Northern District of New York
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Warren County Man Sentenced for Threatening North Carolina Court EmployeesRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Fredrick Eli Knapp, age 52, of Pottersville, New York, was sentenced today to 24 months in prison for interstate transmission of threats to injure another person.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon; Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina G. Norman Acker, III; William T. Bowman, Marshal of the Supreme Court of North Carolina; Special Agent in Charge Robert Wells of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Charlotte Field Office; and Chief R.E. “Chip” Hawley of the North Carolina State Capitol Police Department.
In November 2019, Knapp sent profanity-laden emails from Warren County, New York, to court employees in North Carolina threatening, among other things, to “kill[] court employees,” and posted a message to the North Carolina court system’s Facebook page threatening to “find a way to get back to that state just to kill people in your courthouses.” He also left a voicemail for a North Carolina police officer stating that police officers “don’t deserve to live.” In response to Knapp’s threats, bomb-detection dogs were dispatched to a North Carolina courthouse.
United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino also imposed a 3-year term of supervised release, which will start after Knapp’s release from prison.
This case was investigated by the State Marshals of North Carolina Judicial Branch, FBI, and the North Carolina State Capitol Police Department, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sebastian Kielmanovich of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina and Assistant U.S. Attorney Cyrus P.W. Rieck of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York.
Syracuse Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Thomas Sczerbaniewicz, age 52, of Syracuse, pled guilty yesterday to one count of possessing and accessing with intent to view child pornography, announced Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Thomas F. Relford, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
As part of his plea agreement and during the plea hearing before United States District Judge David N. Hurd in Utica, Sczerbaniewicz admitted that, in January 2021 while at his sex offender counseling service, he went into the bathroom and used a mobile phone to access the internet and view child exploitation images.
Sczerbaniewicz, who was convicted of possessing child pornography in 2009 and was on supervised release at the time he committed the current offense, faces at least 10 years and up to 20 years in prison on the new conviction. The Court also will impose a term of supervised release of between 5 years and life. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the statute the defendant violated, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.
Sczerbaniewicz’s case was investigated by the FBI Syracuse Mid-State Child Exploitation Task Force, comprised of FBI Special Agents and Investigators of the New York State Police, Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI), after a referral from the United States Probation Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael D. Gadarian as a part of Project Safe Childhood.
Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorney’s offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS). 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 https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Schoharie County Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing, Receiving and Possessing Thousands of Images and Videos of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Angel Gomez, age 28, of Richmondville, New York, pled guilty today to a nine-count information, admitting that he received, possessed and distributed child pornography.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Kevin Kelly, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
As part of his guilty plea, Gomez admitted to using a peer-to-peer file-sharing program to download image and video files from the internet, which he then saved to electronic devices. In addition, Gomez admitted that he allowed others to download child pornography from him via the peer-to-peer network. The conduct involved over 13,000 still images and over 2,400 videos depicting the sexual abuse of children.
Chief United States District Judge Glenn T. Suddaby will sentence Gomez on August 5, 2021. Each of counts one through four, alleging receipt and distribution of child pornography, carries a maximum sentence of 20 years and a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years in prison, as well as a fine of up to $250,000. Each of counts five through nine, alleging possession of child pornography, carries a maximum sentence of 20 years and a maximum fine of $250,000. For all counts, Gomez faces a term of post-imprisonment supervised release of between 5 years and life and a requirement that he register as a sex offender. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
This case was investigated by HSI, along with members of the New York State Police, as part of Project Safe Childhood, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily C. Powers.
Project Safe Childhood is 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 http://www.justice.gov/psc/.
Cohoes Man Sentenced for Interstate ThreatsRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Patris Derville, age 22, of Cohoes, New York, was sentenced yesterday to 13 months in prison for transmitting an interstate threat to injure another person, announced Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Thomas F. Relford, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
As part of his previously entered guilty plea, Derville admitted that on January 15, 2020, he used his Facebook account to transmit a Facebook Live video over the internet during which Derville threatened to shoot another person, and that he posted the video for the purpose of communicating that threat to that person.
Chief United States District Judge Glenn T. Suddaby also sentenced Derville to a 3-year term of supervised release, which will commence after Derville is released from prison.
This case was investigated by the FBI and its Capital District Safe Streets Gang Task Force, which includes FBI Special Agents and members of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, including the Troy Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ashlyn Miranda and Alicia Suarez.
Canton Man Pleads Guilty to Sexual Exploitation of a Child, and Distribution and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Jacob Leonard, age 30, of Canton, New York, pled guilty today to one count of sexual exploitation of a child, one count of distribution of child pornography, and one count of possession of child pornography.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon; Thomas F. Relford, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); and New York State Police Superintendent Keith Corlett.
Leonard, who remains detained pending his sentencing scheduled for August 5, 2021, faces at least 15 years and up to 70 years in prison. Chief United States District Judge Glenn T. Suddaby will also impose a term of supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors. Leonard would also have to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison.
As part of his guilty plea, Leonard admitted that while using a social media messaging application on his phone, he sent an image of child pornography – which he created – to another individual over the internet. A subsequent search of Leonard’s phone revealed that he was in possession of 33 images and 18 video files depicting child pornography.
Leonard’s case was investigated by the FBI Syracuse Mid-State Child Exploitation Task Force, comprised of FBI Special Agents and Investigators from the New York State Police, Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) and Computer Crimes Unit (CCU). The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey J. L. Brown as a part of Project Safe Childhood.
Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorney’s offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS). 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 https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Albany Felon Arrested for Possessing FirearmsRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Roderick Jones, age 41, of Albany, was ordered detained today on a federal complaint charging him with two separate instances of unlawful possession of firearms.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon; John B. DeVito, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); and Chief Eric Hawkins of the Albany Police Department.
The complaint alleges that on January 17, 2019, Jones possessed a loaded .380 caliber handgun in his vehicle when he was arrested on impaired driving charges. The complaint further alleges that on September 29, 2019, Jones possessed a 9mm pistol that he discharged four times at an occupied residence. On both occasions, Jones was a felon who was prohibited from possessing firearms.
Jones was arrested on the complaint on Wednesday, and appeared for a detention hearing today in Albany before United States Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart. Following a detention hearing, Jones was ordered detained pending trial.
The charges in the complaint are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Jones was previously convicted of unlawful possession of the .380 pistol in Albany County Court, but that conviction was overturned in July 2020, by the New York Supreme Court Appellate Division’s Third Department. The court ruled that the search of Jones’s vehicle, leading to the recovery of the .380 pistol, was not a valid inventory search. At time of his arrest on the federal complaint, Jones was facing charges in Albany County Court related to the possession and discharge of the 9mm pistol in September 2019. Those charges will be dismissed by the Albany County District Attorney’s Office in light of the federal complaint.
The charges filed against Jones carry a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a maximum 3-year term of supervised release. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
This case is being investigated by the Albany Police Department and ATF. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Emmet O’Hanlon.
Akwesasne Man Sentenced for Fleeing Port of EntryRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK - Brennan J. Thompson, age 43, of Cornwall Island, Ontario, was sentenced today to time served (approximately 2 months in jail) for driving away from the Massena Port of Entry while Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Officers attempted to search his vehicle.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Robert Dwyer, CBP Director of the Massena Port of Entry.
As part of his earlier guilty plea, Thompson admitted that on May 13, 2020, he was operating a silver Lincoln sedan when he approached the Massena Port of Entry, seeking to enter the United States from Canada. When asked to open the vehicle’s trunk for inspection, Thompson quickly accelerated away from the inspection booth, made a U-turn and sped back into Canada. Thompson was arrested on June 28, 2020.
Chief United States District Judge Glenn T. Suddaby also sentenced Thompson to a 3-year term of supervised release.
The case was investigated by CBP and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas Collyer.
Texas Man Sentenced to 21 Months for Obstruction of JusticeRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK - Tyler C. King, age 32, of Dallas, Texas, was sentenced today to 21 months in prison for falsifying evidence and obstructing justice at his November 2019 jury trial.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Thomas F. Relford, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
As part of his previously entered guilty plea, King admitted to obstructing justice by falsifying evidence for use in his November 2019 federal jury trial in Albany. Following that trial, King was convicted of conspiracy to commit computer fraud, computer fraud, and aggravated identity theft in connection with his hacking of a New York-based technology company, and sentenced to serve 57 months in prison. The 21-month term of imprisonment imposed today will run consecutive to the 57-month term, for a total term of imprisonment of 78 months.
For the obstruction conviction, Chief United States District Judge Glenn T. Suddaby also sentenced King to a 2-year term of supervised release, to begin following his term of imprisonment, and a $7,500 fine.
This case was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua R. Rosenthal.
Rochester-Area Man Pleads Guilty to Fraud, Money Laundering and Tax OffensesRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Michael Bartusek, age 58, of Fairport, New York, pled guilty today to wire fraud, money laundering, and filing a false tax return.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon of the Northern District of New York; United States Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. of the Western District of New York; Thomas Relford, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); Inspector in Charge Joseph Cronin, Boston Division, United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS); and Jonathan D. Larsen, Special Agent in Charge, New York Field Office, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI).
As part of his guilty plea, Bartusek admitted that, from the summer of 2015 through the end of 2016, he defrauded his employer of approximately $776,000 which he used to invest in a high-risk scheme to purchase and sell diamonds from overseas, hoping to profit personally from their sale and return the money he stole from his employer before his fraud was discovered. Instead, the diamond investment failed, and the money was lost. Bartusek also admitted that, as part of his diamond scheme, he and two others solicited investments for a company called Integra Diamonds by materially false and fraudulent representations in an effort to recover investment funds that had been lost, including the money Bartusek stole from his employer.
In addition to the fraud and money laundering charges, Bartusek pled guilty to filing a false tax return for tax year 2015, and he admitted that he underreported his total income that tax year by approximately $123,000. He admitted further that he underreported his total income for the 2016 tax year by approximately $46,000.
Sentencing is set for July 28, 2021, before Senior United State District Court Judge Thomas J. McAvoy. Bartusek faces upon to 20 years in prison on the fraud conviction, 10 years in prison on the money laundering conviction, and 3 years in prison on the tax conviction. The judge also could impose a term of supervised release of up to three years. In addition to imprisonment and supervised release, Bartusek faces a fine of up to $250,000, and as part of his plea agreement Bartusek agreed to be subject to a forfeiture money judgment in the amount of $946,000. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the statutes the defendant violated, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI). It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael D. Gadarian and Nicolas Commandeur of the Northern District of New York and Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Kruly of the Western District of New York.
Syracuse Man Pleads Guilty to Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Aaron Acevedo, 27, of Syracuse, New York pled guilty in federal court today to possessing with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine, announced Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon, Ray Donovan, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Division, and Chief Kenton Buckner, City of Syracuse Police Department.
As part of his guilty plea, Acevedo admitted that in June 2020 he possessed, and intended to distribute, more than 40 grams of heroin and more than 120 grams of cocaine. Chief United States District Judge Glenn T. Suddaby scheduled sentencing for August 4, 2021 in Syracuse, New York. At sentencing, Acevedo faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of up to $2,000,000, and a term of supervised release of at least six years and up to life. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.
This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Syracuse Police Department, the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Investigators from the Onondaga County District Attorney’s Office, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the New York State Police, and the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Department, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicolas Commandeur and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Adrian LaRochelle.
Dewitt Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Prison for Attempted Coercion and Enticement of a Child and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK - Derek Indivero, age 28, of Dewitt, New York, was sentenced today to serve 30 years in prison for attempted coercion and enticement of a child and possession of child pornography, announced Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon, Special Agent-in-Charge Thomas Relford of the Albany Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and New York State Police Superintendent Keith Corlett.
As part of his earlier guilty plea, Indivero admitted that in February of 2018 he began communicating with a middle school student using the on-line messaging application Snapchat. Indivero offered the student $50 in exchange for sexual contact, and then met with the minor, engaged in the sexual contact, and paid the child $49.
Later that same month, law enforcement officials took over the middle school student’s Snapchat identity and, posing as the child, continued messaging Indivero. During the course of a Snapchat conversation, Indivero offered to pay the child $50 in exchange for oral sexual conduct, and then drove to a location to meet with the child for that purpose. Instead of finding the child, Indivero encountered law enforcement officials, and was arrested.
As part of his guilty plea, Indivero also admitted that at the time of his arrest he possessed 37 child pornography videos he obtained from the Internet using his cellular telephone.
Chief United States District Judge Glenn T. Suddaby also imposed a 30-year term of supervised release, which will start after Indivero is released from prison, and ordered Indivero to pay $6,000 in restitution and a $200 special assessment. As a result of his conviction, Indivero will be required to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison.
Indivero’s case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the New York State Police in coordination with the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office and the Onondaga County District Attorney’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey J. L. Brown as part of Project Safe Childhood. Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorney’s offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), and is designed to marshal 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 https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Cortland County Woman Pleads Guilty to Child Sexual Exploitation CrimesRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Sarah Gates, age 39, of Cortland, New York, pled guilty today to a three-count information charging that she, together with Christopher M. Perry, conspired to sexually exploit, and sexually exploited, a child under five years of age for the purpose of producing images of the abuse.
The announcement was made by the Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Kevin M. Kelly, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
As part of her guilty plea, Gates admitted that on several occasions in 2017, she and Christopher M. Perry sexually exploited a child under five years of age while taking photographs using two cell phones.
Christopher M. Perry pled guilty to the same offenses on April 9, 2020 and was sentenced on November 3, 2020 to serve 540 months (45 years) in federal prison.
Senior United States District Judge Thomas J. McAvoy will sentence Gates on July 28, 2021. Each of the three crimes to which Gates pled guilty carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years, and a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a term of post-imprisonment supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life. She will also be required to register as a sex offender. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
This case is being investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the City of Cortland Police Department, and the New York State Police-Computer Crimes Unit, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sahar L. Amandolare and Special Assistant United States Attorney Adrian S. LaRochelle as part of Project Safe Childhood. Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), and is designed to marshal 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 https://www.justice.gov/psc.
New Jersey Man Sentenced to 71 Months for Traveling to Meet a Child for Sex and for Distributing Obscene Material to a MinorRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Recep Sandikci, age 46, of North Plainfield, New Jersey, was sentenced today to 71 months in prison for attempting to meet an Albany-area 13-year-old girl for sex, as well as for sending her obscene material. The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Thomas F. Relford, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
As part of his previously entered guilty plea, Sandikci admitted to driving from New Jersey to New York on August 6, 2019, in order to meet and have sex with the 13-year old. During communications between Sandikci and the girl over a cellphone application in the days leading up to the arrest, Sandikci sent the girl sexually explicit images. Sandikci was arrested in an Albany County parking lot where he believed he was about to meet the girl.
United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino also imposed a 15-year term of supervised release, which will commence after Sandikci is released from prison. Sandikci is also required to pay a $5,000 special assessment fee, and he will be required to register as a sex offender following his release from prison.
This case was investigated by the FBI and its Child Exploitation Task Force, which includes members of the New York State Police, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily C. Powers.
This case was prosecuted as part of 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 http://www.justice.gov/psc/.
Madison County Man Sentenced for Failing to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK-Matthew Lamb, 48, of DeRuyter, New York, was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Syracuse, New York, to serve 18-months incarceration, to be followed by a 16-year term of supervised release in connection with his plea of guilty to two counts of failing to register and update his registration as a previously convicted sex offender, announced Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and David L. McNulty, United States Marshal for the Northern District of New York.
On October 7, 2020, Lamb pled guilty and admitted that he had two e-mail addresses that he failed to disclose to the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services as required by the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (“SORNA”). As part of his guilty plea, Lamb admitted that from May 3, 2016 through May 13, 2019, he failed to register a Yahoo! e-mail address that he created on December 10, 2001, as required by SORNA. Further, Lamb admitted that from April 27, 2018, through May 13, 2019, he failed to register and update his registration to disclose a Google e-mail address that he created on April 16, 2019, as required by SORNA.
Lamb was required to register as a sex offender because of his federal conviction in 2012 for distribution of child pornography, receipt of child pornography and possession of child pornography. Lamb was sentenced on December 6, 2012, to serve 84-months incarceration, and a 20-year term of supervised release on that conviction.
In addition to his plea to the failure to register and update a registration as a sex offender, Lamb also admitted yesterday to violating the terms of supervised release previously imposed from his 2012 conviction. He was also sentenced yesterday to a consecutive term of 12-months incarceration for those violations.
This case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Thomson as part of Project Safe Childhood. Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS). 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 https://www.justice.gov/psc
Guilderland Man Sentenced to 300 Months for Child Sexual ExploitationRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Blake Spears, age 40, of Westmere, Town of Guilderland, New York, was sentenced today to 300 months in prison for sexually exploiting a child.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Thomas F. Relford, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Spears admitted that on December 1, 2018, he used his phone to video-record himself masturbating while standing over a sleeping child. He also admitted to using a phone messaging application to distribute, to others, videos depicting the sexual abuse of other children.
In imposing sentence, United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino found that Spears was a repeat and dangerous sex offender, and had repeatedly exploited a minor. She also imposed a 20-year term of supervised release, to begin after the 300-month term of imprisonment, and ordered Spears to pay $8,000 in restitution to individuals whose abuse was depicted in images that Spears possessed.
This case was investigated by the FBI and its Child Exploitation Task Force, which includes members of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, including the Colonie Police Department and New York State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Barnett.
The case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood. Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS). 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 https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Syracuse-Based Social Security Administration Employee Charged with Theft and Social Security FraudRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Sean Okrzesik, age 34, of Syracuse, was arrested on March 23 on charges of theft of government property and Social Security fraud related to his diversion of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits into bank accounts he set up in the names of beneficiaries or their representative payees while he was employed in the Syracuse District Office of the Social Security Administration. SSI is a federal income supplement program funded by general tax revenue. The program is designed to help disabled people, with little or no income, cover the costs of basic needs.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Gail S. Ennis, Inspector General for the Social Security Administration.
Okrzesik appeared in Federal Court in Syracuse, New York, before United States Magistrate Judge Thérèse Wiley Dancks. He was ordered released pending trial on a date to be scheduled in the future.
If convicted of theft of government property and Social Security fraud, Okrzesik faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten (10) years, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised of up to 3 years. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
The charges in the complaint are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
This case is being investigated by the SSA Office of the Inspector General under the supervision of John F. Grasso, Special Agent in Charge of the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General, New York Field Office, and is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Adrian S. LaRochelle.
North Carolina Man Charged with 2016 Cyber Attack Affecting Internet Users in PlattsburghRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Thomas A. Johnson, age 24, of Boone, North Carolina, has been charged with perpetrating a March 2016 distributed denial of service (“DDOS”) attack that disrupted internet access for thousands of Plattsburgh-area internet customers.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Thomas F. Relford, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
DDOS attacks target websites and online services. The attacker causes the targeted server or network to be overwhelmed by more internet traffic than the server or network can typically accommodate, which renders the affected server or network inoperable for a period of time until service can be restored. The charges in the information are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Johnson is charged with intentionally causing damage to a protected computer, a misdemeanor. The offense carries a maximum penalty of 1 year in jail, as well as a fine of up to $100,000, and a term of supervised release of up to a year. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
Johnson was arraigned today in Albany before United States Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart. He was ordered released pending further proceedings.
This case is being investigated by the FBI and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily C. Powers.
Delaware County Man Sentenced to 210 Months for Transportation of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Daniel Miller, age 26, of Stamford, New York, was sentenced today to serve 210 months (17.5 years) in federal prison for using his cellphone to upload child pornography to an online cloud storage account announced Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Special Agent in Charge Thomas F. Relford of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI).
As part of his earlier guilty plea in United States District Court, Miller, who was twice previously convicted in Schoharie County Court: first in 2015 for Possessing an Obscene Sexual Performance by a Child, and then in 2017 for Sexual Abuse in the First Degree and Endangering the Welfare of a Child, admitted that while on probation for these prior convictions he uploaded images and videos of child pornography to his Dropbox account using a cellphone he was not permitted to have under the terms of his probation.
Senior United States District Judge Thomas J. McAvoy also imposed a 15-year term of supervised release, which will start after Miller is released from prison. As a result of his conviction, Miller will also be required to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, and the Delaware County Probation Office and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sahar L. Amandolare and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Adrian S. LaRochelle.
The case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood. Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS). 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 https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Tioga County Man Sentenced to 124 Months for Attempted Online Enticement of a MinorRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK - Jacob Gorman, age 39, of Waverly, New York, was sentenced today to serve 124 months in federal prison for attempted online enticement of a minor, announced Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Thomas F. Relford, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
As part of his previous guilty plea Gorman admitted that between August 11, 2020 and August 27, 2020, he exchanged text messages with an undercover officer he believed was the mother of a 9 year old girl. In those messages, Gorman expressed an interest in meeting the child and engaging in sex acts with her. Gorman negotiated a price he was willing to pay to engage in sex acts with the child and on August 27, 2020, drove to a pre-determined location in Broome County to meet and have sex with the child. Gorman was then encountered by law enforcement and arrested.
Senior United States District Judge Thomas J. McAvoy also imposed a 15-year term of supervised release, which will start after Gorman is released from prison, and ordered Gorman to pay a $100 special assessment. As a result of his conviction, Gorman will be required to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison.
Gorman’s case was investigated by the FBI Syracuse Mid-State Child Exploitation Task Force. This task force is comprised of FBI Special Agents and Investigators of the New York State Police, Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey J. L. Brown as part of Project Safe Childhood.
Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS). 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 https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Schenectady Woman Charged with Possession of a Defaced FirearmRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Nakia Barber, age 46, of Schenectady, New York, was charged by criminal complaint today with unlawfully possessing a defaced firearm. The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and John B. DeVito, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
The charge filed against Barber alleges that she possessed a defaced Walther P22 .22 caliber pistol on October 30, 2018. The charges in the complaint are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Barber appeared today in Albany before United States Magistrate Judge Christian F. Hummel, and was ordered detained pending further proceedings.
The charge filed against Barber carries a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to 3 years. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
This case is being investigated by the ATF and the Schenectady County Sherriff’s Office, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alexander P. Wentworth-Ping.
This case is part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see https://www.justice.gov/ag/project-guardian-memo-2019/download.
Manlius Man Pleads Guilty to Distribution and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Chester Hammond, age 44, of Manlius, New York, pled guilty today before Senior United States District Judge Thomas J. McAvoy to one count of distribution of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography, announced Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon, Thomas F. Relford, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and New York State Police Superintendent Keith Corlett.
Hammond, who remains detained pending his sentencing scheduled for July 27, 2021, faces at least 15 years in prison and up to 60 years imprisonment on the charges. The Court will also impose a term of supervised release of between five (5) years and life. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.
As part of his guilty plea, Hammond admitted that while using a social media messaging application he sent an image depicting child pornography to another individual over the internet. A subsequent search of Hammond’s cellular telephone revealed that he was in possession of over 400 images of child pornography. Hammond is registered sex offender who was convicted in 1996 of attempted sexual abuse in the first degree.
Hammond’s case was investigated by the FBI Syracuse Mid-State Child Exploitation Task Force, comprised of FBI Special Agents and Investigators of the New York State Police, Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI), with assistance from the Onondaga County District Attorney’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey J. L. Brown as a part of Project Safe Childhood.
Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorney’s offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS). 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 https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Former Postal Employee Sentenced for Worker’s Compensation FraudRead the Press Release
BINGHAMTON, NEW YORK – Christine O’Neill, age 61, of Johnson City, New York, was sentenced today by Senior United States District Judge Thomas J. McAvoy to serve three (3) years on probation for defrauding the U.S. Postal Service and U.S. Department of Labor of $46,287 by making false statements and representations to obtain federal workers compensation benefits, announced Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Matthew Modafferi, Special Agent in Charge of the United States Postal Service-Office of Inspector General, Northeast Area Office.
O’Neill falsely represented that she was not employed, self-employed, or involved in any business enterprise during periods of time in 2015 and 2016 when she was collecting federal workers compensation benefits. She was receiving benefits based upon a claimed injury to her back that she said made her unable to perform any work functions for the Postal Service. In fact, O’Neill ran her own company, Chris’ Cookies and Cakes, preparing and delivering cakes and cookies to customers during the times she collected benefits. Agents videotaped O’Neill selling baked goods at a local craft fair during the course of their investigation and bought baked goods from O’Neill who provided the undercover agent with a business card.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey J. L. Brown.
Albany and Bronx Men Charged with Conspiring to Distribute Fentanyl and CocaineRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Ramion Burt, age 44, of Albany, and Marion Frampton, aka “Marion Framton III,” age 41, of the Bronx, New York, were charged yesterday with conspiring to distribute and possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon; New York State Police Superintendent Keith Corlett; and Thomas F. Relford, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
An indictment returned yesterday alleges that Burt and Frampton conspired to distribute over 40 grams of fentanyl, and cocaine, and possessed over 40 grams of fentanyl, and cocaine, with intent to distribute in Greene County on February 26, 2021. The indictment also alleges that Burt has two prior serious drug felony convictions and that Frampton has a prior serious drug felony conviction and a prior serious violent felony conviction.
The charges in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Burt and Frampton were arrested by the New York State Police in Catskill, New York, on February 26, 2021, and charged by federal complaint on March 4, 2021. They appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart on March 10, 2021, and were ordered detained pending trial.
If convicted, Burt and Frampton each face at least 10 years and up to life in prison, and a post-imprisonment supervised release term of at least 8 years and up to life.
This case is being investigated by the New York State Police and FBI, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cyrus P.W. Rieck.
Pennsylvania Man Pleads Guilty to Attempted Enticement and Coercion of a MinorRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Peter N. Allen, age 33, of East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, pled guilty today to attempting to entice a minor to engage in a sexual encounter with him. The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Thomas F. Relford, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
As part of his guilty plea, Allen admitted that, between February 2020 and May 2020, he exchanged multiple sexually explicit messages online with an undercover officer posing as an 11-year-old girl in an attempt to entice the child into having sex with him. Allen also admitted that, on May 14, 2020, he traveled from Pennsylvania to a fast-food restaurant parking lot in New York near where he believed the child lived to meet her for sex.
At sentencing on July 21, 2021, Allen faces at least 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of post-imprisonment supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors. Allen also will have to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison.
Allen’s case was investigated by the FBI Syracuse Mid-State Child Exploitation Task Force. This task force is comprised of FBI Special Agents and Investigators of the New York State Police, Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael D. Gadarian as a part of Project Safe Childhood. Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS). 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 https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Dutchess County Man Sentenced for Mailing White Powder to Federal Offices Throughout New YorkRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Jason Pantone, age 36, of Hyde Park, New York, was sentenced today to time served (more than two years in jail) for conveying false information and hoax letters.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Thomas F. Relford, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Acting U.S. Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon stated: “With these hoax letters, Jason Pantone intended to terrify federal employees throughout Upstate and Central New York. Today’s sentence justly punishes Pantone for causing emotional distress to some letter recipients, and for consuming the valuable time and resources of our first responders. I commend our law enforcement partners for quickly arresting Pantone shortly after his crimes began.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Thomas Relford stated: “Mr. Pantone's actions caused widespread panic and fear for employees who simply showed up to work that day, and he spent two years in jail as a result. The public should know the FBI will work diligently with our law enforcement partners to actively investigate and pursue prosecution of any individual who poses a threat to the safety of our citizens.”
Pantone was arrested on February 27, 2019, and had been in custody since that time. As part of his guilty plea, Pantone admitted that in February 2019, he mailed several envelopes addressed to Social Security Administration Offices in Plattsburgh, Binghamton and Utica. Additional letters were addressed to United States District Court offices in Syracuse, Binghamton, Albany, and Plattsburgh. All of the envelopes contained a typed note that read “ANTHRAX.” Some of the letters included a smiley face with “X” in the place of the eyes, meant to indicate death.
Pantone’s actions caused several locations to be evacuated and hazardous material teams to be deployed, to assess and clear the buildings. All samples of the white powder were tested and yielded negative results for anthrax or other hazardous material.
United States District Judge Mae D’Agostino also imposed a 3-year term of supervised release.
This case was investigated by the FBI, the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Federal Protective Service, the New York State Police, the Dutchess County Sheriff’s Department, the New York State Department of Health, and the Department of Homeland Security. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy Anderson.
Miami Man Pleads Guilty to Money Laundering Conspiracy in Connection with Nationwide Gas Station Skimming SchemeRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Yanio Montes De Oca, age 33, of Miami, Florida, pled guilty today to participating in a conspiracy to launder funds derived from a nationwide gas station skimming scheme that involved stealing the banking and personal information of residents of Upstate and Central New York who used the “pay at the pump” feature to make gasoline purchases.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon; Thomas F. Relford, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); and Inspector in Charge Joseph Cronin, Boston Division, United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS).
As part of his guilty plea, De Oca admitted to being a part of a conspiracy that, between December 2015 and July 2019, laundered thousands of gift cards that were obtained using fraudulent debit and credit cards encoded with information stolen using gas station skimming devices. After obtaining the gift cards from co-conspirators, De Oca sold them on a gift card exchange website using a “bulk seller” account he established in the name of a Florida company he created in 2015 for that purpose. After selling the fraudulently obtained gift cards, De Oca transferred the resulting amounts to bank accounts he controlled. De Oca then distributed some of the money he obtained through gift card sales to other conspirators, retaining the rest of the funds for himself. As part of his plea agreement, De Oca agreed to be subject to a forfeiture money judgment in the amount of $1,020,193.10.
A sentencing hearing is set for July 13, 2021, before Senior United States District Judge Gary L. Sharpe. De Oca faces up to 20 years in prison; a fine of up to $500,000 or twice the value of the property involved in the transaction, whichever is greater; and up to 3 years of supervised release. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
This case is being investigated by the FBI Albany Field Office and USPIS Boston Division, with assistance from the FBI Field Offices in Miami and Pittsburgh, the USPIS Miami Division, and the United States Secret Service Miami Field Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rick Belliss and Emily C. Powers.
Capital Region Men Charged with Conspiring to Distribute FentanylRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Doron Tucker, age 24, of Schenectady, New York, and Darren Favreau, age 50, of Troy, New York, have been charged with conspiracy to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and distribution of fentanyl. Tucker was also charged with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and possession of fentanyl and marijuana with intent to distribute.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Ray Donovan, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Division.
A superseding indictment unsealed today alleges that Tucker and Favreau conspired to distribute over 40 grams of fentanyl in Schenectady and Rensselaer Counties between June and October 2020, and that they distributed fentanyl together on seven occasions between June and August 2020. The superseding indictment also alleges that Tucker distributed fentanyl on six additional occasions between August and October 2020; possessed over 40 grams of fentanyl, and marijuana, with intent to distribute; and also possessed a .40 caliber handgun in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The charges in the superseding indictment are merely accusations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Tucker, who is detained pending trial, was arrested on October 21, 2020. Favreau was arrested today and detained pending a detention hearing before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart on March 11, 2021.
If convicted of all counts, Tucker faces at least 10 years and up to life in prison, and Favreau faces at least 5 years and up to 40 years in prison. Both face a term of post-release supervision of at least 4 years and a fine of up to $5 million. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
This case is being investigated by the DEA, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cyrus P.W. Rieck
Troy Businessman Pleads Guilty to Hoarding and Price Gouging FacemasksRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Imran Selcuk, age 35, of Troy, New York, pled guilty today to hoarding and price gouging in violation of the Defense Production Act of 1950 (DPA). The announcement was made by Acting U.S. Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Kevin Kelly, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
“Selcuk saw the pandemic as an opportunity to rip off Capital Region residents and prey upon their fears,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon. “He purchased thousands of masks from overseas and offered them for sale at highly inflated prices when masks were scarce and the pandemic had just started to take hold. This office will continue to work in coordination with the COVID-19 Hoarding and Price Gouging Task Force to prevent greedy profiteers from taking advantage of this emergency for illicit gain.”
“It is unfathomable that during a global pandemic, individuals such as Selcuk place their selfish greed above service to community,” said Kevin Kelly, Special Agent in Charge of HSI Buffalo. “Homeland Security Investigations will continue to work tirelessly to arrest anyone attempting to leverage the pandemic to illicitly profit from our communities.”
As part of his guilty plea to a misdemeanor, Selcuk admitted that, in March 2020, he purchased approximately 100,000 KN95 facemasks and 25,000 surgical-style facemasks for $1 per mask and 50 cents per mask, respectively. Selcuk then offered these masks for sale at his Troy pizza restaurant and through a website at markups of as high as 500%. Selcuk also admitted that his website falsely represented that the KN95 masks he offered for sale were certified by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA). In fact, the FDA does not “certify” facemasks.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Christian F. Hummel is scheduled to sentence Selcuk on July 2, 2021. Selcuk faces up to one year in prison, a $10,000 fine, and up to one year of post-imprisonment supervised release. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
This case was investigated by HSI, with assistance from the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael D. Gadarian and Joshua R. Rosenthal.
This case was brought in coordination with the Department of Justice’s COVID-19 Hoarding and Price Gouging Task Force, which organizes efforts among the Antitrust Division and U.S. Attorney’s offices across the country to address illegal activity involving personal protective equipment.
Owner of IT Services Company Pleads Guilty to Defrauding New York StateRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Lakshmikanth Sripuram, age 37, of Monmouth Junction, New Jersey, pled guilty today to wire fraud conspiracy in connection with a scheme to defraud New York State.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon; New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli; and Kevin Kelly, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
Sripuram is the president of PIntegra, LLC. As part of his plea, he admitted that between 2015 and 2017, he conspired with Co-Conspirator 1, a former employee of the Office of the State Comptroller (OSC), to fraudulently obtain money from OSC.
In January 2015, OSC entered into a contract with a consortium of three companies to identify and hire computer programmers for a project. When OSC needed to hire a programmer, it sent a request form to one of the three companies. Each company then submitted a purportedly qualified applicant. Frequently, the applicants were employed by subcontractors, including PIntegra. From January 2015 through October 2016, OSC hired 17 programmers for the project at hourly rates ranging from $80 to $120. In late 2016, OSC learned that many of the programmers’ references and work histories were not legitimate, including those hired from PIntegra, and launched an internal investigation.
Sripuram admitted that, between February 2015 and October 2016, he and his co-conspirator ensured that programmers from PIntegra were hired by falsifying information regarding their experience and work histories, and by providing them with interview questions ahead of their interviews at OSC. Co-Conspirator 1 then interviewed the programmers, hired them knowing that their qualifications were falsified, and set their hourly rates. Between February 2015 and September 2017, PIntegra received approximately $870,000 from OSC for its programmers’ pay. Sripuram kept a percentage of the programmers’ pay. He then paid Co-Conspirator 1 a portion of that percentage as a kickback.
As a result of his conviction, Sripuram faces up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to 3 years, when he is sentenced on July 6, 2021 by United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
This case was initiated by the Office of the New York State Comptroller, and was also investigated by HSI, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the United States Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Kopita.
Guatemalan Man Sentenced for Illegal Re-Entry into United States and Escape from CustodyRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Mario Ipsolino Pineda-Boteo, age 35, a citizen of Guatemala, was sentenced today to time served (196 days in jail) for illegally re-entering the United States and escaping the custody of United States officers.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Thomas E. Feeley, Director of the Buffalo Field Office of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO).
Pineda-Boteo admitted as part of his guilty plea that he is a citizen of Guatemala, and that he was removed from the United States to Guatemala on September 9, 2010. On August 21, 2020, he was found in the United States near Greenfield in Saratoga County. A check of fingerprint records verified the prior removal.
Pineda-Boteo also admitted that, following his arrest for illegal re-entry and being placed in handcuffs, he fled the custody of ICE Officers by running into a nearby wooded area in Greenfield, where he attempted to hide.
Pineda-Boteo will be placed into removal proceedings.
This case was investigated by ICE-ERO and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander P. Wentworth-Ping.
Albany Felon Arrested for Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Kevin Weems, age 61, of Albany, was charged by complaint today with unlawfully possessing a firearm as a felon.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Thomas F. Relford, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
The complaint alleges that law enforcement agents, while executing a search warrant on Weems’s residence today, located a loaded .38 caliber handgun in a boot. The charges in the complaint are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Weems appeared today in Albany before United States Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart, and was ordered detained pending a hearing scheduled for March 8, 2021.
The charge filed against Weems carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a maximum 3-year term of supervised release. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
This case is being investigated by the FBI with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration, Albany Police Department, Colonie Police Department and Bethlehem Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Kopita.
Acting U.S. Attorney Puts Focus on Scams Targeting Older Americans During National Consumer Protection WeekRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK - Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon hosted a virtual news conference today with Deputy Chief Robert Wemyss of the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) and Erin Mitchell, Director of Engagement for AARP NY, to draw attention to the proliferation of scams targeting older Americans.
Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon stated: “Fraudsters are making a fortune by targeting Americans, particularly older Americans. They seek out seniors. The scammers tell elaborate lies, often become demanding and threatening, and take advantage of the physical isolation that many seniors have experienced during the pandemic. Protecting seniors will always be one of my top priorities. By joining forces and publicizing this important information during National Consumer Protection Week, we will strengthen our defenses against these pernicious scams.”
Postal Inspector in Charge Joseph W. Cronin, of the USPIS Boston Division, stated: “Almost anyone under the right circumstances can fall for a phony offer or promotion, however, older Americans are usually more susceptible than others. Scammers use promises of large financial gains or sometimes even romantic relationships to lure victims in, only to manipulate them into giving their life savings away. They prey on our older citizens who are trusting, vulnerable and can sometimes unknowingly fall for a scam. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is committed to protecting our citizens and working hard to prevent more people from becoming further victimized by fraud schemes.”
Erin Mitchell, Director of Engagement for AARP New York, stated: “We know scammers often take advantage of current events, which we’re seeing today with the pandemic. Criminals are using the uncertainty and worry about COVID-19 in their scams. And now, with the COVID-19 vaccine in high demand, scammers are offering opportunities to skip the line for quicker access—for a fee. AARP urges all older New Yorkers to remain vigilant and always report suspected fraud.”
Acting Director Greg Olsen stated, “Older New Yorkers are often the targets of scams and financial exploitation. Scammers have become very sophisticated and given the increase in social isolation as a result of the pandemic, there has been an increase in scams and scams associated with the pandemic such as stimulus check scams, community donation scams and more. Consumer protections week is critically important to educate all people on the prevalence of scams and simple tools that can prevent you from becoming a victim.”
Common Scams Include:
- COVID-19 Scams - These come in several forms. Fraudsters pretend that a grandchild or relative is in the hospital with COVID-19 and needs payment immediately or they will be denied medical care; fraudsters pretend to have quicker access to a vaccine; or fraudsters offer fake cures.
- Government Imposter Scams - Fraudsters posing as government officials, such as the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or Social Security Administration, threaten to arrest the victim for failing to pay taxes or claim there is a problem with their account that could be fixed by paying a fee.
- Lottery Scams – Fraudsters send a notice congratulating the victim for winning a prize or a foreign lottery, but to receive the prize, they must first pay a fee or tax.
- Romance Scams - Usually started on a dating platform, the fraudster pretends to be interested in pursuing a relationship and then uses that trust to take the victim’s money.
Many of these scams are run by Transnational Criminal Organizations located overseas. In order to funnel the money from American victims to the fraudsters in the foreign country, scammers often ask victims to pay with gift cards or to send money through money mules.
Money Mules
- Money mules are individuals who receive money from victims of fraud, deposit it into their bank account, and then forward it on to either another money mule or to the overseas fraudsters.
- Many money mules know they are helping fraudsters, but others have no idea that their actions allow fraudsters to swindle money from seniors. Some money mules are actually victims of fraud themselves, especially of Romance Scams.
- Money mules are often recruited through work-at-home jobs.
Awareness and prevention are key. Please keep these warnings and tips in mind:
- Spot Imposters. Don’t send money in response to an unexpected request – whether it comes as a text, a phone call, or an email.
- Scammers want you to decide quickly. Slow down, check out the story, tell a friend, consult an expert, or call the local police.
- Gift cards are for presents, not payments. If someone asks you to buy a gift card, stop and ask, is this a present for someone I know or a payment for a fee or fine? If it’s a payment, chances are, it’s a scam.
- Don’t trust your caller-ID. Scammers disguise their real phone numbers and may call from “spoofed” numbers that make it seem as though they are calling from your area code.
- Hang up on robocalls. These calls are illegal and often the products are bogus. Don’t press 1 to speak to a person or to be taken off the list. That could lead to more calls.
- Don’t be a Money Mule. Look for red flags that a potential work-at-home job might not be legitimate:
- The job involves collecting money and sending it out but the job posting didn’t require financial experience or education.
- There are no specific job duties.
- The company is located abroad.
- The company uses web-based email (such as Gmail or Yahoo) instead of an organization-based domain.
If you think you might be a Money Mule or the victim of an Elder Fraud Scam, you can report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at ic3.gov or call your local FBI Field Office.
Help is also available by calling the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This U.S. Department of Justice hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, is staffed by experienced professionals who provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim, and identifying relevant next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting, connect callers directly with appropriate agencies, and provide resources and referrals, on a case-by-case basis. Reporting is the first step. Reporting can help authorities identify those who commit fraud and reporting certain financial losses due to fraud as soon as possible can increase the likelihood of recovering losses. The hotline is staffed 7 days a week from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. eastern time. English, Spanish and other languages are available.
Albany Felon Sentenced to 51 Months for Illegally Possessing a Loaded, Stolen FirearmRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Jahmeek Croley, a/k/a “Meeker,” age 33, of Albany, was sentenced today to 51 months in prison for unlawfully possessing a loaded firearm as a felon.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon; Thomas F. Relford, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); John B. DeVito, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF); and Chief Eric Hawkins of the Albany Police Department.
Croley, who has prior felony convictions for drug and weapons offenses, previously admitted that in November 2019, he possessed a loaded 9mm pistol at his residence in Albany. Croley further admitted to purchasing the pistol – which had been stolen from a Vermont residence in 2015 – in the city of Albany in October 2019.
Croley was arrested on November 14, 2019, as part of an operation targeting the Yard Boys criminal street gang undertaken by the Capital District Safe Streets Gang Task Force, a collaboration of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. Croley has been in custody since his arrest. Croley has additional charges pending in Albany County Court.
Senior United States District Judge Thomas J. McAvoy also sentenced Croley to a 3-year term of supervised release, to begin following his term of imprisonment
This case was investigated by the FBI and its Capital District Safe Streets Gang Task Force, ATF and the Albany Police Department, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Emmet O’Hanlon.
This case is part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see https://www.justice.gov/ag/project-guardian-memo-2019/download.
New York Man Pleads Guilty to Threatening to Kill a United States SenatorRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Carlo Di Padova, age 61, an inmate at Great Meadow Correctional Facility in Comstock, New York, pled guilty on February 25 to threatening a federal official, by sending a letter to a United States Senator that contained a white powdery substance and stated that Di Padova planned to have someone shoot the Senator in the head.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Thomas F. Relford, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Di Padova mailed the letter on January 23, 2019, while an inmate at Auburn Correctional Facility in Auburn, New York. The powder in the letter was harmless.
Di Padova faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 when he is sentenced on June 16, 2021, by United States District Judge David N. Hurd in Utica, New York. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the New York State Department of Correction and Community Supervision, Office of Special Investigation, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily C. Powers.
Former Onondaga County Postal Carrier Sentenced for Obstructing the MailRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Priscilla Czyz, age 37, of Cato, New York, was sentenced today to 6 months of probation for obstructing the mail, announced Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Special Agent in Charge Matthew Modafferi, United States Postal Service-Office of Inspector General (USPS-OIG), Northeast Area Field Office.
In pleading guilty to the charge for which she was sentenced, Czyz admitted that between September 24, 2020, and October 7, 2020, she willfully failed to deliver mail entrusted to her by the United States Postal Service. Specifically, Czyz failed to deliver 354 pieces of political advertising mail to customers on her route in Onondaga County. Instead of delivering the mail, Czyz took it home, where law enforcement agents found it nearly two weeks later sitting in the rain on top of a dog crate in Czyz’s front yard. The mail was seized by the agents and later delivered by the Postal Service to the intended recipients. Prior to this offense, Czyz had been working as a postal carrier since approximately 2013. Czyz’s attorney informed the court prior to sentencing that Czyz lost her job at the Postal Service because of this conduct. As part of her sentence, Czyz was ordered to perform 50 hours of community service while on Probation.
This case was investigated by United States Postal Service-Office of Inspector General (USPS-OIG) and the United States Postal Inspection Service, and it was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael F. Perry.
Troy Man Charged for Intending to Distribute CocaineRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Frankie Rios, age 40, of Troy, New York, was ordered detained yesterday after being arrested on Monday and charged with possession with the intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and John B. DeVito, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Rios appeared yesterday before United States Magistrate Judge Christian F. Hummel and was ordered detained pending further proceedings. The charge in the complaint is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The charge filed against Rios carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1 million, and a term of supervised release of at least 3 years and up to life. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
This case is being investigated by the ATF and Troy Police Department, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachel Williams.
Postal Worker Pleads Guilty to Aiding and Abetting Mail Theft in LiverpoolRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK –Quayshaun Mitchell, age 28, of Syracuse, pled guilty yesterday before Chief United States Judge Glenn T. Suddaby to possession with the intent to unlawfully use a United States Postal Service key, and aiding and abetting the theft of mail, announced Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon, Joseph Cronin, Postal Inspector in Charge of the Boston Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and Matthew Modafferi, Special Agent in Charge of the United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General-Northeast Region.
As part of his guilty plea, Mitchell admitted that on March 5, 2020, while employed by the United States Postal Service (“USPS”), he gave a USPS arrow key (used to open USPS mail collection boxes), a USPS letter carrier uniform jacket, and a USPS mail satchel to Kevin Ronny Williams, so that Williams could steal mail from USPS mail collection boxes in Liverpool, New York. That same day Williams dressed as a postal worker wearing Mitchell’s jacket and carrying the mail satchel, and used the arrow key to open USPS collection boxes from which he stole 49 pieces of first class mail. All of the stolen mail was later recovered from Williams. Kevin Ronny Williams has pled guilty to offenses for his role in the mail thefts and is awaiting sentencing.
The charge of possession with the intent to unlawfully use a United States Postal Service key, carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, and the charge of aiding and abetting the theft of mail carries a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison. Both offenses could result in the imposition of a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of 3 years. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors. Quayshaun Mitchell is scheduled to be sentenced on June 30, 2021.
This case is being investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) and the United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General (USPS-OIG), and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Thomson.
Chinese Businessman Charged with Conspiring to Steal Trade SecretsRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Chi Lung Winsman Ng, aka Winsman Ng, age 64, a resident of the People’s Republic of China, was indicted yesterday for conspiring to steal General Electric’s (GE) trade secrets involving the company’s silicon carbide MOSFET technology worth millions of dollars.
“Winsman Ng and his co-conspirators allegedly chose to steal what they lacked the time, talent or money to create,” said Assistant Attorney General John C. Demers of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “Theft of American intellectual property for the benefit of foreign firms deprives American companies of the fruits of their creativity and American workers of their jobs. The Department will do all it can to disrupt this illegal and economically destructive conduct.”
“As alleged in the indictment, Winsman Ng conspired to steal trade secrets from General Electric to start a competitor,” said Attorney for the United States Elizabeth C. Coombe, Acting Under Authority Conferred by 28 U.S.C. § 515. “This scheme, and others like it, seek to undermine American ingenuity, which often depends on maintaining the secrecy of technological advances. We will continue to work with the FBI to hold accountable those trying to steal trade secrets from innovative companies in our district.”
“Innovation by American companies brings good things into our lives, but we shouldn’t have to buy those good things from a foreign company that stole American technology to compete against us,” said Assistant Director Alan E. Kohler Jr. of the FBI’s Counterintelligence Division. “The FBI urges any U.S. business to contact us if they suspect someone, regardless of nationality, is attempting to steal or has stolen trade secrets. Only through robust engagement with U.S. businesses can we protect our economic and national security.”
“According to the indictment, Mr. Ng conspired to steal valuable and sensitive technology from GE and produce it in China,” said Special Agent in Charge Thomas F. Relford of the FBI’s Albany Field Office. “Our office, the U.S. Attorney's Office, and GE coordinated closely and worked quickly to prevent that theft and the resulting damage to our economic security. Theft of trade secrets is a constant and dangerous threat to our American companies and the remarkable work they do to invent and manufacture unique technology that can change the world. FBI Albany's Counterintelligence Task Force remains committed to protecting American innovation and technology, American security and American jobs.”
The charge in the indictment is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The indictment alleges that between about March 2017 and January 2018, Ng and at least one co-conspirator plotted to develop a business that would manufacture and sell silicon carbide MOSFETs using trade secrets stolen from GE. MOSFETs, or silicon carbide metal-oxide semiconductor field-effect transistors, are small electronic semiconductors/switches that regulate the flow of electricity through devices and are used in a variety of products.
Ng conspired with at least one other person, a GE engineer of more than seven years, to steal MOSFET trade secrets and other proprietary information from GE. Ng and Co-Conspirator #1 allegedly used those trade secrets to create a business plan and develop PowerPoint presentations that they gave to prospective investors. Ng and Co-Conspirator #1 told potential investors that their business could be profitable within three years and that their start-up business possessed assets – tangible and intangible – they estimated to be worth $100 million. As part of the scheme, they sought approximately $30 million in funding in exchange for an ownership stake in their start-up company. In August 2017, Ng and Co-Conspirator #1 allegedly met in China and gave presentations to a Chinese investment company that was considering providing funding to Ng’s start-up company.
We have no evidence that there was an illegal MOSFET technology transfer to any Chinese company, including the company that Ng and his co-conspirator were trying to start.
Ng has yet to be arrested. If convicted of this offense, Ng faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
This case is being investigated by the FBI Albany Field Office, and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rick Belliss and Trial Attorney Matthew Chang of the National Security Division, Counterintelligence and Export Control Section.
Chinese Businessman Charged with Conspiring to Steal Trade SecretsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Chi Lung Winsman Ng, aka Winsman Ng, 64, a Chinese businessman residing in Hong Kong, was indicted yesterday for conspiring to steal General Electric’s (GE) trade secrets involving the company’s silicon carbide MOSFET technology worth millions of dollars.
“Winsman Ng and his co-conspirators allegedly chose to steal what they lacked the time, talent or money to create,” said Assistant Attorney General John C. Demers of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “Theft of American intellectual property for the benefit of foreign firms deprives American companies of the fruits of their creativity and American workers of their jobs. The Department will do all it can to disrupt this illegal and economically destructive conduct.”
“As alleged in the indictment, Winsman Ng conspired to steal trade secrets from General Electric to start a competitor,” said Attorney for the United States, Elizabeth C. Coombe, for the Northern District of New York, Acting Under Authority Conferred by 28 U.S.C. § 515. “This scheme, and others like it, seek to undermine American ingenuity, which often depends on maintaining the secrecy of technological advances. We will continue to work with the FBI to hold accountable those trying to steal trade secrets from innovative companies in our district.”
“Innovation by American companies brings good things into our lives, but we shouldn’t have to buy those good things from a foreign company that stole American technology to compete against us,” said Assistant Director Alan E. Kohler Jr. of the FBI’s Counterintelligence Division. “The FBI urges any U.S. business to contact us if they suspect someone, regardless of nationality, is attempting to steal or has stolen trade secrets. Only through robust engagement with U.S. businesses can we protect our economic and national security.”
“According to the indictment, Mr. Ng conspired to steal valuable and sensitive technology from GE and produce it in China,” said Special Agent in Charge Thomas F. Relford of the FBI’s Albany Field Office. “Our office, the U.S. Attorney's Office, and GE coordinated closely and worked quickly to prevent that theft and the resulting damage to our economic security. Theft of trade secrets is a constant and dangerous threat to our American companies and the remarkable work they do to invent and manufacture unique technology that can change the world. FBI Albany's Counterintelligence Task Force remains committed to protecting American innovation and technology, American security and American jobs.”
The charge in the indictment is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The indictment alleges that between about March 2017 and January 2018, Ng and at least one co-conspirator plotted to develop a business that would manufacture and sell silicon carbide MOSFETs using trade secrets stolen from GE. MOSFETs, or silicon carbide metal-oxide semiconductor field-effect transistors, are small electronic semiconductors/switches that regulate the flow of electricity through devices and are used in a variety of products.
Ng conspired with at least one other person, a GE engineer of more than seven years, to steal MOSFET trade secrets and other proprietary information from GE. Ng and co-conspirator #1 allegedly used those trade secrets to create a business plan and develop PowerPoint presentations which they gave to prospective investors. Ng and co-conspirator #1 told potential investors that their business could be profitable within three years and that their start-up business possessed assets – tangible and intangible – they estimated to be worth $100 million. As part of the scheme, they sought approximately $30 million in funding in exchange for an ownership stake in their start-up company. In August 2017, Ng and co-conspirator #1 allegedly met in China and gave presentations to a Chinese investment company that was considering providing funding to Ng’s start-up company.
We have no evidence that there was an illegal MOSFET technology transfer to any Chinese companies, including the company that Ng and his co-conspirator were trying to start.
Ng has yet to be arrested. If convicted of this offense, Ng faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
This case is being investigated by the FBI Albany Field Office, and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rick Belliss and Trial Attorney Matthew Chang of the National Security Division, Counterintelligence and Export Control Section.
Las Vegas Man Charged with Mailing White Powder to the New York State Gaming CommissionRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Brent Carter, age 72, of Las Vegas, Nevada, was charged by criminal complaint with mailing envelopes containing suspicious powders to the New York State Gaming Commission in Schenectady, New York.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Thomas F. Relford, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Carter was charged in a criminal complaint with conveying false information and hoaxes. He appeared yesterday in Albany federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Christian F. Hummel, and was ordered released with conditions.
Carter is accused of using the U.S. mail to send envelopes containing white power and other substances to the New York State Gaming Commission, between April 15, 2019 and January 28, 2021. Samples from all the white powder and other substances were tested and did not contain hazardous material. The charge in the complaint is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The charge of conveying false information and hoaxes carries a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison, a 3-year term of post-imprisonment supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ashlyn Miranda and Richard Belliss.
Akwesasne Man Pleads Guilty to Driving Away from Port of EntryRead the Press Release
PLATTSBURGH, NEW YORK – Brennan J. Thompson, age 43, of Cornwall Island, Ontario, pled guilty today to driving away from the Massena Port of Entry while Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Officers attempted to search his vehicle.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Robert Dwyer, CBP Director of the Massena Port of Entry.
Thompson pled guilty to a high-speed flight from an immigration checkpoint. As part of his guilty plea, Thompson admitted that on May 13, 2020, he was operating a silver Lincoln sedan when he approached the Massena Port of Entry, seeking to enter the United States from Canada. When asked to open the vehicle’s trunk for inspection, Thompson quickly accelerated away from the inspection booth, made a U-turn and sped back into Canada. Thompson was arrested on June 28, 2020 and has been in custody since that date.
Chief United States District Judge Glenn T. Suddaby is scheduled to sentence Thompson on June 24, 2021. Thompson faces up to 5 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of post-imprisonment supervised release. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
This case was investigated by CBP and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas Collyer.
Madison County Man Sentenced to Six Months for Burglarizing Post OfficeRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Jeremy Cook, age 24, of Eaton, New York, was sentenced today to serve six months in prison for burglarizing a U.S. Post Office, announced Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon, Joseph Cronin, Postal Inspector in Charge of the Boston Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and New York State Police Superintendent Keith Corlett.
As part of his earlier guilty plea, Cook admitted that on or about August 12, 2019, he broke into the U.S. Post Office in Eaton, with the intent to steal money. While inside the Post Office, Cook unsuccessfully attempted to break into a safe and then fled without taking any money.
Senior United States District Judge Frederick J. Scullin Jr. also imposed a three-year term of supervised release, to begin after Cook’s release from prison.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the New York State Police, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Sutcliffe.
Hogansburg Man Arrested for SmugglingRead the Press Release
PLATTSBURGH, NEW YORK – Kyle Thompson, age 28, of Hogansburg, New York, was arrested on February 17 and charged by criminal complaint with alien smuggling in connection with a failed smuggling event.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Robert N. Garcia, Chief Patrol Agent, United States Border Patrol, Swanton Sector.
The criminal complaint alleges that Thompson was arrested while transporting two illegal aliens who had illegally crossed into the United States via the St. Lawrence River near Hogansburg. The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Police attempted to stop Thompson’s vehicle as he fled with the occupants in his vehicle. Thompson drove his vehicle into a snowbank and was ultimately apprehended. There were no injuries to Thompson or the occupants. Border Patrol Agents from the Massena Border Patrol Station detained Thompson and the two occupants.
The charges in the complaint are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Thompson appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Gary L. Favro on February 18 and was ordered detained.
If convicted, Thompson faces up to 5 years in prison. The two occupants of the vehicle are citizens of Romania and illegally present in the United States. Both were arrested by Border Patrol and are being prosecuted for illegal entry, a misdemeanor.
This case is being investigated by United States Border Patrol and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Stitt.
Eleven Men Indicted for Syracuse Heroin and Fentanyl Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Eleven defendants were arrested on a 30-count federal indictment unsealed today in federal court. The indictment alleges a large-scale drug trafficking conspiracy, drug possession and distribution crimes, and firearms offenses, announced Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon, Ray Donovan, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Division, Thomas F. Relford, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and Chief Kenton Buckner, City of Syracuse Police Department.
All of the defendants below have appeared in federal court in Syracuse. A number of them were previously arrested by complaint and have been ordered detained pending trial. The remaining defendants all appeared in court today and were ordered held without bail pending detention hearings scheduled for next week. The indictment remains sealed as to one defendant who has not yet appeared in court.
As alleged in the indictment unsealed today, law enforcement officers from federal, state, and local agencies seized multiple kilograms of heroin and fentanyl, firearms, vehicles, and thousands of dollars in U.S. currency in an investigation stretching over many months. The defendants are all charged with conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, heroin and fentanyl, and face the following potential penalties for the crimes alleged in the indictment:
Defendant
Age
Residence
Minimum
Maximum
Alejandro De Jesus Tavarez
30
Syracuse
10 years
Life
Alexander Tavarez Espinal
35
Syracuse
10 years
Life
Jan Leonel Vazquez Familia
29
Hazelton, PA
10 years
Life
Jahdier Dowdell
18
Syracuse
10 years
Life
Maurice Graves
23
Syracuse
5 years
40 years
Kamiya Joe, aka “K-Joe”
22
Syracuse
5 years
40 years
SEALED Defendant
xx
xxxx
xxxx
xxxx
Dianisha Trapps, aka “Dutchess”
27
Syracuse
5 years
40 years
Tacarra Newton, aka “T-Newt”
24
Syracuse
5 years
40 years
Tywone Haskins, aka “Ty”
21
Syracuse
5 years
40 years
Joshua Stanley, aka “40”
25
Syracuse
None
20 years
Shateek Brown, aka “Teek” and “Stu”
26
Syracuse
None
20 years
In addition to the drug trafficking offenses described above, defendants Jahdier Dowdell and Maurice Graves are additionally charged with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The indictment contains forfeiture allegations for the seizure of $76,281.96 in U.S. Currency, as well as over $300,000.00 of unrecovered drug proceeds gained by members of the alleged conspiracy.
A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors. The charges in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Syracuse Police Department, Gang Violence Task Force and Special Investigations Division, the New York State Police, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security-ICE (Detention and Removal), the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office, the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office, the City of Auburn Police Department, and the Onondaga County District Attorney’s Office, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicolas Commandeur.
Schuylerville Man Sentenced for Social Security FraudRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Thomas Baxter, a.k.a. Mark Anthony, age 80, of Schuylerville, New York was sentenced today to three years’ probation for defrauding the Social Security Administration (SSA) by using a false identity to collect Social Security benefits under that identity for over a decade.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and John F. Grasso, Special Agent in Charge of the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General, New York Field Office.
As part of his earlier guilty plea, Baxter admitted that in 1971 he fraudulently applied for and was issued a second Social Security number in a fictitious name, and that from September of 2008 until June of 2019, he used that false name and fraudulently acquired Social Security number to obtain and spend $31,362.00 in Social Security benefits, while also receiving Social Security benefits under his true name and Social Security number.
Senior United States District Judge Thomas J. McAvoy also imposed an order requiring Baxter to pay full restitution to SSA.
This case was investigated by the SSA Office of the Inspector General and prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Adrian S. LaRochelle.
Gloversville Man Arrested for Possessing Pipe BombsRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Michael D. Darling, age 41, of Gloversville, New York, was arrested earlier this week on a charge of possessing pipe bombs as unregistered destructive devices.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon; John B. DeVito, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF); and Gloversville Police Chief Anthony Clay.
A criminal complaint alleges that on February 12, 2021, Gloversville Police Officers observed pipe bombs in plain view while conducting a requested welfare check at Darling’s residence. Officers applied for, and received, a search warrant. While executing the warrant, law enforcement located six capped metal pipes that each appeared to contain propellant powder and small metal balls (commonly known as “BBs”). They also recovered rolls of fuse, a container of Pyrodex (a propellant) and other items that could be used to manufacture explosive devices. The charges in the complaint are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Darling, who is in custody, is scheduled to appear in Albany federal court on February 24 for a detention hearing.
If convicted of the charge set forth in the complaint, Darling faces up to 10 years in prison, and up to 3 years of post-imprisonment supervised release. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
This case is being investigated by the ATF and Gloversville Police Department, with assistance from the United States Marshals Service, the New York State Police Bomb Disposal Unit, the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, and the Amsterdam Police Department, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Sharpe.
Rensselaer County Man Arrested in Broome County on Child Enticement ChargeRead the Press Release
BINGHAMTON, NEW YORK – Charles Wager, age 53, of Castleton-on-Hudson, New York, was arrested on February 5, 2021 and charged with attempting to entice or coerce a child, announced Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Thomas F. Relford, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
The criminal complaint alleges that on January 18, 2021, Wager initiated an electronic messaging conversation with an undercover officer posing as the parent of a 10-year-old child. The complaint alleges that during that conversation, Wager described his interest in sexual contact with the child and on the following day, Wager began communicating with an undercover officer who he believed was the 10-year-old child. The complaint further alleges that from January 19, 2021 through February 5, 2021, Wager communicated with the parent and child and explicitly described sexual acts he planned he perform on the 10-year-old child when he met the child in person. On February 5, 2021, Wager traveled from Castleton-on-Hudson to Broome County to perform sexual acts on the 10-year-old child and was apprehended by law enforcement when he arrived at the pre-arranged meeting location in Broome County.
Wager appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Miroslav Lovric on February 10, 2021, and was ordered detained pending trial.
The charge against Wager carries a sentence of at least 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $250,000 and a term of supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life. The defendant’s sentence is imposed by a Judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.
The charge in the complaint is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This case is being investigated by the FBI Syracuse Mid-State Child Exploitation Task Force. This task force is comprised of FBI Special Agents and Investigators of the New York State Police, Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen Grabowski.
Members of the public who have information related to this case or feel they may have been victimized by Wager are asked to call the Federal Bureau of Investigation at (607) 778-7240.
This case is prosecuted as part of 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 https://www.justice.gov/psc/.
North Country Man Sentenced to 60 Months on Drug Distribution ConvictionRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Terry Thomas, age 33, of Hogansburg, New York, was sentenced today to 60 months in prison for possessing and intending to distribute a large amount of marijuana in Clinton County.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Ray Donovan, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Division.
As part of his guilty plea, Thomas admitted that on May 16, 2019, he transported 12 hockey bags containing 337 pounds of marijuana with the intent to distribute the drugs in the Northern District of New York. Thomas admitted that he was heading south on Interstate 87 near Plattsburgh, New York, when he was pulled over by police. Thomas admitted that he had the hockey bags in the rear of his truck, and the bags were full of multiple vacuum-sealed plastic bags of marijuana, totaling 337 pounds.
Senior United States District Judge Gary L. Sharpe also imposed a 4-year term of supervised release, to begin after Thomas’s release from prison.
This case was investigated by the DEA and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy Anderson.
Brooklyn Man Charged with Conspiring to Commit COVID-19 Relief FraudRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Sean M. Andre, age 30, of Brooklyn, New York, appeared in court today on a complaint alleging that he worked with an Ulster County man to fraudulently obtain more than $4 million in government-backed loans meant for businesses struggling with the financial effects of the coronavirus pandemic.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon; Thomas F. Relford, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); Jonathan D. Larsen, Special Agent in Charge, New York Field Office, Internal Revenue Service (IRS)-Criminal Investigation; and Amaleka McCall-Brathwaite, Special Agent in Charge of the Eastern Region of the Office of Inspector General for the Small Business Administration (SBA-OIG).
A criminal complaint alleges that between June 24, 2020 and August 13, 2020, Andre and Jean R. Lavanture fraudulently obtained at least $4,184,781 in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans, which were paid out to companies that Lavanture controls. According to the complaint, Andre and Lavanture worked together to submit loan applications that fraudulently claimed that Lavanture operated multiple companies each employing dozens of people and paying out millions of dollars in salaries per year. In fact, according to the complaint, none of these companies has ever reported employees to the New York State Department of Labor, nor reported income to the IRS. Lavanture paid Andre at least $157,578 for Andre’s role in the scheme.
The complaint charges Andre with conspiracy to commit bank fraud, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and engaging in transfers of wire fraud and bank fraud proceeds of a value greater than $10,000. The charges in the complaint are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Andre appeared today in Albany before United States Magistrate Judge Christian F. Hummel, and was ordered released with conditions.
If convicted of all of the charges set forth in the complaint, Andre faces up to 30 years in prison, up to 5 years of post-imprisonment supervised release, and a maximum fine of the greater of $1 million or twice his gross pecuniary gain or his victims’ gross pecuniary loss. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
Lavanture, age 48, of Saugerties, New York, is charged by indictment with three counts of bank fraud. The indictment also seeks the forfeiture of assets that Lavanture allegedly obtained from his fraudulent scheme, including a mansion and estate in Byram Township, New Jersey; $614,479.70 in cash that federal agents found in the New Jersey mansion; a motel in Rockaway Beach, Missouri; a 2007 Bentley Continental GTC; and the funds in 17 bank accounts. The charges in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This case is being investigated by the FBI, IRS-Criminal Investigation, and SBA-OIG, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Barnett and Joshua R. Rosenthal.
Warren County Man Charged with Obstruction of JusticeRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK - Terry Lajeunesse, age 49, of Pottersville, New York, was charged last month with obstruction of justice for attempting to convince another individual to admit guilt for crimes allegedly committed by Lajeunesse.
The announcement was made by Acting U.S. Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Thomas F. Relford, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Lajeunesse is detained on an indictment charging him with possessing child pornography. The criminal complaint alleges that in September 2020, he mailed letters from the Rensselaer County Jail attempting to convince another person to admit to possessing the child pornography that is the subject of his indictment. The charges in the complaint and indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Lajeunesse appeared on the complaint yesterday in Albany before United States Magistrate Judge Christian F. Hummel.
The charges carry a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to 3 years. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
This case is being investigated by the FBI and its Child Exploitation Task Force, which includes members of the New York State Police, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashlyn Miranda.