District of New Hampshire
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Manchester Man Pleads Guilty to Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Robert R. Costello, 28, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court to bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on December 14, 2016, Costello walked into a Citizens Bank in Manchester, New Hampshire, and told the teller to give him money, using words to the effect of, "I don't want to hurt anybody but I'm desperate and it could happen." The teller gave Costello a quantity of United States currency. Surveillance cameras captured images of the robbery, which were broadcast on the news and in social media. Following tips from a number of individuals, Manchester police were able to identify Costello, who was apprehended on December 20, 2016.
Costello is scheduled to be sentenced on October 11, 2018.
“Bank robberies are violent crimes that threaten the safety of our citizens.” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “We are committed to working with all of our law enforcement partners to combat crimes of violence, protect our citizens and improve the safety and security of our state.”
This matter was investigated by the Manchester Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Dronzek.
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Lawrence, Massachusetts Man Sentenced on Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
CONCORD – United States attorney Scott W. Murray announced today that Yoelfi Feliz, 21, of Lawrence, Massachusetts was sentenced to 70 months in federal prison for obtaining firearms in exchange for drugs.
According to court documents and statements made in court, from March 8, 2017, through April 13, 2017, Feliz conspired with another individual to purchase eight firearms in exchange for drugs and to pay down a drug debt. The co-conspirator claimed that he started purchasing firearms for Feliz because he owed Feliz money for heroin that Feliz had “fronted” him. According to the co-conspirator, he ran up a drug debt of approximately $2000. The co-conspirator stated that Feliz asked him to buy firearms as a way to pay off his debt. One of the firearms was recovered after a juvenile in Lawrence, Massachusetts shot himself in the hand with the firearm.
Feliz previously pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to make a false statement during the acquisition of a firearm and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
“Placing guns in the hands of drug traffickers endangers everyone,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “We will work closely with all of our law enforcement partners to prevent the illegal sale of firearms and fully prosecute those who commit crimes involving firearms.”
“When individuals illegally obtain numerous firearms, it is likely they will end up in the hands of criminals which puts the public's safety at risk. ATF is focused on using every investigative technique available to remove all illegal firearms from our streets in order to keep our communities safe,” said Mickey Leadingham Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division.
The matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Lawrence, Massachusetts Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Debra M. Walsh and Assistant United States Attorney Charles Rombeau prosecuted the case.
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Inmates at FCI-Berlin Sentenced after Assaulting another InmateRead the Press Release
CONCORD – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today that Leonard Johnson and Robert Dales, both inmates at the Federal Correctional Institution FCI-Berlin, were sentenced to 12 months and 10 months, respectively for assaulting another inmate at the prison. The court ordered that their sentences run consecutively to the sentences they are currently serving.
According to documents filed with the court and statements made during the sentencing hearings, on May 23, 2017, Johnson and Dales were in Unit A-4 of the prison when they attacked another inmate. The attack, which was captured on videotape, included Johnson and Dales punching, kicking and stomping on their victim. Johnson and Dales continued the attack even though prison staff ordered them to stop. Only after the defendants were threatened with use of pepper spray did the attack end.
The victim was treated for his injuries at Androscoggin Valley Hospital. He suffered lacerations and bruising to his head, eyes, and ears.
Both defendants previously pleaded guilty to committing the assault.
The staff at FCI-Berlin conducted the investigation of this case. Assistant United States Attorney Donald A. Feith prosecuted the case.
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Merrimack Man Pleads Guilty to Theft of Public MoneyRead the Press Release
CONCORD - David Laughton, 52, of Merrimack, pleaded guilty in federal court to two counts of theft of public money, announced United States Attorney Scott W. Murray.
According to court documents and statements made in court, at the time of her death in June 2005, Laughton's mother was receiving widow’s benefits from the Social Security Administration ("SSA") and federal pension benefits from the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC"), a wholly-owned United States government corporation. After her death, SSA and PBGC continued to deposit these monthly benefits into her bank account. Though he was not an account holder, Laughton gained access to his mother's bank account and knew that SSA and PBGC made regular deposits to the account. However, Laughton did not advise SSA or PBGC that they were making erroneous payments to his deceased mother and instead, for over a decade, he withdrew the money from the account to pay for his own personal expenses. As a result, Laughton converted approximately $118,031 in Social Security benefits and $54,376 in federal pension benefits to his own use.
Laughton is scheduled to be sentenced on September 28, 2018.
“Federal benefit programs serve an important purpose,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “We work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify instances of fraud and abuse in these programs to ensure that these benefits only go to those who are entitled to receive them.”
Special Agent in Charge Scott Antolik said: Protecting the Social Security Trust Fund is one of my office’s highest priorities. I thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their partnership in prosecuting those who seek to defraud the government”. I strongly encourage the public to report suspected instances of Social Security fraud to the OIG's Fraud Hotline at 1-800-269-0271 or https://oig.ssa.gov/report."
This matter was investigated by the Social Security Administration’s Office of the Inspector General. The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew T. Hunter and Karen B. Burzycki.
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Maine Man Sentenced to 48 Months in Prison for Investment Fraud Scheme and Failing to File Federal Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
CONCORD - William Bischoff, 76, of York, Maine, was sentenced to serve 48 months in prison for operating a multi-million dollar investment fraud scheme and failing to file federal income tax returns, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, from 2009 through September 2017, Bischoff defrauded more than two dozen clients of his financial advisory business by falsely promising to invest their money in real estate, structured legal settlements, high yield notes, and a start-up recycling business. He further guaranteed returns that far exceeded market norms. Bischoff sent many solicitations to the victims of the fraud scheme by e-mail.
In total, Bischoff stole $5,647,446.33 from the defrauded investors. To conceal that conduct, Bischoff used money he received from some victim investors to make payments to other victim investors. He also provided monthly account statements to the victim investors that falsely represented the balance of their (fictitious) investment accounts.
Bischoff’s also failed to file individual federal tax returns for the four-year period from 2011 to 2015, which resulted in a $568,845 tax revenue loss to the U.S. Treasury.
Bischoff pleaded guilty on March 9, 2018, to one count of wire fraud and one count of willfully failing to file federal tax returns.
“It is hard to comprehend the emotional and financial harm that Mr. Bischoff inflicted on the victims of his criminal conduct,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “It is my sincere hope that the prosecution of this case will deter other people from engaging in similar conduct. Those who commit financial crimes should understand that we will aggressively prosecute them and will not hesitate to recommend substantial prison sentences.”
“Mr. Bischoff betrayed his unsuspecting clients and defrauded them out of millions of dollars through an elaborate scheme he devised for his own personal gain,” said Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Boston Division. “The FBI is committed to working with our law enforcement partners in rooting out those who engage in financial crimes like this. Those who abuse their positions of trust to illegally enrich themselves will be held accountable for their actions.”
The Deputy Director of the New Hampshire Bureau of Securities Regulation, Jeffrey Spill, said, "The Bureau was pleased to do its part in this coordinated investigation. When the fraud was uncovered, the agencies acted quickly to shut the scheme down which prevented further losses."
"The role of IRS Criminal Investigation becomes even more important in embezzlement and fraud cases due to the complex financial transactions that can take time to unravel," said Special Agent in Charge Kristina O’Connell of Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Boston Field Office. "The federal tax laws are routinely violated in these cases which can add additional jail time. “
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, and the New Hampshire Bureau of Securities Regulation. Assistant United States Attorney Robert Kinsella prosecuted the case, which was originally handled by former Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Morse.
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Manchester Woman Sentenced to 6 months for Straw Purchase of Firearm for Massachusetts FelonRead the Press Release
CONCORD – Jessica Fithian, 34, of Manchester, New Hampshire, was sentenced in federal court to 6 months in prison for purchasing a firearm for a Massachusetts felon, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Fithian agreed with co-defendant Matthew Bergeron to purchase a firearm, ammunition, and an extended clip magazine on Bergeron’s behalf in July and August 2016, from a federally licensed firearms dealer in Hooksett, New Hampshire. In completing the purchase of the firearm, Fithian falsely stated that she was purchasing the firearm for herself when she was, in fact, purchasing it for Bergeron. At the time, Bergeron was a previously convicted felon and a resident of Massachusetts, and could not legally purchase firearms for himself in New Hampshire. The scheme to acquire the firearm came to light after the firearm was recovered in late August 2016 in connection with a shooting incident in Leominster, Massachusetts, where Bergeron was present.
A federal grand jury indicted Fithian and Bergeron in November 2016. Bergeron previously pleaded guilty to his conduct involving Ms. Fithian and an additional individual, and was sentenced to 78 months imprisonment in June 2017. Fithian pleaded guilty in March 2017. Following the completion of her term of imprisonment, Fithian has been ordered to serve a term of 3 years of supervised release.
“In order to reduce violent crime and protect our community, we must prevent convicted felons from obtaining firearms” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The imposition of a prison sentence in this case should serve as a warning to those who would be willing to provide firearms to felons.”
“ATF is determined to keep guns out of the hands of criminals. Far too many violent crimes result from straw purchasers buying guns for people who are prohibited from having them. ATF will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to pursue and arrest those who commit these criminal acts,” said ATF Assistant Special Agent in Charge Lawrence Panetta.
This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. 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. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles L. Rombeau.
The case is part of ATF’s Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative, 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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Seabrook Resident Pleads Guilty to Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CONCORD - United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today that Richard Silvestri, 49, of Seabrook, New Hampshire, pleaded guilty to two counts of producing child pornography.
According to court documents and statements made in court, sometime before December 7, 2017, Silvestri produced visual depictions of an eight-year-old minor female engaging in sexually explicit activity. Silvestri used a Samsung cellular phone to produce the images. Silvestri’s activities were discovered based on a lead from an undercover agent of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) based in Alaska. That agent notified the Bedford office of the FBI and Silvestri was arrested on December 7, 2017 in Seabrook.
A sentencing hearing is scheduled for September 27, 2018.
“The production of child pornography is a terrible crime that causes real damage to its young victims,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to locate and prosecute individuals who engage in this unlawful conduct and to seek justice for the victims whose lives are affected by these predators.”
“Mr. Silvestri is finally accepting responsibility for his atrocious actions. He repeatedly abused an innocent child. Few, if any, crimes are more outrageous. That’s why the FBI will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to protect our children from predators like him,” said Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Boston Division.
The FBI and the Seabrook Police Department participated in the investigation of this case. Staff from the Rockingham County Child Advocacy Center also assisted in the case. Assistant United States Attorneys Donald A. Feith and Helen White Fitzgibbon prosecuted the case.
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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Manchester Man Sentenced to 20 Months in Prison for Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
CONCORD - David Hamilton, 20, of Manchester, was sentenced in federal court to 20 months in federal prison for aiding and abetting the straw purchase of a firearm, and for being a prohibited drug user in possession of a firearm, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in September 2016, Manchester Police responded to reports of shots fired, followed by a car accident. When police arrived at the scene, the occupants of the vehicle had fled, leaving behind a pistol. Upon further investigation, agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) learned that in June 2016, Hamilton persuaded another individual to “straw purchase” the pistol on Hamilton’s behalf. Specifically, when the purchaser filled out the paperwork required for purchasing the pistol, he falsely stated that he was purchasing it for himself, and not for Hamilton, in violation of federal law.
Approximately two months after the straw purchase, in August 2016, a Manchester Police Officer observed Hamilton – who had an outstanding warrant for his arrest – walking across the Granite Street Bridge in Manchester, New Hampshire. As the officer approached, Hamilton threw a pistol over the sidewalk railing. Police arrested Hamilton and recovered the pistol, which was found to have an obliterated serial number. At the time, Hamilton was an unlawful drug user, and was therefore prohibited from possessing a firearm.
“Those who unlawfully obtain firearms present a serious risk to public safety,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to working aggressively to combat violent crime, in all of its forms. Those who choose to use firearms to commit crimes in New Hampshire will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
“Today’s sentencing is another example of the importance of law enforcement partnerships and their effectiveness in protecting the safety and security of communities,” said Special Agent in Charge Mickey Ledingham. “ATF will continue to combat violent crime and to keep guns out of the hands of criminals.”
This matter was investigated by the ATF and the Manchester Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shane Kelbley.
The case is part of ATF’s Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative, 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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Inmate at FCI-Berlin Sentenced to Six Months Additional Prison Time for Attempting to Obtain Drugs in PrisonRead the Press Release
CONCORD – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today that Antonio Priester, 37, an inmate at FCI-Berlin was sentenced to six months in federal prison after pleading guilty to one count of attempting to possess prohibited objects within a federal prison. The prohibited objects Priester was attempting to possess were Schedule I controlled substances known as DMT and jwh-018.
According to documents filed with the court and statements made at the change of plea hearing, in March 2017 Priester sent a number of emails to several individuals directing them to web sites through which the controlled substances could be obtained. He directed one individual to purchase jwh-018 from a particular web site. Priester also provided directions for sneaking the substances into the prison.
The sentence imposed in connection with this charge must be served consecutively to any sentence currently being served by Priester.
The Bureau of Prisons investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Donald A. Feith prosecuted the case.
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Manchester Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Heroin TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced that Alfredo Gonzalez, 50, of Manchester was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for his involvement in a heroin trafficking conspiracy.
In November of 2017, a jury convicted Gonzalez of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with the intent to distribute, more than one kilogram of heroin.
Evidence presented at the trial established that Gonzalez was a Manchester-based heroin trafficker who purchased heroin from a Massachusetts-based drug trafficking organization run by Alberto Guerrero Marte. The trial evidence proved that Gonzalez negotiated deals to obtain at least 1.4 kilograms of heroin in June and July 2016. On July 10, 2016, surveillance agents followed Gonzalez from Manchester to a restaurant in Lawrence, where Gonzalez met Marte and others to conduct a deal for 500 grams of heroin. A law enforcement officer later stopped a vehicle operated by a runner for Gonzalez and seized 504.4 grams of heroin.
After serving his prison sentence, Gonzalez will be on supervised release for ten years.
“Those who choose to sell heroin and other dangerous drugs in New Hampshire will be held fully accountable for their actions,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “These drugs have caused tremendous harm to our community and continue to generate record numbers of overdose deaths. In order to safeguard the lives and safety of our citizens, we will continue to work alongside our law enforcement partners to prosecute drug dealers to the fullest extent of the law.”
“DEA is committed to investigating and dismantling Drug Trafficking Organizations and individuals like Mr. Gonzalez who are responsible for distributing lethal drugs like heroin to the citizens of New Hampshire,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle. “Today’s substantial sentence not only holds Mr. Gonzalez accountable for his crimes but serves as a warning to those traffickers who are fueling the opioid epidemic with deadly drugs in order to profit and destroy people’s lives. DEA’s top priority is combatting the opioid epidemic by working with our local, county, state and federal partners to bring to justice anyone who distributes this poison.”
This matter was investigated by the DEA; Homeland Security Investigations; the Massachusetts State Police; the Haverhill Police Department; the United States Marshals Service; the New Hampshire State Police; the Manchester Police Department; the Lawrence Police Department; the Lowell Police Department, the Methuen Police Department, and the Hillsborough County Drug Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney Donald A. Feith prosecuted the case.
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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Exeter Man Sentenced to Six Months of Home Detention for Making False Statements to Obtain Social Security BenefitsRead the Press Release
CONCORD – Brett Gessay, 55, of Exeter, was sentenced to six months of home detention and two years of probation and was ordered to pay full restitution to the Social Security Administration for making a false statement in order to obtain Social Security benefits, announced United States Attorney Scott W. Murray.
According to public records in the case, Gessay began receiving Social Security disability benefits in January 2007. Beginning in at least January of 2008, Gessay was self-employed as a construction worker. His income from this job rendered him ineligible to get most of the Social Security disability benefits that he received while he was self-employed. Gessay did not report this work activity to the Social Security Administration (SSA), and concealed his self-employment and self-employment income from the SSA. In mid-2016, Gessay admitted to investigators that he had concealed his work and income from the SSA in order to continue receiving disability benefits. As a result of his concealment, Gessay received over $48,000 in disability benefits that he was not entitled to receive.
“Federal benefit programs exist for those who truly need them,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Those who use fraud to cheat the system are defrauding federal taxpayers and undermining the integrity of the system. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who seek to defraud federal benefit programs.”
Special Agent in Charge Scott Antolik from the SSA Office of the Inspector General said, “This sentencing should serve as a warning to people who choose to selfishly defraud Social Security’s disability programs. We would also like to thank the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, Special Investigations Unit for its assistance with this investigation. I strongly encourage the public to report suspected instances of Social Security fraud to the OIG’s Fraud Hotline at 1-800-269-0271 or https://oig.ssa.gov/report.”
The case was investigated by the Social Security Administration’s Office of the Inspector General, New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, Special Investigations Unit, and prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew T. Hunter and Karen B. Burzycki.
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Somersworth Man Sentenced to 25 Years for Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Matthew Felton, 38, of Somersworth, was sentenced to serve 25 years in federal prison followed by lifetime supervised release for production of child pornography, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, the defendant used several social media accounts to disguise his identity, pose as a female representative of a modeling agency, and solicit sexually explicit photographs of young girls purportedly to help them secure modeling contracts. Specifically, he persuaded three girls (ages 12 through 14), all of whom were located in Canada, to photograph themselves engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The girls sent the photographs to the defendant over the Internet.
Felton pleaded guilty on January 18, 2018.
“The defendant’s conduct here justified this long prison sentence,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “On-line predators such as this defendant cause substantial harm to their young victims and must be incarcerated in order to protect the public. We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who use the Internet to victimize children in order to produce and distribute child pornography.”
“This case was a great example of what strong coordination among federal, state, and local law enforcement and prosecutors can achieve in combatting the scourge of child pornography and child endangerment from those who would engage in such depraved acts”, said Michael Shea, Acting Special Agent–In -Charge, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Boston. “HSI is committed to ensuring that justice is delivered against these type of predators.”
This matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and law enforcement authorities in Canada. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana L. Konesky.
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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Nashua Man Sentenced to 27 Months in Prison for Failing to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
Concord - United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced that Thomas William Hickey, 34, of Nashua was sentenced on Tuesday to serve 27 months in prison for failing to register as a sex offender.
According to statements made in court, Hickey was convicted in Florida in 2003 of lewd or lascivious molestation of a 12-year-old girl. As a result of that conviction, he was required by law to register as a sex offender. After his release from prison, Hickey later registered as a sex offender in Florida and Massachusetts.
In July of 2017, the Nashua Police Department reported to the United States Marshals Service (USMS) that it had received a tip that Hickey was a sex offender who had been living in Nashua for a period of months without registering. The USMS confirmed with Massachusetts authorities that Hickey was in fact a sex offender who had been living in Massachusetts. The Massachusetts authorities were unaware that Hickey had moved to New Hampshire.
Hickey later was interviewed by a Deputy U.S. Marshal and a Nashua Police Detective and admitted that he had moved to New Hampshire in 2017 because he did not want people to know he was a sex offender.
Hickey previously pleaded guilty to this offense on February 6, 2018. After serving his prison sentence, he will be on supervised release for five years.
“Maintaining the safety of our children is a primary objective of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “By aggressively prosecuting sex offenders who fail to comply with their registration obligations, we are attempting to protect our community’s children from being victimized. I am grateful to the United States Marshals Service and the Nashua Police Department for locating this individual who sought to prevent the public from learning about his status as a sex offender.”
“This investigation was a combined effort between the New Hampshire Joint Fugitive Task Force and the Nashua NH Police Department. Since the inception of the New Hampshire Joint Fugitive Task Force in 2002, these partnerships have resulted in over 7,029 arrests,” said Chief Deputy Brenda Mikelson of the USMS. “These arrests have ranged in seriousness from murder, assault, unregistered sex offenders, probation and parole violations and numerous other serious offenses. Nationally the USMS fugitive programs are carried out with local law enforcement in 94 district offices, 85 local fugitive task forces, 8 regional task forces, as well as a growing network of offices in foreign countries.”
This case was investigated by the USMS and the Nashua Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Arnold Huftalen.
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Manchester Man Sentenced to 180 Months in Prison for Illegal Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Michael Roman Burghardt, 34, of Manchester, was sentenced to serve 180 months in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, law enforcement agents began an investigation after receiving information from a reliable source that Burghardt was carrying a firearm. At the time, Burghardt was a previously convicted felon and could not legally possess any firearms. On arresting Burghardt on an unrelated warrant, agents found him to be carrying a gun consistent with the information they had received.
Burghart, who previously pleaded guilty on December 8, 2017, will be on supervised release for three years after serving his sentence.
“In order to keep our community safe, we must keep guns out of the hands of criminals,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to reduce violence by aggressively enforcing federal law. I commend the work of the law enforcement officers whose work led to this prosecution.”
“Today’s sentencing is another example of the importance of law enforcement partnerships and their effectiveness in protecting the safety and security of communities,” said Special Agent in charge Mickey Leadingham of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. “ATF’s top priority is to combat violent crime and keep guns out of the hands of violent offenders and keep criminals off the streets.”
This matter was investigated by the Manchester Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Dronzek.
The case is part of ATF’s Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative, which is a federally-funded program intended to reduce gun violence through law enforcement training, public education, and aggressive law enforcement efforts to investigate and prosecute gun-related crimes.
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California Resident Pleads Guilty to Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CONCORD - United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today that Michael Gutierrez, 34, of Pomona, California, pleaded guilty to five counts of producing child pornography.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Gutierrez contacted minor females in New Hampshire through social media and initiated conversations with them through social media platforms. Gutierrez represented himself to be a 14-year-old female and used the usernames of “Chloe_is_Awesum,” “spamaccount.c” and “Doogteg.” Gutierrez persuaded the minor females to send him sexually explicit images. Gutierrez then demanded additional sexually explicit images from the minor females and threatened to distribute the images already provided if the minor females did not comply. Gutierrez collected the images in 2015 and 2016. In late 2016, a mother to one of the victims discovered the demands made by Gutierrez and reported them to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The FBI’s investigation led to the identification of Gutierrez.
A sentencing hearing is scheduled for September 25, 2018.
“Protecting our children from exploitation is a vitally important priority for this office and essential to the well-being of our entire community,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “This case shows how predators can use the anonymity of the internet to manipulate young victims. We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who engage in such disturbing conduct.”
“Gutierrez’s offenses are heinous and the impact on his victims is immeasurable. He not only abused and exploited vulnerable children, he re-victimized them over and over again because the horrific images stay in circulation forever,” said Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Boston Division. “The FBI will continue to do everything in its power to stop children from being exploited and bring to justice those responsible. This case is a great example of the work that can be done when state and federal law enforcement officers collaborate across state lines.”
“This case was a great example of what strong coordination among federal, state, and local law enforcement and prosecutors can achieve in protecting our communities from predators who engage in child pornography,” said Peter C. Fitzhugh. Special Agent–In -Charge, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Boston. “HSI is committed to continuing our fight against these type of predators.”
The FBI the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the Goffstown Police Department, the Milford Police Department, the New Boston Police Department, the Mont Vernon Police Department, and the Manchester Police Department all participated in the investigation of this case. Staff from the Hillsborough County Child Advocacy Center also assisted in the case. Assistant United States Attorneys Donald A. Feith and Helen White Fitzgibbon are prosecuting the case.
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 Attorneys, 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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Manchester Man Convicted of Interstate Transportation of a Minor for SexRead the Press Release
CONCORD – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced that a jury found Kurt Carpentino, 34, of Manchester, New Hampshire, guilty of transporting a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity.
In a trial that began on June 7, 2018 and ended with the jury’s verdict on June 11, 2018, evidence demonstrated that Carpentino transported a person under the age of 18 from New Hampshire to Vermont with intent to engage in sexual activity.
Evidence at trial showed that on April 27, 2017, the Hinsdale, New Hampshire Police Department received a report of a missing 14-year-old child. The child was found later that morning at an abandoned motel owned by the defendant’s sister in Rockingham, Vermont. The child told the police that the defendant took her to the motel and that they had sex there. The defendant was observed driving by the motel and arrested nearby. Later that day, he admitted to taking the child from New Hampshire to Vermont and having sex with her at the hotel. A few weeks later, the defendant wrote the victim letters from jail, attempting to get her to recant her statement to the police.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 19, 2018. The defendant faces a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years and a maximum sentence of life in prison.
“Those who prey on children will be prosecuted aggressively,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “There is no place in our community for those who attempt to rob children of their innocence. I am grateful for the courage of the young victim, as well as the hard work and dedication of the investigators and prosecutors who secured this guilty verdict.”
The investigation in this case was led by the Vermont State Police, Homeland Security Investigations in Manchester, New Hampshire, the Hinsdale, New Hampshire Police Department, the Manchester, New Hampshire Police Department, the Springfield, Vermont Police Department, and the New Hampshire State Police, with the assistance of the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Seth R. Aframe and Georgiana L. Konesky.
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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Epsom Woman Sentenced to Eight Years in Prison on Fentanyl Trafficking and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
CONCORD – Nicole Roskos, 30, of Epsom, was sentenced to eight years in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, announced United States Attorney Scott W. Murray.
According to court documents and statements made in court, the investigation began when the defendant sold fentanyl to a cooperating individual. In September of 2017, police executed a search warrant at the defendant’s residence and found four firearms, ammunition, over 511 grams of fentanyl, and approximately $24,000.
Roskos previously pleaded guilty to the charges on March 2, 2018. After she is released from prison, the defendant will serve a three-year term of supervised release.
“The deadly combination of fentanyl trafficking and firearms pose a substantial threat to public safety,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “We will continue to work with all of our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who distribute deadly drugs such as fentanyl. It should be noted, that drug dealers who choose to use guns to further their unlawful activities subject themselves to longer prison terms when convicted.”
This matter was investigated by the New Hampshire State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana L. Konesky.
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Massachusetts Man Sentenced to 210 Months in Prison for Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
Concord - United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced that Eric Treantos, 38, of Lynn, Massachusetts was sentenced today to serve 210 months in prison for child pornography offenses.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in August of 2015, a police officer in Australia was conducting an undercover investigation into possible possession and distribution of child pornography through the internet. The officer identified a suspect who had posted suspicious images, including a number of images depicting a girl who appeared to be under the age of 10. The undercover police officer and the suspect later exchanged emails and the suspect sent the officer additional images of the same young girl.
An investigation into the email account showed that the suspect was in New Hampshire when he sent emails to the undercover police officer in Australia. Investigators later identified the suspect as Treantos. Treantos was arrested on September 23, 2015, and has been in custody since that date.
Treantos pleaded guilty on July 31, 2017, to possession of child pornography and distribution of child pornography. After his prison sentence, Treantos will be on supervised release for the rest of his life.
“The distribution of child pornography is a particularly horrific crime that can gravely damage its innocent victims,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office works closely with its law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who exploit children by distributing these terrible images. This case is yet another example of that great teamwork.”
“Today’s significant sentence is a clear demonstration of the consequences awaiting, and should serve as a sobering reminder to, those who engage in the possession and distribution of child pornography” said Peter C. Fitzhugh, Special Agent In Charge, U.S. Immigrations and Customs and Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Boston “We strongly applaud the close coordination among our Australian partners, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC) with our team of dedicated HSI agents that brought about this sentencing. This case highlights the critical importance of local, state, federal and international law enforcement cooperation in fighting the growth of these very disturbing crimes that can reach from local communities out across the world and back again.”
This case was investigated by U.S. Immigrations and Customs and Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, Boston, with assistance from Queensland Police Service in Australia, and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Arnold H. Huftalen.
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 to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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Vermont Man Sentenced to over Ten Years in Prison for Child Sexual OffensesRead the Press Release
CONCORD – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced that Joseph Norko, 51, of Saint Johnsbury, Vermont, was sentenced on Friday to serve 121 months in prison for attempting to arrange sexual encounters with children.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Norko’s charges were based on two online undercover investigations. One investigation was conducted by the Portsmouth Police Department and one was conducted by the Lebanon Police Department. In July of 2017, the defendant responded to an online advertisement posted by a Portsmouth police officer purporting to offer sex with a 12-year-old girl. In September of 2017, he responded to an online advertisement posted by a Lebanon police officer purporting to be a 15-year-old girl. The defendant then traveled from Vermont to New Hampshire in order to engage in sexual contact with the person he thought was 15 years old.
Norko pleaded guilty to two counts of attempted online enticement and one count of interstate travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual activity on February 22, 2018. His prison sentence will be followed by ten years of supervised release.
“Protecting children from predators is an important priority of the U.S. Attorney’s Office,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Sadly, there are predators who use the anonymity of the Internet to locate and prey upon young victims. We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to protect the safety of the children from those who would rob them of their innocence.”
“Online exploitation of children is one of the most disturbing crimes we investigate. It’s always very satisfying when our close coordination with our federal and state partners successfully brings the predators who engage in this behavior to justice,” said Peter C. Fitzhugh, Special Agent in Charge for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations in Boston.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, Rockingham County Attorney’s Office, Grafton County Attorney’s Office, Vermont State Police, the Lebanon Police Department, the Portsmouth Police Department, and the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, which includes members of several other police departments. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana L. Konesky.
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 to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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U.S. Attorney's Office in New Hampshire to Receive Two New Assistant U.S. Attorneys to Focus on Violent Crime and Civil EnforcementRead the Press Release
CONCORD – On the 500th day of the Trump Administration, Attorney General Jeff Sessions and U.S. Attorney for the District of New Hampshire Scott W. Murray announced that the Department of Justice is taking a dramatic step to increase resources to combat violent crime and help roll back the devastating opioid crisis in New Hampshire.
In the largest increase in decades, the Department of Justice is allocating 311 new Assistant United States Attorneys to assist in priority areas. The District of New Hampshire will receive two of these attorneys. One will focus of violent crime, while the other will concentrate on civil enforcement of federal laws.
“Under President Trump's strong leadership, the Department of Justice is going on offense against violent crime, illegal immigration, and the opioid crisis—and today we are sending in reinforcements,” said Attorney General Jeff Sessions. “We have a saying in my office that a new federal prosecutor is 'the coin of the realm.' When we can eliminate wasteful spending, one of my first questions to my staff is if we can deploy more prosecutors to where they are needed. I have personally worked to re-purpose existing funds to support this critical mission, and as a former federal prosecutor myself, my expectations could not be higher. These exceptional and talented prosecutors are key leaders in our crime fighting partnership. This addition of new Assistant U.S. Attorney positions represents the largest increase in decades.”
U.S. Attorney Murray welcomed the announcement, saying “The horrible opioid crisis plaguing New Hampshire has brought with it great suffering, including thousands of overdose deaths, illnesses and violent criminal activity associated with the drug trade. Given limited resources, the additional prosecutor is critical to our ability to combat crimes of violence that endanger our citizens, especially those involving firearms. The new civil enforcement attorney will allow us to directly confront one of the factors contributing to the crisis. Specifically, we will take aggressive action against practitioners who prescribe or distribute controlled substances in an illegal, irresponsible manner. We will also step up our efforts to pursue civil remedies against health care providers who defraud Medicare and other federal benefit programs.”
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Manchester Man Pleads Guilty to Oxycodone Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
CONCORD - United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced that Christopher Chandonnais, 26, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court to oxycodone trafficking charges.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on October 19, 2017, the Nashua Police Department conducted surveillance of the defendant making a drug sale to another drug distributor. They subsequently searched the defendant’s vehicle and recovered approximately 90 oxycodone pills and over $11,000. The investigation confirmed that the defendant regularly sold oxycodone pills and made a profit of approximately $10 per pill sold.
Chandonnais pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, controlled substances and possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute. He is scheduled to be sentenced on September 14, 2018.
“The opioid problem in our state is fueled, in part, by the use and abuse of oxycodone,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to prosecute those who unlawfully distribute these substances.”
This matter was investigated by the Nashua Police Department, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana L. Konesky.
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Manchester Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing FirearmsRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Daniel Sullivan, 35, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court to illegally possessing firearms, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2015 and 2016, Sullivan purchased and traded several firearms in New Hampshire with the help of his partner, Sara Johnson. At the time of these transactions, Sullivan was a convicted felon who could not legally possess firearms. In several instances, Sullivan contacted private individuals who had posted firearms for sale online, then utilized Johnson – who was not a convicted felon – to assist in the purchase of the firearms. Once these firearms transactions came to the attention of law enforcement, federal agents obtained a search warrant for Sullivan and Johnson’s residence, which resulted in the seizure of a .40 caliber pistol with an obliterated serial number.
Sullivan is scheduled to be sentenced on September 12, 2018.
Johnson pleaded guilty to firearms charges on February 15, 2018. She is scheduled to be sentenced on June 27, 2018.
“Violent crime threatens the safety of our citizens and the fabric of our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Protecting the residents of the Granite State from violence and gun-related crimes is one of the highest priorities of the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Through the Project Safe Neighborhoods Initiative, we work with our law enforcement partners each day to keep guns out of the hands of criminals and reduce the risk of violence.”
“Firearms trafficking continues to be a top priority for ATF and our law enforcement partners and we are committed to identifying and disrupting the sources of illegal firearms which jeopardize the safety of our communities,” said Special Agent in Charge Mickey Leadingham of Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shane Kelbley.
The case is part of ATF’s Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative, 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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Franconia Man Pleads Guilty to Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD – Jeffrey Bacon, 27, of Franconia, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 18, 2017, law enforcement officers from the Franconia, Sugar Hill, and Littleton, New Hampshire police departments executed a search warrant for the defendant's apartment in Franconia, New Hampshire. In that apartment, officers found approximately 48 grams of fentanyl.
Bacon is scheduled to be sentenced on September 12, 2018.
“Fentanyl continues to pose a very serious threat to the health and safety of the citizens New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to working with our law enforcement partners throughout the Granite State to identify and prosecute those who are distributing this deadly drug. This case shows that this dangerous drug can be found in all parts of our state.”
This matter was investigated by the Franconia Police Department, with assistance by the Sugar Hill and Littleton Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Dronzek.
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Citizen of Ukraine Pleads Guilty to Participating in Wire Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Yuriy Khalabuda, 37, a citizen of Ukraine, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Khalabuda and another person used scanned images of Best Buy gifts cards on their cell phones to buy Apple products from the Best Buy store in Salem, New Hampshire, in April and May 2017. On May 13, 2017, an employee of the Salem store observed Khalabuda use scanned images of gift cards to buy merchandise worth more than $2,200 and notified the Salem Police Department. Later that day, Khalabuda was arrested by the Salem Police Department for driving without a driver’s license. While investigating Khalabuda’s use of the gift cards, the Salem Police Department obtained a warrant to search a cell phone he possessed at the time of his arrest. During the search, investigators found text messages showing that Khalabuda knew that the gift cards he used at the Salem store had been obtained fraudulently.
Khalabuda will be sentenced on September 12, 2018.
“Unfortunately advances in technology provide more opportunities for fraud,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Prosecuting individuals who fraudulently obtain money and property is an important priority for the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The prosecutors in this office will continue to work diligently with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to aggressively prosecute fraudulent conduct in its many forms.”
"Individuals like Mr. Khalabuda who defraud local businesses drive up prices for all consumers,” said Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Boston Division. “This case should serve as a warning to others that the FBI and our law enforcement partners will aggressively investigate those who commit financial fraud and take advantage of others through their criminal behavior."
The case was investigated by the Salem Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert Kinsella.
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Franconia Man Pleads Guilty to Fentanyl ChargesRead the Press Release
CONCORD- United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced that Jared Peterson, 28, of Franconia, pleaded guilty in federal court fentanyl trafficking charges.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 18, 2017, law enforcement officers from the Franconia, Sugar Hill, and Littleton, New Hampshire police departments executed a search warrant for an apartment in Franconia, New Hampshire that was leased by Peterson. In that apartment, officers found approximately 118 grams of fentanyl. The defendant admitted that he traveled to Massachusetts to purchase the fentanyl and bring it to Franconia, where he and others intended to sell it.
Peterson pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess fentanyl with intent to distribute and possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute. He is scheduled to be sentenced on September 11, 2018.
“Fentanyl continues to present a very serious threat to public safety in New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to working without our law enforcement partners throughout the Granite State to identify and prosecute those who are distributing this deadly drug. I am grateful for the work of the law enforcement officers in this case whose efforts prevented the distribution of a very sizable amount of fentanyl.”
This matter was investigated by the Franconia Police Department, with assistance from the Sugar Hill and Littleton Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Dronzek.
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Massachusetts Woman Sentenced to 120 Months in Prison for Heroin TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD –United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced that Michell DeJesus, 38, of Lowell, Massachusetts was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison and five years of supervised release for participating in a heroin trafficking conspiracy.
Documents filed with the court established that DeJesus participated in a drug trafficking organization between April 2016 and September 2016. DeJesus took orders for heroin from customers in Massachusetts and New Hampshire and directed runners for the organization to make deliveries to those customers.
DeJesus previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, heroin.
“The distribution of heroin and other dangerous drugs presents a substantial risk to public safety,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “We will continue to work collaboratively with our law enforcement partners to identity and prosecute those who profit from the sale of these deadly substances.”
“Opioid abuse is at epidemic levels in the Granite State,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle. “Those responsible for distributing lethal drugs like heroin to the citizens of New Hampshire need to be held accountable for their actions. DEA is committed to aggressively pursuing Drug Trafficking Organizations or individuals who are coming from out of state to distribute this poison in order to profit and destroy people’s lives. This investigation demonstrates the strength and continued commitment of our local, state and federal law enforcement partners.”
This matter was investigated by the DEA; Homeland Security Investigations; the Massachusetts State Police; the Haverhill Police Department; the United States Marshals Service; the New Hampshire State Police; the Manchester Police Department; the Lawrence Police Department; the Lowell Police Department, the Methuen Police Department, and the Hillsborough County Drug Task Force. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Donald Feith.
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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Vermont Man Pleads Guilty to Escape ChargeRead the Press Release
CONCORD - William James Dunn, Jr., 35, previously of Burlington, Vermont, pleaded guilty in federal court to escape from the custody of the Bureau of Prisons, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Dunn has been in federal custody since a felony conviction in 2012 in the United States District Court for the District of Vermont for narcotics distribution. In September of 2017, he was transferred from a Bureau of Prisons facility to the Hampshire House in Manchester, New Hampshire in order to start his pre-release programming. On December 23, 2017, he received a nine-hour furlough to attend a family funeral in Burlington, Vermont. Dunn did not return within the prescribed nine hours and his whereabouts were unknown until he turned himself in to the U.S. Marshals in Burlington, Vermont on the morning of December 27, 2017.
Dunn is scheduled to be sentenced on August 30, 2018.
This matter was investigated by the United States Marshals Service. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles L Rombeau.
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Manchester Man Pleads Guilty to Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD - William Looney, 55, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court to a fentanyl trafficking charge, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in July 2017, the Manchester Police Department received information that Looney was driving from New Hampshire to Massachusetts to purchase large quantities of drugs. On July 28, 2017, law enforcement officers observed Looney travel from Manchester to Massachusetts. When he returned to Massachusetts, officers conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle operated by Looney, who was the subject of an outstanding arrest warrant. In the center console of the vehicle was a package containing approximately 285 grams of fentanyl.
Looney pleaded guilty to one count of possession of 40 grams or more of fentanyl with intent to distribute. He is scheduled to be sentenced on August 30, 2018.
“Fentanyl is a deadly drug that is threatening the safety of our community,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office continues to work closely with our law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute those who are distributing this dangerous substance in New Hampshire. I am grateful to the law enforcement officers who successfully prevented this significant amount of fentanyl from being distributed in the Granite State.”
This matter was investigated by the Manchester Police Department, with assistance from the New Hampshire State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shane Kelbley.
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Massachusetts Man Sentenced to 25 Years for Buying Explosives and Firearms with Intent to Murder Federal Judge, Former AG, and Ex-Wife's HusbandRead the Press Release
CONCORD – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today that Edward McLarnon, 69, of Malden, Massachusetts, was sentenced to serve 25 years in federal prison for receiving firearms with intent to commit murder and other related charges.
After a six-day trial, McLarnon was convicted on January 30, 2018, of: (1) receiving an unregistered silencer; (2) receiving firearms with the intent to commit murder; (3) receiving explosive materials; and (4) receiving an explosive with the intent to harm persons or property.
Evidence presented at trial showed that in October 2015, defendant McLarnon made contact with a person he believed to be an arms dealer (who was actually an undercover FBI agent) for the purpose of buying illegal weapons. After negotiating with the agent at a store in Chichester and paying a total of $700 cash, on November 6, 2015, the defendant took possession of a .22 caliber pistol with silencer, an AK-47 style semi-automatic rifle, and explosives, along with ammunition for the firearms. He then was arrested at a rest stop in Seabrook, NH. The evidence further showed that McLarnon intended to use the weapons to kill his ex-wife's husband, as well as a Boston federal judge and a former Massachusetts Attorney General.
In imposing the 25-year sentence, U.S. District Court Judge Steven J. McAuliffe said “But for some exceptional law enforcement work, you may have caused serious harm to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, the Federal Judiciary and Mr. Douglas."
“This lengthy sentence is an appropriate punishment for this defendant, whose conduct was truly frightening and dangerous,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Because the defendant was frustrated with the legal system, he planned to engage in disturbing acts of violence. We should all be grateful that our law enforcement partners were able to prevent this defendant from putting his violent plan into action. The substantial prison sentence imposed by the court should act as a deterrent to others who might plan to commit violent crimes”.
"Mr. McLarnon went to great lengths and concocted a frightening plan to kill his ex-wife's husband, a sitting federal judge, and a former Massachusetts Attorney General, as a way to express his displeasure with the judicial system. Through the exceptional work and diligence of our Joint Terrorism Task Forces in New Hampshire and Massachusetts, we were able to uncover and disrupt his nefarious plot,” said Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Boston Division. "Today's sentence ensures that he will no longer be in a position to endanger innocent lives for a very long time.”
This matter was investigated by the FBI, U.S. Secret Service, Homeland Security Investigations, Boston, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John S. Davis and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Hunter.
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Franklin Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today that Brian Sanborn, 53, of Franklin, New Hampshire, pleaded guilty to methamphetamine trafficking.
According to court documents and statements in court, on December 8, 2017, the New Hampshire State Police executed search warrants at Sanborn’s residence in Franklin and located approximately 17 grams of nearly pure methamphetamine in the basement of the house. On the same day Sanborn, who previously had been convicted of felonies, possessed seven firearms, including four revolvers, two shotguns, and an SKS rifle.
Sanborn pleaded guilty to possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. He will be sentenced on September 4, 2018.
“Methamphetamine trafficking continues to pose a serious threat to the health of our citizens and the safety of our community,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to stop the distribution of this dangerous drug and to protect our neighborhoods. I want to thank the law enforcement officers whose work shut down and disarmed this drug trafficker.”
This matter was investigated by the New Hampshire State Police, the Franklin Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Agency, and ATF. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John S. Davis.
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Brentwood Man Pleads Guilty to Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Michael Holt, 49, of Brentwood, pleaded guilty in federal court to bank robbery, announced United States Attorney Scott W. Murray.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on January 13, 2018, Michael Holt walked into a TD Bank branch in Stratham, New Hampshire, and gave a teller a note claiming that he had a gun and demanding money. The teller gave Holt a quantity of United States currency. On January 19, 2018, Holt entered a People's United Bank branch in Exeter, New Hampshire, and again gave a teller a note stating that he had a gun and demanding money. He again received a quantity of United States currency. Comparing bank surveillance video of each offense and witness descriptions allowed Stratham and Exeter police to determine that the same person had committed both crimes. Images from the bank surveillance videos were broadcast on local news outlets and distributed via social media, leading to the identification of Holt, who was apprehended soon after.
Holt is scheduled to be sentenced on August 30, 2018.
“Bank robberies are violent crimes that often can jeopardize the safety of bank employees, customers, and other members of the community,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to working with the law enforcement community to combat violent crimes such as bank robberies. By combatting violent crime, our goal is ensure that the citizens of the Granite State feel safe in their local communities.”
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Stratham Police Department, and Exeter Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Dronzek.
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Resident of Quechee, Vermont, Pleads Guilty to Filing False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Kurt Devoid, 60, of Quechee, Vermont, pleaded guilty in federal court today to filing false income tax returns, announced United States Attorney Scott W. Murray.
According to court documents, Devoid is a self-employed painter. Devoid’s personal federal income tax returns for tax years 2010 through 2013 were prepared by a commercial tax preparation office in Lebanon, New Hampshire. On the returns, Devoid reported income he received from commercial customers of his painting business, but failed to report substantial income he received from his residential customers. Devoid’s failure to report the true amount of his personal income during the four year period caused a tax loss of $98,482 to the United States Treasury.
DeVoid will be sentenced on August 22, 2018.
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to working with the IRS to enforce the federal tax laws,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “This prosecution demonstrates that those who submit false or fraudulent tax returns will be held criminally responsible for their actions.”
“The American tax system is designed to provide vital government services to our citizens. It is not a slush fund for tax evaders,” said Kristina O’Connell, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation’s Boston Field Office. “Those who illegally target our nation’s tax dollars for personal financial gain could face criminal prosecution and lengthy prison sentences."
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert M. Kinsella.
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Lawrence Woman Pleads Guilty to Drug Distribution ChargeRead the Press Release
CONCORD – Helen Pamela Flores Feliz, 28, a citizen of the Dominican Republic most recently residing in Lawrence, Massachusetts, pleaded guilty today in federal court to distribution of fentanyl, announced United States Attorney Scott W. Murray.
According to court documents and statements made in court, the defendant sold fentanyl to a coopering individual in Nashua, New Hampshire, on various occasions from May of 2017 to February of 2018. When the defendant was arrested, she attempted to assume a false identity and possessed a fraudulent birth certificate, driver’s license, and United States passport.
A sentencing hearing has been scheduled for August 20, 2018.
“Opioids are killing hundreds of residents of New Hampshire each year,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to target drug trafficking and violent crime. I commend the law enforcement officers for protecting the community from the dangers posed by the fentanyl in this case.”
“Today’s guilty plea sends a strong message: The Diplomatic Security Service is committed to making sure that those who commit identity theft face consequences for their criminal actions,” said William B. Gannon, Special Agent in Charge of the Boston Field Office of the U.S. Department of State's Diplomatic Security Service. “Diplomatic Security’s strong relationship with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and other law enforcement agencies continues to be essential in the pursuit of justice.”
This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Nashua Police Department, and the United States Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana L. Konesky.
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Laconia Man Sentenced to 39 Months in Prison for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD - James Cunningham, 61, of Laconia, was sentenced in federal court to serve 39 months in prison for methamphetamine trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Cunningham, a member of the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club, sold quantities of methamphetamine on four separate occasions in 2013 to an individual who was cooperating with the FBI. Three of the drug transactions took place in Manchester and one occurred in Merrimack.
Cunningham, who pleaded guilty on January 25, 2018, will be on supervised release for three years following his release from prison. He also was ordered to pay a $1,000 fine.
“Drug trafficking crimes cause tremendous damage to our community,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “In addition to the terrible problems of overdoses and addiction, drug trafficking often is associated with violence and can jeopardize the safety of the citizens living in the Granite State. We continue to work each day with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute drug traffickers so that we can decrease violence and improve the quality of life in New Hampshire.”
“Today, Mr. Cunningham, a member of the notorious Hells Angel biker gang, will begin paying the price for the irreparable harm that his drug trafficking caused within our communities,” said Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Boston Division. “The FBI NH Safe Streets Gang Task Force will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to do everything we can to rid our neighborhoods of illegal narcotics and the violence that comes along with it.”
This matter was investigated by the FBI New Hampshire Safe Streets Gang Task Force, which is comprised of the FBI, the New Hampshire State Police, New Hampshire Probation and Parole, and the Police Departments of Hudson, Manchester, and Nashua. Assistance was provided by the Laconia Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shane Kelbley.
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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Former New Hampshire Pharmacist Sentenced to Two Years in Prison for Drug-Related OffensesRead the Press Release
CONCORD – Thomas Kellermann, 65, of Bedford, was sentenced to 24 months in prison for tampering with a consumer product and obtaining a controlled substance by fraud, announced United States Attorney Scott W. Murray.
According to court documents and statements in court, Kellermann was employed as a pharmacist at a pharmacy in Bedford that dispensed prescription drugs to patients, including patients at hospice facilities. In 2011, Kellermann began abusing narcotic pain relief drugs. In March of 2012, Kellermann took medical leave from his position. While on medical leave in March and April 2012, Kellermann repeatedly returned to the pharmacy after business hours and on weekends and stole narcotic pain medication for his personal use. Kellermann removed the plastic top of vials containing hydromorphone and morphine, inserted syringes into the vials, and withdrew drugs from the vials. He then injected saline into the vials, placed a small amount of glue on top of the vials to reattach the plastic caps, and placed the vials back into the pharmacy’s inventory of narcotic drugs, which had been purchased to fill prescriptions for hospice patients. His conduct made it appear that the vials were unused.
The tampering was discovered when an employee of the pharmacy detected irregularities in certain vials of drugs. After the tampering was discovered, vials of both hydromorphone and morphine were analyzed by an independent laboratory and found to be substantially below their labeled strength. At the time his tampering was uncovered, 62 percent of the hydromorphone and morphine in the pharmacy’s inventory showed signs of tampering.
Kellermann pleaded guilty on January 10, 2018, to a two-count Information charging him with one count of tampering with a consumer product and one count of obtaining a controlled substance by misrepresentation, fraud, deception, or subterfuge.
Kellermann was sentenced to 24 months in prison and fined $10,000. After serving his prison sentence, he will be on supervised release for two years.
“Tampering with controlled substances by health care workers is a very serious crime,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “This type of activity is a betrayal of the trust that patients place in the health care system. Tampering and diversion deprive patients of needed medicine and can expose patients to other substantial health risks. This sentence should serve as a warning to health care workers that this type of dangerous conduct will not be tolerated.”
“Tampering with drugs not only denies patients the drugs they need, but it may also endanger their health by exposing them to contaminated products,” said Jeffrey J. Ebersole, Special Agent in Charge, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations’ New York Field Office. “The FDA will continue to hold medical personnel accountable when they violate the trust of the patients.”
“The reckless action by this health care worker is not only a violation of the Controlled Substance Act but a betrayal of the public trust,” said DEA Acting Special Agent in Charge Albert Angelucci. “In response to the ongoing opioid epidemic DEA is committed to working with our law enforcement and regulatory partners to ensure that these rules and regulations are followed.”
The investigation was conducted by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Office of Criminal Investigations and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Arnold H. Huftalen and Special Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Hawkins of the FDA’s Office of Chief Counsel.
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North Haverhill Man Pleads Guilty to Unlawfully Possessing FirearmsRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Thomas S. Harris, 27, of North Haverhill, New Hampshire, pleaded guilty in federal court to two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Harris is a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing firearms. On August 25, 2016, Harris sold a Savage Arms, model 18-F, .410 caliber shotgun to a pawn shop in Lisbon, New Hampshire. On September 27, 2016, Harris sold a Keystone Sporting Arms, model Cricket, .22 caliber rifle at the same pawn shop.
Harris is scheduled to be sentenced on September 4, 2018
“In order to keep our community safe from violence, we must keep guns out of the hands of criminals,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Through the Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative, the U.S. Attorney’s Office works closely with our law enforcement partners to protect our citizens from violent crime and gun-related offenses.”
“Today’s guilty plea demonstrates ATF’s commitment to targeting prohibited individuals from possessing and trafficking in firearms,’” said Lawrence Panetta, ATF Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the Boston Field Division. “ATF will continue to collaborate with our law enforcement partners to eliminate these type of crimes and remove firearms from illegal commerce.”
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.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Vermont State Police, the Lisbon Police Department, Bath Police Department and the Haverhill Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Debra M. Walsh.
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Manchester Man Sentenced for Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Aaron Pelchat, 36, of Manchester, was sentenced in federal court on Tuesday to serve 24 months in prison for bank robbery, announced United States Attorney Scott W. Murray.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on May 23, 2017, Pelchat walked into a Northway Bank in Manchester, and handed the teller a note demanding money. The teller gave Pelchat a quantity of United States currency. Surveillance cameras captured images of the robbery which were broadcast on local news outlets. Numerous individuals identified Pelchat from the photographs and he was apprehended the next day, May 24, 2017.
Pelchat, who pleaded guilty on January 19, 2018, will be on supervised release for three years after serving his prison sentence.
“Bank robberies are violent crimes that often can jeopardize the safety of bank employees, customers, and other members of the community,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to working with the law enforcement community to combat violent crimes such as bank robberies. By combatting violent crime, our goal is to ensure that the citizens of the Granite State feel safe in their local communities.”
"The FBI would like to thank the public who helped us identify this individual," said Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Boston Division. “The FBI is proud to work with our law enforcement partners to make our communities safer from folks like Mr. Pelchat who have no respect for the law.”
This matter was investigated by the Manchester Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Dronzek.
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Resident of Webster, New York Sentenced for Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Judith Morale (formerly known as Judith Remo), 55, of Webster, New York, was sentenced to three years of probation following her conviction for health care fraud, announced United States Attorney Scott W. Murray.
According to court documents, from 2006 to 2012, Morale owned and operated a business, Bedford Geriatric Physical Therapy, LLC, that provided physical therapy services to Medicare beneficiaries. Through the business, Morale provided routine foot care (e.g., toenail trimming, ingrown toenail repair and callus shaving) to patients in an assisted living facility in Bedford, New Hampshire. Knowing that the services were not covered by Medicare, Morale obtained payments totaling $41,127.89 by submitting claims for payment to Medicare that falsely described these routine services as wound care.
Morale previously pleaded guilty on December 18, 2017. As part of her sentence, Morale was ordered to pay restitution of $41,127.89.
“Fraud against federal health care programs such as Medicare is a very a serious crime,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Health care providers who attempt to defraud the Medicare program will be investigated and prosecuted. I am grateful to the investigators whose hard work resulted in this successful prosecution.”
“Every Medicare dollar is needed to provide necessary patient care, thus skimming off funds by providers will not be tolerated,” said Phillip M. Coyne, Special Agent in Charge for the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “The message is clear. Those who steal from Medicare will have to pay the price.”
“Ms. Morale defrauded Medicare out of thousands of dollars for her own personal enrichment,” said Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Boston Division. “The FBI, working collaboratively with our law enforcement partners, will do everything we can to root out others like her, who are diverting scarce taxpayer funds from government programs, for their own greed-fueled schemes.”
The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert Kinsella and John Davis.
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Maine Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing HeroinRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Timothy G. Zani, 39, of Berwick, Maine, pleaded guilty in federal court to distribution of heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in spring 2015, law enforcement officers received information that Zani was distributing heroin in the Berwick, Maine, and Somersworth, New Hampshire areas. On three occasions between May 7 and June 10, 2015, Zani sold heroin to cooperating individuals at locations in Somersworth, New Hampshire.
Zani is scheduled to be sentenced on September 4, 2018.
“The distribution of heroin and fentanyl pose a great threat to public safety,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “We will continue to work closely with all of our law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute those who are distributing these deadly substances.”
“Those suffering from the disease of opioid addiction need access to treatment and recovery,” said DEA Acting Special Agent in Charge Albert Angelucci. “But, those responsible for distributing lethal drugs like heroin to the citizens of New Hampshire need to be held accountable for their actions. DEA and its local, state and federal partners are committed to bringing to justice those that distribute this poison.”
This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Berwick (ME) Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Dronzek.
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Lawrence Man Pleads Guilty to Heroin and Fentanyl Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CONCORD – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today that Miguel Arias Velasquez, 21, of Lawrence, Massachusetts, pleaded guilty to participating in a heroin and fentanyl trafficking conspiracy.
According to court documents and statements made in court, from at least January of 2017 until July of 2017, Arias-Velasquez made deliveries of heroin and fentanyl to customers of a drug organization working out of a residence on Water Street in Lawrence. Customers, including customers from New Hampshire, would call to order drugs and Arias-Velasquez and others would drive to locations in Methuen and Salisbury, Massachusetts to deliver the drugs.
A sentencing hearing is scheduled for August 16, 2018.
“Those who choose to distribute heroin and fentanyl endanger their customers as well as the general public. Maintaining public safety requires that they be prosecuted aggressively,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “We work closely each day with our law enforcement partners to target those who seek to profit from the sale of these deadly substances.”
This matter was investigated by the DEA, the Massachusetts State Police, the United States Marshals Service, the New Hampshire State Police, and the Lawrence Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Donald A. Feith prosecuted the case.
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DEA New England Field Division Collects 44 Tons of Prescription Drugs During the 15th National Prescription Drug Take-Back DayRead the Press Release
(BOSTON) – The final tally is in from the 15th National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day on April 28th, 2018. The Drug Enforcement Administration’s New England Field Division (NEFD) and its partners, over the course of four hours, collected 88,182.07 pounds or 44 tons of expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs at 580 collection sites throughout New England. This is in comparison to the first National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day on September 2010, when the NEFD collected 25,810 pounds of unwanted drugs. It is estimated that 10% of the drugs collected are opioid pain killers which would represent approximately 8,818 pounds of opioids that are out of medicine cabinets and potentially off our streets.
“Another amazing effort by New Englanders to continue to make their homes safer for our youth,” said DEA Acting Special Agent in Charge Albert Angelucci. “Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse and abuse. DEA thanks the citizens of New England and our dedicated Law Enforcement partners for their efforts in making this initiative a success.”
The following is a breakdown of collected weights for the six New England States:
CT 8,251.6 lbs.
MA 27,126.1 lbs.
ME 28,560 lbs.
NH 14,895 lbs.
RI 3,341.5 lbs.
VT 6,007.87 lbs.
TOTAL 88,182.07 lbs.
Somersworth Man Sentenced to 48 Months in Prison for Child Pornography PossessionRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Nicholas Guy, 23, of Somersworth, New Hampshire, was sentenced to serve 48 months in federal prison for possessing child pornography, announced United States Attorney Scott W. Murray.
According to court records, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at the Somersworth residence of Guy in March of 2017. Various devices seized contained hundreds of images and videos of child pornography.
Guy pleaded guilty to possessing child pornography on December 11, 2017. After serving his 48-month prison sentence, he will be on supervised release for ten years.
“Protecting children from exploitation is a high priority of the U.S. Attorney’s Office,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Our law enforcement partners work tirelessly to identify those who are exploiting children by possessing or producing child pornography. Those who commit crimes related to child pornography cause untold damage to their young victims and will be prosecuted aggressively.”
“We are proud to have worked closely with our local, state and federal law enforcement partners in New Hampshire to help bring this case through to conclusion,” said Peter C. Fitzhugh, Special Agent In Charge, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Boston. “It’s important to remember that these cases are not so-called ‘victimless crimes’ but that real people- minor children- are victimized by the actions of individuals who traffic in this filth.”
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.
The case was investigated by the New Hampshire Crimes Against Children Task Force in conjunction Homeland Security Investigations Manchester, and the police departments of Somersworth, Concord, Portsmouth, and Rochester, New Hampshire. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Georgiana L. Konesky.
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Resident of Nashua Sentenced to Six Months in Prison for Obstructing U.S. Department of Labor Investigation and Civil LawsuitRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Kevin Corriveau, 43, of Nashua, New Hampshire, and the owner of Kevin Corriveau Painting, Inc., was sentenced to serve six months in prison and pay a $25,000 fine for obstruction of justice in connection with an investigation and litigation by the U.S. Department of Labor, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced.
According to court documents, from 2007 through April 2011, Corriveau directed the company’s painters and carpenters to report only non-overtime work on payroll records and employee timecards to avoid detection by government investigators of his intentional and ongoing failure to pay the overtime premium required by the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
Corriveau pled guilty to obstruction of justice on December 15, 2017. He admitted that he concealed the extent to which employees of the company worked overtime hours, in part, by causing an employee of the company to provide false information to the Department of Labor during investigations by the Department’s Wage and Hour Division in 2009 and 2011. In 2009 and 2011, Corriveau himself also provided false information to investigators about the extent of his employees’ overtime work. This included, in 2011, when Corriveau falsely told investigators that his employees did not work overtime on a construction project in Needham, Massachusetts, and provided false documents to investigators to support his assertion.
In 2013, in connection with a civil suit filed against him by the Department of Labor for alleged violations of the FLSA’s overtime wage requirements, Corriveau knowingly created and provided fraudulent invoices and an altered change order to Department’s attorneys that falsely stated that his employees did not work overtime on the Needham project.
After serving his prison sentence, Corriveau will be on supervised release for two years.
“Those who make false statements or create false documents undermine the integrity of our legal system,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The defendant’s actions here were unacceptable. Employers should be on notice that they face potential criminal penalties if they do not comply with their legal obligations under the FLSA.”
"The Labor Department’s agencies stand ready to refer to the U.S. Attorney’s offices cases in which employers lie to investigators and fabricate records as part of a scheme to cover up their violations,” said Michael Felsen, Regional Solicitor of Labor in Boston. “We greatly appreciate the New Hampshire U.S. Attorney’s Office’s efforts to bring to justice such an individual in this matter.”
“This prosecution, conviction, and sentence send a message to all employers that knowingly providing false information or falsified documents to the Department of Labor can put their individual liberty at risk,” stated Northern New England District Director Daniel Cronin.
“Kevin Corriveau solicited his employees to make false statements to investigators during a Wage & Hour Division investigation which uncovered over $200,000 in unpaid wages. The Office of Inspector General will continue to investigate those who obstruct the Department’s efforts to ensure the integrity of its programs,” said Peter Nozka, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge, New York Region, U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General.
This is believed to be the first federal criminal prosecution arising from a Labor Department wage and hour investigation in New Hampshire. The U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of the Inspector General investigated the criminal case with assistance from the Department’s Employee Benefits Security Administration. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert M. Kinsella and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Miller, who is a Senior Trial Attorney at the Labor Department’s Office of the Solicitor in Boston, Massachusetts.
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Lancaster Man Pleads Guilty to Fentanyl Trafficking Conspiracy ChargeRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Tanner Rich, 26, of Lancaster, pleaded guilty in federal court to participating in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, after a traffic stop by the Campton Police Department, Rich was found in possession of over 50 grams of fentanyl. Rich subsequently admitted that he had agreed with another person to buy the drugs and that he was planning to deliver the drugs to that individual.
Rich is scheduled to be sentenced on July 31, 2018.
“Fentanyl poses a substantial public safety threat to all parts of the Granite State,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “We work together with our law enforcement partners each day to stop the distribution of this deadly drug. I commend the work of the Campton Police Department whose efforts may have saved lives by stopping the distribution of this dangerous substance.”
This matter was investigated by the Campton Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Dronzek.
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United States Attorney Murray Encourages Participation in DEA's National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on April 28, 2018Read the Press Release
CONCORD – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray encourages the public to participate in the Drug Enforcement Administration’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 28, 2018. This biannual event will be held form 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at thousands of collection sites around the country, including over 100 here in New Hampshire. This event is an important effort to rid homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs.
“Everyone in New Hampshire should consider joining our efforts to combat the opioid crisis by participating in National Prescription Take Back Day,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Far too many individuals began their paths to addiction with the misuse of prescription drugs. One simple and effective way to protect our families is to remove any unneeded prescription drugs from our homes. Properly disposing of these drugs can prevent them from falling into the wrong hands. By taking a few minutes to remove these drugs from your home, you will be helping to improve the safety of our community.”
“Our take-back events highlight the problems related to prescription drug abuse and gives our citizens an opportunity to contribute to the solution,” said DEA Acting Special Agent in Charge Albert Angelucci. “These events are only made possible through the dedicated work and commitment of our local, county, state, and federal partners and DEA thanks every one of them for their efforts.”
Prior Drug Take Back Day events have been very successful. Last October, Americans turned in 456 tons (912,305 pounds) of prescription drugs at almost 5,500 sites operated by the DEA and more than 4,200 of its state and local law enforcement partners. Overall, in its 14 previous Take Back events, DEA and its partners have taken in over 9 million pounds—more than 4,500 tons—of pills. The disposal service is free and anonymous, no questions asked. Please note that the DEA cannot accept liquids, needles, or sharps, only pills or patches.
Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that most abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 91 Americans die each day from an opioid overdose. Some painkiller abusers move on to heroin. In fact, four out of five new heroin users started their drug use with painkillers.
Flushing medications down the toilet or throwing them in the trash pose potential safety and health hazards. This initiative addresses the public safety and public health issues that surround medications languishing in home cabinets, becoming highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse.
For more information or to locate a collection site near you, go the DEA Prescription Drug Take Back Day web site at https://takebackday.dea.gov/#collection-locator where you can search by zip code, city, or state.
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Massachusetts Man Sentenced to 70 Months in Prison for Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Alex “Lex” Hernandez, 27, most recently of Lowell, Massachusetts, was sentenced in federal court to 70 months in prison for distributing fentanyl, announced United States Attorney Scott W. Murray.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on three separate occasions in April, May and June 2016, Hernandez sold several “fingers” of fentanyl to an individual who was working with law enforcement. On each occasion, Hernandez was video and audio recorded, and was identified by law enforcement surveillance. In total, Hernandez distributed approximately 110 grams of fentanyl across the three deals. In October 2016, Hernandez was indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Concord. When law enforcement sought to arrest Hernandez at an apartment he maintained in Lowell, Massachusetts, they found approximately 500 grams of cocaine, an industrial-grade press and mold for making fingers, a blender, a digital scale and cutting agents. Hernandez faces pending charges in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, for the cocaine, which are not a part of his resolution of the federal charges.
Hernandez pleaded guilty to three counts of fentanyl distribution in November 2017 after jury selection for his anticipated trial had taken place. He has been in custody since his October 2016 arrest. Following his release from prison, the defendant will be on supervised release for a period of three years.
“Fentanyl is causing tremendous damage to our community,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Those who distribute fentanyl are endangering the safety of the citizens of the Granite State. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work each day alongside our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who are responsible for distributing fentanyl and other deadly drugs.”
“New Hampshire is in the midst of a devastating opioid crisis, as deaths from fentanyl soar. The FBI will continue to use every resource available to identify those, like Mr. Hernandez, who are contributing to the crisis,” said Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Boston Division. “Today’s sentence holds Mr. Hernandez accountable for his crimes, and we’ll continue to work with our law enforcement partners to put other callous distributers like him behind bars.”
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Safe Streets Gang Task Force, which consists of FBI Special Agents and members of the Manchester Police Department, the Hudson Police Department, the New Hampshire State Police, the Nashua Police Department, and the New Hampshire Department of Corrections Probation and Parole. Investigators also received assistance of the Massachusetts State Police, Lowell, MA Police Department, and Middlesex, MA County District Attorney’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles L. Rombeau.
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45 Individuals Indicted for Participating in Fentanyl Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Concord – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray and Albert Angelucci, the Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New England Field Division, announced today that 45 individuals have been charged with participating in a fentanyl trafficking conspiracy. Also participating in the announcement was Mary K. Daly, Director of Opioid Enforcement and Prevention Efforts in the Justice Department’s Office of the Deputy Attorney General. The indictments are the culmination of a year-long investigation by the DEA in coordination with federal, state, and local authorities in New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Maine.
On April 4, 2018, the following individuals were charged with participating in a conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, fentanyl:
- Sergio Martinez, 28, of Lawrence, MA;
- Raulin Martinez, 36, of Lawrence, MA;
- Luz Perez DeMartinez, 25, of Lawrence, MA;
- Jhonny Jose Naut Perez, 53, of Lawrence, MA;
- Suhey Perez, 38, of Lawrence, MA;
- FNU LNU a/k/a “Linet”;
- Wagner Pimentel, 28, of Methuen, MA;
- Luis Angel Polanco Huma, 22, of Lawrence, MA;
- Eduard Amparo, 46, of Lawrence, MA;
- Frailin Manuel Gomez Gil, 26, of Lawrence, MA;
- Julio Pizzini, 24, of Lawrence, MA;
- Jepherson Emmanuel Cabrera, 18, of Lawrence, MA;
- Edward Brailey Delacruz, 24, of Methuen, MA;
- Luis Antonio Salomon Polanco, 20, of Lawrence, MA;
- Juan Rafael Tejeda-Jimenez, 27, of Lawrence, MA;
- Fernand V. Miranda, 23, of Haverhill, MA;
- Alexander Noonan, 20, of Haverhill, MA;
- Steven Guerrero, 18, of Lawrence, MA;
- Jared Ortega-Peguero, 25, of Lawrence, MA;
- Juan Dimel Gil Castillo, 23, of Lawrence, MA;
- Ramon Gill Huma, 25, of Lawrence, MA;
- Julio Colon, 24, of Lawrence, MA;
- Jason Cheever, 41, of Goffstown, NH;
- Joshua Smith, 29, of Plaistow, NH;
- Paul Aaron, 31, of Lowell, MA;
- Steven Lessard, 31, of Lowell, MA;
- Miguel Alvarez, 27, of Haverhill, MA;
- Edward Brito, 31, of Lawrence, MA;
- Trevor Ahearn, 28, of Haverhill, MA;
- Julio Saldana, 18, of Lawrence, MA;
- Jesus Rivera, 20, of Lawrence, MA; and
- Jorge Rodriguez, 21, of Methuen, MA.
On April 9, 2018, in a coordinated operation involving over 100 federal, state, and local law enforcement officers, 15 of the above-listed individuals were arrested. Seven were already incarcerated and two have since been located. Jhonny Jose Naut Perez, Frailin Manuel Gomez Gil, FNU LNU a/k/a “Linet,” Jepherson Emmanuel Cabrera, Edward Brailey Delacruz, Alexander Noonan, Jason Cheever, and Joshua Smith have not yet been taken into custody.
If convicted, each of these defendants faces a mandatory minimum of ten years in prison and a maximum sentence of life, as well as a fine of up to $10 million.
The investigation, which culminated in the execution of various search warrants on April 9, 2018, led to the seizure of over 30 kilograms of suspected fentanyl, two firearms, and over $500,000 in cash. In court documents, the government has alleged that the investigation targeted a drug trafficking organization led by the Martinez brothers, Sergio and Raulin. The conspiracy was extensive and organized. The Martinez brothers allegedly used a vast network of dispatchers and distributors to serve customers large and small with knowledge that a substantial amount of drugs were going to New Hampshire. They allegedly maintained a residence in Lawrence, Massachusetts, staffed by dispatchers who took drug orders over various “customer phones.” This residence was called “the base.” Dispatchers allegedly then communicated with distributors located throughout the Merrimack Valley to arrange for customers to meet them. The Martinez brothers also allegedly employed individuals responsible for making sure distributors were consistently supplied with 200-gram bags of fentanyl and were returning drug proceeds made from the sales.
On April 18, 2018, the following individuals were charged in related indictments with conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, fentanyl:
- Meghan Bowers, 30, of Candia, NH;
- Dennis Chaney, 30, of Rochester, NH;
- David Fagan, 32, of Manchester, NH;
- Jonathan Felch, 36, of Goffstown, NH;
- Albert Gordon, 44, of Manchester, NH;
- Norman Limoges, 51, of Berlin, NH;
- Leon Mandigo, 31, of Auburn, NH;
- Robert McLain, 26, of Groveton, NH;
- Alicia Morin, 30, of Belmont, NH;
- Samuel Morris, 28, of Belmont, NH;
- Amy Reardon, 32, of North Haverhill, NH;
- Darlene Tirone, 42, of Hampton, NH; and
- Meredith Willey, 37, of Groveton, NH.
As of April 24, 2018, twelve of these individuals were in custody. Leon Mandigo has not yet been taken into custody.
If convicted, most of the defendants charged on April 18, 2018, also face a mandatory minimum of ten years in prison and a maximum sentence of life, as well as a fine of up to $10 million.
Limoges, Reardon, and Willey face a mandatory minimum of five years in prison and a maximum sentence of 40 years, as well as a fine of up to $5 million. Bowers and Gordon face a maximum of 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1 million.
“Fentanyl is responsible for the lion’s share of overdose deaths in the Granite State,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The law enforcement community in New England is united in the effort to end the opioid crisis. This investigation is just one example of our commitment to stopping the distribution of fentanyl in New Hampshire. Public safety is our top priority and we will continue to work hard each day to protect our communities by identifying and prosecuting those who are responsible for distributing fentanyl and other deadly drugs.”
"Fentanyl and its analogues kill more Americans than any other drug," Attorney General Sessions said. "President Trump has made ending our national opioid crisis a top priority for this administration. We at the Department of Justice embrace that goal and we are pursuing it aggressively. The quantities of fentanyl that were allegedly trafficked in this case are shocking. And so I want to thank DEA and our other federal partners as well as the state and local law enforcement officers from three different states for their hard work on this case. We will prosecute this case to the fullest extent of the law and continue to take dangerous drugs—and drug dealers—off of our streets so that every American can be safe in their community."
“The Granite State is faced with a fentanyl crisis unlike ever before and DEA’s top priority is combatting the opioid epidemic,” said DEA Acting Special Agent in Charge Albert Angelucci. “DEA is committed to aggressively pursuing Drug Trafficking Organizations who are coming from out of state to distribute this poison to the citizens of New Hampshire in order to profit and destroy people’s lives. This investigation demonstrates the strength of collaborative local, county, state and federal law enforcement efforts and our strong partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”
The indictments are allegations. The defendants are presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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.
The case was a collaborative investigation that involved the DEA; the New Hampshire State Police; the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office; the Nashua Police Department; the Massachusetts State Police; the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office; the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office; the Essex County District Attorney’s Office; the Internal Revenue Service; Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations; United States Customs and Border Protection Boston Field Office; the United States Marshals Service; the United States Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service; the Manchester Police Department; the Lisbon Police Department; the Littleton Police Department; the Haverhill (MA) Police Department; the Methuen (MA) Police Department; the Lowell (MA) Police Department; and the Maine State Police.
The cases are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Georgiana L. Konesky, Seth R. Aframe, and Debra M. Walsh.
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Manchester Woman Sentenced to 78 Months in Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute CocaineRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Elizabeth Salinas-Roldan, 43, previously of Manchester, New Hampshire, was sentenced in federal court to 78 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between May and July 2016, the defendant arranged with others to distribute cocaine to a cooperating individual in transactions that were audio and video-recorded.
Salinas-Reardon, who previously pleaded guilty on January 3, 2018, will be on supervised release after serving her sentence.
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to working closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute drug traffickers,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “I am grateful to the law enforcement officers whose hard work led to this successful prosecution.”
“Ms. Salinas-Roldan dealt cocaine in her own backyard, profiting from the addiction of others. Her case is just one example of our ongoing efforts to rid communities across the Granite State of drug trafficking enterprises. Today’s sentence should send a message to others who are thinking about getting into the drug trafficking business. Don’t do it!” said Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Boston Division. “The FBI’s Safe Streets Gang Task Force will be relentless in hunting down anyone who chooses to engage in the distribution of illegal narcotics, and the violence that comes along with it.”
This matter was investigated by the FBI’s Safe Streets Gang Task Force, which consists of FBI Special Agents and members of the Manchester Police Department, the Hudson Police Department, the New Hampshire State Police, the Nashua Police Department, and the New Hampshire Department of Corrections Probation and Parole. It was also 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. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles L. Rombeau.
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Dominican Man Pleads Guilty to Fentanyl Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CONCORD – Yossi Rafael Rincon Ramirez, of the Dominican Republic, pleaded guilty in federal court to participating in a drug trafficking conspiracy, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, from at least December 6, 2016, through May 2, 2017, the defendant delivered fentanyl to the customers on behalf of a drug dealer based in Lawrence, Massachusetts. On four separate occasions, the defendant sold fentanyl to an undercover Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) agent in Nashua, New Hampshire, and on May 2, 2017, law enforcement arrested Rincon Ramirez as he travelled to Nashua for another drug delivery.
Rincon Ramirez pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, and four counts of distribution of a controlled substance. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for August 1, 2018.
“Fentanyl distribution continues to pose a serious danger to the safety of our community and the health of our citizens.” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who attempt to profit from the sale of this deadly substance.”
This matter was investigated by the DEA, with the assistance of the Massachusetts State Police, the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office, and the police departments of Hudson, NH, Nashua, NH, and Methuen, MA. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shane B. Kelbley.
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Inmate at FCI-Berlin Pleads Guilty to Attempted Drug PossessionRead the Press Release
CONCORD – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today that John McLaurin, 28, an inmate at FCI-Berlin pleaded guilty to one count of attempting to possess a prohibited object within a federal prison. McLaurin admitted that he was attempting to possess a synthetic cannabinoid, commonly referred to as K2.
According to documents filed with the court and statements made at the change of plea hearing, in September 2017, McLaurin placed a greeting card in the mail at the prison. Prison staff intercepted the card and found a note hidden in the card. The note provided instructions for obtaining K2 and smuggling it into the prison.
A sentencing hearing is scheduled for July 31, 2018.
The Bureau of Prisons investigated this case. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Donald A. Feith.
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