District of New Hampshire

            CONCORD - Edson Wilson, 42, of Augusta, Maine pleaded guilty in federal court to 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 100 grams of the drugs.

            Wilson is scheduled to be sentenced on September 2, 2020.

            “Interstate drug trafficking has caused major damage to communities throughout New England,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “We are committed to working with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who are responsible for distributing fentanyl, heroin, and other deadly drugs.  I am grateful to the New Hampshire State Police for their work on this case, which prevented the distribution of a significant quantity of deadly drugs.”

            This matter was investigated by the New Hampshire State Police with assistance from the Greenland Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles L. Rombeau.

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            Concord - U.S. Attorney Scott W. Murray is asking anyone who has witnessed or experienced sexual harassment by a landlord, property manager, maintenance worker, loan officer or anyone with control over housing to report that conduct to the Department of Justice. The request is part of an enhanced effort by the Department of Justice to combat predatory housing practices during the COVID-19 pandemic.

            The COVID-19 pandemic has decreased the ability of many people to pay rent on time and has increased housing insecurity. People who are out of work may be targeted for attempted sexual exploitation by housing providers. The Department of Justice has heard reports of housing providers trying to take advantage of the crisis by demanding sexual favors and other unwelcomed sexual conduct from tenants. Sexual harassment in housing is illegal, and the Department of Justice stands ready to investigate such allegations and pursue enforcement actions where appropriate.

            “It is simply outrageous that a tenant would be subjected to sexual harassment while attempting to cope with paying the rent on time,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Predatory practices directed at people who are struggling to maintain their homes will not be tolerated. Landlords or others in control of housing should be working with tenants to address housing insecurity in this very difficult time.  Those who are striving to assist the financially disadvantaged should be commended. Those who seek to sexually harass and exploit tenants are violating the law and will be held accountable for their conduct.”

            The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Hampshire will work closely with federal, state, and local partners to identify incidents of sexual harassment in housing.

            The Justice Department’s Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative is an effort to combat sexual harassment in housing led by the Civil Rights Division, in coordination with U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country. The goal of the Initiative is to address sexual harassment by landlords, property managers, maintenance workers, loan officers or other people who have control over housing.

            Launched in 2017, the Initiative has filed lawsuits across the county alleging a pattern or practice of sexual harassment in housing and recovered millions of dollars in damages for harassment victims. The Justice Department’s investigations frequently uncover sexual harassment that has been ongoing for years.  Many individuals do not know that being sexually harassed by a housing provider can violate federal law or that the Department of Justice may be able to help.

            The Department of Justice, through the Civil Rights Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Offices, enforces the Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination in housing on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, familial status, national origin, and disability. Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination prohibited by the Act.

            The Department encourages anyone who has experienced sexual harassment in housing, or knows someone who has, to contact the Civil Rights Division by calling (844) 380-6178 or emailing [email protected].

            Individuals may also file a complaint alleging harassment or discrimination in housing with the Department of Housing and Urban Development through HUD’s website or by calling (800) 669-9777.

 

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            CONCORD - Haley Hansler, 33, of Rochester, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison for participating in a drug trafficking conspiracy and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

             According to court documents and statements made in court, Hansler conspired with two other individuals to traffic in methamphetamine and fentanyl in the Rochester area. On November 7, 2018, the New Hampshire State Police (“NHSP”) conducted a motor vehicle stop on a vehicle operated by Hansler and seized approximately 58 grams of heroin and smaller quantities of crystal “ice” methamphetamine and other narcotics.  Later the same evening, members of the NHSP and the DEA searched Hansler’s hotel room in Ossipee, New Hampshire and seized approximately 171 grams of crystal “ice” methamphetamine and smaller quantities of fentanyl and other narcotics. Law enforcement also seized a semi-automatic handgun from Hansler’s purse.  On December 20, 2018, DEA agents arrested Hansler and co-conspirator James Nesbitt at their Rochester residence and seized approximately 60 grams of fentanyl, four firearms, and ammunition.            

            Hansler previously pleaded guilty on January 21, 2020.  Nesbitt pleaded guilty to the charges on March 6, 2020, and is awaiting sentencing.

            “Drugs and guns are a potentially deadly combination,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “In order to protect public safety, we will work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify, prosecute, and incarcerate the armed drug dealers who endanger our communities. When drug traffickers use or possess firearms, they should understand that they will be prosecuted in federal court and receive substantial prison sentences.”

             “DEA is committed to bring to justice poly-drug traffickers like Ms. Hansler,” said Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle.  “This investigation demonstrates the strength of collaborative law enforcement efforts in New Hampshire.”

              This investigation was the product of an investigation 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. 

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

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         CONCORD - Shiva Chandan Reddy Thudi, 26, of Irving, Texas pleaded guilty in federal court to 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 $100,000 from his victims.

            Thudi is scheduled to be sentenced on July 29, 2020.

            “Those who commit fraud crimes cause tremendous financial harm and betray the trust of their victims,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Thanks to the work of the FBI, this individual’s fraud scheme has been stopped and he is being held responsible for his actions.  We will continue to work closely with the FBI and other law enforcement agencies to identify and prosecute those who commit fraud in the Granite State.”

            “Shiva Chandan Reddy Thudi used the allure of moviemaking to persuade his victims to invest more than $100,000 in his big-screen productions. What he didn't keep for himself, he circulated back into his Ponzi scheme to pay 'returns' to those who jumped on board early. But just like the films he pitched, it was all make-believe,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “Today’s guilty plea illustrates how the FBI will not hesitate to pursue anyone who defrauds others for their own personal profit. We'd also like to thank Rivier College for their cooperation with this investigation."

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

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CONCORD – New Hampshire U.S. Attorney Scott W. Murray joins the Department of Justice and communities nationwide in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, celebrating victims’ rights, protections and services throughout the week.  This year’s observance takes place April 19-25 and features the theme, “Seek Justice| Ensure Victims' Rights | Inspire Hope.”

            “Every year, millions of Americans suffer the shock and trauma of criminal victimization, affecting their well-being and sense of security and dignity,” said Attorney General William P. Barr.  “To these victims, we affirm our unwavering commitment to supporting them in their hour of need.  We also commend the thousands of victim advocates and public safety professionals who labor tirelessly to secure victims’ rights and support survivors.”

            “The first duty of government is to protect its citizens”, said U.S. Attorney Murray. “We live in a time when public discourse increasingly revolves around concerns about fairness to defendants in criminal cases. While we must ensure that the process is fair, it is vital that we stay focused on the need to vindicate the rights of their victims.  Our commitment to true justice requires that we strive to support those who have been victimized by criminals.”

             “While we have made tremendous progress driving down crime and violence across the country, far too many Americans continue to suffer the pain and loss of criminal victimization,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General of the Office of Justice Programs.  “This week, we stand by these survivors and their families, and we pledge our ongoing support to the countless men and women who serve them with such extraordinary skill and compassion.”

            Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first Victims’ Rights Week in 1981, putting crime victims' rights, needs, and concerns in a prominent spot on the American agenda.  He also established the President's Task Force on Victims of Crime, which laid the groundwork for a national network of services and legal safeguards for crime victims.  President Trump and his administration have implemented historic levels of support for victim assistance and victim compensation.

            Some 3.3 million Americans age 12 and older were victims of violent crime in 2018, according to the National Crime Victimization Survey.  The Office for Victims of Crime (OVC), part of the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs, supports more than 7,000 local victim assistance programs and victim compensation programs in every state and U.S. territory.  Funds for these programs come from the Crime Victims Fund, which is made up of federal criminal fines, penalties and bond forfeitures.

            During National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, victim advocacy organizations, community groups and state, local and tribal agencies traditionally host rallies, candlelight vigils, and other events to raise awareness of victims’ rights and services.  This year, many communities are organizing virtual gatherings and online public awareness campaigns.

            This year’s commemoration occurs 25 years after a truck bomb exploded in front of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, taking the lives of 168 people, including 19 children, as well as injuring hundreds of others.  That mass murder remains the worst act of domestic terrorism in our nation’s history and led to the establishment of the Antiterrorism Emergency Reserve, which is administered by OVC, and has been used to provide direct services to hundreds of victims of mass violence and terrorism.

            “Crime victims deserve to know that they have the encouragement and support of the American people,” said OVC Director Jessica E. Hart.  “I hope that citizens throughout the nation will take the opportunity this week to remember all victims of crime and their heroic stories of survival.  I encourage everyone to also find meaningful ways to express their appreciation to the many committed and compassionate service providers across the country who work tirelessly supporting these survivors.”

            This year, the annual National Crime Victims’ Service Awards Ceremony will be postponed until a time when we can honor this year’s award recipients in person.  During the ceremony, OVC will present awards recognizing individuals and organizations from across the nation for their outstanding service on behalf of crime victims.  The awardees will be selected from public nominations in 11 categories, including federal service, special courage, public policy, and victim services.  Visit www.ovc.gov/gallery to learn more about past recipients.

            For more information on how to create your own public campaigns to raise awareness about crime victims’ rights online and at events throughout the year, please visit: https://ovc.ncjrs.gov/ncvrw2020/overview.html.

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            CONCORD - Anthony Nieves, 26, of Nashua, was sentenced to 48 months in federal prison for distributing fentanyl and crack cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, in May of 2019, an undercover law enforcement officer made controlled purchases of fentanyl and crack cocaine from Nieves and his co-defendant, Yheresis Millan, on two separate occasions. Both transactions took place in Nashua.

            Nieves previously pleaded guilty on January 3, 2020. Millan also pleaded guilty and is scheduled to be sentenced on June 1, 2020.

            “Drug dealers cause serious damage to the communities where they do business,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Through Operation S.O.S., we are working closely with the Nashua Police Department and other law enforcement agencies to identify, prosecute, and incarcerate the traffickers who sell fentanyl and other dangerous drugs in Hillsborough County.  By taking these dangerous drug dealers off the street, we will improve public health and safety in the Granite State.”        

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

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

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            CONCORD - Jeffrey Ortiz-Rodriguez, 41, of Manchester, was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison for possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, in September of 2018, two Manchester Police officers encountered Ortiz-Rodriguez and questioned him about a recent encounter in which they believed he was involved.  After learning that he was the subject of an active warrant, the offices arrested Ortiz-Rodriguez.  A search of the defendant revealed various drug-related items and a quantity of fentanyl.

            “Fentanyl traffickers jeopardize lives by selling a very deadly substance,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “In order to protect public health and safety, we will continue to be aggressive in our efforts to identify, prosecute, and incarcerate the criminals who distribute fentanyl and other dangerous drugs.  Through Operation S.O.S., we are working closely with the Manchester Police Department to protect the citizens of Manchester from deadly opioids.” 

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

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

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            CONCORD – The Department of Justice announced that it is making $850 million available to help public safety agencies respond to the challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19. The Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump, will allow eligible state, local and tribal governments to apply immediately for these critical funds. The department is moving quickly to make awards, with the goal of having funds available for drawdown within days of the award.

            “The COVID-19 pandemic has created new challenges for the dedicated men and women who maintain public safety in New Hampshire,” said Scott W. Murray, the United States Attorney for the District of New Hampshire.  “Our police and other public safety officers continue to answer the call to duty regardless of the dangers they face from the virus. This funding can provide necessary financial support to help the law enforcement professionals in New Hampshire who engage in the important work of protecting the safety of the citizens of Granite State.”

            “This is an unprecedented moment in our nation’s history and an especially dangerous one for our front-line law enforcement officers, corrections officials, and public safety professionals,” said Office of Justice Programs Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “We are grateful to the Congress for making these resources available and for the show of support this program represents.”

            The solicitation, posted by the Bureau of Justice Assistance in the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), will remain open for at least 60 days and be extended as necessary. OJP will fund successful applicants as a top priority on a rolling basis as applications are received. Funds may be used to hire personnel, pay overtime costs, cover protective equipment and supplies, address correctional inmates’ medical needs and defray expenses related to the distribution of resources to hard-hit areas, among other activities. Grant funds may be applied retroactively to Jan. 20, 2020, subject to federal supplanting rules.

            Agencies that were eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for this emergency funding. A complete list of eligible jurisdictions and their allocations can be found at https://bja.ojp.gov/program/fy20-cesf-allocations.  Many municipalities and counties in New Hampshire are eligible to apply for over $1.2 million in funding.  The State of New Hampshire also will be eligible for over $3.4 million in additional funding.

            For more information about the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, please visit https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-18553. For more information about the Office of Justice Programs, please visit https://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.

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            CONCORD - Melvin Nooks, Jr., 29, of Fitchburg, Massachusetts, was sentenced to 120 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, the defendant along with two others, George Cruz, 30, of Nashua and Isaiah Kinard, 30, of Manchester, were members of a drug trafficking organization that distributed crack cocaine and other drugs to various customers in the Nashua area. Cruz and Melvin Nooks Jr. were responsible for distributing over 280 grams of crack cocaine.

             Cruz pleaded guilty on December 17, 2019, and Nooks Jr. and Kinard pleaded guilty on December 18, 2019.  Cruz is scheduled to be sentenced on May 12, 2020.  Kinard is scheduled to be sentenced on November 4, 2020. 

             “This sentence should put to rest any belief on the part of drug traffickers that they are going to get less attention from the criminal justice system as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said US Attorney Murray. “Drug trafficking has caused grave damage to Nashua and other New Hampshire communities. The imposition of this substantial prison sentence establishes that we will continue to work with all of our law enforcement partners to deter the sale of crack cocaine and other dangerous drugs. We remain focused on protecting Granite Staters from drug dealers.”

            "The weight of Melvin Nooks, Jr.'s sentence is appropriate for a crack cocaine trafficker whose only stake in the community he harmed was the money he made off the suffering he caused," said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “Today’s sentence should also serve as an assurance to his customers who are trying to pick up the pieces of their shattered lives that they no longer need to fear his sales calls. The FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue our collaborative efforts to identify and dismantle drug trafficking enterprises like this one in order to stop the flow of illegal narcotics into our neighborhoods.”

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

 

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            CONCORD - Estefano Dall Anese Borlotti, 35, of Brazil, pleaded guilty on Thursday in federal court to conspiracy to commit bank fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, beginning in May 2019, Borlotti and others made fraudulent cash withdrawals from multiple bank and credit union locations in New Hampshire.  Borlotti and others used gift cards re-encoded with stolen bank account information in order to make withdrawals using ATM machines.  Law enforcement officers viewed ATM video surveillance and other records in order to identify Borlotti and the other individuals making the withdrawals.     

            Borlotti has been in custody since his arrest re-entering the country at Miami International Airport in late October 2019.  The Court released Borlotti to ICE custody and he is likely to be removed to Brazil. The Court will sentence him by video at a later date.

            “Federal law will continue to be enforced despite the challenges associated with the COVID-19 virus,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Preventing the victimization of the public will remain a priority. Fraudsters who steal money from bank accounts deprive hard-working Americans of their savings.  We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the criminals who operate bank fraud schemes.”

             “Protecting citizens and financial institutions from cyber-enabled fraud remains a priority for the U.S. Secret Service.” said Timothy Benitez, Resident Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service, Manchester Resident Office. 

            This matter was investigated by the U.S. Secret Service, United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the Dover Police Department, the Rochester Police Department, the Portsmouth Police Department, the Barrington Police Department, and the Durham Police Department.  The Miami (Florida) and York (Maine) Police Departments also provided assistance. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles L. Rombeau.

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          CONCORD - David Weekly, 24, of Manchester, was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison for unlawfully possessing a firearm and ammunition, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.  

          According to court documents and statements made in court, on January 2, 2019, a Manchester police officer stopped a vehicle for not having its lights turned on.  The officer approached the vehicle and recognized Weekly from previous contacts. 

          When Weekly opened the side window, the officer noted a strong smell of freshly burnt marijuana.  The officer also noted a bulge in Weekly’s waistband and asked Weekly to step out of the vehicle.  As soon as Weekly stepped out of the vehicle, he admitted that he had a gun in his waist.  The officer found a handgun and a loaded extended 31-round magazine in Weekly’s possession.  As a convicted felon, Weekly is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

          The firearm had been reported stolen on August 23, 2018 in Manchester.

          Weekly previously pleaded guilty on December 4, 2019.

          “In order protect the public, it is vital to keep guns out of the hands of criminals,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Even as we battle the coronavirus, the law enforcement community is working together to keep the public safe from armed criminals.  Thanks to the work of the Manchester Police Department and the ATF, this defendant will no longer present a danger to the community.” 

           “Today’s sentencing demonstrates the outstanding partnership between the Manchester Police Department and the ATF as well as the commitment we share to work together to interdict illegal firearms and the criminals that compromise the safety of our communities,” said Kelly D. Brady Special Agent in Charge, Boston Field Division.

          “The Manchester Police Department is pleased with the sentencing of David Weekly,” said Chief Carlo Capano.  “Weekly is an absolute danger to the public. City residents and the citizens of New Hampshire are much safer without him on the streets. I am very impressed with the work that Manchester Officers did, as well as our federal counterparts. The collaborative efforts helped make this successful resolution possible.” 

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

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

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          CONCORD - Scotty Gonzalez, 28, of Enfield, was arrested on Wednesday for the unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.  

          According to a criminal complaint, Gonzalez is legally prohibited from possessing firearms due to a prior felony conviction and a prior conviction for a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.  On July 31, 2019, probation officers found Gonzalez in possession of a rifle and over 300 rounds of ammunition at his residence in Enfield. 

          Gonzalez was taken into federal custody on Wednesday and appeared before a federal magistrate judge by video.  He was ordered detained pending further proceedings.                       

          “Even as our state is dealing with issues related to the coronavirus pandemic, federal law must be enforced in order to ensure community safety,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Convicted felons and those who have committed crimes of domestic violence are prohibited from possessing firearms.  In order to maintain public safety and prevent violent crime, we will continue to work with ATF to identify and prosecute those who unlawfully possess guns and ammunition.”

          This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives with assistant from New Hampshire Probation and Parole Officers.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Krasinski.

          A criminal complaint is merely an allegation and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

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

 

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            CONCORD – U.S. Attorney Scott W. Murray of the District of New Hampshire today urged the public to report suspected fraud schemes related to COVID-19 (the Coronavirus) by calling the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) hotline (1-866-720-5721) or to the NCDF e-mail address [email protected].  The public also can report fraud to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.IC3.gov.

            In coordination with the Department of Justice, Attorney General William Barr has directed U.S. Attorneys to prioritize the investigation and prosecution of Coronavirus fraud schemes.

            “During this national emergency, a small number of cruel and self-serving individuals are seeking to profit from the public’s fear of COVID-19,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “There are reports of fraudsters selling counterfeit products and fake cures or setting up malicious websites in order to take advantage of people who are attempting to protect themselves from the virus. Such criminal exploitation will not be tolerated and will receive the full attention of federal law enforcement. I urge anyone who becomes aware of this type of fraud to report it. We will work closely with all of our law enforcement partners to end these despicable schemes and bring the criminals to justice.”

            In addition to the NCDF hotline, citizens also can report fraud to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) by visiting www.IC3.gov.

            “With the outbreak of COVID-19, scammers have found a platform that preys on people’s fears and could make them more likely to be victimized,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division.  “We want you to help us stop these fraudsters by reporting suspicious activity, fraud, and attempted fraud at ic3.gov.  We also want you to avoid falling prey to these scams. So don't click on links within emails from senders you don't recognize, always independently verify the information originates from a legitimate source, never supply your login credentials or financial data in response to an email, and visit websites by inputting their domains manually. By working together, we can help stop this type of activity."

            Some examples of the fraudulent schemes related to COVID-19 include:

• Individuals and businesses selling fake cures for COVID-19 online and engaging in other forms of fraud.
• Phishing emails from entities posing as the World Health Organization or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
• Malicious websites and apps that appear to share Coronavirus-related information to gain and lock access to your devices until payment is received.
• Seeking donations fraudulently for illegitimate or non-existent charitable organizations.
• Medical providers obtaining patient information for COVID-19 testing and then using that information to fraudulently bill for other tests and procedures.      

            In a memorandum to U.S. Attorneys issued March 19, Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen also directed each U.S. Attorney to appoint a Coronavirus Fraud Coordinator to serve as the legal counsel for the federal judicial district on matters relating to the Coronavirus, direct the prosecution of Coronavirus-related crimes, and to conduct outreach and awareness activities.   The District of New Hampshire Coronavirus Fraud Coordinator is Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Hunter.  AUSA Hunter can be reached through the main number at the U.S. Attorney’s Office – (603) 225-1552.

            The NCDF can receive and enter complaints into a centralized system that can be accessed by all U.S. Attorneys, as well as Justice Department litigating and law enforcement components to identify, investigate and prosecute fraud schemes.  The NCDF coordinates complaints with 16 additional federal law enforcement agencies, as well as state Attorneys General and local authorities.

            To find more about Department of Justice resources and information, please visit www.justice.gov/coronavirus.           

 

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            Concord – U.S. Attorney Scott W. Murray of New Hampshire today announced that nearly $60 million in Department of Justice grants is available to help communities address public safety by supporting successful reentry of adult and juvenile offenders into their communities.

            “When prisoners are released from custody, we need to make sure that they can transition effectively back into society,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “By assisting these individuals to become productive members of society, we reduce the risk of recidivism and improve public safety.  These grants can assist our communities in accomplishing these important goals.”

            “Our nation is facing difficult public safety challenges that demand strong and immediate action. The high rate of recidivism poses a dire threat to community safety and is being met with a robust response by this Administration,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “The Department of Justice is front and center in the fight to meet this persistent challenge. OJP is making historic amounts of grant funding available to ensure that our communities have access to innovative and diverse solutions.”

            The funding is available through OJP, the federal government’s leading source of public safety funding and crime victim assistance in state, local and tribal jurisdictions. OJP’s programs support a wide array of activities and services, including adult and juvenile reentry initiatives and research projects designed to improve our knowledge of what works in reentry programming. 

             A number of funding opportunities are currently open, with several more opening in the near future. 

            Correctional Adult Reentry Education, Employment, and Recidivism Reduction Strategies Program

            https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17104

            Total Available $7.2 million                                       Deadline 4/27/2020

            Improving Community Supervision Outcomes Through Swift, Certain, and Fair Responses

            https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17096

            Total Available $3 million                                          Deadline 4/28/2020

            Improving Reentry for People with Substance Use Disorders Program

            https://bja.ojp.gov/SCASUD20

            Total Available $13.2 million                                     Deadline 4/27/2020    

            Innovations in Reentry Initiative: Building System Capacity & Testing Strategies to Reduce Recidivism

            https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17281

            Total Available $4 million                                          Deadline 5/4/2020

            Research and Evaluation on Promising Reentry Initiatives            https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17295

            Total Available $6 million                                         Deadline 5/5/2020      

            Review and Validation of the First Step Act Risk Assessment Tool             https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-fsa

            Total Available: Determined after selection               Deadline 4/10/2020

            Second Chance Act Community-Based Reentry Program

            https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17110

            Total Available $13.5 million                                     Deadline 5/4/2020

            Second Chance Act Evaluation Participation Support

            https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17680

            Total Available $4 million                                         Deadline 4/28/2020

            Second Chance Act Youth Offender Reentry Program

            https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh176/files/media/document/ojjdp-2020-17350.pdf

            Total Available $7 million                                          Deadline 4/28/2020

            For more information regarding all OJP funding opportunities, visit https://www.ojp.gov/funding/explore/current-funding-opportunities

                                                                        ###

 

 

 

            Concord – U.S. Attorney Scott W. Murray of New Hampshire today announced that more than $83 million in Department of Justice grants is available to help communities improve school security and protect students, teachers and faculty from threats of violence.

            “Children should be able to attend school in a safe environment where they focus on learning, not fear of tragic events,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “These grants will assist communities in improving the security of children and school staff so that schools can focus on their education mission.”

            “School violence is no longer an abstract threat but has become a tragic reality in too many of America’s communities. Moving to meet this challenge is among the Administration’s top domestic priorities,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “The Department of Justice is front and center in the fight to meet this challenge. OJP is making historic amounts of grant funding available to ensure that our communities have access to innovative and diverse solutions.”

            The funding is available through OJP, the federal government’s leading source of public safety funding and crime victim assistance in state, local and tribal jurisdictions. OJP’s programs support a wide array of activities and services, including programs designed to tighten school security and improve the reporting of threats. 

            A number of funding opportunities for school safety are currently open, with another opening in the near future: 

            Research and Evaluation on School Safety

            https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17308

            Total Available $5 million                                         Deadline 4/13/2020    

            STOP Act School Violence Program (FY20)

            https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17308

            Total Available $71.4 million                                     Deadline 4/13/2020

            Strategies to Support Children Exposed to Violence  

            https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17926

            Total Available $7 million                                           Deadline 4/27/2020

            For more information regarding all OJP funding opportunities, visit https://www.ojp.gov/funding/explore/current-funding-opportunities.

 

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            Concord – U.S. Attorney Scott W. Murray of New Hampshire today announced that more than $65 million in Department of Justice grants is available to help communities combat human trafficking and serve adults and children who are victimized in trafficking operations.

            “The crimes of sex trafficking and labor trafficking victimize some of the most vulnerable members of our communities, including minors and the economically disadvantaged,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Human trafficking is modern day slavery and it cannot be tolerated in a free society.  Here in New Hampshire, the Human Trafficking Collaborative Task Force and other efforts have been vital in obtaining justice for victims of human trafficking.  These new grant opportunities will provide additional financial support that will allow communities to expand their efforts to combat human trafficking, protect victims, and educate the public about the impact of this crime.”

            “Our nation is facing difficult challenges, none more pressing than the scourge of human trafficking. Human traffickers pose a dire threat to public safety and countering this threat remains one of the Administration’s top domestic priorities,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “The Department of Justice is front and center in the fight against this insidious crime. OJP is making historic amounts of grant funding available to ensure that our communities have access to innovative and diverse solutions.”

            The funding is available through OJP, the federal government’s leading source of public safety funding and crime victim assistance in state, local and tribal jurisdictions. OJP’s programs support a wide array of activities and services, including programs that support human trafficking task forces and services for human trafficking survivors. 

            A number of funding opportunities are currently open, with several more opening in the near future. 

            Missing and Exploited Children Training and Technical Assistance Program

            https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17351

            Total Available $1.8 million                                      Deadline 4/6/2020 (Extended)

            Multidisciplinary Task Force Program to Combat Human Trafficking

            Total Available $22 million                                       Opens week of 3/16/2020

            Preventing Trafficking of Girls

            Total Available $1.7 million                                       Opens week of 3/16/2020

            Research and Evaluation on Trafficking in Persons   https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17324

            Total Available $2.5 million                                       Deadline 4/20/2020   

            Services for Victims of Human Trafficking

            Total Available $16.5 million                                     Opens week of 3/16/2020

            Specialized Training and Technical Assistance on Housing for Victims of Human Trafficking                                                                                                                       Total Available $2 million                                     Opens week of 3/16/2020

            Human Trafficking Training and Technical Assistance Program

            Total Available $5 million                                          Opens week of 3/16/2020

            Improving Outcomes for Child and Youth Victims of Human Trafficking                          

            Total Available $6 million                                          Opens week of 3/16/2020

            Integrated Services for Minor Victims of Labor Trafficking

            Total Available $8 million                                          Opens week of 3/16/2020

For more information regarding all OJP funding opportunities, visit https://www.ojp.gov/funding/explore/current-funding-opportunities

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            Concord – U.S. Attorney Scott W. Murray of New Hampshire today announced that more than $163 million in Department of Justice grants is available to help communities address America’s addiction crisis.

            “New Hampshire has been hit hard by the opioid crisis and faces additional addiction-related threats, including a growing methamphetamine problem,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “While the law enforcement community will continue to focus on targeting the drug traffickers who seek to profit from those who suffer from addiction, these grants can provide valuable resources to help our communities fight addiction and curtail the demand for these dangerous substances.”

            “Our nation is facing the difficult challenge of curbing substance addiction, which threatens public safety and is among the Administration’s top domestic priorities,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “The Department of Justice is front and center in the fight to meet this challenge. OJP is making historic amounts of grant funding available to ensure that our communities have access to innovative and diverse solutions.”

          The funding is available through OJP, the federal government’s leading source of public safety funding and crime victim assistance in state, local and tribal jurisdictions. OJP’s programs support a wide array of activities and services, including programs designed to prevent overdose deaths and break the cycle of addiction and crime. 

            A number of funding opportunities that address the addiction crisis are currently open: 

            https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17098

            Total Available $1.75 million                                     Deadline 5/14/2020    

            Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Abuse Site-based Program

            https://bja.ojp.gov/COSSAP20

            Total Available $27 million                                        Deadline 5/21/2020

            Enhancing Community Responses to America's Addiction Crisis: Serving Our Youngest Crime Victims

            https://www.ovc.gov/grants/pdftxt/fy-2020-enhancing-community-responses-to-drug-crisis.pdf

            Total Available: $19 million                                       Deadline: 5/4/2020

            Family Drug Court Program

            https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17090

            Total Available $18.2 million                                     Deadline 4/8/2020 (Extended)

            Harold Rogers Prescription Drug Monitoring Program

            https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17754

            Total Available $28.1                                                 Deadline 5/5/2020    

            Juvenile Drug Treatment Court Program

            https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17051

            Total Available $7.2 million                                       Deadline 4/13/2020 (Extended)  

            Mentoring Opportunities for Youth Initiative

            https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-16930

            Total Available $48 million                                        Deadline 4/13/2020  

            Opioid Affected Youth Initiative

            https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17352

            Total Available $9 million                                          Deadline 4/20/2020

            Research and Evaluation on Drugs and Crime           https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17275

            Total Available $1 million                                          Deadline 4/20/2020                            

            Residential Substance Abuse Treatment for State Prisoners

            https://bja.ojp.gov/RSAT20

             Total Available $4.5 million                                       Deadline 4/6/2020

           For more information regarding all OJP funding opportunities, visit https://www.ojp.gov/funding/explore/current-funding-opportunities

 

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          CONCORD - A Mexican national residing in Manchester was sentenced to 144 months in federal prison after being convicted of committing six armed robberies, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, Guillermo Garcia Esquivel, 36, committed six armed robberies of convenience stores in Manchester between January 5, 2019 and February 24, 2019.   During each of the robberies, Esquivel pointed what appeared to be a black handgun at the victim cashier and demanded money.  In two of the robberies, he also displayed a knife.  Esquivel stole in excess of $5,000 during these robberies.

          Esquivel previously pleaded guilty on November 19, 2019.   In addition to his prison sentence, he was ordered to pay $4,530 in restitution.  Esquivel does not have lawful status in the United States.  After serving his prison sentence, he faces likely removal to Mexico. 

          “This defendant’s actions terrorized clerks at multiple stores and jeopardized the safety of the public,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “We will not tolerate violent crime in Manchester or anywhere in the Granite State.  This case demonstrates our commitment to working with the Manchester Police Department, ATF, and all of our law enforcement partners to identify, prosecute, and incarcerate armed violent criminals who threaten our citizens.”

          “Individuals such as Esquivel who are brazen enough to commit armed robberies present a clear and present danger to our community,” said Special Agent in Charge Kelly D. Brady, ATF Boston Field Division. “The sentence in this case sends an unequivocal message that this conduct will not be tolerated and provides further evidence of ATF’s commitment to combating violent crime by utilizing all available resources to make our communities safer.”

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

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

           

 

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          CONCORD - Kenneth Rawson, 34, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court on Tuesday to committing a bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.  

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

          Rawson is scheduled to be sentenced on June 23, 2020.

          “Bank robberies are violent crimes that put bank employees, customers, and members of the public at risk,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “In order to protect the public from violent crime, we will work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who commit bank robberies in the Granite State.  I am grateful to the Manchester Police and the FBI for their efforts to ensure that this defendant was brought to justice.” 

          "Kenneth Rawson has twice now accepted responsibility for his actions – first, by telling officers, ‘I robbed a bank,’ as they pursued him from the scene of the crime, and again today before a federal judge. But words alone aren’t sufficient to remedy his claim to a defenseless teller that he was strapped to a bomb at the time of the holdup,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “In addition to bank robbery, Rawson is responsible for creating an environment of fear in a place of business, where bystanders could have been hurt, or worse. For that, it’s the court’s punishment that needs to speak loud and clear.”

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

 

                       

 

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             CONCORD - James M. Nesbitt, 43, of Rochester, pleaded guilty in federal court to participating in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, Nesbitt conspired with two other individuals to possess with the intent to distribute, and to distribute, fentanyl and crystal “ice” methamphetamine.  On November 7, 2018, the New Hampshire State Police (“NHSP”) conducted a vehicle stop of Nesbitt’s vehicle and seized fentanyl, crystal “ice” methamphetamine, and other narcotics. Later the same evening, the NHSP and DEA searched Nesbitt’s hotel room in Ossipee and seized approximately 171 grams of crystal “ice” methamphetamine, smaller quantities of fentanyl and other narcotics, and a Springfield Armory XD45 semi-automatic handgun. On December 20, 2018, DEA agents arrested Nesbitt and a co-conspirator at their Rochester residence and seized fentanyl and four firearms and assorted ammunition.

            Nesbitt is scheduled to be sentenced on June 15, 2020.

            “Armed drug traffickers present a serious threat to the safety of the citizens of New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “In order to prevent violent crime and maintain public safety, we will work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute drug dealers who arm themselves with firearms.  I commend the investigators in this case for stopping this drug trafficking conspiracy.”               

            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.   

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

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            CONCORD - Jared Gil, 25, of Lawrence, Massachusetts, was sentenced in federal court to 40 months for participating in a fentanyl trafficking conspiracy, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, in February and March of 2019, Gil conspired with co-defendant Yadoris Arias to distribute fentanyl. On February 13, 2019, Gil and Arias drove from Massachusetts to Manchester and sold approximately 20 grams of fentanyl for $600. On March 25, 2019, Gil and Arias again drove to Manchester and were arrested with more than 80 grams of fentanyl concealed in the air vent of their vehicle.      

            Gil previously pleaded guilty on August 1, 2019.  Arias pleaded guilty September 12, 2019 and is scheduled to be sentenced on March 31, 2020.

            “Interstate fentanyl trafficking is causing tremendous damage to public health and safety in New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “In order to protect our community, we will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify, prosecute, and incarcerate those who bring this deadly drug into the Granite State.”

            “Illegal drug distribution ravages the very foundations of our families and communities here in New Hampshire,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle.  “Let this sentences be a warning to those traffickers who are coming from out of state to distribute this poison, that DEA and its local, state and federal partners will do everything in our power to bring you to justice.”              

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

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            CONCORD - Aiden Davidson, a/k/a Hamed Aliabadi, 32, of Tennessee, pleaded guilty on Monday in federal court to smuggling goods from the United States to 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. 

            Again, between April 2017 and August 2017, Davidson and Golden Gate 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. 

            The defendant is scheduled to be sentenced on June 17, 2020.

           “Export controls are important legal restrictions that are intended to 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 not hesitate to bring federal criminal charges against 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,” stated Special Agent in Charge Jason Molina of the Department of Homeland Security’s Homeland Security Investigations.  “These efforts are exemplified in the investigation of Golden Gate International and Aidan Davidson’s illegal export of restricted materials.  HSI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to monitor and investigate export violations committed by Iran or her proxies.”

            This matter was investigated by the Department of Commerce's Office of Export Enforcement and the Department of Homeland Security.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John Davis and Cam Le.                     

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            CONCORD - James Gadwah, 52, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court to methamphetamine trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, Gadwah sold methamphetamine to a cooperating individual on three separate occasions in June of 2019.   Gadwah was arrested on June 27, 2019, and officers searched his vehicle.  In the vehicle, officers found over 60 grams of methamphetamine. 

            Gadwah is scheduled to be sentenced on June 9, 2020.

            “Methamphetamine is a dangerous drug that is appearing with alarming frequency in New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “I am grateful to the Concord Police for stopping this individual from continuing to sell this dangerous substance.  In order to protect the public, we are committed to working with all of our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who distribute methamphetamine and other dangerous drugs.”

            This matter was investigated by the Concord Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Krasinski.

###

            CONCORD - Michael Jones, 47, of Manchester, 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, from March 18, 2019 until April 19, 2019, a cooperating individual, at the direction of Manchester Police Department detectives, arranged on three occasions to buy methamphetamine from Jones.         

            Jones is scheduled to be sentenced on June 8, 2020.

            “Drug trafficking continues present a significant risk to public health and safety,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “In order to combat this threat, we will continue to work closely with the Manchester Police Department and our other law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who threaten the community by selling drugs.”  

            This matter was investigated by the Manchester 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. 

###

            CONCORD - Jacob Dionne, 22, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court to aiding and abetting the making of a false statement during the attempted acquisition of a firearm, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on September 11, 2017, a federally licensed firearms dealer located in Hooksett contacted ATF agents about a possible straw purchase by a female. The store did not go through with the sale and described the vehicle that the female left in.  ATF agents subsequently observed the vehicle on Hooksett Road in Hooksett. Dionne was one of the people in the vehicle. 

            The female admitted that Dionne asked her to buy a firearm, and stated that he offered to pay her $200 and fill her gas tank for making the purchase. The female agreed to purchase a firearm and Dionne gave her his credit card to make the purchase. While at the licensed firearms dealer, evidence showed Dionne spoke to the female and pointed to the handgun display.  The female admitted that she completed paperwork and falsely stated that she was buying the firearm for herself.  In fact, she was purchasing the firearm for Dionne.

            Dionne was prohibited from acquiring firearms at the time of the attempted purchase.

            Dionne is scheduled to be sentenced on June 12, 2020.

            “Federal firearms laws exist in order to keep firearms out of the hands of criminals and those who cannot lawfully possess guns,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Those who seek to evade federal law by lying in order to purchase guns, or by getting others to do so, will be identified and prosecuted.  Enforcing these laws will help to reduce crime and keep our community safe.”

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

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

###

            CONCORD - Linda Jackson, 64, of Mabank, Texas, pleaded guilty in federal court to making false statements to obtain Social Security benefits, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, Jackson received Supplemental Security Income (“SSI”) benefits for over 10 years.  During the application process, Jackson did not report she was living with someone as husband and wife and that he was paying for her living expenses.  They lived together in Marlborough, New Hampshire, and spent their winters in their other home in Mabank, Texas.  Had Jackson honestly reported her living and financial arrangement in her application, she would have been ineligible for SSI benefits.

            SSA occasionally interviewed Jackson to determine if she remained entitled to benefits.  In those interviews, Jackson again misrepresented her living and financial arrangement.  She also did not disclose her relationship with another individual whom she eventually married, the financial support he provided her, or her restaurant and catering business to SSA.  SSA became aware of Ms. Jackson’s husband when she applied for survivor’s benefits after his death.

            Jackson’s shared living arrangement and marriage, if properly reported, would have disqualified her from receiving benefits.  Applicants for certain disability benefits must have limited income and resources in order to qualify for assistant.  The incomes of all members of a household are considered when determining an individual’s eligibility for SSI benefits.  As a result of her concealment, Jackson received over $75,000 in benefits that she was not entitled to receive. 

            Jackson is scheduled to be sentenced on June 8, 2020.

            “Federal benefits programs provide important financial support to needy beneficiaries,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Those who lie in order to obtain benefits that they are not entitled to receive are stealing from Social Security and cheating everyone who pays taxes to support the programs.  We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who swindle government programs for their personal financial gain.”    

            This matter was investigated by the Social Security Administration’s Office of the Inspector General and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Hunter. 

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            CONCORD - Michael A. Albert, 52, of Chichester, was sentenced to six months in federal prison for structuring cash deposits from his business, Mike’s Affordable Auto, LLC, for the purpose of evading bank reporting requirements, money laundering, and evading reporting requirements with respect to cash transactions in excess of $10,000, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, Albert, who ran a used car business at locations in Concord and Chichester, knew that if he deposited cash in amounts more than $10,000, the bank was required to file reports of those transactions with the IRS.  Albert structured cash deposits from his business in order to evade the reporting requirements imposed on the bank.  Additionally, Albert accepted cash in amounts greater than $10,000 for the purchase of vehicles from a person who represented that the cash was proceeds of illegal drug trafficking.  Albert also failed to file required forms with the IRS identifying cash receipts in his business in excess of $10,000.

            Albert previously pleaded guilty on September 10, 2019.  In addition to his sentence, Albert agreed to forfeit $434,201 in a related civil forfeiture proceeding.

            “Federal bank reporting laws help to protect against money laundering and other financial crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “The defendant’s criminal activities, including laundering money that he believed to be drug proceeds, were serious offenses.  Today’s sentence sends a message that those who commit financial crimes will face substantial consequences for their actions.”

            “Federal laws that regulate the reporting of financial transactions are in place to detect and stop illegal activities.  Michel Albert conducted transactions that were by design, intended to avoid such reporting requirements,” said IRS Special Agent In Charge Kristina O’Connell.  “IRS Criminal Investigation is committed to enforcing these laws and will continue working collaboratively with our law enforcement partners to investigate this type of criminal behavior.” 

            This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, with assistance from Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the Manchester Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Arnold Huftalen.  The civil forfeiture matter is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Rabuck.

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

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            CONCORD - Mallory Nooks, 31, of Fitchburg, was sentenced yesterday in federal court to 60 months for possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on April 14, 2018, Nooks possessed 14 baggies of crack cocaine that she intended to distribute, after she had already distributed crack cocaine to another individual.  She also possessed a loaded Ruger LCR 38 Special, .38 caliber pistol in her purse. 

            Nooks previously pleaded guilty on November 20, 2019.

            “Traffickers in crack cocaine endanger the lives and safety of their customers as well as the general public,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The threat is enhanced when the trafficker is armed with a gun. The 5 year sentence imposed on this defendant should serve as a caution to others who would choose to sell dangerous drugs while armed.”

            “Mallory Nooks thought she was above the law and could traffic cocaine without any consequences. But clearly, she was wrong. Today’s sentence should be a warning to others that there is zero tolerance for those who deal drugs and fuel violent crime in our communities because the safety of our neighborhoods is not negotiable,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division.

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

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            CONCORD –Ajitharan Raveendran, 29, of Toronto, Ontario, was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison for participating in a conspiracy to commit bank fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.  Raveendran faces likely removal to Canada after the completion of his prison sentence.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, in April 2019, Tharushan Nirmalachandran, Syed Hoque, and Raveendran, conspired with others to withdraw money from other persons’ bank accounts by using cloned debit cards at ATMs.  A “cloned” debit card is a gift card or other type of card that has been re-encoded to contain other persons’ debit card information.  Blank credit and debit or gift cards can be encoded with stolen credit and debit card information using an “MSR” or “Magnetic Stripe Reader” machine.  An MSR machine can read and write the information stored in the magnetic stripe on the back of credit and debit cards.    

            On Friday, April 26, 2019, a witness reported to the Hudson Police Department that a man later identified as Hoque drove his car through an ATM in Hudson, New Hampshire, several times to make withdrawals.  The Hudson Police responded and found Hoque in his car at the ATM. The officer saw that Hoque was holding a cell phone that was displaying several sets of numbers on the screen and saw a large amount of cash on the front passenger seat of his car and several ATM or credit cards on the center console. 

            A search of Hoque’s phone revealed text messages in an application called “WhatsApp” from the weekend of April 24 through 26, 2019.  One group message chain from April 26, 2019, showed members of the conspiracy coordinating their activities as they withdrew money from ATMs with the cloned debit cards.

            The trio was operating out of a hotel room in Methuen, Massachusetts.  Hotel surveillance video showed that, early in the morning on April 27, 2019, Nirmalachandran and Raveendran carried large duffle bags out of their hotel room.  Investigators later found duffle bags during a search of Nirmalachandran’s car that contained (i) a portable MSR machine; (ii) 103 Visa, American Express, and MasterCard gift cards, 96 of which contained cloned debit card information; (iii) over $51,000 United States currency; and (iv) a Hewlett Packard laptop computer.  A later search of the computer revealed text files that contained over 170 debit card numbers.

            In total, from April 25, 2019, through April 27, 2019, members of the conspiracy successfully withdrew at least $43,980.00 and attempted to withdraw an additional $69,900.00 from other people’s bank accounts using cloned debit cards. 

            Raveendran pleaded guilty on November 14, 2019.

            Nirmalachandran previously pleaded guilty on November 4, 2019, and, on February 14, 2020, was sentenced to 15 months’ imprisonment.   

            In addition to their prison sentences, Raveendran and Nirmalachandran were ordered to pay $43,980 in restitution and have been ordered to forfeit over $61,000. 

            Hoque pleaded guilty December 13, 2019 and is scheduled to be sentenced on April 1, 2020.

            “Bank fraud causes serious financial losses and inconvenience to victims, drives up business costs and undermines confidence in our banking system,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Fraudsters who steal hard-earned money from innocent victims should expect to be caught, prosecuted and incarcerated. I am grateful to the law enforcement officers whose excellent work led to this successful prosecution.” 

                This matter was investigated by the United States Secret Service, with assistance from the Hudson and Methuen Police Departments.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Hunter.                       

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          CONCORD - Melissa Babian, 40, of Milford, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison for drug trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.  

          According to court documents and statements made in court, in October of 2018, members of the Hillsborough County Sherriff’s Task Force together with the Milford Police Department, investigated Babian for selling heroin andfentanyl in Milford.  On October 29, 2018, a cooperating individual working at the direction of law enforcement purchased fentanyl from Babian.      

          “Fentanyl trafficking continues to cause great damage to communities throughout New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Through Operation S.O.S., we are working with our law enforcement partners to identify, prosecute, and incarcerate the fentanyl traffickers who choose to do business in Hillsborough County.”           

          This matter was investigated by the Milford Police Department and the Hillsborough County Sherriff’s Task Force.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joachim Barth with assistance from the Milford Police Prosecutor, Karinne Brobst, Esq.

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

 

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          CONCORD - Christian Villar, 26, of Lawrence, Massachusetts, pleaded guilty in federal court on Thursday to participating in a fentanyl trafficking conspiracy, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.  

          According to court documents and statements made in court, on January 24, 2019, co-conspirators Geovanny Rafael Perdomo-Mancebo and Zorelys Sosa planned to sell a quantity of fentanyl to a customer who was actually an undercover DEA agent.  Due to the large quantity of fentanyl being sold, Perdomo-Mancebo and Sosa recruited Villar to hold the fentanyl in a safe location while they retrieved payment from the customer. Perdomo-Mancebo and Sosa dropped Villar off at a restaurant with the fentanyl shortly before departing to meet the customer outside a store in New Hampshire, at which time they were stopped and arrested. Villar was found to be in possession of 128.6 grams of a fentanyl.

          Villar is scheduled to be sentenced on May 27, 2020.  Co-conspirator Perdomo-Mancebo is scheduled to be sentenced on April 22, 2020.  Sosa is scheduled to be sentenced on April 21, 2020.

          “Interstate fentanyl traffickers are engaged in a criminal enterprise that makes a lethal substance available for sale in New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Stopping the activities of these conspirators serves to protect the health and safety of our citizens. We will continue to closely coordinate with DEA and all of our law enforcement partners to shut down the interstate supply line for these drugs.” 

           This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John Davis and Jarad Hodes.

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

 

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            CONCORD - Autumn St. John, 27, of Nashua, pleaded guilty in federal court on Wednesday to drug trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today. 

           According to court documents and statements made in court, on November 29, 2018, a cooperating individual, at the direction of the Nashua Police Department, purchased fentanyl from St. John.  Later, on June 3, 2019, a Nashua detective on patrol watched St. John make a hand-to-hand sale of fentanyl.  After being arrested, St. John admitted that she had just sold drugs to a customer. 

            St. John is scheduled to be sentenced on May 27, 2020.

            “Fentanyl is a dangerous drug that is damaging lives throughout New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Through Operation S.O.S., we are working with the Nashua Police Department and all of our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who are distributing fentanyl and other deadly drugs in Hillsborough County.”          

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

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

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            CONCORD - Jai Britt, 45, of Manchester, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for drug trafficking on Wednesday, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, in November, 2018, a cooperating individual disclosed to the Manchester Police Department that Britt had been selling the individual crack cocaine and heroin multiple times per week over the past month.

            On November 29, 2018, at the direction of law enforcement officers, the cooperating individual made a call to Britt to purchase drugs and then purchased fentanyl from Britt at Britt’s apartment.

            On December 11, 2018, Britt was arrested outside his apartment.  During a search of his apartment, officers found approximately 135grams of crack cocaine, 194 grams of cocaine, and 1.5 grams of heroin.           

            “Drug traffickers cause tremendous damage to public health and safety,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Through Operation S.O.S., we are working with the Manchester Police Department and other law enforcement partners to identify, prosecute, and incarcerate the drug traffickers who are jeopardizing public safety with their unlawful conduct.”

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

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

                       

 

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            CONCORD - Ricardo Jacques Pierre, 29, of Billerica, Massachusetts, was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on April 14, 2019, the Pelham Police Department received a complaint of an erratic driver.  Law enforcement officers stopped the vehicle.  A strong odor of marijuana was coming from the vehicle.

            Pierre was identified as the operator, owner, and sole occupant of the vehicle. The police executed a search warrant on the vehicle and found a Smith & Wesson, Model 66-2 .375 Magnum caliber firearm and ammunition. 

            Pierre is a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition.         

            “If we are going to prevent violent crime, we must keep firearms out of the hands of convicted felons,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “We will strive to maintain public safety by working with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute criminals who possess firearms unlawfully.”

            “This sentencing demonstrates the outstanding partnership between ATF and the Pelham Police Department as well as the commitment we share to work together to interdict illegal firearms and arrest the criminals that compromise the safety of our communities”   Kelly D. Brady, Special Agent in Charge.

            This matter was investigated by the Alcohol, tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Pelham Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Debra M. Walsh.

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

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            CONCORD – Marvin Morrison, 37, of Nashua, pleaded guilty in federal court to 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, Morrison was a member of a drug trafficking organization that distributed crack cocaine and other drugs to various customers in the Nashua area.

            Morrison is scheduled to be sentenced on May 13, 2020. 

            In addition to Morrison, six defendants in this case have pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing.  Another defendant, Donald Johnson, was sentenced to 42 months in prison.  Three other defendants are awaiting trial.

            “Drug trafficking destroys lives and damages the quality of life in Nashua and communities throughout New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Stopping the distribution of crack cocaine and other illegal drugs requires the close cooperation of law enforcement at all levels. Working together, we can break up the networks that funnel these dangerous substances into our state. I commend the FBI Safe Streets Task Force and Nashua Police Department for their excellent work.”

            “Marvin Morrison’s guilty plea, and those of his co-conspirators, should show others pushing drugs for ruthless organizations that they, too, will fall when the FBI and our law enforcement partners dismantle their trafficking trade,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “The citizens of Nashua deserve to be safe, healthy, and free of criminals making a living by putting them at risk of addiction and in some cases, death.”

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

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            CONCORD - Heath Palmer, 39, of Manchester, was sentenced in federal court to 12 months and 1 day of imprisonment for possessing an unlawful synthetic cannabinoid product with intent to distribute, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to statements made in court, on April 18, 2019, Palmer was observed by police officers conducting hand-to-hand sales from a car.  The Manchester Police stopped Palmer and he voluntarily turned over the product he was selling.  Palmer claimed that the product did not contain illegal substances.  Testing by the New Hampshire State Police Forensic Laboratory confirmed, however, that the product contained an illegal substance, 5F-MDMB-PICA.

            On May 7, 2019, Palmer was informed by the Manchester Police that the substance he was selling was in fact illegal under federal law.  Three days later, the Manchester Police observed Palmer continuing to make hand-to-hand sales from a car.  The police stopped the car and seized the product that Palmer was selling.  The product was again tested, and it contained the same illegal substance, 5F-MDMB-PICA. 

            Palmer previously pleaded guilty on October 10, 2019.

            According to the DEA, synthetic cannabinoids, which commonly are referred to by names such as “Spice” or “K2,” are designer drugs that are made in laboratories.  The chemicals often are sprayed onto plant substances and then smoked in order to obtain a high.  These substances have severe adverse effects and have often led to overdoses.  In addition to the dangers associated with the chemical substances themselves, the lack of manufacturing standards may lead to increased health risks. 

            The DEA issued a regulation on April 16, 2019, that made 5F-MDMB-PICA and several other synthetic cannabinoids Schedule I controlled substances.  In its order, the DEA noted that this drug had been associated with over 47 overdoses in Connecticut and at least 244 overdoses in Washington, D.C.  Further information is available at https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/fed_regs/rules/2019/fr0416.htm and https://www.dea.gov/sites/default/files/sites/getsmartaboutdrugs.com/files/publications/DoA_2017Ed_Updated_6.16.17.pdf#page=88.

            “Synthetic cannabinoids are extremely dangerous substances that can cause great physical harm,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Those who refer to these dangerous drugs as synthetic marijuana help to create confusion that can mislead users about the real hazards associated with these substances.  Those who distribute synthetic cannabinoids are endangering public health and safety and breaking federal law.  As this case shows, we will not hesitate to prosecute and incarcerate those who are profiting from selling these dangerous drugs.”

            “There is a misconception that synthetic cannabinoids, known on the street as synthetic marijuana, K2, and Spice, are safe.  Synthetic cannabinoids are anything but safe,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle.  “They are a toxic cocktail of lethal chemicals with serious health and safety risks. This investigation represents local, state and federal law enforcement’s efforts to combat this public threat.”

            “I’m very pleased that we were able to see Palmer prosecuted,” says Manchester Chief Carlo Capano. "His repeated behavior involving the sales of 'Spice' will not be tolerated in the city.  The Manchester Police Department has been dealing with 'Spice' for some time now and these cases can be very difficult. I’d like to acknowledge the outstanding job our investigators did in putting this together.”

            The case was investigated by the Manchester Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Seth R. Aframe.

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          CONCORD –Tharushan Nirmalachandran, 30, of Ile-Bizard, Quebec, was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison for participating in a conspiracy to commit bank fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.  Nirmalachandran faces likely removal to Canada after the completion of his prison sentence.

          According to court documents and statements made in court, in April 2019, Nirmalachandran, Syed Hoque, and Ajitharan Raveendran, conspired with others to withdraw money from other persons’ bank accounts by using cloned debit cards at ATMs.  A “cloned” debit card is a gift card or other type of card that has been re-encoded to contain other persons’ debit card information.  Blank credit and debit or gift cards can be encoded with stolen credit and debit card information using an “MSR” or “Magnetic Stripe Reader” machine.  An MSR machine can read and write the information stored in the magnetic stripe on the back of credit and debit cards. 

           On Friday, April 26, 2019, a witness reported to the Hudson Police Department that a man later identified as Hoque drove his car through an ATM in Hudson, New Hampshire, several times to make withdrawals.  The Hudson Police responded and found Hoque in his car at the ATM. The officer saw that Hoque was holding a cell phone that was displaying several sets of numbers on the screen and saw a large amount of cash on the front passenger seat of his car and several ATM or credit cards on the center console. 

          A search of Hoque’s phone revealed text messages in an application called “WhatsApp” from the weekend of April 24 through 26, 2019.  One group message chain from April 26, 2019, showed members of the conspiracy coordinating their activities as they withdrew money from  ATMs with the cloned debit cards.

          The trio was operating out of a hotel room in Methuen, Massachusetts.  Hotel surveillance video showed that, early in the morning on April 27, 2019, Nirmalachandran and Raveendran carried large duffle bags out of their hotel room.  Investigators later found duffle bags during a search of Nirmalachandran’s car that contained (i) a portable MSR machine; (ii) 103 Visa, American Express, and MasterCard gift cards, 96 of which contained cloned debit card information; (iii) over $51,000 United States currency; and (iv) a Hewlett Packard laptop computer.  A later search of the computer revealed text files that contained over 170 debit card numbers.

          In total, from April 25, 2019, through April 27, 2019, members of the conspiracy successfully withdrew at least $43,980.00 and attempted to withdraw an additional $69,900.00 from other people’s bank accounts using cloned debit cards. 

          Nirmalachandran previously pleaded guilty on November 4, 2019.   In addition to his prison sentence, Nirmalachandran was ordered to pay $$43,980.  The defendants in the case also have been ordered to forfeit over $61,000. 

          Hoque pleaded guilty December 13, 2019 and is scheduled to be sentenced on April 1, 2020.

          Raveendran pleaded guilty on November 14, 2019 and will be sentenced on February 28, 2020.

            “Those who commit bank fraud cause serious damage by stealing money from their victim’s bank accounts, driving up business costs, and undermining confidence in the banking system,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “We will not hesitate to seek federal prison sentences for those who attempt to steal hard-earned money from innocent victims.  I am grateful to the law enforcement officers whose excellent work led to this successful prosecution.”

            “The U.S. Secret Service appreciates the coordination between local, federal and international partners.  This cooperation is crucial when investigating trans-national criminal organizations that operate under the assumption they will not be detected in another country,” said Timothy Benitez, Resident Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service, Manchester Resident Office.

             This matter was investigated by the United States Secret Service, with assistance from the Hudson and Methuen Police Departments.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Hunter.

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            CONCORD - James Howard, 39, of Somersworth, pleaded guilty in federal court to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.           

           According to court documents and statements made in court, on September 27, 2019, agents from the ATF executed a search warrant at a home where Howard stayed.  At the home, agents found a Marlin Wester Auto firearm receiver and ammunition.

            Howard is a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition.      

            Howard is scheduled to be sentenced on May 12, 2020.

            “Preventing violent crime requires that we keep guns out of the hands of convicted felons,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Under Project Safe Neighborhoods we work closely with ATF, the Somersworth Police Department and all of our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute criminals who possess guns unlawfully.”

            “This arrest demonstrates the outstanding partnership between ATF and the Somersworth Police Department as well as the commitment we share to work together to interdict illegal firearms and the criminals that compromise the safety of our communities,” said Kelly D. Brady, Special Agent in Char ATF Boston Field Division.

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

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

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            CONCORD - Donald Johnson, 34, of Nashua, was sentenced in federal court to 42 months for participating in a drug trafficking conspiracy, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced. 

           According to court documents and statements made in court, Johnson was involved with a drug trafficking organization that distributed crack cocaine and other drugs to various customers in the Nashua area. Johnson purchased crack cocaine from the organization and re-sold it to his own customers. He also assisted other members of the organization with their distribution activities by, among other things, allowing them to use his residence to meet customers.

            Johnson previously pleaded guilty on August 14, 2020.

            “Drug trafficking destroys lives and undermines the quality of life in communities all over New Hampshire” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Stopping the distribution of illegal drugs requires the close cooperation of law enforcement at all levels. Working together we can maintain public safety. I commend the FBI Safe Streets Task Force and Nashua Police Department for bringing this drug trafficker to justice.”                     

            “Donald Johnson’s role in this cocaine-trafficking ring was not insignificant to the people of Nashua, whose addictions he exploited. The record shows he offered up his home as a meeting place for customers, while doing his own crack deals on the side,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “The truth is, any part played in illegal drug activity has a potentially deadly outcome, and so the FBI will continue to pursue investigations into both individuals and groups eager to profit from the pain and suffering of others.”

            This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Safe Streets Task Force and the Nashua Police Department.  The case is being 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. 

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            CONCORD – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced that a federal jury found Johnathon Irish, 33, of Littleton, New Hampshire, guilty of one count of being a felon in possession of firearms after a four-day trial.  The verdict was returned late on Wednesday afternoon.           

            In December of 2014, Johnathon Irish previously was convicted of aiding and abetting the making of a material false statement in connection with the acquisition of a firearm and making a material false statement to a federal agent. In light of his felony convictions, he is legally prohibited from possessing firearms.  Evidence presented at trial showed that between December of 2018 and November of 2019, Irish possessed at least two firearms, a Sig Sauer 1911, .45 caliber pistol and a Catamount Fury, 12 gauge shotgun. 

            Irish is scheduled to be sentenced on May 28, 2020.

            “In order to maintain public safety, it is vital to keep guns out of the hands of convicted felons,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “We will not hesitate to bring criminal charges against those who unlawfully possess guns.  I appreciate the efforts of the FBI and State Police for their work investigating this case.”

            “The goal of sentencing is to send a clear message of deterrence and rehabilitation. But it’s a message that Johnathon Irish chose to ignore,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “We thank the jury for its swift and prudent verdict because a felon who possesses a firearm when prohibited from doing so is a potential danger in a society where laws are respected and obeyed.”

            This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the New Hampshire State Police.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anna Krasinski and Kasey Weiland.

 

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            CONCORD- Yesterday, Attorney General William Barr addressed the dangers that sanctuary cities and sanctuary policies pose to the general public.  In jurisdictions that have adopted these policies, local law enforcement officers are restrained from working with their federal law enforcement partners.  The result is that federal law enforcement officers are hampered in their efforts to locate, arrest, and remove people who are in the United States illegally.  This may include individuals who are actively engaged in criminal conduct. 

            Barr’s remarks resonate in New Hampshire, where the opioid crisis has been fueled by foreign drug cartels who exploit our citizens for the sake of making a profit.  Their lethal drugs reach our state through a network of traffickers who often employ criminal aliens as dealers to sell drugs in our communities.  To shield themselves from arrest, criminal aliens often reside outside of our state, sometimes living in sanctuary cities where they feel safe.       

            The highest obligation of the government is to protect its citizens, especially from victimization by criminals.  This requires coordination on the part of law enforcement at all levels. When local communities adopt sanctuary policies, those policies can jeopardize public safety by preventing the federal government from arresting and prosecuting removable aliens.  While reasonable people can debate the merits of various immigration policies, few would contest that those who commit serious criminal offenses while unlawfully inside this country should be prosecuted and then removed from the United States. When a sanctuary jurisdiction refuses to honor an immigration detainer and releases a felon onto the street, all of our citizens are endangered.  These policies also endanger the brave law enforcement officers who must try to identify and arrest criminal aliens after they have been released by sanctuary cities.

            Here in New Hampshire, we frequently prosecute criminals who are unlawfully in this country, including those who have taken up residency in sanctuary cities in other states.  Many of these criminal aliens have distributed fentanyl, heroin and other dangerous drugs, thereby causing great suffering. It is not uncommon to encounter criminal aliens who use fraudulent documents to mask their true identity and immigration status.  If these criminals are released before they can be removed from the United States, it can be challenging to locate them again.  Enforcing our laws is a complicated and difficult undertaking and sanctuary policies only make it more difficult to protect our citizens.

              While New Hampshire has not been in the forefront of the sanctuary movement, it is important to realize that we are negatively impacted by the adoption of these policies in other states.  The reality is that criminals can shelter behind sanctuary policies to the detriment of everyone else in society.  This is especially true if you are an interstate drug dealer looking for a place to hide while hooking Granite Staters on your deadly product.

# # #

          CONCORD – Idrissa Gasana, 53, of Manchester, was indicted by a federal grand jury and charged with procuring citizenship or naturalization unlawfully based in part on providing false information about his participation in the Rwandan genocide.

          The indictment alleges that Gasana provided false and fraudulent information about material facts on his application for naturalization as a United States citizen. One of the documents which Gasana is alleged to have falsified is a “Questionnaire for Rwandan Visa Applicants” which seeks to determine whether those seeking refugee status in the United States participated in the 1994 genocide in Rwanda. The indictment alleges that at the time of his naturalization as a United States citizen, Gasana was an inadmissible alien because he had participated in the Rwandan genocide.

          Gasana was arrested on February 6, 2020. He is being held in custody pending a detention hearing on February 11, 2020.

          This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Georgiana L. Konesky and Seth R. Aframe.

          An indictment is merely an allegation and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. 

 

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CONCORD – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced the establishment of a Primary Day hotline that will be monitored throughout Primary Day on February 11, 2020, from 7 am to 8 pm.  The hotline number is 603-230-2503.  Inquiries and complaints may also be submitted through the United States Attorney’s Office web site at www.usdoj.gov/usao/nh by clicking on the “e-mail us” link.

          Assistant United States Attorney Seth R. Aframe of the New Hampshire United States Attorney’s Office will oversee complaints of election fraud and abuse of voting rights in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington, D.C.  In order to respond to these complaints and address any abuse of voting rights, AUSA Aframe will be on duty while the polls are open.

          United States Attorney Murray said, “Under our Constitution, the right to vote is fundamental.  Protecting the individual right to vote and assuring the legitimacy of the election process are critical Department of Justice priorities.  Information about discrimination, intimidation or election fraud should be reported immediately to my office, the FBI, or the DOJ Civil Rights Division."

          Complaints about ballot access problems or discrimination may also be made directly to the Civil Rights Division’s Voting Section in Washington, D.C. at 1-800-253-3931.

          A Federal Election Fraud Fact Sheet that explains federal criminal jurisdiction in connection with elections and voting rights is posted on the United States Attorney’s website: www.usdoj.gov/usao/nh.

                                                                                                             

 

            CONCORD - Michael R. Haynes, 39, of Colebrook, pleaded guilty in federal court to distribution of methamphetamine within a school zone, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today. 

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on February 15, 2019, Haynes sold methamphetamine to an individual who was cooperating with law enforcement officers.  The sale occurred within 1,000 feet of an elementary school.

            Haynes is scheduled to be sentenced on May 8, 2020.

            “Methamphetamine presents a growing threat to people throughout New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Communities in all parts of our state have been impacted. In order to maintain public safety, we will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who distribute this dangerous drug.”

           This matter was investigated by the DEA, with assistance from the Colebrook Police Department, the New Hampshire State Police, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Coos County Sheriff’s Office, the New Hampshire Liquor Commission’s Division of Enforcement and Licensing, and the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Charles Rombeau and John S. Davis.

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            CONCORD - Albert Paulin, 43, of Bronx, New York, pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiracy to commit bank fraud and aggravated identity theft, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, from approximately August of 2017, to approximately January of 2018, Paulin conspired with others to withdraw money from other person’s bank accounts.  Specifically, Paulin drove runners to a number of bank branches and provided them with false driver’s licenses that contained bank customers’ personal identifying information and the runners’ photographs.  Paulin also provided the runners with the account holders’ bank account number.  The runners then entered the bank branches and withdrew funds from bank accounts with the information provided by Paulin.

            In total, Paulin’s runners successfully withdrew over $109,900 and attempted to withdraw an additional $43,700 from over 19 victims’ bank accounts.

            Paulin is scheduled to be sentenced on May 14, 2020.

            “Bank fraud and identify theft offenses cause great harm to victims and undermine confidence in our financial institutions,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The damage is increased when organized criminal conspiracies are involved.  Fraudsters who come to New Hampshire to commit crimes should know that our law enforcement community is working hard to protect our citizens. Those who seek to profit from fraud will be caught and they will be prosecuted.”

            This matter was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Hunter.

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            CONCORD - Brandon Andrade, 29, of Manchester, was sentenced to 90 months in federal prison for drug trafficking and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, in December of 2018, the Manchester Police Department began an investigation after receiving information from a confidential source that Andrade was dealing in large quantities of cocaine, heroin and fentanyl throughout Manchester.

            On January 2, 2019, a cooperating individual bought approximately three grams of crack cocaine and approximately ten grams of fentanyl from Andrade.  During the drug transaction, Andrade was armed with a handgun.

            During a vehicle stop, Manchester police officers took Andrade into custody. An officer searched Andrade and found approximately 23.17 grams of fentanyl, .136 grams of cocaine base, and $1903.  Shortly after the arrest, Manchester police officers executed a search warrant on Andrade’s residence and seized a Ruger.380 pistol, 25.64 grams of cocaine base, and approximately 250.8 grams of fentanyl.

            Andrade previously pleaded guilty on September 30, 2019.  In addition to his prison sentence, Andrade forfeited the firearm, ammunition, and over $2,000 to the United States.

            “Drugs and guns are a potentially deadly combination,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Armed drug dealers are a serious threat to public safety.  To protect communities in the Granite State, we will not hesitate to seek lengthy prison sentences for drug traffickers who use or possess guns.”

            “Gun and drug crimes are a scourge on our communities and hold good citizens hostage in their homes. Everyone deserves a community where they feel safe,” said Special Agent in Kelly D. Brady.  “ATF is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to make sure they have it. We will continue to use our resources to take armed drug dealers off our streets and put them behind bars where they belong.”

            “Getting a known drug dealer like Brandon Andrade off the street is a great accomplishment,” says Manchester Police Chief Carlo Capano, “The Manchester Special Enforcement Division worked long hours to investigate this individual  and this positive result is a testament to the hard work this agency does every day as we work diligently to keep our city safe.”

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

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

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

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            CONCORD – Abelino Morales-Padilla, 38, of Manchester, was sentenced to 42 months in federal prison for fentanyl trafficking on Friday, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, in October 2018, Morales-Padilla conspired with others to distribute fentanyl.  On October 16, 2018, a confidential informant informed police that Morales-Padilla would be coming from Massachusetts to New Hampshire with a large quantity of fentanyl.  Police officers identified the car and stopped Morales-Padilla for traffic violations in Londonderry.  Law enforcement officers later located approximately 424 grams of fentanyl inside the vehicle.

            Morales-Padilla previously pleaded guilty on July 30, 2019. 

            “Interstate fentanyl traffickers endanger our citizens by making this deadly substance available for sale in New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “We will not tolerate this hazardous and unlawful conduct.  Those who transport fentanyl into the Granite State will be prosecuted and sentenced to federal prison.”

            “Morales-Padilla and the other members of this drug trafficking organization believed they could operate with impunity selling fentanyl and other deadly narcotics for profit with no regard to human life,” said Jason J. Molina, acting special agent in charge for HSI Boston. “HSI and our law enforcement partners remain committed to putting any organization that is flooding our streets with fentanyl out of business and behind bars.”

            This matter was investigated by the U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the New Hampshire State Police.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John Davis. 

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          CONCORD – Christopher C. Cantwell, 39, of Keene, was indicted by a federal grand jury and charged with making extortionate communications and sending interstate threats, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

          The indictment alleges that on June 16, 2019, Cantwell threatened to injure another person if the victim of the threat did not provide Cantwell with personal information about a third party.

          Cantwell was arrested on January 23, 2020.  He is being held in custody pending a detention hearing on January 28, 2020. 

          Cantwell’s trial has been scheduled for March 3 2020.

          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.

          An indictment is merely an allegation and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. 

 

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          CONCORD - Haley Hansler, 33, of Rochester, pleaded guilty in federal court on Tuesday to participating in a drug trafficking conspiracy and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.  

          According to court documents and statements made in court, Hansler conspired with two other individuals to possess fentanyl with the intent to distribute and to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine.  On November 7, 2018, the New Hampshire State Police (“NHSP”) conducted a vehicle stop of a vehicle driven by Hansler and seized approximately 58 grams of heroin and smaller quantities of crystal “ice” methamphetamine and other narcotics.  Later the same evening, members of the NHSP and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) searched Hansler’s hotel room in Ossipee, New Hampshire and seized approximately 171 grams of crystal “ice” methamphetamine and smaller quantities of fentanyl and other narcotics and Hansler’s semi-automatic handgun.  On December 20, 2018, DEA agents arrested Hansler and a co-conspirator at their Rochester residence and seized approximately 60 grams of fentanyl, as well as four firearms and ammunition.          

          Hansler is scheduled to be sentenced on April 24, 2020.

          “Fentanyl, heroin, and methamphetamine are lethal drugs that have caused serious harm to the people of New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “The danger of drug trafficking is further enhanced when drug dealers are outfitted with firearms. The brave law enforcement officers who confront them deserve every protection the law can provide.  Accordingly, we are committed to vigorously prosecuting traffickers who choose to possess firearms in furtherance of their drug trade.” 

          This investigation was the product of an investigation 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. 

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

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            CONCORD - Phillip R. Andrews, 80, of Gilford, pleaded guilty in federal court on Wednesday, to transportation of child pornography, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on or before June 13, 2016, Andrews used his cellular phone to produce sexually explicit images of a child under eighteen years of age.  These images were uploaded onto his social media accounts using the internet.

            Andrews is scheduled to be sentenced on April 28, 2020.

            “Protecting the innocence of children is a top priority for federal law enforcement agencies,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Those who create, transport or distribute child pornography do grave harm to the victims who are portrayed in these images.  In order to safeguard our young people, we work closely with HSI and all of our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute child exploitation and child pornography crimes.”

            “The conduct of Mr. Andrews will never be tolerated in any way, shape or form.  The protection of innocent minors will always be an investigative priority of HSI. Investigations like this are a prime example of our public safety mission,” said, Jason Molina, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Boston.   “HSI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to stand up for the victims who are subjected to unacceptable abuse with each and every downloaded image.”  

            This matter was investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Gilford 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.

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