District of New Hampshire
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Lawrence Man Pleads Guilty to Heroin and Fentanyl Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CONCORD – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today that Miguel Vasquez, 23, of Lawrence, Massachusetts, pleaded guilty to participating in a drug trafficking conspiracy.
According to court documents and statements made in court, from at least January of 2017 through July of 2017, Vasquez 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 Vasquez and others would drive to locations in Methuen and Salisbury, Massachusetts to deliver the drugs.
Vasquez pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, heroin and fentanyl. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for July 20, 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. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Donald A. Feith.
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New Hampshire Residents Sentenced for Participating in Scheme to Distribute Misbranded DrugsRead the Press Release
CONCORD – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced that John Hayes, 53, and his wife, Plabpleung Hayes, 50, of New Ipswich were sentenced today for participating in a scheme to distribute misbranded prescription drugs that they obtained from India.
John Hayes was sentenced to serve 30 months in prison and to pay a $2,500 fine. Plabpleung Hayes was sentenced to serve a year and a day in prison. Both previously pleaded guilty to participating in a conspiracy to distribute misbranded prescription drugs into interstate commerce. Plabpleung Hayes faces possible deportation to Thailand following the completion of her sentence.
According to court documents and statements in court, the defendants conspired with others, including John Hayes’ brother (James Hayes) and sister-in-law (Shannon Hayes) in North Carolina, to receive shipments of pills from India. During the course of the conspiracy, John and Plabpleung Hayes, along with their co-conspirators in North Carolina, received over 2.4 million prescription drugs from India, many of which were controlled substances. The defendants attempted to conceal their scheme by having the drugs shipped to numerous Post Office boxes, including boxes in southern New Hampshire and northern Massachusetts.
In addition, United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) seized more than 60 shipments from India destined for locations controlled by John Hayes that were found to contain more than 100,000 additional pills. The pills were packaged in blister packs, with no packaging that a person would recognize as retail-type packaging, and with no directions for use. CBP sent numerous letters to John Hayes advising him that the seizures occurred because the drugs were imported contrary to federal regulations that prohibit the importation of controlled substances without the express authorization of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
The defendants sent more than 5,000 packages to locations throughout the United States, including outside of New Hampshire, between February 2012 and September 2013. The defendants used an email account to manage and confirm the receipt of drugs from India, to receive and track customer orders for drugs, and to coordinate payments.
When a search warrant was executed at the Hayes residence in New Ipswich, investigators found more than 100,000 pills, including prescription drugs and controlled substances, as well as shipping labels, empty shipping containers, and other documents. Among those documents were two letters from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) informing John Hayes that Tramadol tablets shipped to him were being refused entry into the United States because the drugs appeared to be unapproved and misbranded.
The drugs distributed by the defendants were not approved by the FDA and included foreign versions of Hydrocodone, Percocet, Valium, Xanax, Adderall, Ritalin, Ativan, Ambien, Tramadol, Soma, Sildenafil, and Tadalafil.
James Hayes, Shannon Hayes, and two additional co-conspirators were convicted of related charges in North Carolina.
“Misbranded drugs present a danger to the public,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The millions of pills that the defendants were distributing were not approved by the FDA and had the potential to harm, rather than heal, those who took them. The defendants placed their interests in profits over patient safety. I commend the law enforcement agents whose hard work dismantled this criminal scheme.”
“The FDA's requirements are designed to ensure that American consumers receive drugs that are safe and effective. When criminals import and sell misbranded prescription drugs, they risk patients’ safety and health,” said Catherine Hermsen, Acting Director of FDA’s Office of Criminal Investigations. “The work that’s done by CBP, FDA and our other partner agencies at the International Mail Facilities, where international mail entering the U.S. is received and processed, provides a front line defense against illegal, illicit, unapproved, counterfeit and potentially dangerous drugs from entering the United States. We are committed to pursuing those who jeopardize the public health by importing and distributing these dangerous products.”
“The Postal Service has no interest in being the unwitting accomplice to anyone using the U.S. Mail to distribute misbranded drugs. By using the mail system for a criminal purpose, Mr. and Mrs. Hayes put our customers’ health at risk. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service will continue to preserve the integrity of the mail by investigating those who use it illegally.” said Raymond Moss, Acting Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Field Division.
“Mr. and Mrs. Hayes ran a dangerous operation, distributing unsafe drugs that endangered the public’s health. Their illicit pill mill was a family affair and now they are finally being held accountable,” said Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Boston Division. “The FBI, along with our law enforcement partners, will continue to do everything we can to curtail this illegal activity and ensure that our communities remain safe.
“This case shows how vital effective federal law enforcement cooperation is to the safety of Americans,” said Michael Shea, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Boston. “Through close law enforcement coordination, thousands of Americans were protected from the reckless actions of these individuals, who cared about nothing but enriching themselves at the expense of a serious life-threatening risk to the unwitting American consumer.”
This case was investigated by FDA’s Office of Criminal Investigations, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Department of Homeland Security, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Arnold Huftalen and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Hawkins, who is Senior Counsel, Office of Chief Counsel, U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
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Swanzey Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CONCORD – David Maclean, 71, of Swanzey, New Hampshire, pleaded guilty in federal court to possessing child pornography, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, the investigation began in July of 2017 with the Maricopa County Sherriff’s Department Cyber Crimes Unit in Phoenix, Arizona. Maclean previously resided in Arizona. In September of 2017, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at the defendant's residence. A review of various electronic devices found in the residence showed that they contained images and videos of child pornography.
Maclean is scheduled to be sentenced on July 13, 2018.
“Protecting children is a high priority of the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Child pornography crimes cause untold amounts of damage to their young victims. We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who possess, manufacture or distribute child pornography.”
“Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) is dedicated to working together with our law enforcement partners to bring about justice in child exploitation cases like this one,” said Michael Shea, Acting Special Agent in Charge, HSI, Boston. “We will continue to take a coordinated team effort and ensure that child predators, whether they produce or distribute these vile, disturbing images be held accountable for their offenses.”
This matter was investigated in New Hampshire by the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and Homeland Security Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Helen White Fitzgibbon.
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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Laconia Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. - Peter Dauphin, 45, of Laconia, pleaded guilty in federal court to five counts of distributing “ice” methamphetamine, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on five separate occasions in April and May of 2017, Dauphin sold “ice” methamphetamine to an individual who was cooperating with law enforcement officers. All of transactions took place at Dauphin’s automotive repair shop in Gilford, New Hampshire.
Dauphin is scheduled to be sentenced on July 9, 2018.
“Methamphetamine is a dangerous drug that can be deadly,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute those who are distributing methamphetamine and other drugs that jeopardize the safety of our community.”
“More New Hampshire residents are dying from drug overdoses than ever before. By taking individuals like Mr. Dauphin, who deal dangerous drugs off the street, we’re trying to keep addiction from spreading,” said Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Boston Division. “The FBI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to identify and disrupt drug traffickers, decrease associated violence, and improve the quality of life for our residents.”
This matter was investigated by the police departments of Gilford and Laconia, in conjunction with the FBI New Hampshire Safe Streets Gang Task Force. The Task Force is comprised of the FBI, the New Hampshire State Police, New Hampshire Probation and Parole, and the police departments of Hudson, Manchester, and Nashua. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shane B. Kelbley.
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FCi- Berlin Inmate Pleads Guilty to AssaultRead the Press Release
CONCORD – U.S. Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today that Bashir Masaoud, 31, an inmate at FCI-Berlin pleaded guilty to two counts of assaulting staff at the prison while the staff were performing their official duties.
Documents filed with the court and statements made at the today’s hearing established that on May 23, 2017, Masaoud left his cell on Unit A-3 of the prison, crossed the common area of the unit, and grabbed the shirt of a correctional officer. Masaoud attempted to strike the officer with a closed fist. Masaoud was subdued with pepper spray and the assistance of other officers. Masaoud kicked another officer who was assisting in getting Masaoud under control.
A sentencing hearing is scheduled for July 17, 2018.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Prisons staff at FCI-Berlin. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Donald Feith.
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Laconia Man Sentenced to 57 Months for Drug Trafficking and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Timothy Raxter, 53, of Laconia, was sentenced in federal court to serve 57 months in prison for methamphetamine trafficking and firearm offenses, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on January 23, 2017, Laconia Police executed a search warrant on Raxter’s vehicle, seizing a .40 caliber pistol and approximately 10 grams of “ice” methamphetamine. As a previously convicted felon, Raxter is prohibited from possessing firearms.
Raxter pleaded guilty on November 7, 2017, to possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
“Drugs and guns are a potentially lethal combination,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office works closely with our law enforcement partners to target drug traffickers, particularly those who use firearms or violence to further their unlawful activities. Those who commit these crimes will be prosecuted aggressively in order to protect the safety of our community.”
"As a convicted felon, Mr. Raxter should have known better than to possess a firearm and engage in drug trafficking. It's a dangerous combination, and the FBI New Hampshire Safe Streets Gang Task Force will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to identify, detect, and disrupt those who try to poison our neighborhoods and threaten them with violence," said Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Boston Division.
This matter was investigated by the police departments of Gilford and Laconia in conjunction with the FBI New Hampshire Safe Streets Gang Task Force. The Task Force is comprised of the FBI, the New Hampshire State Police, New Hampshire Probation and Parole, and the police departments of Hudson, Manchester, and Nashua. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shane B. 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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Connecticut Man Sentenced to 30 Months in Federal Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD - United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today that Anthony Swift, 33, formerly of Hartford, Connecticut, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for conspiring to distribute fentanyl and heroin.
Court documents and statements in court showed that on May 23, 2016, the New Hampshire State Police conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle operated by another individual as it traveled north on Interstate 95. Swift was the sole passenger in the vehicle. A search of the vehicle resulted in the seizure of 14.46 grams of fentanyl and 120.4 grams of heroin from a duffel bag in the trunk of the vehicle. Swift acknowledged that he purchased the drugs in Hartford, Connecticut and that the drugs would be distributed in the Presque Isle, Maine area.
Swift pleaded guilty to the charges on November 9, 2017.
“I commend the State Police for their work in preventing this substantial amount of drugs from being distributed,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office continues to work closely with all of our law enforcement partners to stop the sales of heroin and fentanyl in New England.”
This investigation was conducted by the New Hampshire State Police Mobile Enforcement Team. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Cole Davis is prosecuting the case.
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Laconia Man Pleads Guilty to Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Robert Saint John, 31, of Laconia pleaded guilty in federal court to fentanyl trafficking charges, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on May 31, 2017, the defendant and two other men pooled their money for the purpose of buying drugs. They drove together from Belmont, New Hampshire, to Lawrence, Massachusetts. In Lawrence, the men met with their drug supplier, purchased a quantity of fentanyl, and began to drive back to New Hampshire. On the highway near Derry, New Hampshire, the New Hampshire State Police conducted a traffic stop and seized a package containing approximately 111 grams of fentanyl.
Saint John pleaded guilty to one count of possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute and one count of conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, fentanyl. He is scheduled to be sentenced on July 17, 2018.
“Stopping the deadly flow of fentanyl into New Hampshire is a high priority of the U.S. Attorney’s Office,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Fentanyl has caused many overdose deaths in New Hampshire. In order to protect our community, we will continue to work closely with all of our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who are responsible for distributing opioids in the Granite State.”
“With today’s guilty plea, Mr. Saint John is accepting responsibility for peddling this deadly synthetic opioid, responsible for killing so many - at an alarming rate - across New Hampshire. However, there’s much more work to be done,” said Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Boston Division.“ Mr. Saint John is only one of many, fueling the flow of illegal drugs into our neighborhoods. Together, with our law enforcement partners, the FBI will continue to do everything we possibly can to root out drug traffickers who seek to exploit vulnerable people suffering from addiction.”
This matter was investigated by the FBI, the New Hampshire State Police, and the Laconia Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shane B. Kelbley.
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Northfield Man Sentenced to 106 Months in Prison for Drug Trafficking and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
CONCORD – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today that Justin Gauthier, 39, formerly of Northfield, was sentenced to serve 106 months in federal prison for drug trafficking and firearms crimes.
According to court documents, law enforcement officers executed two search warrants on Gauthier’s Northfield residence. During the first search on August 5, 2016, law enforcement officers seized quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl, multiple firearms, and $13,980 in cash. During the second search on March 10, 2017, quantities of methamphetamine, fentanyl, carfentanil, additional firearms, and $6,791 in cash were seized.
Gauthier previously pleaded guilty on December 15, 2017, to charges that he unlawfully possessed methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, and carfentanil with the intent to distribute and that he unlawfully possessed firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes. As part of his plea agreement, Gauthier forfeited 11 firearms to the United States. Over $20,000 in cash seized from Gauthier previously was forfeited by the State of New Hampshire.
“Guns and drugs are a deadly combination and those who use guns as part of the drug trade present a substantial threat to our community,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The defendant’s conduct in this case was especially troubling due to his involvement in distributing carfentanil, an extremely dangerous and deadly drug. In order to protect the public, we will work closely with all of our law enforcement partners to identify, disarm, and prosecute those who seek to profit from the sales of illegal drugs.”
This case was investigated by the New Hampshire State Police, Narcotics Investigation Unit, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Tilton and Northfield, New Hampshire Police Departments. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Cole Davis.
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Two University of New Hampshire Employees Charged with Theft of Government FundsRead the Press Release
CONCORD – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today that two employees of the University of New Hampshire (UNH) have been charged with stealing money from federal research grants.
One Indictment alleges that Hailong Zhang, 44, of Nottingham, was a Research Project Manager for the UNH College of Life Sciences and Agriculture. The Indictment alleges that he was authorized to use a credit card provided by UNH for expenses covered by federal research grants that were awarded to UNH, as a prime-grantee or sub-grantee, by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health (“NIH”). The Indictment alleges that on 31 separate occasions from approximately December 2013 to January 2018, Zhang used his business credit card to purchase gift cards from Amazon.com that totaled more than $82,000, which Zhang used to purchase items for his personal use. The Indictment also alleges that Zhang concealed his unauthorized use of the credit card by submitting a fictitious receipt and a fraudulent written justification for each expense to the College of Life Sciences and Agriculture’s Business Service Center, which caused the University System of New Hampshire to make payments for the unauthorized purchases to Zhang’s credit card account and UNH to obtain reimbursements for the expenses from the NIH grants.
The other Indictment alleges that Jichun Zhang, 45, of Durham, was a Research Assistant Professor for the UNH Institute for the Study of Earth, Oceans, and Space. The Indictment alleges that he was authorized to use a credit card provided by UNH for expenses covered by federal research grants that were awarded to UNH, as the prime-grantee, by the National Aeronautic and Space Administration (“NASA”). The Indictment alleges that on 31 different occasions from approximately January 2016 to December 2017, Zhang used his business credit card to purchase personal items totaling more than $6,900 from Amazon.com, PayPal, and Apple, Inc. This Indictment further alleges that Zhang concealed the unauthorized use of the credit card by submitting a fictitious receipt and a fraudulent written justification for each expense to the UNH Institute for the Study of Earth, Oceans, and Space’s Business Service Center, which caused the University System of New Hampshire to make payments for the unauthorized purchases to Zhang’s credit card account and UNH to seek and obtain reimbursements for each expense from the NASA grants.
Both defendants were arrested on Friday and are scheduled to make their initial appearances in federal court on Friday afternoon.
The cases were investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the University of New Hampshire Police Department, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Office of Inspector General, with assistance from the Police Departments in Durham, Nottingham, and Newmarket, New Hampshire. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Kinsella.
The charges and allegations contained in an indictment are merely accusations. A defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Citizen of Dominican Republic Sentenced to Three Years in Prison for Heroin TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced that Santo Rodolfo Garcia Mendez, 33, a citizen of the Dominican Republic residing in Lawrence, Massachusetts was sentenced on Thursday to serve three years in federal prison for participating in a heroin trafficking conspiracy.
Documents filed with the court established that Garcia Mendez participated in a Lawrence-based drug trafficking organization (DTO) between April 2016 and September 2016 during which time he delivered drugs to runners who were distributing the drugs to customers of the DTO.
Garcia Mendez pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with the intent to distribute, heroin on November 1, 2017. After completing his sentence, he faces likely deportation to the Dominican Republic.
“The law enforcement community in New Hampshire is working together each day to stop the deadly flow of heroin and other drugs into the Granite State,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Those who seek to profit from the selling these deadly drugs in our state will be prosecuted aggressively.”
“Those suffering from the disease of opioid addiction need access to treatment and recovery,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Ferguson. “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.”
The investigation and prosecution of this defendant were part of a DEA effort to address heroin distribution in New Hampshire. In addition to the prosecution of Garcia Mendez, Alberto Guerrero Marte, 38, was sentenced to 15 years, Toribio Guerrero Marte, 34, was sentenced to 10 years, Jose De La Altagracia Pimentel Lara, 26, was sentenced to 63 months, Allan Raymond Pimentel, 22, was sentenced to 57 months, Wilkin Andres Beltre Arias, 39, was sentenced to 54 months, Maria Miguelina Lara, 33, was sentenced to 36 months, Allison DeJesus, 19, was sentenced to five years of probation, and Jonaly DeJesus, 22, was sentenced to time served and five years of supervised release. In a related case, Mark Gagnon, 54, of Candia, was sentenced to 48 months. Michell DeJesus, 34, is awaiting sentencing.
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.
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. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Donald A. Feith.
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Laconia Man Sentenced to 65 Months in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today that Robert J. Golden, 38, of Laconia was sentenced to 65 months in federal prison for participating in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
According to court documents, on November 3, 2016, U.S. Postal Inspectors intercepted a mail parcel intended for delivery to Golden. A state police canine unit alerted to the package. When investigators later opened the package pursuant to a federal search warrant, they found approximately 56 grams of methamphetamine. Investigators removed most of the drugs, re-wrapped the parcel and notified Golden that the package was available for him to pick up at the post office. Postal Inspectors arrested Golden at the post office immediately after he took possession of the parcel. Following his arrest, Golden admitted that he knew that the package contained a quantity of methamphetamine that had been sent from California and that he intended to distribute the methamphetamine in New Hampshire. Golden further acknowledged that he previously had received four to six similar packages from California.
Golden pleaded guilty to the charge October 25, 2017. He will be on supervised release for three years following his release from prison.
“Even as our state faces the serious challenge of the opioid crisis, methamphetamine continues to pose a threat to our community,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Using this dangerous drug can cause significant harm or death. I commend the law enforcement officers in this case for their quick actions that prevented this substantial quantity of methamphetamine from being distributed in New Hampshire.”
“The U.S. Postal Inspection Service proactively seeks to identify and remove illegal drug shipments in the mail,” said Raymond Moss, Acting Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Field Division. “Today’s sentencing is a result of a coordinated effort of our local and state law enforcement partners to keep methamphetamine and other drugs out of our communities.”
This matter was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service, with help from the New Hampshire State Police and the Laconia Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Cole Davis.
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Nashua Man Sentenced to 18 Months for Illegal Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Ryan Faulconer, 25, of Nashua, was sentenced to serve 18 months in prison for illegal possessing firearms, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Faulconer purchased eight firearms in a two-week period between April and May of 2016. At the time he purchased the firearms, Faulconer was prohibited from possessing firearms by federal law due to an ongoing addiction to opioids. However, when making the purchases, he falsely stated that he was not addicted to any controlled substances. When interviewed by investigators in May of 2016, Faulconer admitted his addiction and could produce only one of the eight firearms, claiming the others had been stolen.
Faulconer pleaded guilty on October 4, 2017. Following the completion of his term of imprisonment, Faulconer will serve a term of three years of supervised release.
“In order to combat violent crime, we must ensure that guns do not fall into the wrong hands,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “We will work closely with our law enforcement partners to enforce federal gun laws in order to keep our communities safe.”
“The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is committed to targeting prohibited individuals from possessing and trafficking in firearms”, said Mickey Leadingham, ATF Special Agent in Charge Field 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.”
This matter was investigated by the ATF. 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.
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Lawrence Man Pleads Guilty to Oxycodone Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
CONCORD - United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today that John Jacome, 35, of Lawrence, Massachusetts, pleaded guilty to oxycodone trafficking charges.
Court documents and statements in court showed that on four separate occasions from January to May of 2017, Jacome sold quantities of oxycodone pills to undercover agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) at a location in Kingston. On June 19, 2017, Jacome was arrested by the New Hampshire State Police during a traffic stop after Jacome was found to be in possession of 500 oxycodone pills. In total, Jacome distributed or possessed with the intent to distribute approximately 1,513 oxycodone pills.
Jacome pleaded guilty to four counts of distributing oxycodone and one count of possession of oxycodone with the intent to distribute. He is scheduled to be sentence on June 27, 2018.
“The aggressive investigation and prosecution of individuals engaged in opiate pill trafficking in New Hampshire remains a top priority of the United States Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners at the local, state and federal level,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The United States Attorney’s Office will continue to work tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to prosecute those who are responsible for distributing these dangerous drugs in our state.”
This investigation was conducted by the DEA with the assistance of the New Hampshire State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Cole Davis is prosecuting the case.
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Dominican Man Sentenced to 87 Months in Prison for Fentanyl and Heroin TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced that Eris Manuel Paulino Guerrero, also known as Edward Garcia, 28, a citizen of the Dominican Republic, was sentenced on Monday to serve 87 months in federal prison for drug trafficking offenses.
Documents filed with the court established that the defendant participated in a Lawrence-based drug trafficking organization (DTO) distributing heroin between June 2013 and October 2014. Evidence showed that he delivered drugs to customers of the DTO. In approximately October 2014, the defendant also began selling fentanyl to customers as part of a separate drug distribution network.
The defendant previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with the intent to distribute, heroin and distribution of fentanyl. He faces likely deportation after he serves his sentence.
The investigation and prosecution of this defendant was part of a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) effort to address heroin distribution in New Hampshire. In addition to Guerrero’s prosecution, Alberto Guerrero Marte, 38, was sentenced to 15 years, Toribio Guerrero Marte, 34, was sentenced to 10 years, Maria Miguelina Lara, 33, was sentenced to 36 months, Allan Raymond Pimentel, 22, was sentenced to 57 months, Jose De La Altagracia Pimentel Lara, 26, was sentenced to 63 months, Wilkin Andres Beltre Arias, 39, was sentenced to 54 months, Allison DeJesus, 19, was sentenced to five years of probation, and Jonaly DeJesus, 22, was sentenced to time served and five years of supervised release. In a related case, Mark Gagnon, 54, of Candia, was sentenced to 48 months. Michell DeJesus, 34, and Santo Rodolfo Garcia Mendez, 33, are awaiting sentencing.
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office continues to work hand-in-hand with our law enforcement partners to combat the threats posed by fentanyl and heroin,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Those who seek to profit from the sales of these deadly drugs will be prosecuted aggressively.”
“Those suffering from the disease of opioid addiction need access to treatment and recovery,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Ferguson. “But those responsible for distributing lethal drugs like fentanyl and heroin to the citizens of New Hampshire need to be held accountable for their actions. DEA’s top priority is combatting the opioid epidemic by working with our local, county and state law enforcement partners to bring to justice those that distribute 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.
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. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Donald A. Feith.
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Inmates at FCI-Berlin Pleads Guilty to AssaultRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today that Leonard Johnson and Robert Dales, both inmates at the Federal Correctional Institution FCI-Berlin, pleaded guilty to assaulting another inmate on May 23, 2017. A sentencing hearing for Leonard Johnson and for Robert Dales will be held on June 27th, 2018. .
According to documents filed with the court and statements made during the change of plea 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.
The staff at FCI-Berlin conducted the investigation of this case.
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Inmate at FCIBerlin Pleads Guilty to Attempted Drug PossessionRead the Press Release
CONCORD –United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today that Antonio Priester, 37, an inmate at FCI-Berlin pleaded guilty to one count of attempting to possess prohibited objects within a federal prison. Priester admitted the prohibited objects he 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 websites through which the controlled substances could be obtained. He directed one individual to purchase jwh-018 from a particular website. Priester also provided directions for sneaking the substances into the prison.
A sentencing hearing is scheduled for June 15th, 2018 at the United States District Court. According to federal law, any sentence imposed in connection with this charge must be served consecutively to any sentence currently be served by Priester.
The Bureau of Prisons investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Donald A. Feith prosecuted the case.
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Littleton Man Sentenced to 60 Months in Federal Prison for Drug Trafficking and FirearmsRead the Press Release
CONCORD – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced that Ian Chase, 28, of Littleton, New Hampshire was sentenced to serve 60 months in federal prison for unlawfully manufacturing methamphetamine and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Court documents and statements in court showed that on April 8, 2016, members of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) arrested Chase at his former residence located in Bethlehem after discovering Chase was actively manufacturing methamphetamine in a shed located on the property. At the time of his arrest, Chase was in possession of a .25 caliber pistol. A search of the property resulted in the seizure of 77.98 grams of methamphetamine, five additional firearms, and numerous chemicals Chase utilized to manufacture methamphetamine. Under the terms of the plea agreement, Chase forfeited the firearms to the United States.
Chase was arrested on July 21, 2016 and pleaded guilty to the charges on December 1, 2016.
“The United States Attorney’s Office is committed to working with our local, state and federal law enforcement partners to target individuals who are manufacturing illegal drugs in New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “While those who suffer from addiction need access to treatment, those who seek to manufacture methamphetamine and other deadly drugs will be prosecuted aggressively.
“This sentence reflects DEA’s strong commitment to bring to justice those that manufacture methamphetamine,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Ferguson. “DEA and its local, state and federal law enforcement partners will do everything in our power to keep this highly addictive drug off the streets of New Hampshire. This investigation demonstrates the strength of collaborative law enforcement efforts in New Hampshire and our strong partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to aggressively pursue anyone who manufactures this poison.”
The investigation was conducted by the: (1) DEA; (2) New Hampshire Attorney General’s Drug Task Force; (3) Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; (4) Littleton Police Department; and (5) Bethlehem Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Cole Davis prosecuted the case.
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Lawrence Man Sentenced to 54 Months in Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced that Wilkin Andre Beltre Arias, 39, of Lawrence, Massachusetts, was sentenced on Monday to serve 54 months in federal prison for participating in a drug trafficking conspiracy that distributed substantial quantities of heroin.
Documents filed with the court established that the defendant participated in a drug trafficking organization between June 2016 and October 2016. He received drugs from this organization and delivered drugs to his customers from Massachusetts and New Hampshire. The defendant worked at a barbershop in Lawrence and used the shop as a delivery point for his customers.
The defendant pleaded guilty on September 21, 2017, to conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with the intent to distribute, heroin. Court records show that he faces likely deportation to the Dominican Republic following his prison sentence.
The investigation and prosecution of this defendant were part of a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) effort to address heroin distribution in New Hampshire. In addition to this prosecution, Alberto Guerrero Marte, 38, was sentenced to 15 years; Toribio Guerrero Marte, 34, was sentenced to 10 years; Maria Miguelina Lara, 33, was sentenced to 36 months; Allan Raymond Pimentel, 22, was sentenced to 57 months; Jose De La Altagracia Pimentel Lara, 26, was sentenced to 63 months; Allison DeJesus, age 19, was sentenced to five years of probation; and Jonaly DeJesus, 22, was sentenced to time served and five years of supervised release. In a related case, Mark Gagnon, 54, of Candia, was sentenced to 48 months. Michell DeJesus, 34, Santo Rodolfo Garcia Mendez, 33, and Edward Garcia, 31, are awaiting sentencing.
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.
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. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Donald Feith.
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Scott W. Murray Sworn in as United States Attorney for the District of New HampshireRead the Press Release
CONCORD – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Hampshire announced that the Honorable Scott W. Murray was sworn in today as the United States Attorney for the District of New Hampshire. Chief U.S. District Judge Joseph Laplante administered the oath of office at the federal courthouse in Concord.
U.S. Attorney Murray is the 57th U.S. Attorney for the District. He was nominated by the President on December 1, 2017, and confirmed by the U.S. Senate on February 15, 2018. As the U.S. Attorney, Mr. Murray is the chief federal law enforcement officer in New Hampshire.
U.S. Attorney Murray has been a prosecutor throughout his legal career. He was elected County Attorney for Merrimack County in 2010. He began serving as County Attorney in 2011 and was serving his fourth consecutive two-year term in that position. Prior to becoming County Attorney, he served as the Chief Prosecuting Attorney for the City of Concord from 1983 to 2011.
U.S. Attorney Murray received his B.A. and M.P.A. from the University of New Hampshire and his J.D. from Franklin Pierce Law Center (now known as the University of New Hampshire School of Law).
“I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as the United States Attorney,” U.S. Attorney Murray said. “As a career prosecutor, I look forward to working with my federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to combat drug trafficking, violence, and other threats to the safety of the residents of the Granite State. Close cooperation is absolutely critical if we are to effectively address crime associated with the current opioid crisis.”
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Epsom Man Sentenced to 78 Months for Firearm and drug Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Eric Collins, 44, of Epsom, was sentenced to serve 78 months in prison for firearms and drug trafficking offenses, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in February of 2017, Concord police officers executed a search warrant for the defendant’s vehicle and recovered two firearms, over $7,500 in cash and various controlled substances, including fentanyl and methamphetamine. As part of the defendant’s plea agreement, he agreed to forfeit his interest in the cash and firearms.
Collins previously pleaded guilty on November 21, 2017, to using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime and possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute.
This matter was investigated by the Concord Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana L. Konesky.
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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Epsom Woman Pleads Guilty to Drug Trafficking and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. – Nicole Roskos, 30, of Epsom, pleaded guilty today in federal court to drug trafficking conspiracy and firearms charges, announced Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley.
According to court documents and statements made in court, the investigation of the defendant began in 2017 when she 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 pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, controlled substances and using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime. A sentencing hearing has been scheduled for June 11, 2018.
“Opioids are killing hundreds of residents of New Hampshire each year,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley. “The danger posed by drug trafficking is further increased when drug dealers use firearms to further their unlawful activities. 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 and firearms in this case.”
This matter was investigated by the New Hampshire State Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana Konesky.
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Vermont Man Pleads Guilty to Child Sexual OffensesRead the Press Release
CONCORD – Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced that Joseph Norko, 50, of Saint Johnsbury, Vermont, pleaded guilty today to two counts of attempted online enticement and one count of interstate travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual activity.
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.
A sentencing hearing has been scheduled for June 1, 2018.
“The United States Attorney’s Office is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to protect the children of the Granite State,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley. “This case is yet another example of the dangers that lurk on the Internet. I am grateful to the law enforcement officers whose work led to the conviction of this Internet predator.”
“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 Michael Shea, Acting 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, 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 is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana 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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Derry Man Receives 35-Year Sentence for Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CONCORD – Peter Morency, 34, of Derry was sentenced in federal court to serve 35 years in prison for producing child pornography, announced Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Morency filmed and photographed himself performing sexual acts on two children. The children, who were known to Morency, appeared to be sleeping at the time. A forensic examination of devices possessed by Morency uncovered over 5,000 still images and over 2,000 videos depicting the sexual exploitation of children, of which approximately 30 still images and 37 videos were created by the defendant. The defendant admitted to possessing and to producing the images.
Morency pleaded guilty to three counts of producing child pornography on November 13, 2017. After serving his prison sentence, he will be on supervised release for the rest of his life.
“The United States Attorney’s Office is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to protect the children of the Granite State,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley. “Those who sexually exploit children cause untold amounts of harm to their victims and our entire community. We are grateful that this defendant will not be able to harm any additional children and we will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute other individuals who commit crimes against children.”
"The sexual exploitation of children is a heinous crime that causes irreparable harm to its young victims," said Michael Shea, acting special agent in charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Boston. "To rescue these innocent victims, HSI works closely with our law enforcement partners to protect our communities from child predators."
This case was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the Derry 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 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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Exeter Man Pleads Guilty to Making False Statements to Obtain Social Security BenefitsRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. – Brett Gessay, 55, of Exeter, pleaded guilty in federal court to making a false statement in order to obtain Social Security benefits, announced Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley.
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 would not have received if he had disclosed his self-employment income.
Gessay is scheduled to be sentenced on May 30, 2018.
“Social Security disability benefits provide important financial support for those deserving individuals who are unable to work,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley. “We will continue to partner with the SSA’s Office of Inspector General to identify and prosecute those who use fraudulent means to obtain benefits that they are not entitled to receive. This will ensure that benefits only go to those who truly deserve them.”
Scott Antolik, the Special Agent-in-Charge of the Social Security Administration’s Office of the Inspector General, said “Mr. Gessay’s material omission of key facts resulted in him receiving thousands of dollars in disability benefits he was not entitled to. Protecting the Social Security Trust Fund from those who conceal their work activity 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”.
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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New Boston Man Sentenced to 37 Months in Prison for Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. - Robert A. Ruggiero, 24, of New Boston, was sentenced to serve 37 months in federal prison for bank robbery, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on February 8, 2017, Ruggiero walked into a Citizens Bank branch in Goffstown, New Hampshire, and handed the teller a note demanding money. The teller gave Ruggiero a quantity of United States currency. Surveillance cameras captured images of the robbery, which were broadcast on local news outlets and distributed via social media. Numerous individuals identified Ruggiero from the photographs and he was apprehended later that day.
Ruggiero pleaded guilty to the offense on November 9, 2017. After serving his sentence, he will be on supervised release for three years.
“Bank robbery is a violent crime that endangers both bank employees and members of the public,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who commit bank robberies and other violent offenses so that we can improve the safety of our community.”
“Mr. Ruggiero's unlawful behavior brought fear and concern to bank employees," said Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Boston Division. "The FBI is grateful for the public's assistance in helping us identify him, and we are fully committed to working with all of our law enforcement partners to combat violent crime and improve the safety of our communities."
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Goffstown Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Dronzek.
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Massachusetts Man Sentenced for Mailing Threatening CommunicationsRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. - Michael Dube, 48, of Tewksbury, Massachusetts, was sentenced to five years of probation and a $16,500 fine for mailing threatening communications, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between March 2, 2016 and June 2, 2016, Dube sent three letters to victims located in New Hampshire, which contained threats to break the addressee’s legs, sexually assault his daughter, and to kill his son. The letters were postmarked in Boston and delivered to a residence in Sandown, New Hampshire.
Dube previously pleaded guilty to three counts of mailing threatening communications.
“By sending these threatening communications to the victim, the defendant attempted to create a climate of fear and intimidation,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley. “Such conduct cannot be tolerated. I commend the law enforcement officers whose work led to the successful identification and prosecution of this defendant.”
“Mr. Dube was blinded by his obsession and oblivious to the impact of his crimes. He carried out a relentless stalking campaign whereby he violated his victim’s privacy and threatened those around him,” said Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation Boston Division. (FBI) “Violence through words or actions cannot be tolerated and the FBI will continue to do everything it can to identify, arrest, and bring those to justice who engage in similar criminal conduct.”
This Sandown Police Department initiated the investigation of the case. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Derry Police Department, the Salem Police Department, the Raymond Police Department, and the Tewksbury Police Department assisted in the investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Helen Fitzgibbon and Donald Feith.
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Manchester Woman Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. - Sara Johnson, 35, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court to federal firearms charges, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Johnson purchased a rifle in a private sale from an individual in New Hampshire sometime in 2015. Johnson subsequently provided the rifle to an individual Johnson knew to be a convicted felon who was prohibited from possessing a firearm.
Johnson also purchased a pistol in 2015 in a private sale in Bow, New Hampshire. At the time of the purchase, the pistol’s serial number was intact. On June 9, 2016, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Johnson’s residence. A pistol with an obliterated serial number was found underneath a mattress. Testing later confirmed it to be the same pistol Johnson had purchased in 2015. Possessing a firearm with an obliterated serial number is a violation of federal law.
Johnson is scheduled to be sentenced on May 24, 2018.
“Protecting the community from violent crime is a high priority of the United States Department of Justice,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley. “Those who purchase guns for criminals are contributing to the violent crime problem. Along with our law enforcement partners, we will continue to use the Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative to take guns out of the hands of criminals and to protect the safety of our communities.”
This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Manchester Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shane B. 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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Manchester Man Pleads Guilty to Fentanyl Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. - Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today that Derrick Jennings, 48, formerly of Manchester, pleaded guilty to fentanyl trafficking charges.
Court documents and statements in court showed that while on supervised release for a prior drug trafficking crime, Jennings sold fentanyl on three separate occasions in January and February 2016, to an individual who was cooperating with the Rochester Police Department. On April 6, 2016, two individuals were arrested by the Manchester Police Department during a traffic stop after a search of the vehicle resulted in the seizure of 244.45 grams of fentanyl that had been packaged for sale. Investigators determined that the individuals were drug “runners” for Jennings. On July 18, 2016, 57.7 grams of fentanyl, a digital scale, multiple cellphones, and $6,100 in cash were recovered when a search warrant was executed at Jennings’ apartment in Manchester. Jennings became a fugitive, but was arrested in November of 2016. The cash was forfeited to the United States.
Jennings pleaded guilty to three counts of distribution of fentanyl, one count of possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, and one count of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl. He will be sentenced on May 31, 2018.
“The aggressive investigation and prosecution of fentanyl trafficking is a top priority of the United States Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley. “Individuals like this defendant who seek to profit from the sale of this deadly drug are causing grave damage to our community. We will work tirelessly to stop fentanyl trafficking and to protect the citizens of the Granite State from its deadly effects.”
“Those suffering from the disease of opioid addiction need access to treatment and recovery,” said Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Ferguson. “But those responsible for distributing lethal drugs like fentanyl to the citizens of New Hampshire need to be held accountable for their actions. DEA’s top priority is combatting the opioid epidemic by working with our local, county and state law enforcement partners to bring to justice those that distribute this poison.”
This investigation was conducted by the DEA, the Strafford County Drug Task Force, and the Manchester and Rochester, New Hampshire Police Departments. The United States Marshals-led New Hampshire Joint Fugitive Task Force also provided valuable assistance. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Cole Davis is prosecuting the case.
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Rochester Man Pleads Guilty to Fentanyl and Carfentanil Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. - Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today that John Furber, 45, formerly of Rochester, New Hampshire, pleaded guilty to fentanyl and carfentanil trafficking charges.
Court documents and statements made in court showed that during a vehicle stop in Rochester on March 29, 2017, Furber was found in possession of nearly 10 grams of fentanyl. On April 26, 2017, officers encountered Furber at a hotel in Rochester where he was found with over nine grams of fentanyl and over 28 grams of carfentanil, as well as over $2,000 in cash. On May 24, 2017, Furber was arrested by the United States Marshals-led New Hampshire Joint Fugitive Task Force at an apartment in North Conway, New Hampshire. An additional quantity of fentanyl was recovered from the defendant at that time.
Furber pleaded guilty to two counts of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute. Under the terms of the plea agreement, Furber will forfeit $2,105 in drug proceeds to the United States. Furber’s sentencing is scheduled for May 29, 2018.
“The aggressive investigation and prosecution of individuals engaged in heroin, fentanyl and carfentanil trafficking in New Hampshire remains a top priority of the United States Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners at the local, state and federal level,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley. “The recent presence of carfentanil in New Hampshire, a drug that is hundreds of times more powerful than fentanyl, will result in an even greater number of overdose deaths and presents unprecedented public safety concerns for law enforcement and first responders. The United States Attorney’s Office will continue to work tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to prosecute those who are responsible for distributing these dangerous drugs in our state.”
This investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the United States Marshals-led New Hampshire Joint Fugitive Task Force, and the Rochester and Conway Police Departments. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Cole Davis is prosecuting the case.
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Federal Inmate Sentenced to 14 Months for Escaping from Half-Way HouseRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. – Eric Judkins, 34, formerly of Nashua, has been sentenced to serve 14 months in prison for escaping from the Hampshire House Residential Reentry Center in Manchester, announced Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Judkins received a 210-month federal prison sentence in 2000 for a bank robbery he committed in New Hampshire. While serving the sentence in a federal prison in Pennsylvania, Judkins pleaded guilty to assaulting an inmate and received an additional 27-month prison sentence.
On June 13, 2017, Judkins was transferred from a federal prison in Kentucky to the Hampshire House, with an expected release date of April 8, 2018. With permission from the Hampshire House staff, Judkins left the facility on August 28, 2017, and was required to return before 4:30 p.m. He failed to return as required. On August 31, 2017, Judkins was arrested by Deputy United States Marshals and local law enforcement officers in Howard, Pennsylvania.
Judkins pled guilty to escaping from the Hampshire House on November 3, 2017.
The case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert M. Kinsella.
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Citizen of Dominican Republic Sentenced to 36 Months in Prison for Participating in Heroin Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. – Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced that Maria Miguelina Lara Lara, a/k/a Maribel Santiago-Ramos, a/k/a La Cuna, a/k/a Miguelina, 33, of the Dominican Republic was sentenced to 36 months in federal prison for participating in a heroin trafficking conspiracy.
Documents filed with the court established that Lara Lara participated in a drug trafficking organization (DTO) between October 2015 and October 2016 during which time she delivered drugs to customers of the DTO on a daily basis. The Lawrence-based organization distributed heroin to customers from Massachusetts and New Hampshire.
The defendant pleaded guilty on July 24, 2017, to conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, heroin.
The investigation and prosecution of Lara Lara was part of a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) effort to address heroin distribution in New Hampshire. In addition to Lara Lara’s prosecution, Alberto Guerrero Marte, 38, was sentenced to 15 years in prison, his brother Toribio Guerrero Marte was sentenced to 10 years in prison, Allison DeJesus, 19, was sentenced to five years of probation, Jonaly DeJesus, 22, was sentenced to time served and five years of supervised release, Allan Raymond Pimentel, 21, was sentenced to 57 months in prison, and Jose De la Altagracia Pimental Lara a/k/a Luis Colon, 26, was sentenced to 63 months in prison. Michell DeJesus, 34, Santo Rodolfo Garcia Mendez, 33, Wilkin Andres Beltre Arias, 39, and Edward Garcia, 31, are all awaiting sentencing. In a related case, Mark Gagnon, 54, of Candia, was sentenced to 48 months.
“Members of the law enforcement community are working together to stop the flow of heroin and other deadly drugs into New Hampshire,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley. “While we strongly support access to treatment for those suffering from addiction, those who profit from the distribution of these substances will be prosecuted aggressively.”
"The state of New Hampshire is faced with a fentanyl and heroin crisis unlike ever before," said DEA Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Ferguson. "Those suffering from fentanyl and heroin addiction need treatment and recovery, but those that distribute and profit from spreading this misery need to be held accountable. This investigation demonstrates the strength and continued commitment of our local, state and federal partners and our strong relationship with the U.S. Attorney's Office."
“This case is a great example of how close cooperation among federal, state and local law enforcement can successfully complement the overall fight against the devastating opioid epidemic which has tragically destroyed so many lives nationwide and throughout our region,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Mike Shea, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
This matter was investigated by the DEA; HSI; 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 is being 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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Nashua Man Pleads Guilty to Failing to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
Concord, N.H. - Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced that Thomas William Hickey, 34, of Nashua pled guilty today to 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 has 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, but that they were unaware 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 is scheduled to be sentenced on May 30, 2018.
“When those who are required to register as sex offenders fail to comply with their obligation to do so, they will be prosecuted,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley. “I commend the work of the United States Marshals Service and the Nashua Police Department for their efforts to protect the community.”
“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 Senior Inspector, Mark Lewis, 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 is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Arnold Huftalen.
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Former Dover Resident Sentenced for Stealing Children’s Social Security BenefitsRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. - Arthur Nunes, III, 41, formerly of Dover, New Hampshire, was sentenced to serve 13 months in federal prison for making a false statement to obtain Social Security benefits, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in February of 2012, Nunes submitted an application for Child’s Insurance Benefits to the Social Security Administration (SSA) on behalf of his two children based on the earnings record of their mother, who had passed away in January of 2012. On the application, he indicated that the children resided with him. The application was approved and Nunes, as the children’s representative payee, began receiving monthly benefits in March of 2012. As their representative payee, Nunes was responsible for using the benefits he received on behalf of his children for their current needs, such as food, clothing, housing, and medical care.
In reality, however, after the death of their mother in January 2012, Nunes’s children lived with another relative and Nunes used his children’s benefits for his own use. Nunes’s concealment of his children’s true residency and his failure to use the benefits for their needs caused him to get $36,526 in Child’s Insurance Benefits payments that he was not entitled to receive.
Nunes, who pleaded guilty on October 27, 2017, also was ordered to pay $36,526 in restitution.
“Federal benefit programs provide an important source of support for many deserving families,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley. “Unfortunately, there are some individuals who attempt to defraud the system and obtain money that they are not entitled to receive. The U.S. Attorney’s Office works closely with the SSA’s Office of the Inspector General to ensure that those who attempt to defraud the SSA are identified and prosecuted so that government funds are available for those who should be receiving them.”
“As this sentence demonstrates, the SSA OIG is committed to investigating cases of representative payee fraud, which involves the theft of government funds and harm to innocent children who are deserving of Social Security benefits,” said Scott Antolik, Special Agent-in-Charge of the SSA Office of the Inspector General Boston Field Division. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney's Office to investigate and prosecute all forms of Social Security fraud.”
This matter was investigated by the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the Berwick, Maine Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew T. Hunter and Karen B. Burzycki.
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Weare Man Sentenced to 18 Months in Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. - Kenneth Bailey, 53, of Weare, New Hampshire was sentenced in federal court to serve 18 months in prison for drug trafficking, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on five occasions in 2013 and once in 2014, a cooperating individual purchased methamphetamine or a combination of cocaine and methamphetamine from Bailey at his residence.
Bailey pleaded guilty to six counts of distributing controlled substances on October 25, 2017. In addition to his prison sentence, the defendant was fined $1,000 and will be on supervised release for three years.
“The law enforcement community is united in the effort to stop the distribution of dangerous drugs in New Hampshire,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley. “We will continue to identify and prosecute drug traffickers in order to protect the safety of our community.”
“Mr. Bailey will now pay the price for distributing dangerous drugs that pose a serious threat to our community,” said Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Boston Division. “Together, with our law enforcement partners, the FBI New Hampshire Safe Streets Gang Task Force will continue to do everything we can to crack down on illegal drug distributors and the violence that is associated with them.”
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. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shane B. 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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Columbia Man Sentenced to 99 Months in Prison for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. - David Morris, 57, of Columbia, New Hampshire, was sentenced to serve 99 months in prison for possession of child pornography, announced Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley.
According to court documents and statements in court, law enforcement officers executed search warrants at two residences associated with the defendant on July 20, 2016. A review of various electronic devices found in the residences showed that they contained hundreds of images and videos of child pornography.
Morris pleaded guilty on October 25, 2017. After serving his 99-month sentence, he will be on supervised release for the rest of his life.
“Child pornography offenses are terrible crimes that have, at their core, the abuse of the children depicted in the images,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to protecting children from predators and pornographers. Along with our law enforcement partners, we will continue to identify and prosecute those who possess, distribute or produce child pornography in order to protect our children and our community.”
The case was investigated by the New Hampshire Crimes Against Children Task Force in conjunction with Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations Manchester, as well as the Lincoln, Littleton, and Columbia police departments. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Seth Aframe and Georgiana 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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Massachusetts Man Convicted of Receiving Firearms with Intent to Commit MurderRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. – Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced that late Tuesday afternoon, a federal jury found Edward McLarnon, 69, of Malden, Massachusetts, guilty of receiving firearms with intent to commit murder, as well as three related weapons and explosive charges, after a six-day trial.
Evidence presented at trial showed that in October of 2015, McLarnon made contact with a person he believed to be an arms dealer (who was actually an undercover FBI agent) for the purpose of buying illegal weapons. McLarnon negotiated with the undercover agent at a store in Chichester, New Hampshire and paid a total of $700 in cash to obtain the weapons. On November 6, 2015, the defendant took possession of a .22 caliber pistol with a silencer, an AK-47-style semi-automatic rifle, ammunition, and two hand grenades containing high explosives at a rest stop in Seabrook. He was taken into custody shortly after taking possession of these items. The evidence further showed that McLarnon intended to use the weapons to kill his ex-wife's husband, as well as a Boston federal judge, and a former Massachusetts Attorney General.
The jury found the defendant guilty 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. He faces a maximum penalty of ten years in prison for each count of conviction. He will be sentenced on May 10, 2018.
“I am grateful to the jury for rendering this swift and just verdict,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley. “The evidence at trial demonstrated that the defendant devised a frightening plan to use weapons to kill several individuals to express his frustration with the legal system. Thanks to the hard work of the brave law enforcement officers who participated in this investigation, the defendant’s violent plan was stopped before anyone was hurt.”
“Edward McLarnon purchased an AK-47, grenades, a silencer, and ammunition with the sole intent of killing the former Massachusetts Attorney General, a sitting federal judge, and other government officials. Today’s conviction ensures that Mr. McLarnon will not be able to further endanger innocent lives,” said Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) Boston Division. “This case is a testament to the tireless efforts of the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Forces in Massachusetts and New Hampshire, where the close coordination between federal, state, and local law enforcement led to the successful disruption of McLarnon’s plot. Each and every day, the Joint Terrorism Task Force strives for a perfect record, and we’d like to thank all of our partners for their dedication and hard work in bringing this case to a safe and successful conclusion.”
This matter was investigated by the FBI, U.S. Secret Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John S. Davis and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Hunter.
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Former Goffstown Youth Coach is Sentenced to 25 Years in Federal Prison for Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. - Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced that Matthew Riehl, 25, of Goffstown, New Hampshire, was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison for producing child pornography.
According to court documents and statements in court, Riehl coached youth sports teams in Goffstown. Between July of 2015 and August of 2016, while posing as a teenage girl, he contacted his victims using social media accounts, including Instagram, Snapchat and KIK Messenger, and persuaded his victims to take sexually explicit photographs of themselves and send the photographs to him. When some of the victims sent pictures that were not sexually explicit, Riehl worked to convince them to take photographs showing more sexually explicit conduct. In some instances, Riehl was able to coerce the victims to send explicit photographs by threatening to post on social media photographs that the victims previously had sent to him.
On August 31, 2016, a search warrant was executed at the defendant’s residence in Goffstown and Riehl’s cell phone was seized. A forensic examination of the phone by the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force revealed approximately 500 photographs of minor boys, in various states of dress, including examples of child pornography. Numerous photographs depicted individuals who were members of teams that Riehl had coached.
Riehl, who previously pleaded guilty, was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison, followed by 15 years of supervised release. He will also have to register as a sex offender for life.
“This 25-year sentence demonstrates that those who use the Internet to prey on young victims will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley. “It is a sad fact of modern life that some individuals adopt false identities on the Internet in order to manipulate and exploit their young victims. We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute those who create child pornography. I commend the bravery of the victims and their families who cooperated with this investigation and encourage all parents to speak to their children about the dangers that lurk on the Internet.”
“This case involves an egregious breach of public trust, given Mr. Riehl’s former position in the community, and today’s significant sentencing ensures that he no longer has access to children,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Michael Shea of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Boston. “HSI is proud to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our law enforcement partners and other stakeholders aggressively engaged in the effort against child predators.”
“This investigation is another fine example of the collaborative efforts of state, local and federal law enforcement agencies working to bring to justice those who prey on society's most innocent victims,” said Detective Sergeant Thomas A. Grella, Commander, New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
The Goffstown Police Department would like to thank everyone involved in this case for coming forward and providing crucial information that has been instrumental in seeing this case come to a successful conclusion.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the Goffstown and Bedford Police Departments, the Hillsborough County Attorney’s Office, 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. Attorneys Arnold Huftalen and Georgiana 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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Winchester Man Sentenced to 8.5 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiring to Distribute over a Kilogram of HeroinRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. –Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today that Ross Gould, 30, formerly of Winchester, New Hampshire was sentenced to 8.5 years in federal prison for participating in a heroin trafficking conspiracy.
Court documents and statements in court showed that beginning in 2011 and continuing through mid-March 2015, Gould distributed quantities of heroin throughout the Keene, New Hampshire, area. Investigators determined that Gould initially sold gram quantities of heroin, but later started selling larger quantities of heroin to individuals in Keene and the surrounding towns. From mid-2014 through Gould’s arrest in March of 2015, Gould’s drug trafficking increased substantially. He obtained approximately two kilograms of heroin every four or five weeks from a heroin source in Lawrence, Massachusetts. Gould used a drug courier to obtain the heroin from the source and transport the drugs back to the Keene area where the drugs were distributed by Gould and other drug couriers.
After the lengthy investigation, Gould was arrested in March, 2015. A search of Gould’s Winchester residence resulted in the seizure of approximately five grams of heroin, $11,000 cash and 14 firearms. A subsequent search of a safe that Gould kept at another residence resulted in the seizure of 1.7 kilograms of heroin, 392 grams of cocaine and a small quantity of miscellaneous pills.
Gould pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute over one kilogram of heroin on October 5, 2017. Under the terms of the plea agreement, Gould consented to liquidate personal property purchased with drug proceeds that resulted in the forfeiture by the United States of approximately $ 28,000. Gould also forfeited to the United States 14 firearms that he purchased with drug proceeds. The United States previously forfeited the $11,000 cash seized from Gould’s residence.
Three of Gould’s drug couriers have been sentenced to federal prison as a result of their participation in this drug trafficking organization. Jamie Hilow, 29, formerly of Winchester, is serving an 11-year prison sentence. Hilow’s wife, Jaclyn Hilow, 31, also formerly of Winchester, is serving a 10-year prison sentence. Jason Daigle, 40, formerly of Nelson, is serving an eight-year prison sentence.
Two of Gould’s sources from Lawrence also have been convicted on drug trafficking charges. Jonathan Cruz-Marte, 34, was sentenced to 55 months in prison and Felix Portes, 56, was sentenced to 57 months in prison.
“The United States Attorney’s Office is committed to working with our local, state and federal law enforcement partners to target individuals who are distributing illegal drugs in New Hampshire,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley. “While those who suffer from addiction need access to treatment, those who seek to profit from the distribution of heroin and other deadly drugs will be prosecuted aggressively. I commend the work of the law enforcement officers who worked together during this long-term investigation to disrupt and dismantle a major drug trafficking organization that was responsible for the distribution of large quantities of heroin in the Keene area.”
The investigation was conducted by the: (1) Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations; (2) New Hampshire Attorney General’s Drug Task Force; (3) Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; (4) New Hampshire State Police; (5) Keene, New Hampshire Police Department; (6) Richmond, New Hampshire Police Department; and (7) Salem, New Hampshire Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Cole Davis 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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Derry Man Sentenced to 14 Years in Prison for Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. – Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced that Anthony Barth, 26, of Derry, was sentenced to 14 years in prison for fentanyl trafficking.
According to statements made in court, Barth sold fentanyl to a cooperating individual on two occasions in July and August of 2016. On August 17, 2016, the individual placed an order for 50 “fingers” or approximately 500 grams of fentanyl. The defendant arrived at the predetermined meeting location in Derry, New Hampshire where officers attempted to arrest him. Barth tried to flee, hitting a police car and eventually abandoning his own vehicle behind a nearby business. He ran into a wooded area where he attempted to discard the drugs, but he was apprehended shortly thereafter. Officers searched the wooded area and found the drugs, which contained approximately 490 grams of fentanyl.
On June 5, 2017, Barth pleaded guilty to two counts of distribution of a controlled substance and one count of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute.
“Most overdose deaths in the Granite State are being caused by fentanyl,” Acting U.S. Attorney Farley said. “The substantial amount of fentanyl that this defendant was distributing could have placed many lives at risk. While the law enforcement community recognizes that those who suffer from addiction require treatment, those who seek to profit from the sale of these deadly products are damaging the fabric of our communities. We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to seek substantial penalties for those who threaten our state by selling fentanyl and other deadly drugs.”
“The state of New Hampshire is faced with a fentanyl crisis unlike ever before,” said Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Ferguson. “Those suffering from opioid addiction need access to treatment and recovery, but those that distribute and profit from lethal drugs like fentanyl to the citizens of New Hampshire need to be held accountable. This investigation demonstrates the strength and continued commitment of our local, state and federal partners and our strong relationship with the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”
This case was investigated by the DEA and the Manchester and Derry Police Departments. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana L. Konesky.
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Manchester Man Sentenced to Eight Years in Prison for Drug Trafficking and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. - Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today that Kaisle J. Raikes, 25, of Manchester, was sentenced to serve 96 months in prison for drug trafficking and firearms offenses.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on three separate occasions in May of 2017, Raikes sold methamphetamine to an individual who was cooperating with the Manchester Police Department. Raikes displayed firearms during two of the drug transactions. At the time of his arrest, Raikes possessed cocaine and methamphetamine. He also had a loaded firearm in his sock. After the police found the firearm on Raikes, he stated, “I’m no fool, you have to be ready. I would never turn it on one of you guys though.” Members of the Manchester Police Department also executed a search warrant at the defendant’s apartment and seized two loaded firearms, ammunition, methamphetamine, cocaine, Suboxone, a digital scale, and baggies.
Raikes previously pleaded guilty on October 26, 2017, to three counts of distribution of a controlled substance, one count of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. He will be on supervised release for five years after serving his prison sentence. The firearms have been forfeited to the United States.
“Drugs and guns are a potentially deadly combination that can threaten the safety of our community,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley. “When drug dealers arm themselves, there is a great risk that they will commit acts of violence. Through the Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative, we will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to target those who use guns to commit crimes so that we can protect our citizens from violent crime. Those who choose to use firearms to commit crimes in New Hampshire should expect to spend many years behind bars.”
This matter was investigated by the Manchester Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Assistant U.S. Attorney Debra M. Walsh prosecuted the case.
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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Laconia Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. - James Cunningham, 61, of Laconia, New Hampshire, pleaded guilty in federal court to four counts of distributing methamphetamine, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley 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 is scheduled to be sentenced on May 9, 2018.
“Drug trafficking crimes cause tremendous damage to our community,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley. “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.”
"We're pleased to see Mr. Cunningham, a member of one of the most violent and notorious gangs in the United States, finally accepting responsibility for trafficking illegal narcotics," said Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Boston Division. “The FBI New Hampshire Safe Streets Gang Task Force is fully committed to eradicating gang violence, and the flow of illegal drugs that comes with it. Together, with our law enforcement partners, we're going to take back our communities from violent offenders who are inhibiting the safety and growth of our neighborhoods."
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 is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shane B. Kelbley.
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Weare Resident Sentenced to 18 Months in Prison for Unlawful Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. - Jody Swett, 38, of Weare, New Hampshire, has been sentenced to an 18- month term of imprisonment for possessing multiple firearms and ammunition following convictions for crimes of domestic violence, announced Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley.
According to court records, on April 30, 2015, Swett pleaded guilty to a crime that involved domestic violence in Nashua District Court. On October 14, 2016, Swett pleaded guilty in the same court to another crime that involved domestic violence. As a result of the convictions, it was unlawful under federal law for Swett possess firearms and ammunition.
Nevertheless, in a private transaction that occurred in Manchester in July 2016, Swett bought a Ruger pistol for $375. In another private transaction that occurred in Hillsborough in October 2016, Swett bought a shotgun for $250 and a bulletproof vest. Additionally, during a search of Swett’s residence in Weare on February 10, 2017, the Federal Bureau of Investigation seized two .22 caliber rifles, a 9 millimeter pistol, and more than 100 rounds of ammunition.
On July 17, 2017, Swett pleaded guilty to three counts of possessing firearms following a conviction for a crime of domestic violence. After serving his sentence, Swett will be on supervised release for a period of 3 years. The firearms and ammunition were forfeited to the United States.
“It is vital to keep firearms out of the hands of criminals who present a risk of violence,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley. “Those who have committed acts of domestic violence are prohibited from possessing guns. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to prosecute those who possess firearms unlawfully and to protect the safety of the community.”
“This case is a testament to the priority we place on addressing violent crimes to keep our communities safe. Mr. Swett's actions in illegally possessing firearms shortly after his convictions for domestic crimes is a clear violation of the law,” said Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, (FBI), Boston Division. “The FBI will continue to collaborate with the ATF to prevent gun offenses and protect the public from dangerous criminals.”
The FBI and the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Robert Kinsella prosecuted the case.
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Federal Inmate Sentenced for Drug and Weapon PossessionRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. – Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today that Rahshim Carter, an inmate at the federal prison in Berlin, New Hampshire, was sentenced yesterday to 18 months after pleading guilty to possessing Suboxone and a homemade weapon known as a shank. The sentence will run consecutive to his current sentence for being a felon in possession of a weapon.
Pleadings filed with the court and statements made at the sentencing hearing established that staff at FCI-Berlin were conducting a health and sanitation check at the prison on November 24, 2016. When they opened Carter’s cell, the staff smelled smoke. Carter exited his cell and immediately tried to evade the prison staff by running around the second tier of the unit and jumping to the first tier. Prison staff eventually subdued Carter and a search found the homemade weapon and a quantity of Suboxone, which is a controlled substance.
The case was investigated by the staff at the Bureau of Prisons, FCI-Berlin. Assistant United States Attorney Donald Feith prosecuted the case.
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Citizen of Dominican Republic Sentenced to 63 Months in Prison for Heroin TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. – Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced that Jose De La Altagracia Pimentel Lara, a/k/a Luis Colon. a/k/a Jose Pimentel, a/k/a Todolindo, a/k/a El Lindon. a/k/a Lindy, 26, of the Dominican Republic, was sentenced to serve 63 months in federal prison for participating in a heroin trafficking conspiracy.
Documents filed with the court established that Pimentel Lara participated in a drug trafficking organization that distributed heroin in Massachusetts and New Hampshire between July 2016 and September 2016. While participating in the conspiracy, the defendant obtained heroin from the drug trafficking organization and delivered it to his customers.
The defendant previously pleaded guilty on September 8, 2017, to conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with the intent to distribute, heroin.
“The drug problem in New Hampshire is worsened by those who seek to profit from the addictions of others,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley. “We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who are responsible for distributing the drugs that are endangering our community.”
“Those suffering from the disease of opioid addiction need access to treatment and recovery,” said Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Ferguson. “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.”
The prosecution of Pimentel Lara was part of a larger DEA investigation seeking to combat heroin distribution in New Hampshire. Other defendants also have been convicted for their involvement in this drug trafficking organization. Alberto Guerrero Marte, 38, received a 15-year sentence, Toribio Guerrero Marte, 32, received a 10-year sentence, Allison DeJesus, 19, received a sentence of five years of probation, Jonaly DeJesus, 22, received a sentence of time served and five years of supervised release, and Allan Raymond Pimentel, 21, received a sentence of 57 months in prison. Alfredo Gonzalez, 51, Michell DeJesus, 34, Maria Miguelina Lara Lara, 33, Santo Rodolfo Garcia Mendez, 33, Wilkin Andres Beltre Arias, 39, and Edward Garcia, 31, are all awaiting sentencing. In a related case, Mark Gagnon, 54, of Candia, was sentenced to 48 months in prison.
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 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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Manchester Man Pleads Guilty to Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. - Aaron Pelchat, 36, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court to bank robbery, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on May 23, 2017, Pelchat walked into a Northway Bank in Manchester, New Hampshire, 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 is scheduled to be sentenced on May 8, 2018.
“Bank robberies are violent crimes that often can jeopardize the safety of bank employees, customers, and other members of the community,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley. “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.”
“The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) would like to thank the concerned citizens who came forward with information to help identify Mr. Pelchat. Robbing banks can put innocent lives at risk and we’re lucky Mr. Pelchat was arrested before anyone got hurt,” said Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Boston Division. “Together with our law enforcement partners, the FBI will continue to do everything we can to make our communities safer.”
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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Franklin Man Sentenced to 50 Years for Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. – Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced that Brad Smith, 33, of Franklin, New Hampshire was sentenced to 50 years in federal prison for producing child pornography. A jury previously found Smith guilty of six counts of producing child pornography after a three-day trial in April 2017.
Evidence presented at trial showed that in January of 2016, law enforcement officers in Lafayette, Louisiana received a tip that an email address associated with the defendant was distributing child pornography. Officers traced the email address to a farm in Breaux Bridge, Louisiana, where the defendant was living at the time. With the defendant’s consent, officers conducted an analysis of a hard drive owned by the defendant and uncovered a series of videos apparently created by the defendant. The investigation determined that the defendant had filmed himself engaging in multiple sexual acts with a three-and-half-year-old child in Loudon, New Hampshire. The defendant saved the videos to a hard drive and took them with him to Louisiana.
“Today's sentence demonstrates that this community will not tolerate the horrific acts that the defendant committed against a defenseless young child,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley. “The United States Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners will work tirelessly to prosecute individuals who steal the innocence of young victims. I commend the performance of the law enforcement officers and prosecutors whose work secured this very substantial sentence. I hope that the sentence provides some comfort to the victim’s family.”
“This case, which involved dedicated work from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) both in Louisiana and in New Hampshire, as well as local, state and other federal law enforcement, serves as a testament to what persistent, professional investigative work can achieve,” said Michael Shea, Acting Special Agent–In -Charge, HSI, Boston. “HSI is proud to be part of the team that helped bring about justice in this truly disturbing case of child victimization.”
The investigation in this case was led by Homeland Security Investigations in Lafayette, Louisiana and Manchester, New Hampshire, the Louisiana State Police, and the Concord, New Hampshire Police Department with the assistance of the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Seth Aframe and Georgiana 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 Man Pleads Guilty to Drug Trafficking and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. - David Frediani, 28, of Epsom, pleaded guilty on Thursday in federal court to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.
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.
The defendant’s plea agreement includes a binding stipulated sentence of 150 months’ imprisonment. A sentencing hearing has been scheduled for May 14, 2018.
“Opioids are killing hundreds of residents of New Hampshire each year,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley. “The danger posed by drug trafficking is further increased when drug dealers use firearms to further their unlawful activities. I commend the law enforcement officers for protecting the community from the dangers posed by the fentanyl and firearms in this case.”
This matter was investigated by the New Hampshire State Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana Konesky.
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Two Sentenced for Fentanyl DistributionRead the Press Release
Concord, N.H.—Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced that Jose Serrano Ayuso, 31, and Lilian Zapata, a/k/a Marta Arus, 52, both previously of Manchester, New Hampshire, have been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl in 2016.
According to court records and statements in court, on several occasions between August and October of 2016, investigators used a cooperating individual to make purchases of heroin from Ayuso. On two occasions when Ayuso was unavailable, Zapata delivered the requested drugs. Laboratory analyses later showed that the defendants actually were distributing fentanyl.
During the execution of a search warrant at the defendants’ shared residence in Manchester in October 2016, investigators found more than 230 grams of fentanyl, a handgun, drug ledgers, over $5,000 of U.S. currency, and identifying documents in Ayuso’s bedroom. In the apartment kitchen, investigators found an iced tea container containing over 640 grams of fentanyl. Investigators also located a scale and a press for forming “fingers” of fentanyl for distribution in other areas of the apartment. In total, this investigation led to the seizure of more than one kilogram of fentanyl.
Both Zapata and Ayuso pleaded guilty in fall 2017. On January 5, 2018, Zapata received a sentence of 54 months in prison. On January 18, 2018, Ayuso received a sentence of 144 months in prison.
“As our state grapples with the challenges of the opioid crisis, there are still those who seek to profit from the sale of fentanyl and other deadly drugs,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley. “Far too many lives in New Hampshire have been lost to drug overdoses. Those who choose to sell fentanyl and other deadly drugs are endangering their customers and causing great damage to our community. We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to stop the flow of fentanyl into the Granite State and to protect our community from further harm.”
“Mr. Ayuso and Ms. Zapata will now pay the price for their roles in a large scale drug operation that distributed more than a kilo of fentanyl, the top cause of drug related deaths in New Hampshire,” said Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) Boston Division. “Each and every day, the FBI New Hampshire Safe Streets Gang Task Force is hard at work targeting distributors and their supply chains, who are blatantly contributing to the tragic opioid crisis that is wreaking havoc in communities all over our state.”
The matter was investigated by the FBI 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 New Hampshire HIDTA. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles L. Rombeau.
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Somersworth Man Pleads Guilty to Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. - Matthew Felton, 38, of Somersworth, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of production of child pornography, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley 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 is scheduled to be sentenced on April 26, 2018.
“Those who produce child pornography cause untold amounts of damage to their youthful victims,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley. “Unfortunately, the widespread use of social media has increased the opportunities for young people to be victimized. While we will work closely with our law enforcement partners to prosecute those who rob children of their innocence by committing crimes like this, we also encourage parents to speak to their children about the need to be extremely cautious when communicating on social media.”
“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 the Department of Homeland Security - Homeland Security Investigations, the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and law enforcement authorities in Canada. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana 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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