District of New Hampshire
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Manchester Man Pleads Guilty to Sexual Exploitation of a MinorRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Glen Lanchester, 53, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court to sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in November 2018, the Manchester Police Department executed a search warrant at the defendant’s residence. They seized various electronic devices that contained child pornography. The defendant later admitted that he had previously used spy cameras which he placed in the bathroom of his apartment to film minor girls using the bathroom and showering. He used these to create child pornography of at least two minor victims. Minor Victim #1, who is now an adult, viewed one of the images found on the defendant’s computer and identified herself as being approximately seven or eight years old at the time it was taken. The image of Minor Victim #1 constitutes child pornography.
Lanchester is scheduled to be sentenced on January 18, 2021.
“Child exploitation crimes are deeply troubling offenses that can cause tremendous trauma to their innocent victims,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Protecting children from harm is a very high priority of the law enforcement community in New Hampshire. We will continue to work tirelessly alongside our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who commit child exploitation crimes in the Granite State.”
“This conviction was only possible because of the close coordination built between local, state and federal law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney for New Hampshire to combat child exploitation crimes in our region”, said Michael Shea, acting Special Agent In Charge, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Boston. “During these trying times, we remain more committed than ever to strengthening our partnerships in order to help bring to justice those who seek to exploit and harm children.”
This matter was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Homeland Security Investigations and the Manchester Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana L. 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.
###
Brentwood Man Sentenced to 31 Months for Purchasing Military Hand GrenadesRead the Press Release
CONCORD – Daniel Musso, 56, of Brentwood, was sentenced to 31 months in federal prison for unlawfully possessing fragmentation grenades and explosive material, U.S. Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today. He was further ordered to pay a $7,500 fine.
At a week-long jury trial in August, Musso was found guilty of four counts of receiving and possessing unregistered firearms (fragmentation grenades) and one count of receiving explosive material.
According to the evidence presented during the trial, beginning in the summer of 2015, Musso engaged in a series of efforts to obtain ammunition and military weapons and explosives, including military hand grenades. After Musso told a firearms dealer about his desire to obtain these items, the FBI arranged for Musso to be introduced to an undercover agent who told Musso that he could obtain illegal hand grenades. During two meetings with the undercover agent in January 2016, Musso reiterated his desire to obtain hand grenades and other illegal military weapons and explosives. Musso explained that he was part of a group that was seeking to bring forth the “original constitution” and that he and his associates were seeking to obtain military weapons and explosives to “take our country back.” Musso was arrested on January 27, 2016, after he purchased four military hand grenades from the undercover agent in Seabrook.
Hand grenades are destructive devices that are unlawful to possess unless they are registered under the National Firearms Act. Musso previously argued that the grenades were not destructive devices because the FBI had made their fuses inoperable for safety purposes in the undercover operation. Although a district judge initially agreed with Musso, the United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit reversed that decision, clearing the way for this matter to be tried by a jury.
“The defendant’s troubling scheme to obtain hand grenades could have resulted in a horrifying act of violence,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Thanks to the extraordinary efforts of the FBI supported by the ATF and Seabrook Police Department, Mr. Musso was stopped before he could take any action that would cause harm. This case highlights the need for law enforcement as well as citizens to remain alert to emerging threats. We will continue to work closely with the Joint Terrorism Task Force to prevent acts of violence that could jeopardize the lives of the people of New Hampshire.”
“Because of a tip from a concerned citizen, our Joint Terrorism Task Force began a year-long investigation that thwarted Daniel Musso’s frightening plan to use violence to defend his version of what our government should be. Now, with today’s sentence, he has finally been held accountable for his crimes,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “However, this case should serve as a stark reminder of the challenges we face in stopping extreme acts of violence while underscoring the critical need for people with knowledge about plots like this to come forward before it’s too late.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Seabrook Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John S. Davis and Matthew T. Hunter.
###
Milford Man Pleads Guilty to Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Seamus Murphy, 38, formerly of Milford, pleaded guilty in federal court to bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on January 8, 2020, Murphy entered the People’s United Bank in Derry and gave a note to the teller, indicating he had a gun and demanding money. The teller gave him $712 from the drawer. Police arrived on scene and saw Murphy running toward a nearby fast food store where they encountered him and recovered the $712. Murphy was on federal supervised release at the time of the robbery.
Murphy is scheduled to be sentenced on January 14, 2021.
“Bank robberies endanger bank employees and the general public,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “These violent crimes will not be tolerated. We will work closely with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to keep the Granite State safe by investigating and prosecuting those who commit bank robberies and other violent offenses.”
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Derry Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana L. MacDonald.
###
Rochester Man Pleads Guilty to RobberiesRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Thomas Hegarty, 26, of Rochester, pleaded guilty in federal court to attempted bank robbery and robbery charges, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on April 9, 2020, at around 4:00 a.m., Hegarty entered a Circle K gas station in Rochester, New Hampshire, showed the teller a hammer, and stole cash from the register. Later that morning, Hegarty entered a bank in Dover, New Hampshire, and passed the teller a note demanding money and indicating that he had a weapon. Tellers locked themselves in an office and called the police. Hegarty jumped over the teller counter and unsuccessfully attempted to open the teller drawers. He then fled the bank without taking any money. Investigators released surveillance photographs from the robberies to the public and identified and apprehended Hegarty later that day. At the time of the robberies, Hegarty was on federal supervised release.
Hegarty is scheduled to be sentenced on January 20, 2021.
“Robberies of banks and other commercial establishments jeopardize the safety of our citizens and will not be tolerated,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Federal law provides substantial penalties for those who engage in these crimes and they are a high priority for federal prosecution. We will continue to work closely with the FBI and all of our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute violent criminals in order to ensure that residents of New Hampshire can have confidence that their communities are safe.”
“Concerned citizens are among the FBI’s most valuable assets when it comes to apprehending potentially dangerous lawbreakers like Thomas Hegarty, whose criminal conduct escalated in the course of a single day from robbing a gas station with a hammer to attempting to rob a bank while threatening to be armed,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “We thank those who bravely stepped forward to identify him, and in doing so helped make today’s guilty pleas possible. This collaborative effort to address violent crimes within our communities is just one example of how we can really make a difference when we all work together.”
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations with assistance from the Rochester Police Department and the Dover Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana L. MacDonald.
###
Manchester Man Sentenced to 57 Months for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD – Eddil Ortez, 27, of Manchester, was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison for attempted possession of fentanyl and cocaine with intent to distribute, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, beginning around December of 2017, a drug organization in Lawrence, Massachusetts maintained a series of telephone numbers to receive orders and distribute controlled substances, primarily fentanyl and crack cocaine. In early 2019, law enforcement officers began conducting judicially-authorized interception of communications occurring over a phone number used by the organization.
On June 19, 2019, law enforcement officers executed search warrants at locations known to be used by the organization, arrested the person believed to have been operating the phone, and seized the phone. To further identify and arrest those who were distributing drugs, the officers, pretending to be members of the drug organization, used the seized phone to communicate with individuals who were obtaining drugs from the organization.
During the evening of June 20, 2019, messages were exchanged between the seized phone and a phone belonging to Ortez. Ortez attempted to order quantities of crack cocaine and fentanyl from the organization. Ortez was directed to a parking lot in Nashua. After he provided the description of his car and his clothing, he was told to leave the drug money in the center console of the car. Investigating officers observed the car identified by Ortez arrive at the agreed-upon time for the deal. Ortez then left the car and walked toward a retail store. The officers sent a message to Ortez saying “you are all set.” Ortez returned to the car and was arrested. Ortez was in possession of the telephone that was used to arrange the drug deal.
Ortez previously pleaded guilty on June 25, 2020.
“As a consequence of his drug trafficking activities, Mr. Ortez will be spending a substantial amount of time in federal prison,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “People who persist in distributing fentanyl and cocaine in New Hampshire should expect to suffer a similar fate. In order to deter this conduct, we will continue seek prison terms against those who are proven to be engaged in the distribution of dangerous illegal drugs.”
“Opioid abuse is at epidemic levels in New Hampshire,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle. “Let this sentence serve as an example to those who distribute fentanyl and crack cocaine to the citizens of the Granite State that DEA will aggressively pursue and hold you accountable. This investigation demonstrates the strength of collaborative law enforcement efforts and our strong partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”
This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Massachusetts State Police, Methuen Police Department, Andover, Massachusetts Police Department, Essex County Sheriff’s Office, New Hampshire State Police, Manchester Police Department, Nashua Police Department, Salem Police Department, Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office, Hudson Police Department, and the Goffstown Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Aframe.
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.
###
U.S. Attorney Murray Announces $628,472 Grant to Support Offenders Returning to Communities in New HampshireRead the Press Release
CONCORD – U.S. Attorney Scott W. Murray today announced that New Hampshire will receive a $628,472 Department of Justice grant to reduce recidivism among adults and juvenile offenders returning to their communities in New Hampshire after confinement. The grant, awarded by the Department’s Office of Justice Programs, is part of more than $92 million in funding to support reentry efforts throughout the United States.
These awards represent President Trump’s commitment to assisting people in America’s prisons and detention facilities who have earned the opportunity to take their places back in society.
“Former offenders are ultimately responsible for their own successes and failures, but our criminal and juvenile justice systems have an important role to play in preparing them for the obstacles that lie before them,” said OJP Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “I’m very pleased to make these resources available to help them get back on their feet and contribute to the prosperity of their communities and the betterment of our nation.”
The reentry and recidivism reduction grants awarded will help communities develop and implement comprehensive strategies to address the challenges posed by reentry and recidivism; support reentry services for detained juveniles and incarcerated parents with children under the age of 18; and support research and evaluation programs to advance understanding about reoffending.
“Those who are incarcerated for committing crimes must find ways to become productive members of society after they are released from prison,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Reentry programs can provide vital assistance to these offenders so that they can transition back into the community successfully and avoid further trouble with the law.”
In New Hampshire, the state Department of Justice has been awarded $628,472 under the Second Chance Act Addressing the Needs of Incarcerated Parents with Minor Children Program. This program supports the successful and safe transition of young fathers and mothers from confinement to their families and communities.
For a complete list of individual grant programs, award amounts, and jurisdictions that will receive funding, visit: https://www.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh241/files/media/document/reentryfactsheet.pdf More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years
###
New York Man Pleads Guilty to Bank FraudRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Derrick McKenzie, 61, of Mount Vernon, New York, pleaded guilty in federal court to bank fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between approximately May 10, 2018, and May 17, 2019, McKenzie entered a number of different bank branches in New Hampshire, New York, New Jersey, Maine, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania and made withdrawals from other people’s bank accounts. For each transaction, McKenzie used customers’ personal identification information, including their name and bank account numbers and, for some withdrawals, false drivers’ licenses that contained the bank customers’ personal identifying information and McKenzie’s photograph. In total, McKenzie withdrew approximately $111,000 and attempted to withdraw over $15,500 from other persons’ bank accounts.
McKenzie is scheduled to be sentenced on January 6, 2021.
“Fraud crimes deprive victims of their hard-earned money,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Those who engage in bank fraud drive up business costs and undermine public confidence in our financial system. In order to protect our community, we will not hesitate to bring federal charges against fraudsters who come to New Hampshire to commit crimes.”
“Defrauding financial institutions by using the stolen identities of victims creates significant financial losses and hardships for those involved,” said Inspector in Charge Joseph W. Cronin of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Boston Division. “The U.S. Postal Inspection Service will continue to conduct investigations of individuals who compromise the personal information of our customers and jeopardize the integrity the U.S. Mail.”
This matter was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service. The following police departments also provided assistance: the Dover, Hampstead, and North Hampton Police Departments in New Hampshire; the Andover, Burlington, Lexington, and Methuen Police Departments in Massachusetts; the Kennebunk Police Department in Maine; the New York City Police Department; and the Nutley Police Department in New Jersey. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Hunter.
###
Former Plainfield Resident Resentenced to 300 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
CONCORD – Edward Brown, 78, formerly of Plainfield, was sentenced to serve 300 months in federal prison at a resentencing hearing, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
In 2009, Brown was convicted of a series of offenses arising from his role in leading an armed standoff with the United Marshals Service after his conviction and sentencing for tax-related charges. Brown was initially sentenced to 444 months of imprisonment for his role in the standoff. Because of new legal precedent from the United States Supreme Court, one of Brown's convictions was no longer valid. Brown was therefore entitled to resentencing.
At the resentencing hearing today, United States District Judge George Singal, the original trial judge, imposed a 300-month sentence.
“We are grateful that the Court recognized the seriousness of this defendant’s crimes and chose to impose a substantial and appropriate sentence,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “This defendant’s armed standoff created a dangerous situation that could have resulted in bloodshed. This 300-month sentence sends the clear message that such conduct is unacceptable and that those responsible will be held accountable.”
This case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service with substantial assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Internal Revenue Service, the New Hampshire State Police, the Plainfield Police Department, the Lebanon Police Department, and the Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office.
###
Manchester Man Pleads Guilty to Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Christopher Juneau, 36, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court to fentanyl trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Juneau was part of a drug trafficking organization that sold fentanyl and cocaine to customers in Manchester. In July 2019, a cooperating individual purchased fentanyl from Juneau. The investigation revealed that Juneau worked with another drug trafficker and had sold drugs as part of a drug trafficking organization on numerous occasions.
Juneau is scheduled to be sentenced on January 11, 2021.
“Manchester and communities throughout New Hampshire have suffered greatly from the scourge of fentanyl trafficking,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The distribution of this lethal drug undermines public health and safety throughout our state. In order to stop traffickers, we will closely coordinate with the FBI NH Safe Streets Gang Task Force and all of our law enforcement partners to bring the individuals responsible to justice.”
“Christopher Juneau is a drug trafficker who saw lives entangled with addiction as an endless source of cash, and today he’s finally taking responsibility for polluting Manchester, NH with fentanyl and cocaine,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “The FBI NH Safe Streets Gang Task Force will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to get drug dealers like him, and the organizations they work for, off our streets for good.”
This matter was investigated by the FBI NH Safe Streets Gang Task Force which is comprised of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, New Hampshire State Police, Dover Police Department, Portsmouth Police Department and Nashua Police Department. The Manchester Police Department provided valuable assistance as well. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana L. MacDonald.
Agencies participating in this investigation are part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations, and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.
###
Keene Man Convicted of Extortion and Threat OffensesRead the Press Release
CONCORD – Christopher C. Cantwell, 39, of Keene, was found guilty by a jury in federal court of extortion and threat charges, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
During four days of trial testimony, the jury was presented with evidence that Cantwell maintained an active online presence, including operating a website and an internet call-in program. Evidence at trial showed that Cantwell believed that members of an online group called the “Bowl Patrol” had been harassing him online. Cantwell contacted the victim in this case seeking to obtain identifying information about the leader of the Bowl Patrol, an individual who used the name “Vic Mackey.”
When the victim did not disclose the information Cantwell sought, on June 16, 2019, Cantwell sent an electronic message through the Telegram messaging application, stating, “So if you don’t want me to come and f*ck your wife in front of your kids, then you should make yourself scarce[.] Give me Vic, it’s your only out.”
Between June 15, 2019, and June 17, 2019, Cantwell also sent a series of messages to the victim in which he threatened to injure the victim’s reputation by posting identifying information about the victim online (commonly referred to as “doxing”) and reporting the victim to child protection authorities if he did not receive information about “Vic Mackey.” Evidence presented at trial showed that Cantwell did “dox” the victim on June 17, 2019, by posting identifying information and photographs related to the victim and the victim’s family online. Cantwell also called child protection authorities in Missouri and made a report about the victim.
Cantwell was convicted of one count of transmitting extortionate communications and one count of threatening to injure property or reputation. The jury found Cantwell not guilty of cyberstalking. Cantwell, who has been in custody since his arrest on January 23, 2020, is scheduled to be sentenced on January 4, 2021.
The jury began deliberating on Friday afternoon and returned its verdict this morning.
“Sending threatening and extortionate messages over the internet can instill fear and emotional damage,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “I am grateful to the jury for weighing the evidence in this case and finding that this defendant’s disturbing conduct was unlawful. I also want to express my appreciation to the FBI and our other law enforcement partners for their work investigating this case. This conviction should send a message to all those who use the internet as a means to threaten others that their unlawful conduct will not be tolerated.”
“Safeguarding the civil liberties every American is entitled to, regardless of their beliefs, is fundamental to the FBI’s mission. But when freedom of speech is weaponized, and threats are made, a line must be drawn where individuals like Christopher Cantwell will not be allowed to cross,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “We thank the jury for its prudent verdicts, and for recognizing that it’s also our sworn responsibility to protect every citizen from harm.”
This trial was the second federal jury trial to take place in the District of New Hampshire since the pandemic caused a temporary delay in federal court proceedings in New Hampshire. 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 case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the New Hampshire State Police, Keene Police Department, and the Manchester Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John S. Davis and Anna Krasinski.
###
U.S. Attorney Scott W. Murray Announces Results in Fight Against the Opioid Crisis Two Years After Launch of Operation S.O.S.Read the Press Release
Concord – In July 2018, the Department of Justice announced the launch of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S), a program aimed at reducing the supply of synthetic opioids in 10 high impact areas, including the District of New Hampshire and identifying wholesale distribution networks and international and domestic suppliers.
Under Operation SOS, the United States Attorneys in 10 districts with some of the highest drug overdose death rates in the country each designated a county where they would focus on prosecuting every readily available case involving fentanyl, fentanyl analogues, and other synthetic opioids, regardless of the drug quantity.
“The Justice Department’s commitment to fighting the opioids epidemic is stronger than ever, and we are using every tool in our arsenal to disrupt the supply of these drugs on our streets,” said Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey A. Rosen. “Operation SOS has had a significant positive impact on the communities where it is being employed. The Department will continue to build on these successes and work to stop the drug traffickers who so callously wreck lives.”
“Since the initiation of Operation SOS in New Hampshire, approximately 93 separate defendants have been charged with drug trafficking offenses in federal court,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “By taking aggressive action against drug traffickers in Hillsborough County, Operation SOS is limiting the supply of fentanyl and other drugs in the community and helping to reduce the overdose death rate in that county. We also are sending a message to drug dealers that their dangerous and unlawful conduct will not be tolerated. We will continue to work with the Manchester and Nashua Police Departments, the Hillsborough County Attorney’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and all of our law enforcement partners in Hillsborough County to identify and prosecute the drug dealers who are damaging the quality of life in the Granite State.”
Numerous significant drug traffickers have been prosecuted under Operation SOS, including the following:
- Jai Britt, 45, of Manchester was sentenced to ten years in federal prison for trafficking in fentanyl, cocaine, heroin, and crack cocaine. Britt, who was selling drugs while on probation and wearing an ankle monitor, engaged in a hand-to-hand fentanyl transaction with a cooperating individual. A search warrant of his residence later yielded over 135 grams of crack cocaine, 194 grams of cocaine, and 1.5 grams of heroin.
- Richard Rowell, 47, of Nashua was sentenced to nine years in federal prison for trafficking crack cocaine while he was on bail for a state offense. Evidence in the case showed that Rowell, who had multiple prior drug trafficking convictions, also had been trafficking crack cocaine and fentanyl.
Several significant Operation SOS matters are pending trial, including the following:
- Jonathan Sargent, 37, of Manchester, has been charged with two counts of distributing fentanyl, one count of possessing methamphetamine and fentanyl with intent to distribute, possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking, and possession of firearms by a convicted felon.
- Robert Audette, 30, of Manchester, has been charged with one count of distributing methamphetamine, two counts of distributing fentanyl, one count of possessing fentanyl with intent to distribute, one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Nationally, since 2018, Operation SOS has resulted in approximately 750 defendants being charged in federal court, with 384 of those defendants charged thus far in FY 20. Most importantly, the districts participating in the program have seen a decline in opioid overdoses. From 2017 to 2019, most SOS counties reported a decline of 14% to 24%. One notable success was in the Western District of Pennsylvania, where the opioid overdose rates declined by nearly 45%.
The nine other participating districts and some of their successes are listed below:
- The Eastern District of California has reported 60 active Operation S.O.S. investigations. Recently, the USAO charged one sentence-enhanced “death resulting” prosecution. In February 2020, another investigation resulted in the seizure of over 20,000 fentanyl-laced counterfeit oxycodone pills.
- The Eastern District of Kentucky reported that an SOS investigation led to a residential search warrant and seizure of more than 1,300 grams of fentanyl, more than 500 grams of methamphetamine, $15,000 cash, two firearms, and paraphernalia used to traffic narcotics including a device for pressing fentanyl into a brick-like shape
- The District of Maine reported a July 2020 arrest of a defendant on charges of distributing counterfeit fentanyl pills marked as Percocet, in connection with a fatal fentanyl overdose that occurred in May 2020. In addition, a Maine man was sentenced in February 2020 to five years in prison for two counts of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, in connection with an incident where the defendant was found in possession of fentanyl less than 24 hours after he was released on a state summons for possession of fentanyl.
- The Northern District of Ohio reported a 10-defendant wire case involving a drug trafficking organization (DTO) operating out of Elyria and Sandusky, Ohio. The DTO purchased kilogram quantities of cocaine and oxycodone pills. Co-conspirators would later cook the cocaine and sell it as crack to local dealers in Elyria. During the conspiracy, agents seized approximately ½ kilo of cocaine, 100 grams of crack, oxycodone pills, and five firearms.
- The Southern District of Ohio reported the arrest of an individual who had previously served a nine-year state prison sentence for drug trafficking. On October 22, 2019, after law enforcement observed activity consistent with drug transactions, including the delivery of what appeared to be a kilogram of narcotics by a courier, members of the FBI Safe Streets Task Force executed a search warrant at a residence in Dayton, Ohio, where they located three firearms, 1,205 grams of methamphetamine, 1,716 grams of fentanyl, 305 grams of heroin, drug processing equipment, and 12 cellular telephones. One of the recovered cellular telephones contained photographs of multiple kilograms of fentanyl and communications with a narcotics supplier. Through subsequent investigation, law enforcement recovered an additional 19.5 kilograms of fentanyl/carfentanil.
- The Western District of Pennsylvania prosecuted 98 SOS cases thus far in FY 2020. Particularly noteworthy among them is the prosecution of Lynell Guyton. Guyton was convicted by a jury of conspiracy to distribute 100 grams or more of cyclopropyl fentanyl and other charges, including firearms and money laundering violations. Guyton, who had been receiving shipments of fentanyl analogues from China, is both a Career Offender and an Armed Career Criminal. The case gained media attention when, during the execution of a search warrant in connection with the charges, the conspirators tipped over a table, sending cyclopropyl fentanyl into the air, sickening several law enforcement officers on the scene.
- The Eastern District of Tennessee reported multiple cases arising out of a single investigation involving a drug trafficking organization responsible for trafficking heroin and fentanyl from Michigan to various communities in the Eastern District of Tennessee. 29 defendants have been indicted on various charges, including drug trafficking conspiracy, overdose death enhancements, money-laundering conspiracy, and various firearms offenses. More than 5.5 kilograms of heroin and/or fentanyl and 11 firearms were seized during the investigation.
- The Northern District of West Virginia reported a July 21, 2020, forty-four count indictment against 12 defendants. During the nearly yearlong investigation, law enforcement officers seized more than 280 grams of cocaine base and more than 40 grams of fentanyl from one of the defendant’s residences in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. Throughout the investigation, officers seized more than 280 grams of fentanyl, acetyl fentanyl, and heroin; more than 350 grams of cocaine base; more than one kilogram of liquid PCP; various amounts of cocaine; five firearms; and over $28,000.
- The Southern District of West Virginia reported that after a three-day trial, a jury convicted Steven McCallister of distribution of fentanyl, possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Officers conducted a 50-gram purchase of heroin from McCallister, which then led to the execution of a search warrant at McCallister’s home. Officers seized over one kilogram of fentanyl and a firearm.
The charges and allegations contained in an indictment are simply an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
###
- Jai Britt, 45, of Manchester was sentenced to ten years in federal prison for trafficking in fentanyl, cocaine, heroin, and crack cocaine. Britt, who was selling drugs while on probation and wearing an ankle monitor, engaged in a hand-to-hand fentanyl transaction with a cooperating individual. A search warrant of his residence later yielded over 135 grams of crack cocaine, 194 grams of cocaine, and 1.5 grams of heroin.
Massachusetts Man Sentenced to 97 Months for Participating in Heroin and Fentanyl Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CONCORD – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today that Miguel Vasquez, 26, of Roxbury, Massachusetts, was sentenced to 97 months in federal prison for participating in a drug trafficking conspiracy.
According to court documents and statements made in court, from at least January of 2017 through July of 2017, Vasquez and others made deliveries of heroin and fentanyl to customers of a drug organization working out of a residence on Water Street in Lawrence, Massachusetts. Customers, including customers from New Hampshire, would call a telephone number to order drugs. Vasquez and others would then drive to locations in Methuen, Massachusetts and elsewhere to deliver the drugs to the customers.
Evidence in the case also indicated that the drugs distributed by this group resulted in at least one fatal fentanyl overdose in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
Vasquez previously pleaded guilty on April 11, 2018. Two other members of the conspiracy were previously sentenced. Miguel Arias-Velasquez was sentenced to 48 months on August 17, 2018. Walker Manuel Moreta was sentenced to 96 months on November 25, 2019.
Vasquez also faces pending fentanyl trafficking charges in Norfolk County, Massachusetts.
“Interstate fentanyl and heroin trafficking continues to pose a significant threat to communities throughout New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Drug dealers have little regard for the lives they destroy by selling deadly substances like fentanyl and heroin. To protect public health and safety, we will continue to work closely with all of our law enforcement colleagues to identify, prosecute, and incarcerate drug dealers who do business in the Granite State.”
“Fentanyl is causing great damage to our communities,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle. “DEA will continue to use every resource available to identify traffickers, like Mr. Vasquez who come from out of state to distribute this poison to the citizens of New Hampshire. Today’s sentence not only holds Mr. Vasquez accountable for his crimes but serves as a warning to those who are fueling the opioid epidemic.”
This matter was investigated by the DEA, with assistance from the Massachusetts State Police, the United States Marshals Service, the New Hampshire State Police, the Lawrence Police Department, the Portsmouth Police Department, the Dover Police Department, the Rockingham County Attorney’s Office, the Quincy, Massachusetts Police Department, and the Norfolk County District Attorney’s Office in Massachusetts. The case was prosecuted by First Assistant U.S. Attorney John J. Farley.
###
Salem Man Sentenced to 60 Months for Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Leonidas N. Mavrogenis, Jr., 62, of Salem, was sentenced to serve 60 months in federal prison for distribution of child pornography, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today. Mavrogenis was also ordered to pay $8,000 in restitution.
According to court documents and statements made in court, during an ongoing undercover investigation, a member of the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force accessed a peer-to-peer network to identify users who may be sharing images of child pornography. Between February 8, 2018, and March 23, 2018, law enforcement officers conducted downloads of child pornography from an I.P. address later found to belong to Mavrogenis. On August 1, 2018, law enforcement executed a search warrant at the defendant’s residence in Salem. During the search, law enforcement seized computer equipment and electronic devices for forensic examination. Subsequent forensic examination revealed thousands of still images and hundreds of video files containing child pornography, including videos and images downloaded by law enforcement during their investigation.
“Those who distribute child pornography are sharing horrific images of young people who have been abused,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “In order to stop this savage exploitation of children, we will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to see that those responsible are held accountable in court. This serious crime will result in serious federal prison time.”
“This sentence serves as a warning to any who diminish the seriousness of the sharing of such disturbing images.” said Michael Shea, acting Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Boston. “Together with our partners in the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, HSI Boston congratulates the U.S. Attorney’s office for their success in ensuring justice was done in this case. We hope today’s sentence brings some measure of restoration to the lives of those who are victimized by the actions of Mavrogenis and any others who spread this garbage online.”
This matter was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cam Le.
In February 2006, the Department of Justice introduced Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
###
Winchester Man Pleads Guilty to Making False Statements During Acquisition of a FirearmRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Tyrone Morris-Janey, 30, of Winchester, pleaded guilty in federal court to making false statements during the acquisition of a firearm, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, ATF and Boston Police Department personnel recovered a Ruger model LCP, .380 caliber pistol with an obliterated serial number. The BPD crime laboratory was able to recover the serial number and ATF traced the firearm to Morris Janey. A further investigation revealed that from January 8, 2019, through July 31, 2019, Morris Janey purchased six firearms. During the purchases of the firearms, Morris Janey claimed that he was the actual purchaser of the firearms which was not true. He later admitted that he purchased the firearms for another person. In addition, during the purchase of three of the firearms, Morris Janey falsely claimed he lived at a New Hampshire address.
Morris-Janey is scheduled to be sentenced on January 24, 2021.
“Lying to obtain firearms is a federal crime,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Criminal actors often have others purchase guns for them because they cannot lawfully purchase the guns themselves. In order to maintain public safety, we will not hesitate to bring federal charges against those who make false statements in order to buy guns.”
“Firearms trafficking continues to be a top priority for ATF and our law enforcement partners. ATF is committed to identifying and disrupting the sources of illegal firearms which jeopardize the safety of our communities,” said Kelly D. Brady, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Boston Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Debra Walsh.
The case is part of ATF’s Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative, which is a federally-funded program intended to reduce gun violence through law enforcement training, public education, and aggressive law enforcement efforts to investigate and prosecute gun-related crimes.
###
Dominican Man Sentenced to 132 Months for Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Jorge Rodriguez, 23, a citizen of the Dominican Republic most recently residing in Lawrence, Massachusetts, was sentenced on Thursday to 132 months in federal prison for fentanyl trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, a drug trafficking organization, which was led by Sergio Martinez, employed Rodriguez and others to sell fentanyl to customers from various New England states, including New Hampshire. On each date that Rodriguez worked, the Martinez organization provided him with at least one 200-gram bag of fentanyl and expected him to sell it and return approximately $6,000 in proceeds.
Rodriguez previously pleaded guilty on February 28, 2019. He faces likely deportation to the Dominican Republic after serving his sentence.
“This defendant worked for a drug trafficking enterprise that obtained fentanyl from a Mexican supplier in order to sell the drug to Granite Staters,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “These activities contributed to an opioid crisis that has had a devastating impact on the people of New Hampshire. In order to fight back, we are working with our law enforcement partners each day to stop the flow of fentanyl and prosecute dealers. The 132-month prison sentence imposed in this case should serve as a warning to those who choose to trade in this deadly drug.”
“The state of New Hampshire is faced with an opioid crisis unlike ever before,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle. “Fentanyl is causing great damage to our communities and DEA’s top priority is to aggressively pursue anyone who destroys lives by distributing this poison for profit.”
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; U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s 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.
Agencies participating in this investigation are part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations, and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.
###
Auburn Man Pleads Guilty to Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Leon Mandigo, 33, of Auburn, pleaded guilty in federal court to drug trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, during an ongoing drug trafficking investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration learned that Mandigo was obtaining fentanyl from a source located in Massachusetts. On March 7, 2018, agents learned that Mandigo intended to travel to Massachusetts to purchase 200 grams of fentanyl and later observed him participate in a hand-to-hand exchange with a known drug trafficker.
After the transaction, the New Hampshire State Police stopped a vehicle in which Mandigo was a passenger. During the stop, he pulled an orange bag from his pants and threw it on the ground where a trooper later picked it up. The bag contained approximately 184 grams of fentanyl.
Mandigo is scheduled to be sentenced on December 30, 2020.
“The interstate transportation of fentanyl into New Hampshire endangers all of our citizens,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Public health and safety have been seriously undermined by the distribution of this drug. In order to counteract this dangerous and illegal trade, we will continue to work tirelessly to identify and prosecute the traffickers who are responsible for fentanyl sales in the Granite State.”
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; U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s 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 is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Debra Walsh.
Agencies participating in this investigation are part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations, and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.
###
Farmington Woman Pleads Guilty to Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Sasha Rand, 34, of Farmington, pleaded guilty in federal court to fentanyl trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between late 2017 and December 18, 2018, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the New Hampshire State Police conducted an investigation of drug trafficking by Rand, and her husband, Derek Rand, who used New Hampshire-based drug couriers to obtain fentanyl in Massachusetts and bring it to New Hampshire for distribution. During the investigation, law enforcement officers seized over one kilogram of fentanyl from members of this drug trafficking organization. Both Rands were arrested in December of 2018 as part of a DEA-led takedown of fentanyl traffickers in the Rochester, New Hampshire area.
Derek Rand was sentenced in December 2019 to serve 90 months in federal prison.
Sasha Rand is scheduled to be sentenced on December 21st 2020.
“Interstate fentanyl traffickers are causing tremendous damage to communities throughout New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “In order to protect public health and safety, we will continue to work closely with all of our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the drug traffickers who are responsible for distributing fentanyl and other dangerous substances in the Granite State.”
This matter was investigated by the DEA, New Hampshire State Police, and the Dover, New Hampshire Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Davis.
###
Manchester Man Arrested for Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
CONCORD – Alex Stoltman, 23, of Manchester, was arrested today and charged with bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents, Stoltman is charged with robbing a Citizens Bank branch on Elm Street in Manchester on September 2, 2020. Court documents show that the robber wore a hat and mask and handed a note to the teller threatening to use a gun if the teller did not comply with his demands.
Stoltman was taken into custody on September 4, 2020. A court appearance is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Tuesday, September 8, 2020.
This matter was investigated by the FBI and Manchester Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anna Krasinski and Charles Rombeau.
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.
###
Greenfield Man Sentenced to 85 Months for Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Ira Weeks, 40, of Greenfield, was sentenced to 85 months in federal prison for participating in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Weeks conspired with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute fentanyl. Weeks obtained the fentanyl from a source of supply in Methuen, Massachusetts. As part of the investigation, in December 2017 the Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) intercepted phone communications between Weeks and his co-conspirator wife in which the couple ordered quantities of fentanyl from their Methuen drug source. DEA subsequently surveilled Weeks in Methuen meeting with the drug source on approximately four occasions. The DEA and the New Hampshire State Police arranged to conduct motor vehicle stops on Week’s vehicle after observing him meet with his drug source. These stops resulted in the seizure of over 175 grams of fentanyl.
Weeks previously pleaded guilty on May 27, 2020. His wife, Shelley Weeks, was also indicted in the conspiracy. She pleaded guilty on March 26, 2020 and is awaiting sentencing.
“Interstate fentanyl traffickers make a deadly drug available for sale in our state,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The results have been disastrous. The substantial prison sentence imposed in this case should serve as a warning to those would choose to involve themselves in this dangerous business.”
“Fentanyl is causing deaths in record numbers and DEA’s top priority is to aggressively pursue anyone who distributes this poison,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle. “Illegal drug distribution ravages the very foundations of our families and communities so every time we take fentanyl off the streets, lives are saved. This investigation demonstrates the strength and continued commitment of our local, state and federal law enforcement partners.”
This matter was investigated by the DEA with assistance from the New Hampshire State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Cole Davis.
Agencies participating in this investigation are part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations, and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.
###
North Stratford Man Sentenced to 21 Months for Selling Prescription Drugs in School ZoneRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Timothy L. Adjutant, 28, of North Stratford, was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison for distributing buprenorphine near a school, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on November 14, 2018, in Colebrook, Adjutant sold buprenorphine, also known as Suboxone, to an individual who was cooperating with law enforcement officers. At the time of the sale, Adjutant indicated he had more Suboxone for sale. On December 4, 2018, Adjutant sold Suboxone to a cooperating individual in the parking lot of a drug store in Colebrook. Both transactions occurred within 1,000 feet of the Colebrook Elementary School.
Suboxone is a controlled substance that is often prescribed as a treatment for opioid withdrawal symptoms. As an opioid itself, however, it is still subject to abuse if injected or snorted and can produce a euphoria similar to other opioids like heroin and fentanyl.
Federal law provides that a person who distributes a controlled substance within 1000 feet of a school is subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of one year in prison.
Adjutant previously pleaded guilty on May 6, 2020.
“Drug trafficking endangers public health and safety in small and large communities throughout New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “This is especially true with the illegal sales of opioids. In order to safeguard our citizens, we will continue to work closely with all of our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to identify, prosecute and incarcerate the criminals responsible for trafficking drugs.”
This matter was investigated by the DEA, with assistance from the Colebrook Police Department, the Pittsburg Police Department, the New Hampshire State Police, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Coos County Sheriff’s Office, the New Hampshire Liquor Commission’s Division of Enforcement and Licensing, the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John S. Davis and Charles L. Rombeau.
###
Maine Man Sentenced to 60 Months for Fentanyl and Heroin TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Edson Wilson, 43, of Augusta, Maine was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison for possession of heroin and fentanyl with intent to distribute, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on June 15, 2019, a New Hampshire State Police trooper pulled over a vehicle on I-95 north for a traffic violation. Wilson was a passenger in the vehicle. While speaking with the occupants of the vehicle, the trooper noticed indicators of drug use. After the occupants also gave conflicting stories about their destination and travel, they consented to a search of the vehicle. The trooper located a vacuum- sealed package that contained approximately 198 grams of heroin and fentanyl under Wilson’s seat. Wilson was placed under arrest and later admitted that he had purchased the drugs earlier that day and further stated that he intended to sell at least half of the drugs.
Wilson previously pleaded guilty on May 6, 2020.
“Interstate 95 is a conduit for illegal drugs being transported into Northern New England,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Thanks to alert enforcement action by New Hampshire State Police, this shipment was stopped before it could be distributed and the responsible party was brought to justice. This 60 month prison term should serve as a warning to traffickers who plan to transport heroin and fentanyl into New Hampshire and Maine.”
This matter was investigated by the New Hampshire State Police with assistance from the Greenland Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles L. Rombeau.
###
Nashua Man Sentenced to 24 Months for Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Martin Sheehan, 28, of Nashua, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison for fentanyl trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in October of 2018, Sheehan sold fentanyl on two occasions to a cooperating individual at locations in Nashua. In February of 2019, law enforcement officers arrested Sheehan at a motel. Officers recovered over 13 grams of fentanyl, which Sheehan admitted belonged to him.
Sheehan previously pleaded guilty on May 13, 2020.
“Fentanyl has caused substantial damage throughout New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Through Operation S.O.S., we are fighting back against the drug dealers who peddle fentanyl and other opioids. We will continue to work closely with Nashua Police Department and all of our law enforcement partners to identify, prosecute, and incarcerate the drug traffickers who have threatened public health and safety by selling these deadly drugs.”
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.
###
Manchester Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Christopher Gelinas, 24, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court to distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Gelinas sold highly-pure methamphetamine to an individual who was cooperating with law enforcement officers on two occasions. On October 23, 2019, a cooperating individual bought methamphetamine from Gelinas at a residence in Concord. On November 18, 2019, a cooperating individual purchased methamphetamine from Gelinas in Boscawen.
Gelinas is scheduled to be sentenced on December 10, 2020.
“Highly-pure methamphetamine is now appearing in New Hampshire with alarming frequency,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Even as we continue to combat the opioid crisis, methamphetamine poses an additional serious threat to public health and safety. Accordingly, we will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the traffickers who are responsible for selling this highly dangerous drug in the Granite State.”
This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the New Hampshire State Police and the Concord Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John S. Davis.
###
White River Junction Man Pleads Guilty to Gun and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Hallet Merrick, 34, of White River Junction, pleaded guilty in federal court on Thursday to unlawfully possessing a firearm and fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on November 20, 2019, Lebanon Police officers made contact with Merrick and arrested him on a warrant for failing to appear in Grafton County Superior Court. During searches of his person incident to his arrest, officers discovered approximately six grams of fentanyl, which Merrick claimed was for personal use. Officers also discovered a handgun in his sweatshirt pocket. As a convicted felon, Merrick is legally prohibited from possessing firearms.
Merrick is scheduled to be sentenced on December 10, 2020.
“Federal law prohibits convicted felons from possessing firearms,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “This restriction is intended to reduce violent crime and thereby protect the public. To accomplish this goal, we will continue to work closely with ATF as well as state and local law enforcement agencies.”
This matter was investigated by the Lebanon Police Department, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joachim H. Barth.
###
Pelham Man Pleads Guilty to Mail Fraud Scheme Involving Fraudulent Surety BondsRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Leo Rush, 76, of Pelham, pleaded guilty in federal court to mail fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Rush ran the Newport Insurance Company from his home office in Pelham. As Rush knew, the Newport Insurance Company was not licensed to sell insurance in New Hampshire or any other state. Rush also maintained a website for the company that listed a false address in Rhode Island.
From 2012 through 2019, Rush sold fraudulent surety bonds through Newport Insurance Company for construction projects in several states. Surety bonds are a form of insurance, subject to oversight by state insurance regulatory agencies. For certain construction projects, contractors are required to purchase surety bonds from licensed insurance companies to ensure that workers and material suppliers are paid and to ensure that a contractor’s work is completed and performed according to a contract’s specifications. Thus, if a contractor defaults on a contract, the owner of the construction project can trigger the surety’s obligation and receive payments required to complete the contract up to the value of the bond.
Rush sold these surety bonds knowing that they were fraudulent. He knew his company was not a licensed insurer and that it did not have the financial ability to make payments equal to the value of the bonds. In fact, after the deposits were made in the Newport Insurance bank account, Rush used the proceeds for his personal benefit, leaving no money to make payments on claims made against surety bonds.
From 2012 through 2019, Rush’s victims paid him over $633,000 for fraudulent surety bonds valued at over $23 million.
Rush is scheduled to be sentenced on December 10, 2020.
“Financial crimes cause serious harm to victims and deprive them of their hard-earned money,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Through this deceitful scheme, the defendant obtained over $600,000 from his victims, while subjecting them to the risk of major financial loss in the event that they needed to file a claim against his fraudulent surety bonds. To stop this type of criminal activity and seek justice for victims, we work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute fraudsters and other white collar criminals.”
“Mr. Rush’s conduct is inexcusable. With today’s guilty plea, he is finally taking responsibility for deceiving and defrauding his clients out of hundreds of thousands of dollars by selling fake insurance policies that would have left them in serious trouble if claims were made, since he did not have the money to back them,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “Individuals like Mr. Rush who engage in this type of financial fraud should know they will not go undetected, and sooner or later, they will be brought to justice. We thank the New Hampshire Insurance Department for its partnership in this investigation.”
This matter was investigated by the New Hampshire Insurance Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Hunter and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Kinsella.
###
Lawrence Man Sentenced to 45 Years in Prison for Operating Major Fentanyl Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
Concord – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced that Sergio Martinez, 30, of Lawrence, Massachusetts, was sentenced to 45 years in federal prison for leading a continuing criminal enterprise and participating in a money laundering conspiracy based upon his role in operating a Lawrence-based fentanyl trafficking organization. Additionally, Martinez was ordered to forfeit $2,000,000 in cash, as well as three houses in Lawrence.
Martinez pleaded guilty on the sixth day of a jury trial. During the trial, which began on October 1, 2019, the government presented evidence that Martinez operated a fentanyl trafficking operation that employed numerous individuals to sell fentanyl to customers from various New England states, including New Hampshire. Testimony at trial showed that customers knew the Martinez organization by the name “Brian” and that most of the organization’s customers came from New Hampshire. Distributors knew to identify customers on the streets of Lawrence by their New Hampshire license plates.
Testimony at trial showed that the organization served three distinct sets of customers. The first group of customers, who ordered the smallest amounts of drugs, was served by various telephones (“small phones”) that were located in a specific residence and answered by dispatchers. This residence was referred to as “the base” and dispatchers staffed “the base” from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. daily. Dispatchers took orders and directed customers to meet various distributors throughout the Merrimack Valley area, mostly in Lawrence or Haverhill, Massachusetts, but sometimes in Salem, New Hampshire. These phones usually received hundreds of calls daily from customers placing fentanyl orders. Street-level distributors were provided with 200-gram bags of fentanyl, which they sold for $30 per gram, generating $6,000 per bag of fentanyl sold. Distributors testified at trial that they sometimes had lines of 10 to 15 customers, most with New Hampshire license plates, waiting for them on the street.
A second set of customers was serviced by the so-called “big phone.” The big phone was reserved for customers who typically purchased from ten grams to 200 grams of fentanyl at a time, quantities which the purchasers would then distribute themselves. The defendant and his brother Raulin Martinez answered this telephone, took orders, and sent these customers to meet a different set of distributors. They promised these customers better and faster service than they received if they called the small phones. These phones received between approximately 50 and 100 calls daily.
A third, much smaller set of customers, who ordered particularly large quantities of fentanyl (usually one kilogram or more at a time) called the defendant directly to place orders. The organization would deliver directly to these individuals by sending a distributor, often in a taxi, to deliver to these customers at or near their residences.
Trial testimony showed that Martinez managed numerous individuals including between five and ten runners working each day, people who staffed “the base” answering telephones, and people who mixed and packaged the drugs in milling operations he operated at different locations in Lawrence. The jury was provided with evidence showing that investigators seized over 12 kilograms of fentanyl from the Martinez organization during the investigation. During one telephone call intercepted over a court-authorized wiretap and played at trial, Martinez spoke to a man who identified himself as a fentanyl supplier located in Sinaloa, Mexico. Martinez told him, “what I look for is quality for when I prepare it and give it to people. Because I’m one of those people that’s moving a lot here. I move between 15, to 30, to 35 kilos a month.” In other intercepted telephone calls played at trial, Martinez acknowledged the dangerous nature of the drug he distributed, noting that “what we give out is poison.”
Evidence at trial showed that Martinez received substantial income from his business and that he sent some of this money to the Dominican Republic. Drug runners testified that they provided the defendant with between $30,000 and $35,000 per day based on aggregate drug sales. On one occasion, the defendant was stopped by the police while transporting $400,494 in cash that he intended to send to the Dominican Republic. This money was seized by the Drug Enforcement Administration. The plea agreement includes a forfeiture of $2,000,000 including funds in two bank accounts in the Dominican Republic in Martinez’s name.
Twenty four individuals have pleaded guilty and been sentenced in this conspiracy. Five additional individuals are awaiting sentencing. Three defendants remain fugitives. One defendant is awaiting trial.
In addition to these defendants, 13 New Hampshire-based individuals who obtained fentanyl from this organization have been charged with drug trafficking offenses. Twelve of those individuals have pleaded guilty and one is still awaiting trial.
“International fentanyl trafficking organizations have targeted New Hampshire as a profitable market for the sale of their deadly product,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The result has been disastrous for our citizens. Mr. Martinez ran a criminal enterprise that exploited the substance abuse proclivities of Granite Staters in order to obtain huge profits. In doing so, he enriched himself and funneled portions of the profits to parties outside of the United States. This 45-year sentence should send a strong message to fentanyl traffickers that those who choose to do business in New Hampshire will be held accountable for their conduct. I am grateful to the DEA and all of our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners whose hard work resulted in the successful prosecution of this high-level drug trafficker.”
“The State of New Hampshire is faced with a fentanyl crisis unlike ever before,” said DEA 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. Today’s significant sentence not only holds Mr. Martinez accountable for his crimes but serves as a warning to those traffickers 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.”
“Today’s sentencing sends a strong message: The Diplomatic Security Service is committed to making sure that those who are responsible for trafficking in deadly drugs face consequences for their criminal actions,” said Brian Papanu, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the Boston Field Office of the U.S. Department of State's Diplomatic Security Service. “Diplomatic Security’s strong relationship with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force continues to be essential in the pursuit of justice.”
Agencies participating in this investigation are part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations, and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.
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; U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s 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. Konesky and Seth R. Aframe.
###
Pelham Man Sentenced to 24 Months in Prison for Cocaine DistributionRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Michael Baez, 40, of Pelham, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison for distributing cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2019, Baez sold cocaine to a cooperating individual on multiple occasions. One transaction took place in a parking lot in Nashua. Additional deals occurred at the defendant’s residence in Pelham, New Hampshire. In total, Baez sold over 420 grams of cocaine to the cooperating individual.
Baez previously pled guilty on May 11, 2020.
“Federal, state and local law enforcement agencies worked together to bring this defendant to justice,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Drug dealers who choose to do business in New Hampshire should understand that they will be identified, arrested and prosecuted. Federal prison sentences await those who persist in peddling illegal drugs.”
“When law enforcement agencies partner together in a task force environment, as in this case, we can leverage all of our resources in removing illegal narcotics, and the criminals like Michael Baez who deal them, from the streets,” 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 was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Krasinski.
###
Brentwood Man Convicted of Purchasing Military Hand Grenades in First Federal Jury Trial in New Hampshire Since the Covid-19 Pandemic BeganRead the Press Release
CONCORD – Daniel Musso, age 56, of Brentwood, was found guilty on Friday of four counts of receiving and possessing unregistered firearms (fragmentation grenades) and one count of receiving explosive material after a week-long federal jury trial, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to the evidence presented during the trial, beginning in the summer of 2015, Musso engaged in a series of efforts to obtain ammunition and military weapons and explosives, including military hand grenades. After Musso told a firearms dealer about his desire to obtain these items, the FBI arranged for Musso to be introduced to an undercover agent who told Musso that he could obtain illegal hand grenades. During two meetings with the undercover agent in January 2016, Musso reiterated his desire to obtain hand grenades and other illegal military weapons and explosives. Musso explained that he was part of a group that was seeking to bring forth the “original constitution” and that he and his associates were seeking to obtain military weapons and explosives to “take our country back.” Musso was arrested on January 27, 2016, after he purchased four military hand grenades from the undercover agent in Seabrook.
Hand grenades are destructive devices that are unlawful to possess unless they are registered under the National Firearms Act. Musso previously argued that the grenades were not destructive devices because the FBI had made their fuses inoperable for safety purposes in the undercover operation. Although a district judge initially agreed with Musso, the United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit reversed that decision, clearing the way for this matter to be tried by a jury.
Musso was taken into custody after the verdict. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
This trial was the first jury trial conducted in the United States District Court for the District of New Hampshire since court operations were limited in response to the pandemic in March. The court adopted a series of health and safety protocols for the jury and all other participants in the trial. Those in the courtroom wore masks, maintained social distancing, and took other steps to limit the risk of virus exposure and transmission.
“I am grateful to the members of the jury who agreed to perform their important civic duty during this challenging time,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The jury’s dedication to justice ensured that this defendant received a fair trial despite the difficulties presented by the current pandemic. The defendant’s frightening efforts to obtain military hand grenades posed a substantial risk to public safety. Thanks to the excellent investigative work of the FBI, this dangerous scheme was thwarted and the public was protected from potential violence.”
“Daniel Musso bought four grenades and asked our undercover agent to illegally sell him additional military grade weapons and explosives as part of a frightening plan to defend his version of what our government should be. If it were not for the concerned citizen who caught wind of his plan and came forward to the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, these deadly weapons could have ended up in the wrong hands,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “This case is a true testament that the adage, ‘if you see something, say something,’ really does work.”
“This arrest demonstrates the outstanding partnership between the Seabrook Police Department, FBI and the ATF. It demonstrates the commitment we share together to interdict these dangerous hand grenades which are an instrument of extreme violence and the criminals that compromise the safety of our communities” ATF Special Agent in Charge Kelly. D. Brady.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Seabrook Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John S. Davis and Matthew T. Hunter.
###
Hampton Man Pleads Guilty to Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CONCORD - John William McMahon, 30, of Hampton, pleaded guilty in federal court to distribution of child pornography, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, during an ongoing undercover investigation, a member of the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force accessed a peer-to-peer network to identify users who may be sharing images of child pornography. On various dates between December 14, 2017, and January 2, 2018, law enforcement officers conducted single-source downloads of child pornography from a certain I.P. address. Agents identified the address used to distribute child pornography images during the undercover sessions.
Through their investigation, agents identified the defendant, John William McMahon, as the person responsible for distributing child pornography images during the undercover sessions. In a consensual interview, the defendant admitted accessing wireless internet belonging to a neighboring apartment, and he further admitted downloading child pornography. Investigators later obtained a search warrant for McMahon’s laptop and other electronic media recovered from him. Subsequent forensic examination revealed approximately 1,410 images of suspected child pornography on McMahon’s laptop. The child pornography images and videos were sent to the National Center for Mission and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which confirmed that 500 still images and 6 videos were of identified child victims.
McMahon’s sentencing date has not yet been scheduled.
“Child pornography crimes involve the distribution of images of children who have been the victims of terrible abuse,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Those who distribute these images are committing a serious federal crime and will be prosecuted aggressively. I am grateful for the efforts of the law enforcement officers whose dedicated work led to this successful prosecution.”
“Every conviction of an individual who distributes child pornography is a victory in our fight against the sharing of these sickening images,” said Michael Shea, acting Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Boston. “We applaud the tireless work of our partners in the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the U.S. Attorney for New Hampshire for their commitment to fighting for justice for the victims of these disturbing crimes.”
This matter was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cam Le.
In February 2006, the Department of Justice introduced Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
###
Pembroke Woman Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Nadine Jacques, 46, of Pembroke, pleaded guilty in federal court on Friday to methamphetamine trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray 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 in Dover. Agents arrested Jacques and the source and recovered over 111 grams of methamphetamine.
Jacques is scheduled to be sentenced on November 17, 2020.
“Methamphetamine is a dangerous drug that continues to cause significant damage to communities throughout New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “We will not hesitate to bring federal charges against the dealers who are responsible for distributing this dangerous substance in the Granite State.”
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 is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John S. Davis.
###
Dominican Man Sentenced to 108 Months for Participating in Heroin Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Geraldo De La Cruz Cabral Pena, 45, of the Dominican Republic, was sentenced on Thursday to 108 months in federal prison and a $30,000 fine for conspiring to distribute heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, from 2013 to 2016, Cabral Pena facilitated an international heroin distribution conspiracy with connections to Colombia, Guatemala, and Mexico. Multi-kilogram loads of heroin were smuggled into the United States from Mexico. Cabral Pena then facilitated deliveries of the heroin to numerous regional drug trafficking organizations along a route from Texas to Massachusetts. Heroin arriving in Lawrence, Massachusetts would then be distributed by a local drug trafficking organization to sub-distributors in New Hampshire and the rest of northern New England. Cabral Pena also collected payment from the regional drug trafficking organizations through multiple means including bulk cash smuggling.
Pena was arrested by Dominican Republic authorities in March 2018 at the request of the United States government, and he was extradited to the United States to face these charges on August 16, 2018.
Cabral Pena previously pleaded guilty on April 1, 2019. He faces likely removal to the Dominican Republic after serving his sentence.
“This case demonstrates the international scope of the heroin distribution network that has had such a damaging impact on New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “It also demonstrates that we will not hesitate to reach into foreign countries to extradite criminals who are responsible for shipping illegal drugs into the Granite State. We will continue to aggressively pursue, prosecute, and incarcerate responsible parties regardless of where they are found.”
“DEA is committed to investigating and bringing to justice Drug Trafficking Organizations and individuals like Mr. Cabral Pena who are responsible for distributing lethal drugs like heroin to the citizens of New Hampshire,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle. “Today’s substantial sentence not only holds Mr. Cabral Pena accountable for his crimes but serves as a warning to those traffickers who are fueling the opioid epidemic with deadly drugs in order to profit and destroy people’s lives. DEA’s top priority is combatting the opioid epidemic by working with our local, county, state and federal law enforcement partners.”
This investigation was conducted 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.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration; U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations; the Massachusetts State Police; the Haverhill Police Department; the United States Marshals Service; the New Hampshire State Police; the Manchester Police Department; the Lawrence Police Department; the Lowell Police Department, the Methuen Police Department, and the Hillsborough County Drug Task Force. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John S. Davis.
###
Belmont Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Bank FraudRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Jon Daigle, Jr., 33, of Belmont, pleaded guilty in federal court on Thursday to conspiracy to commit bank fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on December 12, 2019, the Belmont Police Department received a report that two people were using drugs in a parked car outside a convenience store. Officers responded and identified Daigle and another individual as the occupants of the vehicle. In plain view, they observed drug paraphernalia in the car. Officers seized the vehicle and applied for a search warrant, which was granted. Later that day, officers searched the car and found suspected methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, mail addressed to various people in Laconia, Gilford, and Meredith, New Hampshire (including checks made out to people who were not occupants of the vehicle), a USPS mail tote, and a lock pick set.
On January 15, 2020, the Bedford Police Department began an investigation of mail stolen from a community mailroom. A surveillance camera in the mailroom showed that on January 12, 2020, Daigle was captured on video as he picked the lock to the mailroom, entered the room, rummaged through various packages, and left with a handful of mail.
On various occasions between January and April of 2020, Daigle and his co-conspirator altered stolen checks and cashed or attempted to cash them at various banks in New Hampshire. Some of the checks were stolen from the community mailroom in Bedford and also from mailboxes in Manchester. On April 1, 2020, Daigle and a co-conspirator attempted to use a stolen driver’s license to cash a check at a credit union.
On April 23, 2020, Daigle and a co-conspirator were arrested by Manchester Police Officers. Officers seized the vehicle and obtained a search warrant. The vehicle contained over $16,000 in stolen checks, stolen credit cards, the stolen driver’s license used at the credit union on April 1, and various other pieces of stolen mail.
Daigle is scheduled to be sentenced on November 17, 2020.
“Bank fraud causes real harm to individuals as well as financial institutions,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The harm is compounded when criminals interfere with the U.S. Mail to facilitate their schemes. We will continue to work closely with U.S. Postal Inspection Service and all of our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who engage in this type of criminal activity”
“The U.S. Postal Inspection Service actively conducts investigations with our counterparts to combat mail theft in our communities,” said Inspector in Charge Joseph W. Cronin of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Boston Division. “The U.S. Mail remains one of the most secure means of transmitting personal information and our Postal Inspectors work diligently to preserve the integrity of the U.S. Mail.”
This matter was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Belmont Police Department, the Bedford Police Department, and the Manchester Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana L. Konesky.
###
Bow Man Pleads Guilty to Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Michael Briand, 29, of Bow, pleaded guilty in federal court to fentanyl trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on August 27, 2019, at about 4:15 pm, a cooperating individual told Nashua Police Detectives that Michael Briand and an accomplice were selling fentanyl in Nashua. At the direction of detectives, the cooperator arranged to buy a quantity of fentanyl from Briand and his accomplice. The deal took place in the bathroom of a fast food restaurant in Nashua and Briand took custody of the money in the transaction. Following the sale, detectives arrested Briand and others involved in the transaction.
Briand is scheduled to be sentenced on November 19, 2020.
“Fentanyl traffickers seek to earn profits by selling a deadly substance that undermines the health and safety of our citizens,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Fentanyl users invite disaster into their lives. Through Operation SOS, we are working closely with the Nashua Police Department and all of our law enforcement partners to stop the sale of dangerous illegal drugs in the Granite State.”
This matter was investigated by the Nashua Police Department’s Narcotics Intelligence Division and Problem-Oriented Policing Unit.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joachim H. Barth.
This case is part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S.). In July of 2018, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the creation of S.O.S., which is being implemented in the District of New Hampshire and nine other federal districts. The goal of S.O.S. is to combat the large number of overdoses and deaths associated with fentanyl and other synthetic opioids. In New Hampshire, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is focusing its efforts on prosecuting synthetic opioid trafficking cases arising in Hillsborough County, which includes Manchester and Nashua.
###
Manchester Man Sentenced to 15 Months for Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Ryan Luther, 28, of Manchester, was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison for fentanyl trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 13, 2019, a cooperating individual agreed to participate with the Nashua Police Department’s Narcotics Intelligence Division and Problem-Oriented Policing Unit in a controlled buy of fentanyl from Ryan Luther. Luther subsequently sold fentanyl to the cooperator. After the deal, detectives followed Luther to a nearby apartment where they found him hiding in the bathroom and placed him under arrest.
Luther previously pleaded guilty on October 9, 2019.
“Fentanyl traffickers who continue to distribute their product in Hillsborough County will follow Mr. Luther to federal prison,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Through Operation SOS, we are working closely with the Nashua Police Department and law enforcement agencies throughout the county to send the message to drug dealers that their illegal and dangerous conduct will not be tolerated.”
This matter was investigated by the Nashua Police Department Narcotics Intelligence Division and Problem-Oriented Policing Unit. 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.
###
Court of Appeals Finds That District Court Properly Denied Fraudster's Request for Compassionate ReleaseRead the Press Release
CONCORD – The United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit has affirmed a district court’s decision that denied Scott Farah’s request for compassionate release, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
Farah, 56, is serving a 15-year prison sentence for mail fraud and wire fraud arising out of his participation in a multi-million dollar Ponzi scheme. In 2019, Farah asked the district court for compassionate release arguing, in part, that he needed to care for his elderly parents. United States District Judge Paul Barbadoro denied Farah’s request on August 6, 2019.
Farah appealed this decision to the United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit. In an order issued today, the Court of Appeals affirmed Judge Barbadoro’s decision, finding that he acted within his discretion in denying Farah’s request for compassionate release.
“We are pleased with this decision, which will leave Mr. Farrah in prison to serve the remainder of the sentence that was justly imposed on him in 2011,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Farah’s fraud scheme deprived his victims of millions of dollars and caused terrible damage to their lives. Hopefully this ruling will bring at least some closure for them.”
###
U.S. Attorney Scott Murray Recognizes 30th Anniversary of Americans with Disabilities ActRead the Press Release
CONCORD - United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced that this week marks the 30th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (the ADA), the landmark civil rights law that aims to eliminate discrimination against people with disabilities.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Hampshire is proud to play a critical role in the Department of Justice’s enforcement efforts under the ADA. The ADA is the nation’s preeminent civil rights law for providing access and equal opportunity for people with disabilities.
“The ADA has bettered the lives of Americans by ensuring that people with disabilities are more fully included in our society,” said Murray. “Our office remains committed to investigating complaints, remedying violations, and protecting the civil rights of all of our citizens.”
Over the past 30 years, our country has undertaken the hard work of changing attitudes about disability, tearing down barriers to equality, and dismantling the systems that have historically excluded people with disabilities. We commemorate the many ways that the ADA has transformed our society—by replacing exclusion with access, segregation with integration, and limitations with self-determination. The ADA has advanced the promise of the American dream, ensuring that people with disabilities can write their own stories. We are better and stronger because of the contributions that people with disabilities make.
For more information about the 30th Anniversary of the ADA, please visit www.ada.gov
To file a complaint with the Department, please visit the Civil Rights Division’s portal at https://civilrights.justice.gov/report/ or contact Assistant U.S. Attorney Raphael Katz at (603) 225-1552.
For more information about the ADA, call the Department’s toll-free ADA Information Line at 800-514-0301 or 800-514-0383 (TTY).
###
Texas Man Sentenced to 12 Months and a Day in Prison for Wire FraudRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Shiva Chandan Reddy Thudi, 26, of Irving, Texas was sentenced on Wednesday to 12 months and a day in federal prison for wire fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Thudi attended college in New Hampshire from 2015 to 2017. During that time, he established relationships with and defrauded several individuals who were foreign citizens living in the United States. In essence, Thudi falsely told his victims he was seeking investors to share in the profits of business ventures that involved his producing and distributing films in the United States. In reality, Thudi was not a movie producer or distributor and, instead, he used his victim’s money for his own personal benefit. To keep the scheme going, Thudi engaged in a classic Ponzi scheme by using money paid by later victims to pay supposed “returns” on the “investment” made by earlier victims.
When interviewed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Thudi admitted he stole substantial amounts of money from the victims by selling illusory ownership interests in several films to them. Additionally, he admitted that he used the victims’ money for his personal benefit and to make lulling payments to keep the scheme going. In total, Thudi stole more than $160,000 from his victims.
Thudi previously pleaded guilty on April 12, 2020. He faces likely removal to India after serving his prison sentence.
“Fraudsters who cultivate and then exploit relationships in order to steal money are criminals who must be held responsible for their conduct,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “In order to protect victims from financial crimes, we work closely with the FBI and other law enforcement agencies to identify, prosecute, and incarcerate the white collar criminals who use lies and fraud to steal hard-earned money.”
“By playing the role of film producer, Shiva Chandan Reddy Thudi stole tens of thousands of dollars from starstruck victims he convinced had the inside track for investing in his movies, but our investigation into his Ponzi scheme exposed him for what he really is, a con artist,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “With today’s sentence, he’s being held accountable for their losses, and we’d like to take this opportunity to remind everyone that if an investment opportunity sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Thanks to Rivier University’s valuable assistance, the FBI has brought one more fraudster to justice.”
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Hunter and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Kinsella.
###
Nashua Man Sentenced to 63 Months for Participating in Drug Trafficking Conspiracy in Nashua AreaRead the Press Release
CONCORD – George Cruz, 30, of Nashua, was sentenced on Wednesday to 63 months in federal prison for participating in a conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Cruz was a member of a drug trafficking organization that distributed crack cocaine and other drugs to various customers in the Nashua area. Cruz actively sold drugs to customers for the organization.
Cruz previously pleaded guilty on December 17, 2019.
In addition to Cruz, six defendants in this case have pleaded guilty. Four of the defendants have been sentenced: Donald Johnson was sentenced to 42 months in prison; Melvin Nooks, Jr. was sentenced to 120 months in prison; Marvin Morrison was sentenced to 15 months in prison; and Mallory Nooks received 60 months in prison. William Greenleaf is scheduled to be sentenced on November 3, 2020 and Isaiah Kinard is scheduled to be sentenced on November 4, 2020. Three other defendants are awaiting trial.
“This 63-month sentence should serve as a warning to drug dealers operating in the Nashua area,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Mr. Cruz now follows four of his fellow conspirators to federal prison. A similar fate awaits those who peddle crack cocaine anywhere in the Granite State. We will continue to work with the FBI and all of our law enforcement partners to identify, prosecute, and incarcerate the purveyors of dangerous illegal drugs.”
“With today’s sentence, George Cruz became the fifth member of this drug trafficking organization to be held accountable for pumping illegal narcotics like crack cocaine into the neighborhoods of Nashua,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “Given that the safety and quality of life of our communities are on the line, our Safe Streets Gang Task Force will vigorously work to put drug trafficking rings like this one permanently out of business.”
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 was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Georgiana Konesky 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.
###
Nashua Man Pleads Guilty to Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD - David Campbell, 36, of Nashua, pleaded guilty in federal court to drug trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on April 16, 2019, three Nashua police officers were returning to the station from a patrol when they observed Campbell walking in a gas station parking lot. They paused to watch him. He seemed to be impaired as he was at times staring off into the distance and walking aimlessly in the parking area. During a consensual encounter, he was arrested after being found in possession of methamphetamine.
Accordingly, Campbell was arrested and transported back to the station. A subsequent search revealed distributable quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl.
Campbell waived his Miranda rights and admitted to selling methamphetamine. He also acknowledged that he was working on a deal in the parking lot before the officers confronted him.
Campbell is scheduled to be sentenced on November 13, 2020.
“In this case, alert Nashua police officers were able to prevent the distribution of dangerous drugs and allow us to bring a drug trafficker to justice in federal court,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “This is exactly the type of law enforcement partnership that Operation SOS was designed to promote. We will continue to coordinate with Nashua Police Department and all of the law enforcement agencies in Hillsborough County to disrupt the distribution of fentanyl and methamphetamine.”
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.
###
Fremont Woman Pleads Guilty to Social Security FraudRead the Press Release
CONCORD - April Carroll, 62, of Fremont, pleaded guilty in federal court to social security fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Carroll received Supplemental Security Income (“SSI”) benefits for over 9 years. Applicants for certain disability benefits, including SSI, must have limited income and resources in order to qualify for assistance. The incomes of all members of a household are considered when determining an individual’s eligibility for SSI benefits.
After several unsuccessful attempts to obtain social security disability benefits, in December 2010, Carroll successfully applied for SSI benefits by falsely claiming that she and her husband were separated and that her husband did not provide for any of her living expenses. In reality, she and her husband had lived together for more than 10 years and they comingled their assets, sharing in their household and other living expenses. Based on these false statements, SSA granted Carroll’s claim and began paying her social security disability benefits on April 1, 2011. Had Carroll told SSA the truth about her finances and living situation she would not have been eligible to receive SSI benefits.
SSA occasionally interviewed Carroll to determine if she remained entitled to benefits. During interviews in 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2018 Carroll again falsely claimed that she did not live with her husband and that she did not receive any financial support from him. On February 20, 2020, investigators interviewed Carroll at her home. During the interview, she admitted that she and her husband co-own their home and that they have a joint bank account where they comingle their assets. Carroll also admitted that her husband does not have an alternate address, lives full time at her residence, and that she should have reported this to the SSA. When asked about her prior claim to SSA that her husband had not lived with her for years, Carroll said “I lied.”
Due to Carroll’s concealment and false statements, SSA paid Carroll $77,953.00 in SSI benefits she was not entitled to receive.
Carroll is scheduled to be sentenced on November 2, 2020.
“Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits provide essential monetary support to qualified individuals,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The program is seriously undermined when applicants lie to obtain benefits. Persons who engage in this type of deceptive behavior will be held accountable in federal court.”
This matter was investigated by the Social Security Administration’s Office of the Inspector General. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Hunter.
###
U.S. Attorney's Office in New Hampshire Launches Public Service Announcements to Combact Drug and Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
CONCORD – U.S. Attorney Scott W. Murray announced the launch of public service announcements primarily aimed at increasing awareness about drug trafficking and related gun crimes.
The opioid crisis has had a dramatic negative impact on New Hampshire. Several of the public service announcements solicit the public’s assistance in fighting back against drug traffickers. One unfortunate side effect of the opioid crisis is the increased number of incidents where individuals from New Hampshire have traded guns in order to obtain drugs. Drug traffickers actively solicit customers to obtain guns for them. Additionally, convicted felons, individuals convicted of domestic violence, and others who are prohibited from possessing guns often offer money or drugs to get New Hampshire residents to buy guns for them. All of this unlawful conduct presents a serious safety risk to the citizens of the Granite State. The U.S. Attorney’s Office has developed a variety of social media public service announcements in order to educate people about the consequences of these illegal activities.
“Drug trafficking and violent crime jeopardize the safety and security of the citizens of New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Armed drug dealers are a menace to everyone. Law enforcement officers are working to protect the community each day. With these public service announcements, we are seeking to raise awareness about these crimes and to solicit the public’s assistance in helping us to make the Granite State safer. A fully informed public is a powerful deterrent against the harm caused by drug traffickers.”
The public service announcements released by the U.S. Attorney’s Office include three 60- second videos and three 30-second videos, as well as three 15- second videos and five 6-second videos on various social media platforms. All of these announcements are available for download. These announcements serve several purposes, including:
• Increasing awareness about the dangers and consequences of exchanging guns for drugs;
• Educating and warning people about the criminal consequences of buying a gun for someone you don’t know or someone who cannot legally possess a gun;
• Addressing the opioid crisis in New Hampshire;
• Educating the public about the damage drug cartels are doing to New Hampshire;
• Sending a message to armed drug dealers that they are the number one prosecution priority for the U.S. Attorney.
Additionally, the audio messages and the messages on social media platforms aim to increase awareness of the dangers and consequences of exchanging guns for drugs and the criminal consequences of buying a gun for someone you don’t know or someone who cannot legally possess a gun.
For more information about the campaign and to see the public service announcements, please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-nh/crimefreenh.
###
Massachusetts Man Sentenced to 46 Months for Smuggling Goods from the United States to IranRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Aiden Davidson, a/k/a Hamed Aliabadi, 32, of Brighton, Massachusetts, was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison for smuggling goods from the United States to Iran in violation of the U.S. embargo on trade with Iran, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Davidson is a citizen of Iran and a naturalized citizen and resident of the United States. Davidson was the manager/member and registered agent of a New Hampshire limited liability company, Golden Gate International, LLC (“Golden Gate”). Babazedeh Trading Co., a/k/a “Babazadeh Hydraulic Trading Group” (“Babazadeh”) was an Iranian company that operated an online resale business based in Tehran, Iran. Stare Lojistik Enerji Sanayi Ticaret (“Stare”) was a Turkish freight forwarding company with a location in Igdir, Turkey.
Between December 2016 and February 2017, Davidson and Golden Gate smuggled goods from Savannah, Georgia, to Babazadeh in Iran. The goods included motors, pumps, valves, and other items that were valued at more than $100,000. Documents related to the shipments falsely identified the Ultimate Consignee of the shipments as Stare in Turkey. In causing the unlicensed exportation of these goods, Davidson and Golden Gate willfully evaded national security controls related to transactions with Iran.
Between April 2017 and August 2017, Davidson and Golden Gate again knowingly smuggled goods from Savannah, Georgia, to Babazadeh in Iran. The goods included displacement pumps that were valued at approximately $13,000. Documents related to these shipments falsely identified the Ultimate Consignee of the shipments as Ariyanis Group in Turkey. In causing the unlicensed exportation of these goods, Davidson and Golden Gate willfully evaded national security controls related to transactions with Iran.
All told, between 2014 and 2017, Davidson caused a total of at least ten exports of containers of industrial goods and equipment from the U.S. to Iran. During that period he received approximately $1 million in international wire transfers to Golden Gate’s bank account in New Hampshire. Davidson was arrested in September 2018 prior to boarding a flight from Atlanta to Turkey.
Davidson previously pleaded guilty on March 3, 2020.
“Export controls are important legal restrictions that can prevent certain items from being used to jeopardize our national security,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “By smuggling these goods from the United States to Iran, the defendant violated federal law. In order to maintain our national security and protect the people of the United States, we will aggressively investigate and prosecute those who seek to evade the law by smuggling goods to Iran.”
“We will fully and aggressively enforce our nation’s restrictions on exports to Iran,” said Special Agent in Charge William Higgins of the U.S. Department of Commerce, Office of Export Enforcement, Boston Field Office. “The controls on exports to Iran help apply maximum pressure on Iran to end its promotion of instability and terrorism worldwide. The Office of Export Enforcement will continue to work with our Law Enforcement partners to stem illicit trade that threatens U.S. national security and undermines U.S. foreign policy.”
“Homeland Security Investigations remains committed to enforcing export controls on Iran,” said Michael Shea, acting Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Boston. “As demonstrated in this investigation of Golden Gate International and of Davidson’s illegal export of restricted materials, we will continue along with our federal and state law enforcement partners to monitor and investigate export violations committed by Iran or any proxies of Iran.”
This matter was investigated by the Department of Commerce's Office of Export Enforcement and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John Davis and Cam Le.
###
Winchester Woman Sentenced to 65 Months for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Alysha DeJesus, 25, of Winchester, was sentenced to 65 months in federal prison for attempted 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, beginning around December of 2017, a drug organization in Lawrence, Massachusetts maintained a series of telephone numbers to receive orders and distribute controlled substances, primarily fentanyl and crack cocaine. On June 19, 2019, law enforcement executed search warrants at locations used by the organization and seized a telephone that was used for the drug distribution. Law enforcement officers then initiated an operation in which they communicated with the customers of the organization to effectuate their arrests after the customers placed orders for illegal drugs.
On June 24, 2019, DeJesus sent a text message to order 150 grams of fentanyl and 2 ounces of cocaine for $4,500. After receiving the text, undercover agents instructed DeJesus to a particular location in Nashua to receive the drugs. The agents told her to leave the money in the cup holder of the car and walk away. DeJesus exited the vehicle with a male subject, who she described to the agents as “her man.” The agents then stopped DeJesus who had in her possession the telephone with whom the agents had been texting. Agents located the currency for the drugs wrapped in a towel in the center console of the vehicle. After her arrest, DeJesus admitted traveling to Nashua to purchase drugs for $4,500
DeJesus previously pleaded guilty on February 19, 2020.
“The distribution of illegal drugs damages public health and safety throughout New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The harm caused by this activity focuses the attention of law enforcement agencies on the dealers. In order to prevent the sale of dangerous drugs, we will continue to work aggressively with our law enforcement partners to identify, prosecute, and incarcerate the drug dealers who endanger lives in the Granite State.”
“Fentanyl is causing great damage to our communities,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle. “DEA will continue to use every resource available to identify traffickers, like Ms. DeJesus who distribute this poison to the citizens of New Hampshire. Today’s sentence not only holds Ms. DeJesus accountable for her crimes but serves as a warning to those who are fueling the opioid epidemic.”
This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Massachusetts State Police, Methuen Police Department, Andover, Massachusetts Police Department, Essex County Sheriff’s Office, New Hampshire State Police, Manchester Police Department, Nashua Police Department, Salem Police Department, Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office, Hudson Police Department, and the Goffstown Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Aframe.
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.
###
Stewartstown Man Pleads Guilty to Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Christopher Brown, 39, of Stewartstown, 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, on June 23, 2019, Lancaster Police encountered Brown after he was involved in a motorcycle crash. The police searched the area and found a bag of approximately 30 grams of fentanyl near where Brown had been standing when the police first encountered him. Brown later admitted to the police that he had obtained the drugs earlier that day in Hooksett. Brown said that, when the crash occurred, he had been on his way north to Colebrook to deliver some of the drugs to another individual.
Brown is scheduled to be sentenced on October 16th 2020.
“Fentanyl trafficking causes damage in all ten counties of our state,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Accordingly, law enforcement agencies aggressively target drug dealers throughout New Hampshire. We will continue to work closely with all of our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who undermine public safety by selling fentanyl and other deadly drugs in the Granite State.”
This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the Lancaster Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John S. Davis.
###
IRS Criminal Investigation and United States Attorney Remind Taxpayers of Upcoming Tax Filing Deadline; Urge Taxpayers to Remain Vigilant of ScamsRead the Press Release
Contact: Special Agent Matthew Amsden
Public Information Officer
IRS Criminal Investigation
60 Quaker Lane, 4th Floor, Suite 68
Warwick, RI 02886
(401) 826-4726
NEW HAMPSHIRE — The Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Hampshire reminded taxpayers of the July 15 filing and payment deadline and warned against an increase in tax and COVID-19 scams.
Due to COVID-19, the original filing deadline and tax payment due date for 2019 was postponed from April 15 to July 15. Taxpayers filing Form 1040 series returns must file Form 4868 by July 15 to obtain the automatic extension to Oct. 15.
“Although the extension provides additional time to file the tax return – it is not an extension to pay any taxes due”, said Kristina O’Connell, Special Agent in Charge of the IRS Criminal Investigation division in New England. “For people facing hardships who cannot pay in full, including those affected by COVID-19, the IRS has several options available to help. The IRS encourages taxpayers to visit IRS.gov as soon as possible to explore these options and avoid accruing interest and penalties after the July 15 deadline.”
As the filing deadline approaches, taxpayers should beware of tax and COVID-19 related scams. “Criminals use the tax filing deadline as an opportunity to steal personal and financial information”, said U.S. Attorney Scott W. Murray for the District of New Hampshire. “Taxpayers should remain vigilant and know that the IRS will not initiate contact with them via phone, email or social media to request personal or financial information.”
In the last few months, the IRS Criminal Investigation division (CI) has continued to see a tremendous increase in a variety of Economic Impact Payment scams and other financial schemes. CI continues to work with its law enforcement partners to put a stop to these schemes and bring criminals to justice.
Taxpayers can report COVID-19 scams to the National Center for Disaster Fraud. Taxpayers can also report fraud or theft of their Economic Impact Payments to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA). Unsolicited (phishing) e-mails that appear to be from the IRS should be forwarded to [email protected].
For the most up-to-date information about the tax filing deadline and IRS impersonation scams, taxpayers can visit IRS.gov.
####
Nashua Man Pleads Guilty to Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD – James Henry, 51, of Nashua, pleaded guilty in federal court to attempted possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, beginning in or before December of 2017, a drug distribution organization operating in Lawrence, Massachusetts, maintained a series of telephone numbers that were used to receive orders for illegal drugs and facilitate transactions involving those substances. The organization primarily supplied fentanyl in “finger” units of ten grams each, and powder cocaine and cocaine base (“crack”) in either 3.5-gram (eighth-ounce) units or 28-gram (full ounce) units. To distribute its product throughout the northern New England region, the organization relied on a network of sub-distributors from New Hampshire and elsewhere, who would travel to Lawrence to pick up their orders and then redistribute the fentanyl, cocaine, and crack throughout northern New England.
On June 19, 2019, the United States Drug Enforcement Administration arrested individuals involved in running the organization. During the arrests, the DEA seized the telephone used by the organization to arrange drug transactions with its customers. After that, DEA agents used the organization telephone to assume the identity of the organization dispatcher and set up purported drug transactions with the customers who contacted the organization telephone about buying controlled substances from the organization.
On June 25, 2019, Henry contacted the telephone and sought to order quantities of fentanyl and crack. He also provided the type and description of his vehicle. The DEA directed Henry to a parking lot in Nashua. Henry was told that after he arrived, he was to leave the money in the center console and take a walk. Officers then observed Henry’s vehicle arrive and saw Henry leave the vehicle before walking away.
After a few minutes, the DEA texted Henry and told him to return to his vehicle. When Henry did so, officers placed him under arrest and seized the telephone with which they had communicated. Following the arrest, Henry admitted that he had traveled to Nashua to buy “dope and crack.”
Henry is scheduled to be sentenced on October 14, 2020.
“Stopping interstate drug trafficking is a top priority for the U.S. Attorney’s Office,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “In order to protect public health and safety, we will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who are responsible for distributing illegal drugs in the Granite State.”
This matter was investigated by the DEA, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Massachusetts State Police, Methuen Police Department, Andover, Massachusetts Police Department, Essex County Sheriff’s Office, New Hampshire State Police, Manchester Police Department, Nashua Police Department, Salem Police Department, Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office, Hudson Police Department, and the Goffstown Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Aframe.
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.
###
Federal Judge Declines to Extend Injunction to "Lower-Risk" Immigration Detainees Held at Strafford County House of CorrectionsRead the Press Release
CONCORD - United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced that on July 1, 2020, Chief Judge Landya B. McCafferty of the United States District Court for the District of New Hampshire declined to grant preliminary injunctive relief to “lower-risk” immigration detainees arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (“ICE”) and held at the Strafford County House of Corrections (“SCHOC”).
ICE detains individuals who have criminal convictions or previously have been ordered to be removed from the United States. Under federal law, these individuals often are required to be detained pending the resolution of any legal claims challenging their removal from the United States.
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, a class action was filed on behalf of detainees in ICE custody at SCHOC. The lawsuit sought the release of ICE detainees from custody.
On May 4, 2020, the court ordered preliminary relief, including providing bail hearings for ICE detainees with high-risk medical conditions. As a result of these hearings, the Court released approximately ten high-risk inmates from custody. The Court also denied bail for approximately five high-risk inmates.
The Court conducted remote evidentiary hearings to determine whether detainees with lower medical risks also were entitled to relief. In a 22-page order, the Court declined to grant bail hearings to lower-risk detainees, finding that these detainees had failed to demonstrate a likelihood of success on their claims that ICE or the Strafford County House of Corrections had been deliberately indifferent to their medical needs.
The Court’s order noted that authorities had taken multiple steps to address COVID-19 risks at the facility, including: drastically reducing visits from outsiders; screening of employees; providing masks to staff, inmates, and visitors; requiring a 14-day quarantine for new inmates, and halting transfers of ICE detainees from facilities with known infections. The facility limited “tier time” of inmates outside their cells, increased the amount of cleaning inside the facility, and increased inmate access to cleaning and hygiene supplies. ICE also reduced enforcement actions to diminish the number of detainees so that SCHOC was well below its maximum capacity. Because of these and other measures, the Court concluded that while conditions at SCHOC were not perfect, the petitioners failed to show that government officials “recklessly failed to act with reasonable care to mitigate the risk COVID-19 presents to lower-risk detainees at Strafford.”
The court will conduct further proceedings as the matter proceeds to a final conclusion on the merits.
###
Nottingham Man Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography CrimeRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Clifford A. Bullock, 71, of Nottingham, pleaded guilty in federal court on Friday to transportation of child pornography, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in April of 2019, law enforcement officers learned that Microsoft had detected potential child exploitation materials on a Microsoft OneDrive account with an IP address that resolved to Bullock’s address. Law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Bullock’s residence on August 5, 2019. Pursuant to the search warrant, officers seized a computer, cellular phones and numerous items of digital media that contained a large collection of child pornography. Bullock admitted to using the internet to view and save child pornography involving girls. He further admitted to uploading and storing files on OneDrive, including child pornography images.
Bullock is scheduled to be sentenced on October 5, 2020.
“Protecting children from exploitation is a high priority for the U.S. Attorney’s Office,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Child pornography crimes are serious offenses with significant and long term consequences. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute those who produce, possess or transport child pornography.”
“With the recent overall increase in internet activity among the public, HSI special agents are more committed than ever to pursuing those who download and distribute child exploitation images online,” said Michael Shea, acting Special Agent In Charge, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Boston. “It is through the support and hard work of our partners in the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Nottingham Police Department, the Exeter Police Department, and the U.S. Attorney for New Hampshire that Bullock has been brought to justice.”
“The dedicated law enforcement professionals from the NH ICAC Task Force and HSI will not stop searching for those predators who are producing, trading and collecting this graphic material, many of whom are also sexually assaulting children and causing them irreparable harm,” said Lieutenant John W. Peracchi, Commander of the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
This matter was investigated by the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) with assistance from the Nottingham Police Department and Exeter Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cam Le.
In February 2006, the Department of Justice introduced Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
###
Hampton Woman Sentenced to 18 Months for Mail Fraud Targeting Restaurants and Insurance CompaniesRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Jacqueline Masse, 49, of Hampton, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison for participating in a mail fraud scheme that targeted restaurants and insurance companies, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, for nearly four years, Masse defrauded or attempted to defraud restaurants and insurance companies of nearly $400,000. Masse mailed letters to restaurants and food companies in which she falsely claimed that she (or another member of her family) became seriously ill after eating food served by the restaurants or packaged by the food companies. In some letters, Masse impersonated her children, claiming to have become seriously ill after eating food served by the restaurants or packaged by the food companies.
In each of the letters, Masse falsely stated that the purported letter-writer paid or borrowed money to pay their medical expenses because they did not have health insurance. The defendant demanded that the restaurant or food company reimburse the supposed letter-writer for their medical expenses and compensate them for their pain and suffering. None of this was true.
According to the court documents and statements made in court, to support each demand letter, Masse provided to the affected business and their insurance companies fraudulent medical records allegedly obtained from hospitals in New Hampshire and Massachusetts as false evidence of the fictitious illnesses. Masse stole, and later altered, some of the medical records from the client files of a law firm, where she worked as an office manager and paralegal. Masse also stole checks from the law firm, which she altered to support her fraudulent insurance claims.
In correspondence with the insurance carriers, Masse demanded payments totaling more than $399,000. Some of the insurance companies responded by mailing insurance settlement checks totaling more than $206,000 to either Masse’s home in Hampton or the homes of her children, who were unwitting participants in the scheme to defraud. To conceal her involvement in the fraud, Masse had her children deposit checks mailed to them into their personal bank accounts and then write Masse a check for the full amount of the payout.
Masse pleaded guilty on November 14, 2019. In addition to her prison sentence, she was ordered to pay $206,609.19 in restitution.
“White collar criminals cause real harm to businesses, as well as the general public,’” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “They steal money through lies and deceit, driving up costs for everyone. This defendant’s cynical scheme stole hundreds of thousands of dollars by falsely claiming that she and her family members became ill from consuming food at restaurants. I am grateful to the law enforcement investigators from the FBI and New Hampshire Insurance Department for their hard work in bringing her to justice.”
“In an appalling scheme, Jacqueline Masse stole the identities of innocent family members to defraud restaurants, food companies, and their insurers out of hundreds of thousands of dollars by falsely claiming on a dozen occasions that she or a loved one had suffered food poisoning,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “Every policyholder who has felt the financial impact of rising insurance premiums resulting from fraud should find some level of satisfaction in today’s sentence. The FBI would like to thank the New Hampshire Insurance Department for their great work and partnership on this investigation.”
“I want to commend the Insurance Fraud Unit at the Department for all of their hard work on this case,” said Insurance Commissioner Chris Nicolopoulos. “This fraud scheme harmed consumers, businesses, and insurance companies. Our highest priority is to protect these entities, and we are thankful to the United States Attorney’s Office and the FBI for partnering with us to combat insurance fraud in New Hampshire.”
This matter was investigated by the New Hampshire Insurance Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Hunter and former AUSA Robert M. Kinsella.
###
Brentwood Man Pleads Guilty to Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Kyle Desroche, 36, of Brentwood, pleaded guilty in federal court on Friday to distributing child pornography, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on November 21, 2017, Dropbox, a cloud-based storage service, sent a CyberTip report to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) with 2,325 files of apparent child pornography images and videos loaded to an account belonging to Desroche from an IP address assigned to his residence in Brentwood.
On March 23, 2018, investigators executed a search warrant at Desroche’s residence. During an interview, Desroche admitted using Dropbox and Kik, an online messaging application, on his iPhone and stated he may have received “young stuff” from Kik but claimed to have deleted those items. As authorized by the search warrant, officer seized cellular phones, computer equipment, and other electronic devices. Subsequent forensic examination of those items revealed that Desroche used the Dropbox and Kik applications on his iPhone to share child pornography with like-minded collectors.
On July 11, 2018, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant for Desroche’s Dropbox account. Officers identified approximately 5,942 still images and 2,092 video files of apparent child pornography. NCMEC confirmed that 1,013 still images and 317 video files were of identified child victims.
Desroche is scheduled to be sentenced on October 5, 2020.
“Child pornography is created through the exploitation and abuse of innocent young victims and violates the law,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Those who distribute these horrific images are re-victimizing these children in a way that has long-term consequences. To protect children from this criminal exploitation, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to identify and bring to justice those who distribute child pornography.”
“Transmitting online images of child exploitation is a repulsive crime that causes repeated re-victimization when those images are distributed around the globe. HSI’s commitment to combatting these crimes and to holding the distributors of them accountable, is stronger than ever,” said Michael Shea, acting Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Boston. “We’re grateful for the continued dedication of our partners in the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Brentwood Police Department, the Portsmouth Police Department, the Exeter Police Department, the Derry Police Department, the Chester Police Department, and the U.S. Attorney for New Hampshire and for their work that has allowed justice to be done for the victims in this case.”
This matter was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, with assistance from the Brentwood Police Department, Portsmouth Police Department, Exeter Police Department, Derry Police Department, and Chester Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cam Le.
In February 2006, the Department of Justice introduced Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
###