentencing.  Arnetta Harris and Melvin Stanford are scheduled for trial in May of 2021. 

            Morrison previously pleaded guilty on December 1, 2020.  

            “Drug traffickers threaten our communities when they peddle crack and other dangerous substances,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley. “Thanks to the hard work of the FBI and our other law enforcement partners, this significant drug trafficking organization has been dismantled.  As this case shows, we will not hesitate to seek substantial prison sentences for the drug dealers whose actions threaten the citizens of the Granite State.”

             “Terray Morrison and his crew pushed vast amounts of crack cocaine and other drugs to customers in the Nashua area, in their continuous quest for illegal profits. He endangered the health and safety of those around him, and with today’s sentence he has finally been held accountable,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “This collaborative law enforcement effort has dismantled a large-scale drug trafficking organization that has brought danger to our community for years.”

             The case was a collaborative investigation that involved the FBI New Hampshire Safe Streets Gang Task Force; the Nashua Police Department; the New Hampshire State Police; the Manchester Police Department; New Hampshire Probation and Parole; DEA; Massachusetts State Police Department; Portsmouth Police Department and the Federal Protective Service.  The United States Marshals Service also assisted in the investigation.

             The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Georgiana MacDonald and Anna Krasinski.

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

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           CONCORD - Kenneth Rawson, 35, of Manchester, was sentenced to 41 months in federal prison for committing a bank robbery, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.  Additionally, Rawson was ordered to pay restitution to the bank in the amount of $790.

           According to court documents and statements made in court, on October 27, 2018, Rawson entered the Citizens Bank on Elm Street in Manchester, New Hampshire and demanded money from the teller.  Rawson claimed that he had a bomb on him at the time.  Rawson was apprehended later that day and admitted that he had robbed the bank.

           Rawson previously pleaded guilty on March 10, 2020.

           “Even when no one is hurt, bank robberies are inherently violent crimes that can cause serious emotional harm to their victims,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “By threatening to detonate a bomb as part of his effort to rob a bank, this defendant created a frightening and dangerous situation.  This prison sentence demonstrates that those who commit bank robberies or other violent crimes in New Hampshire will face serious consequences for their unlawful actions.” 

           “Today’s sentence should serve as a reminder to everyone that there are serious consequences that come with targeting our financial institutions and putting innocent people in danger,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “A federal felony conviction carries with it a lifetime of explanation, and it is our hope that this case makes others think twice about committing violent crime.”

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

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            CONCORD - Shane Thompson, 46, of Rumney, was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison for unlawful 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 September 4, 2019, law enforcement officers went to Thompson’s home to arrest him on outstanding warrants.  Officers encountered Thompson as he was fleeing from them in the woods by his home.  When officers arrested him, they found a handgun in his pocket.  Officers obtained a warrant to search Thompson’s home and seized large quantities of ammunition and a .40 caliber magazine.  As a convicted felon, Thompson is legally prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition.

             Thompson previously pleaded guilty on November 25, 2020.

              “Protecting the citizens of New Hampshire from violent crime is vitally important,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “One significant way that we can keep our community safe is by keeping guns out of the hands of criminals.  We will not hesitate to seek federal prison terms for convicted criminals who unlawfully possess firearms or ammunition.”

               This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the New Hampshire State Police.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Krasinski.

               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. 

               This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice's signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws.  Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department's past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.

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           CONCORD – Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced that on Friday, March 5, 2021, after a three-day trial, a federal jury found Crystal Hardy, 38, and Christopher Kelly, 43, both of Laconia, guilty of conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, methamphetamine.  The jury also found Kelly guilty of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.

            According to evidence presented during the trial, on April 5, 2019, members of the Tilton Police Department stopped Crystal Hardy for a motor vehicle violation. Christopher Kelly was a passenger in the vehicle.  Officers later executed a search warrant on the vehicle and discovered methamphetamine, fentanyl, two loaded firearms, over $28,000 in cash, a digital scale, measuring tools, a pouch full of plastic baggies and a drug ledger.  Other trial evidence showed that Hardy and Kelly regularly distributed methamphetamine throughout 2019 and had no legitimate income to explain the large sum of money found in the vehicle.

            The two loaded firearms were discovered in a backpack that also contained a large bullet-proof vest, a baton, mail addressed to Kelly and three prescription bottles in Kelly’s name.  As a convicted felon, Kelly is prohibited from possessing a firearm and ammunition.

            Crystal Hardy is scheduled to be sentenced on June 11, 2021.

            Christopher Kelly is scheduled to be sentenced on June 14, 2021.

            “Methamphetamine is a very dangerous drug that can damage users’ bodies and cause havoc in our communities,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.  “When armed criminals are involved in drug trafficking, the risk to public safety is even greater.  I am grateful to the Tilton Police Department and all our law enforcement partners for their work on this investigation.  We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who are responsible for distributing dangerous drugs in the Granite State.”

            This case was the first federal jury trial conducted in New Hampshire in 2021.  As with the trials conducted in 2020, the court conducted the trial using a variety of health and safety precautions.  For example, all participants in the trial wore masks and maintained social distancing.

            This matter was investigated by the Tilton Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, and United States Marshals Service.  New Hampshire Employment Security and the Strafford County Attorney’s Office also provided assistance, The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Debra Walsh and Aaron Gingrande.

 

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           CONCORD - Wilgfrido Valnodis Arias-Mejia, 45, a citizen of the Dominican Republic most recently residing in Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court on Wednesday to possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

           According to court documents and statements made in court, Arias-Mejia sold fentanyl and crack cocaine from 2018 to at least November 27, 2019 in the Manchester area.  During that time period, he employed various co-conspirators to sell drugs on his behalf.  Each day they worked, the defendant provided his employees with pre-packaged bags containing between three and six “fingers” (10-gram packages) of fentanyl and smaller baggies containing fentanyl, powder cocaine, and crack cocaine and sent customers to their residences until all of  the drugs were sold.  

           Arias-Mejia is scheduled to be sentenced on June 14, 2021.

           “The sale of fentanyl and other dangerous drugs endangers public health and safety,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “In order to keep our citizens safe, we will continue to be aggressive in our efforts to identify and prosecute the drug traffickers who are responsible for peddling these deadly substances in Manchester and other communities.  Drug dealers in New Hampshire should understand that they will be held responsible in federal court for their unlawful conduct.”

           “Wilgfrido Valnodis Arias-Mejia led a major drug trafficking organization, selling large amounts of fentanyl, cocaine, and crack cocaine to a region hit hard by the opioid epidemic. With today’s guilty plea, he has finally taken responsibility for setting up multiple drug distribution houses in Manchester, NH, with the intent to harm our neighbors,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “This case reflects the continuing impact the FBI New Hampshire Safe Streets Gang Task Force has on illegal drug trafficking. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate criminal organizations like this one and ensure they are held accountable.”

           This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the Manchester Police Department and Nashua Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana MacDonald.

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

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           CONCORD - Spencer Katsohis, 28, of Nashua, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

           According to court documents and statements made in court, on October 3, 2018, Nashua police officers stopped a vehicle after observing several traffic infractions.  Katsohis was the driver and sole occupant of the car. One of the officers observed the top of a small plastic bag protruding from the center console. The officer asked Katsohis about the bag, and Katsohis admitted it contained drugs. During a subsequent search of the car, officers locate an additional larger bag containing just over 15 grams of fentanyl. Katsohis then informed the officers that he had a third bag concealed in his pants. Katsohis admitted that he was distributing fentanyl in the area.

           On January 30, 2019, Nashua officers went to Katsohis’ home to execute a warrant for his arrest for the October offense.  When Katsohis answered the door, officers saw in plain view a white powder, scale, and green pill capsules on the kitchen counter behind him.  It appeared that the powder was being packaged in the capsules.  Katsohis admitted to picking up fentanyl and cocaine in Lawrence, Massachusetts for redistribution in Nashua.  Officers observed and downloaded multiple text conversations on Katsohis’ phone consistent with distribution activities. The seized powder and contents of the capsules contained fentanyl.  

           After Katsohis pleaded guilty and was awaiting sentencing, he was arrested for additional drug-related activity.  On June 17, 2020, Nashua police officers responded to a single car accident in which Katsohis was the driver. During a subsequent search of his person and vehicle, officers discovered approximately 130 grams of fentanyl.  Evidence discovered on Katsohis’ phone showed that he was distributing the drugs.

           Katsohis pleaded guilty to the additional criminal activity on November 17, 2020.

           “Fentanyl trafficking is a menace to public health and safety,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “By bringing quantities of fentanyl from Lawrence to Nashua for distribution, the Defendant made a very dangerous substance available for sale.  Thanks to the work of the Nashua Police Department and Operation SOS, this defendant will be incarcerated for ten years and unable to further endanger the lives of Granite Staters.”

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

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

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            CONCORD - Darius Augusto Guzman Ruiz, 29, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, in the fall of 2019, Manchester police officers learned from a cooperating individual that Guzman Ruiz was selling between 100 and 300 grams of fentanyl at a time to other distributors in Manchester.  Between October 10, 2019 and November 1, 2019, working with law enforcement, the cooperator conducted four controlled purchases of fentanyl from Guzman Ruiz.  Each transaction involved approximately 180 grams of fentanyl.

            On November 25, 2019, the Manchester Police Department executed search warrants at various residences that Guzman Ruiz used to either reside or store and package drugs.  Officers seized over $100,000 in cash, over 400 grams of fentanyl and drug packaging and pressing equipment. 

            Guzman Ruiz is scheduled to be sentenced on June 4, 2021.

            “Fentanyl is a lethal drug that endangers the well-being of everyone who abuses it,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “It is essential that we stop its distribution by bringing dealers to justice. We prioritize drug prosecutions and work closely with all of our law enforcement partners to ensure that these criminals are prevented from continuing to endanger public health and safety.” 

            This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Manchester Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana MacDonald.

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

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          CONCORD - United States Attorney Scott W. Murray today announced that he will resign from his position effective March 6, 2021.

            The resignation was submitted in response to President Biden’s call to replace nearly all remaining Presidentially-appointed/Senate-confirmed U.S. Attorneys. 

            U.S. Attorney Murray is the chief federal law enforcement officer in New Hampshire. He was nominated by President Trump on December 1, 2017, and confirmed by the United States Senate on February 15, 2018. He was sworn in as the 57Th U.S. Attorney for New Hampshire on March 5, 2018. He was serving his fourth term as Merrimack County Attorney when he was nominated by the President. He previously served as the Chief Prosecuting Attorney for the City of Concord from 1983 to 2011.

            In announcing his departure, U.S. Attorney Murray said, “It has been my greatest honor and privilege to serve as U.S. Attorney for the past three years. I am deeply grateful to have had the opportunity to protect the people of New Hampshire through the application of federal law. For a career prosecutor, this was the chance of a lifetime.”

            Noting the many changes that had taken place in the U.S. Attorney’s Office since his arrival, Murray said, “During the past three years we have added prosecution and support positions, changed the structure of our Criminal Division and hired over a dozen new staff members. Going forward, I have every confidence that our hard-working dedicated professionals will ensure that federal law is vigorously enforced and that the public interest is effectively advanced.” 

            Throughout his tenure, U.S. Attorney Murray stressed cooperation between federal, state, and local law enforcement officers as essential to address New Hampshire’s drug and violent crime problems. He attended local law enforcement meetings in all 10 counties and improved communications with county attorney’s offices and the New Hampshire State Police. He also coordinated Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN) trainings around the state to brief police on federal firearms laws. Under PSN, federal prosecutors brought charges against violent criminals, drug traffickers who used guns, convicted felons who possessed guns and those who unlawfully supplied guns to criminals. Many of those prosecutions were adopted from state court cases.

            U.S. Attorney Murray conducted regular meetings with the leaders of federal law enforcement agencies operating in New Hampshire and hosted the first New England regional meeting of U.S. Attorneys in Concord in November of 2018. He also implemented regular meetings involving federal drug prosecutors and DEA agents from Maine, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts to improve regional drug enforcement coordination.

            Under U.S. Attorney Murray’s leadership, his office devoted substantial resources to combatting drug trafficking, particularly fentanyl and methamphetamine. As part of this effort, U.S. Attorney Murray requested that U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions include New Hampshire as one of only 10 districts nationally to receive additional resources under Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (SOS). Sessions visited the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Concord in July of 2018 to announce implementation of the program. Under Operation SOS, the U.S. Attorney’s Office teamed with the Hillsborough County Attorney’s Office and law enforcement agencies throughout Hillsborough County to target fentanyl dealers. To date, over 90 federal prosecutions have been initiated under Operation SOS.

            During U.S. Attorney Murray’s term, prosecutions were launched against large drug trafficking organizations, resulting in the convictions of dozens of dealers. These included trafficking organizations based in Massachusetts and the Dominican Republic who sought to sell lethal drugs to Granite Staters. One notable dealer was sentenced to 45 years in prison for leading a continuing criminal enterprise that distributed multikilogram quantities of fentanyl and reaped millions of dollars in profit from sales in New Hampshire.

            U.S. Attorney Murray also pursued significant prosecutions to protect crime victims.  These included cases against offenders who produced child pornography, exploited the opioid addiction of young women in order to profit from prostitution, engaged in fraud and theft schemes, and extorted victims on the internet.

            Pursuant to the Vacancies Reform Act, First Assistant U.S. Attorney John J. Farley will serve as Acting United States Attorney until a new Presidentially-appointed U.S. Attorney takes office.  Farley previously served as Acting U.S. Attorney from March 2017 until U.S. Attorney Murray took office.

 

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