Western District of New York
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Arkansas man arrested, charged with enticing a minor in West SenecaRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.- U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Brayden Storey, 21, of West Fork, Arkansas, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with enticement of a minor, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Maeve E. Huggins, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, on June 13, 2024, the West Seneca Police Department received a report from a minor victim of an incident involving an individual that she met online. The victim said that Storey first contacted her on Instagram in September 2022, when she was 13 years-old and he was 19 years-old. He also communicated with the minor victim through the social media platform Discord and text message. Between September 2022, and September 2023, they talked about video games and anime shows. At times, Storey made sexual comments, but in October 2023, the sexual communications that Storey sent to the minor victim significantly increased. Storey sent the minor victim a nude image of himself and repeatedly asked her to send him sexually explicit images. Between October 2023, and March 2024, Storey and the minor victim exchanged sexually explicit images.
In March 2024, the minor victim blocked Storey on all social media applications. As a result, he created another Instagram account to contact her. In April 2024, Storey called the minor victim approximately 50 times in a two-day span, but she did not answer the calls and blocked Storey’s phone number so that he could not contact her. In May 2024, Storey sent the minor victim a four-page letter in the mail at her residence, writing about his suicidal ideations and his desire to be in a relationship with her, regardless of their age difference. Along with the letter, Storey provided a lock of his hair. a search of the minor victim’s phone recovered nude images of Storey and child pornography.
Storey made an initial appearance in the Western District of Arkansas and was detained. He will be returned to the Western District of New York at a later date.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the West Seneca Police Department, under the direction of Chief Brian Cosgrove, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia. Additional assistance was provided by the Little Rock Office of the FBI, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, the Benton County Sheriff’s Office, the Arkansas State Police, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Devon Still, with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Western District of Arkansas.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Rochester trucking company owner convicted by a federal jury of lying to the Department of Transportation going to prisonRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.- U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Tony Kirik, a/k/a Anatoliy Kirik, 43, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted by a federal jury of making false statements to the Federal Motor Commission Safety Administration (FMCSA), U.S. Department of Transportation, and conspiring to do the same, was sentenced to serve 45 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa M. Marangola, who handled the prosecution of the case, stated that Kirik operated a multiple million-dollar trucking business called Dallas Logistics. When applying to the FMCSA for authority to operate as an interstate carrier, Kirik submitted false documents regarding the safety rating of his trucking business. Further, when undergoing compliance reviews and safety audits by the FMSCA. Kirik provided false statements and information regarding the many safety violations incurred by his business. To trick the FMSCA regarding the safety of this trucking business, Kirik started new companies using various family members’ names and an employee’s name to make it appear that these new companies were independent and not affiliated with the prior business that incurred the negative safety ratings, when in fact, the new company was merely an extension of the prior company. At trial, it was shown that Kirik’s actions jeopardized the safety of the nation’s highways and roadways from unsafe tractor trailers.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by Special Agents of the Department of Transportation, Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Christopher Scharf, Northeast Region, and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Harry Chavis, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge, New York Field Office.
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Rapids Theatre owner pleads guilty to defrauding COVID relief programs out of more than $1.8 millionRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that John L. Hutchins, 71, of Lewiston, NY, pleaded guilty before Judge Meredith A. Vacca to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud, which carry a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul E. Bonanno and Douglas A. C. Penrose, who are handling the case, stated that between March 2020, and March 2024, Hutchins conspired with co-defendant Roberto Soliman and others to file fraudulent loan applications under the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL), the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), and the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG). The loans available for these programs were designed to provide emergency financial assistance pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES Act). Hutchins and Soliman applied for loans under the following companies, which were owned by Hutchins:
• Rapids Theatre Niagara Falls, USA, Inc.
• 1711 Main, LLC
• Bear Creek Entertainment, LLC
• Hutch Enterprises, LLC
• The Hutchins Agency, LLC
• CWE Entertainment, Corp. (owned by defendant Soliman)
Between March and August 2020, Hutchins and Soliman received five Economic Injury Disaster Loans totaling $779,500.00. In addition, they received SVOG loans totaling $989,905.05, a PPP loan from Bank on Buffalo totaling $74,838, and a PPP loan from Northwest Bank totaling $41,140. In support of each of the loans, Hutchins and Soliman submitted false revenue and expense figures for the businesses on the loan applications.
Charges remain pending against Roberto Soliman.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Harry Chavis, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, under the direction of Rose Brophy, Director of Field Operations, and the New York State Office of Professional Discipline.
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Ontario county woman sentenced for HIPAA violationRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Tonya D’Agostino, 53, of Farmington, NY, who pleaded guilty to HIPAA: unlawfully obtaining/disclosing individually identifying health information, was sentenced to serve one year probation by Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford. D’Agostino was also ordered to pay $13,410.42 in restitution.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Katelyn M. Hartford, who is handling the case, stated that on March 23, 2023, D’Agostino mailed a USPS Priority Mail parcel to an individual in Medina, NY, which contained individually identifiable health information of four individuals. D’Agostino did not have authorization to obtain or disclose the individually identifiable health information. She did this in an attempt to obtain $216,000 from the individual who received the parcel.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, and Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Naomi Gruchacz.
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Jamestown man going to prison for his role in drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Charles Lawson a/k/a Charley Marley, 38, of Jamestown, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, heroin, methamphetamine, and fentanyl, was sentenced to serve 37 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who handled the case, stated that between January and March 2020, Lawson conspired with others to sell heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine. Lawson was a close associate of Rocco Beardsley and actively assisted Beardsley’s drug trafficking activities. Lawson used Facebook to advertise and sell Beardsley’s heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine, and he received narcotics for personal use from Beardsley as compensation for his services. On January 23, 2020, investigators conducted a controlled purchase of fentanyl from Beardsley and Lawson participated in the purchase. Beardsley was previously convicted and sentenced.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarantino, III, New York Field Division, and the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson.
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Guatemalan man previously deported pleads guilty to and sentenced for illegal reentryRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, NY—U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Andiyer Eduardo Con Yucutie, 25, a citizen of Guatemala, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara to reentry of a removed alien and was sentenced to time served. Yucutie was then turned over to the custody of U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew Henning and Sasha Mascarenhas, who are handling the case, stated that Yucutie, an alien without any legal status in the United States, was born in and is a citizen of Guatemala. Yucutie was ordered removed from the United States and physically deported to Guatemala in July 2024. On January 25, 2025, Yucutie was found in the United States at the Lewiston Bridge Port of Entry. A records check determined that he was the same individual previously deported in July 2024.
The plea and sentencing are the result of an investigation by Customs and Border Protection, under the direction of Director of Field Operations Rose Brophy.
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Former Dansville teacher going to prison for 20 years on child pornography chargesRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Derek Hagen, 33, of Batavia, NY, who was convicted of production of child pornography and possession of child pornography involving prepubescent minors, was sentenced to serve 240 months in prison and 15 years of supervised by Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle P. Rossi, who handled the case, stated that between January 2018, and July 21, 2021, Hagen engaged in a pattern of prohibited sexual conduct with Victim 1, a minor between the ages of 4 and 8, during which Hagen photographed and videoed himself subjecting Victim 1 to sexual contact. Hagen then distributed the images of Victim 1 to other individuals over the internet.
In addition, between May 2018, and July 19, 2018, Hagen was employed as an Assistant Teacher at the Brockport Childhood Development Center in the infant, toddler, and preschool classrooms. During this time, he produced and possessed sexually explicit images of children entrusted to his care. The children ranged in age from six months to five years. Hagen produced these images while changing diapers and assisting children who were learning to use the bathroom. Hagen distributed the images of these children to other individuals over the internet. Hagen also possessed approximately 50,000 images and videos of child pornography that he received from others via the internet.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Kevin Sucher, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
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Chautauqua county man going to prison for 10 years on meth chargesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Darin L. Butts, Jr., 31, of Celeron, NY, who was convicted of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, was sentenced to serve 120 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Louis A. Testani, who handled the case, stated that in July and August 2023, investigators conducted seven controlled purchases of methamphetamine and fentanyl from Butts. On August 23, 2023, search warrants were executed at Butts’ residence and his two vehicles. Law enforcement seized approximately 610 grams of methamphetamine, some of it packaged in smaller, individual-sized quantities, drug paraphernalia, and approximately $14,829.00 in cash, which represented proceeds of his methamphetamine trafficking. On May 3, 2024, law enforcement executed another search warrant at Butts’ residence, seizing multiple quantities of suspected methamphetamine and fentanyl, and drug paraphernalia.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson, the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division, the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James Quattrone, the Ellicott Police Department, under the direction of Chief William Ohnmeiss Jr., and the Dunkirk Police Department, under the direction of Chief David C. Ortolano.
Pennsylvania man pleads guilty to receipt of child pornographyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Dylan C. Irvin, 26, of Bradford, PA, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara to receipt of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum of 20 years.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that sometime in June or July 2023, Irvin engaged in sexual activity with a 13-year-old female (victim). Irvin used his cellular telephone to record the sexual activity and then received the video on a Snapchat account he controlled. On March 5, 2024, Irvin was arrested on state charges related to the sexual contact, at which time his cell phone was seized. A search of the phone recovered the video of Irvin and the victim.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto, and the Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Eric Butler.
Sentencing is scheduled for May 28, 2025, at 12:30 p.m. before Judge Arcara.
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Ohio man going to prison for his role in Jamestown drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, NY—U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Justin Whitfield, 25, of Cincinnati, OH, who was convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, was sentenced to serve 77 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who handled the case, stated that since April 2019, the DEA has investigated the drug trafficking activities, including heroin/fentanyl and methamphetamine, of Rocco Beardsley in the Jamestown, NY area. During the investigation, Whitfield was identified as an associate and co-conspirator of Beardsley, who is also his cousin. Beardsley utilized a source of supply for methamphetamine in the Cincinnati area, and Whitfield was responsible for introducing Beardsley to the source. Whitfield utilized social media to conduct drug related conversations and facilitate his drug trafficking activities.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department and the Jamestown Metro Drug Task Force, under the direction of Jamestown Police Chief Timothy Jackson; the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division; and the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James Quattrone.
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Buffalo woman going to prison for filing false tax returnRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Maureen Holleran, 62, of Buffalo, who was convicted of filing a false tax return, was sentenced to serve 18 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas A.C. Penrose, who handled the case, stated that between September 2015 and October 2023, Holleran worked remotely as a worker’s compensation claims handler for Insurance Company 1, which is headquartered in Canada. In this role, Holleran evaluated and, if appropriate, paid workers compensation claims for policies issued by Insurance Company 1. If a claim was determined to be eligible, Holleran had authority to send payment to the claimant. She had the authority to send payments of up to $2,000 without further approval by her supervisor. Between July 2020 and June 2023, Holleran submitted more than 1,200 fraudulent claims in Insurance Company 1’s claim processing system, with each claim below the $2,000 threshold. Claims were then paid into bank accounts controlled by Holleran.
Holleran created fictious expenses, such as claims for lost wages and reimbursements for medical supplies and copays, to justify the fraudulent payments. In total, she submitted approximately $2,370,848.24 in fraudulent claims. To carry out the scheme, she created fictitious email accounts that superficially appeared to be associated with the policy claimant. Holleran then used these email addresses to sign up for Insurance Company 1’s client portal. She would then input her own banking information into the portal. For the tax years 2020 through 2022, Holleran embezzled approximately $1,592,095 from Insurance Company 1 that she did not report on her income tax returns for those years. The Internal Revenue Service estimates tax due and owing for these tax years is $545,792.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Harry Chavis.
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Buffalo woman going to prison for filing false tax returnRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Maureen Holleran, 62, of Buffalo, who was convicted of filing a false tax return, was sentenced to serve 18 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas A.C. Penrose, who handled the case, stated that between September 2015 and October 2023, Holleran worked remotely as a worker’s compensation claims handler for Insurance Company 1, which is headquartered in Canada. In this role, Holleran evaluated and, if appropriate, paid workers compensation claims for policies issued by Insurance Company 1. If a claim was determined to be eligible, Holleran had authority to send payment to the claimant. She had the authority to send payments of up to $2,000 without further approval by her supervisor. Between July 2020 and June 2023, Holleran submitted more than 1,200 fraudulent claims in Insurance Company 1’s claim processing system, with each claim below the $2,000 threshold. Claims were then paid into bank accounts controlled by Holleran.
Holleran created fictitious expenses, such as claims for lost wages and reimbursements for medical supplies and copays, to justify the fraudulent payments. In total, she submitted approximately $2,370,848.24 in fraudulent claims. To carry out the scheme, she created fictitious email accounts that superficially appeared to be associated with the policy claimant. Holleran then used these email addresses to sign up for Insurance Company 1’s client portal. She would then input her own banking information into the portal. For the tax years 2020 through 2022, Holleran embezzled approximately $1,592,095 from Insurance Company 1 that she did not report on her income tax returns for those years. The Internal Revenue Service estimates tax due and owing for these tax years is $545,792.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Harry Chavis.
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Brockport woman awaiting sentencing for committing fraud, charged once again with bank fraud and making false statementsRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Patricia Hutchins, 53, of Brockport, NY, was charged by criminal complaint with making a false statement and bank fraud, which carry a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, in July 2021, U.S. Postal Inspectors executed a search warrant at Hutchins’ Rochester and seized documents, cash, and electronic devices that were either used in or derived from various wire fraud schemes, including Unemployment Insurance fraud, Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan fraud, and elder fraud. In October 2022, Hutchins was arrested on charges of mail fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering. On May 1, 2024, she pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and is awaiting sentencing on that charge, which is scheduled for April 15, 2025. As part of her plea agreement, Hutchins must pay restitution to two victims: $20,052.00 to reimburse a financial institution for a fraudulent PPP loan disbursement $25,100.00 to an elderly individual who had been duped into “paying off a debt for a friend” by sending that money to Hutchins.
On October 16, 2024, Hutchins appeared in federal court for sentencing. At that time, she stated that she had invested the entire proceeds of her home sale in a retirement account and did not have any money for restitution. As a result, her sentencing was delayed. On December 4, 2024, Hutchins appeared once again for sentencing. This time, she advised the court that she had given all of her money to an individual whom she believed to be country music recording artist Kenny Chesney, who had agreed to invest it for her. Hutchins had already used this excuse—that she was scammed by a person whom she believed was Kenny Chesney—twice before. Hutchins ultimately pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit wire fraud with the individual whom she claimed to believe was Kenny Chesney.
According to the latest complaint against Hutchins, the proceeds from the sale of her residence were deposited into her bank account, approximately one month before her scheduled sentencing on October 16, 2024. In the month leading up to the sentencing, she pulled approximately $15,000.00 out of the account, making numerous $250.00 gift card purchases at merchants such as Walgreens, Tops, Wegman’s, Lowe’s, and Home Depot. After the original sentencing was adjourned, and she was directed by the Court to gather funds to pay restitution, Hutchins continued to make regular gift card purchases totaling approximately $8,500.00. As of November 29, 2024, there was approximately $1,000 left in her account. In addition, Hutchins is accused of fraud involving two credit card accounts.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Inspector in Charge Ketty Larco-Ward, Boston Division.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Three men arrested for illegally re-entering the U.S.Read the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that three individuals were arrested and charged in separate criminal complaints with immigration related charges:
- Hector Noel Soto-Villalta, 29, a citizen of Honduras, is charged with illegal reentry after deportation, with a prior felony conviction, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.
- Isaias Fernando Diego-Lucas, 39, a citizen of Guatemala, is charged with illegal reentry after deportation, which carries a maximum penalty of two years in prison.
- Manuel Juan Mateo, 52, a citizen of Guatemala, is charged with possession of a counterfeit alien resident card, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sasha Mascarenhas and Andrew J. Henning, who are handling the case, stated that according to the complaints, on February 24, 2025, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Office of Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Buffalo Field Office conducted a targeted enforcement action in Dunkirk, NY, to locate and arrest a final order alien. ICE ERO special agents observed a male subject exit a Dunkirk residence and get into the back of a vehicle. Agents then conducted a vehicle stop and questioned the passengers:
- A records check determined that Hector Noel Soto-Villalta is a citizen and national of Honduras illegally residing in the U.S. Previously, he had been deported from the U.S. three times.
- During questioning, Isaias Fernando Diego-Lucas provided a Guatemala Identification Consular card bearing the same name. A records check determined that Diego-Lucas is a citizen and national of Guatemala illegally residing in the U.S.
- Manuel Juan Mateo presented a permanent resident card which he told agents was real. A subsequent check determined that the car was fraudulent.
The defendants made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy and were detained.
The complaints are the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Emergency Removal Operations, under the direction of Acting Field Office Director Steven Kurzdorfer, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Lackawanna man pleads guilty to child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Maxwell H. Gawley, 34, of Lackawanna, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. to distribution of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, and a maximum penalty of 20 years.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Evan K. Glaberson, who is handling the case, stated that in August 2022, Gawley engaged in sexually explicit conversations via Snapchat with a minor victim, who was a 14-year-old male. During these conversations, Gawley asked the minor victim to send him pictures of himself and discussed having sexual contact with him, which the minor victim complied with. In response, Gawley told the minor victim that he “might even have to make a road trip ... [come] see you if we were dating.” In September 2022, Gawley engaged in a sexually explicit conversation with another individual over Snapchat, during which Gawley shared images and videos of child pornography over the internet via Snapchat.
The plea is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
Sentencing is scheduled for July 8, 2025, before Judge Sinatra.
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Federal grand jury indicts Jamestown man for his role in Jamestown drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. –U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Joseph Thayer, 48, of Jamestown, NY, with narcotics conspiracy, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua A. Violanti and Louis A. Testani, who are handling the case, stated that according to the indictment, between 2018, and May 26, 2022, Thayer conspired with Joseph S. Zaso and others, to sell heroin and fentanyl in the Jamestown area. Co-defendants include Andres Pizzaro Campos, Max Pizzaro Campos, Cindy Frank, Edward Leeper, and Jaquez L. Thomas. Joseph Zaso was previously charged and convicted and is awaiting sentencing.
Thayer was arraigned before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer and detained.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson, the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division, and the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James Quattrone.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Cheektowaga man charged with attempted sex trafficking and cocaine possessionRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Darryl Lamont Paul, a/k/a Darryl Lamont, 59, of Cheektowaga, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with attempted sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion and possession with the intent to distribute cocaine, which carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum of life.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Caitlin M. Higgins, who is handling the case, stated that for the last 25 years, Lamont has owned NoLimit Entertainment (NLE), a company that provides entertainment, including nude dancers and topless bartenders, for parties such as stags and birthdays. Throughout the years, Lamont has maintained a friendship and business relationship with the owner of Pharoah’s Gentleman’s Club, with the two men sharing employees. Lamont would recruit young vulnerable women from Pharoah’s to work for NLE, and he would also refer young women to Pharoah’s for additional employment.
According to the complaint, in early July 2024, Lamont invited a 19-year-old woman (victim), to his residence to audition for NLE. During the audition, Lamont instructed the victim to strip completely naked so he could inspect her body. After her audition, Lamont invited the victim to “shadow” at stag party, where she observed two dancers engaging in sexual activity with each other.
Lamont also arranged for the victim to audition at an area strip club. After the audition, he took her back to his apartment for “training.” While there, Lamont forced the victim to snort cocaine and drink alcohol. The victim observed Lamont with what appeared to be a large quantity of cocaine. According to the victim, Lamont said that working for him would make her a lot of money and that he knew a lot of important people. He also claimed to know the names of the victim’s family members. The victim believed Lamont told her these things to intimidate her. Lamont also had the victim sign a nondisclosure agreement (NDA) prohibiting her from telling anyone anything that occurred at Lamont’s house or the stag parties. When the victim told Lamont that she was felt extremely uncomfortable and no longer wanted to work for NLE, Lamont threatened that if she did not work for him, then she would not be allowed to work at the strip club.
Lamont made an initial appearance this morning before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy and was held pending a detention hearing on March, 18, 2025.
The complaint is a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Niagara Falls man pleads guilty to drug chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Jermaine McQueen, 46, of Niagara Falls, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer to possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, which carries a minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 40 years, and a fine up to $5,000,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy C. Lynch, who is handling the case, stated that on August 28, 2024, investigators executed search warrants at several locations associated with McQueen. They seized approximately 405 grams of cocaine, approximately 300 grams of fentanyl, and approximately six grams of crack cocaine, drug packaging materials, $10,625 in cash, and several pieces of jewelry, which constitute proceeds of narcotics trafficking. During the investigation, law enforcement made controlled purchases of fentanyl and cocaine from McQueen.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, the Niagara Falls Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Nick Ligammari, the Niagara County Sheriff’s Department, under the direction of Sheriff Michael Filicetti, the North Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief Keith Glass, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto, and the Erie County Sheriff’s Department, under the direction of Sheriff John Garcia.
Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
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Mexican national previously deported multiple times arrested for illegal re-entryRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Juan Vera-Cervantes, 45, a citizen of Mexico, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with re-entry of removed aliens, which carries a maximum penalty of two years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas M. Testani, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, on February 25, 2025, Border Patrol agents observed a white cargo van with a Tennessee license plate traveling on the I 490. A check of the license plate revealed that Vera-Cervantes was the registered owner of the vehicle, and he had been previously deported multiple times from the United States and had his final order of removal reinstated on three different occasions. During a traffic stop of the vehicle, Vera-Cervantes stated that he is a citizen and national of Mexico without immigration documents to be in the United States legally. He was placed under arrest.
Vera-Cervantes made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark W. Pedersen and was detained.
The complaint is a result of an investigation by U.S. Border Patrol, under the direction of Patrol Agent in Charge Juan Ramirez.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Hamburg man going to prison for selling fentanyl and possessing a gunRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Michael Burnett, 40, of Hamburg, NY, who was convicted of possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, was sentenced to serve 96 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Evan K. Glaberson, who handled the case, stated that in September 2022, the New York State Police and Hamburg Police Department began investigating Burnett’s fentanyl trafficking operation. On February 1, 2023, investigators searched Burnett’s Holiday Lane apartment, seizing four bags of fentanyl, a loaded firearm, drug paraphernalia, $9,797 in cash, and a 4.8 carat gold and diamond necklace appraised at $23,900, which represents proceeds from his drug trafficking activities. Burnett was previously convicted of felonies in Erie County Court in 2010 and 2019 and is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm.
The sentencing is a result of an investigation by the Hamburg Police Department, under the direction of Chief Peter Dienes, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto, and the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarentino, New York Field Division.
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Ecuadorian national pleads guilty to making a false claim regarding citizenship, sentenced to six months in prisonRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Luis Mauafrewiny Aviles Matias, a/k/a Leiver Artur Ponce Leon, a/k/a Juan Perez Chavez, 57, a citizen of Ecuador, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. to making a false claim of United States citizenship. Judge Sinatra then sentenced Matias to serve six months in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Rudroff, who handled the case, stated that on November 12, 2024, Matias was a passenger in a vehicle attempting to enter the United States at the Peace Bridge Port of Entry. He presented a fraudulent Puerto Rican driver’s license as identification. When asked if he was a United States citizen, Matias nodded in the affirmative. Matias is a citizen and national of Ecuador.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The plea and sentencing are the result of an investigation by Customs and Border Protection, under the direction of Director of Field Operations Rose Brophy.
Ontario man attempting to enter U.S. arrested for making a false statementRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Omid Kazemimanesh, 38, of Mississauga, Ontario, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with making a false statement, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Franz M. Wright, who is handling the case, stated that on October 18, 2024, Kazemimanesh attempted to enter the United States at the Lewiston-Queenston Bridge Port of Entry. During primary inspection, he stated he had served in the Iranian Army approximately 13 years ago, but could not provide any documentation related to the military service. As a result, Kazemimanesh was denied entry, and advised that he would need his military completion card and supporting documentation issued by the Iranian military that showed which branch of the military he had served to gain entry. On March 8, 2025, Kazemimanesh arrived at the Lewiston-Queenston Bridge Port of Entry and during a secondary inspection, he was asked to provide proof of Iranian military service. Kazemimanesh provided an Iranian military service card as well as Iranian military discharge paperwork, stating the Iranian military documents were originals and were provided by the Iranian government approximately 3-4 months after the completion of his military service with the Iran Army Ground Forces. After a review of the military card, a Customs and Border Protection officer suspected the card was fraudulent. Subsequent review determined that the card was in fact fraudulent.
The complaint is a result of an investigation by Customs and Border Protection, under the direction of Director of Field Operations Rose Brophy and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Rochester man charged with receipt and possession of child pornographyRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Daniel P. Walsh, 58, of Rochester, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with receipt and possession of child pornography. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney, Kyle P. Rossi, who is handling the case, stated that the according to the complaint, in November 2024, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received a report from Google that an individual using an account registered in Walsh’s name, from Walsh’s IP address, uploaded multiple images of child pornography to Google’s platforms. Rochester Police and the FBI executed a search warrant at Walsh’s residence, during which they seized multiple computers and other digital devices. A forensic examination of those devices revealed that Walsh had received and possessed hundreds of images of child pornography, to include child pornography depicting prepubescent minors engaged in sexual conduct with adults. In many instances, Walsh had superimposed the faces of minors that he knew onto the images.
The defendant made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark W. Pedersen and was released on conditions.
The criminal complaint is the result of an investigation by the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Smith and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Child Exploitation Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Prior felon pleads guilty to new child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that John Douglas Looney, 82, of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa to transportation of obscene material in interstate commerce, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison, and a fine of $250,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire, who is handling the case, stated that Looney was previously convicted on a federal charge of possession of child pornography. Between August 2018, and March 2019, Looney used an internet connected device and an interactive computer service to receive and distribute images and videos of child pornography via the internet. The images and videos were obscene and depicted prepubescent children being subjected to sexual abuse. Some of the images depicted the sexual abuse of an infant or toddler. In total, Looney possessed more than 1,000,000 images of child pornography on three computers.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.
Sentencing is scheduled for July 10, 2025, before Judge Siragusa.
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Former postal worker pleads guilty to stealing mailRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Christopher Porter, 37, of Angola, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to theft of mail by an officer or employee, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Franz M. Wright and Andrew J. Henning, who are handling the case, stated that between 2021 and May 2022, Porter was employed by the United States Postal Service (USPS) as a City Carrier, assigned to the West Seneca Post Office. In October 2021, Porter stole an envelope containing a Wegmans gift card and a Target gift card, which he gave to his wife. In addition, on various dates in March 2022, Porter opened envelopes and mail and rifled through the mail items, delaying their delivery.
The plea is a result of an investigation by the United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General, Northeast Area Field Office, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Modafferi.
Sentencing is scheduled for July 18, 2025, before Judge Vilardo.
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Registered sex offender going to prison for more than 15 years on new child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Christopher Rucker, 45, of Cheektowaga, NY, who was convicted of possession of child pornography with a prior sex offense, was sentenced to serve 188 months in prison and lifetime supervised release by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Caitlin M. Higgins, who handled the case, stated that in March 2022, the New York State Police (NYSP) conducted a search warrant at Rucker’s residence, during which they seized a laptop computer and a cell phone. The laptop and cell phone both contained images and videos of child pornography. Subsequent investigation determined that between October 1 and December 28, 2021, Rucker downloaded approximately 1300 images of child pornography. Some of the images depicted prepubescent minors, as well as violence against children and the sexual abuse of an infant or toddler.
Rucker is a registered Level 2 sex offender, following two convictions in 2002 on Sodomy in the 2nd Degree and Using and Interstate Facility to Persuade/Induce a Child to Engage in Sexual Activity.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, the Cheektowaga Police Department, under the direction of Chief Brian Coons, and the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto.
Former Wyoming County corrections officer going to prison for distributing child pornographyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that James D. Sutton, 40, of Depew, NY, who was convicted of distribution child pornography, was sentenced to serve 100 months in prison and 30 years supervised release by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig R. Gestring, who handled the case, stated that in October 2021, Sutton, a former Wyoming County Corrections Officer, used his cellular telephone to upload 22 video files containing child pornography, via the internet, to the social media platform Kik. The videos included prepubescent minors under the age of 12 years old, and depictions of violence.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto, the Federal Bureau of Investigation Child Exploitation Human Trafficking Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
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Federal grand jury indicts Chautauqua County man for attempted production of child pornographyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that a federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Jose Perez, 40, of Celeron, NY, with attempted production of child pornography and possession of child pornography, which carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, a maximum of 80 years, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Rudroff, who is handling the case, stated that according to the indictment and a previously filed criminal complaint, on September 3, 2022, Homeland Security Investigations received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that Perez uploaded a file a suspected child pornography. On December 15, 2022, HSI executed a federal search warrant at Perez’s residence, seizing computers, a cellular telephone, and electronic storage devices, including a thumb drive, which contained two video files that appeared to be taken from a videocam located in Perez’s bathroom. One of the files included video of a naked minor victim who does not appear to be aware that the camera is present. In addition, the thumb drive contained 17,839 image files that appeared to be taken from the same bathroom videocam and included naked images of the minor victim. Images and videos of child pornography were also found on Perez’s cell phone.
The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James Quattrone, and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Lancaster man pleads guilty to receiving child pornographyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Alexander Grupp, 32, of Lancaster, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer to receipt of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum of 40 years.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Franz M. Wright, who is handling the case, stated that in March 2018, Grupp was convicted in New York State Court of Possessing Obscene Sexual Performance by a Child less than sixteen years of age, and sentenced, in part, to 10 years' probation. In October 2022, Grupp communicated with a 15-year-old girl using the instant messaging application, Discord. During these conversations, Grupp persuaded the victim to send him nude pictures of herself.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.
Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
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Jamestown man going to prison on meth chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Willie C. Graham, 44, of Jamestown, NY, who was convicted of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, was sentenced to serve 66 months in prison by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Donna M. Duncan, who handled the case, stated that on September 6, 2023, Jamestown Police officers initiated a traffic stop on a car that Graham was a passenger in. Officers located numerous items of drug paraphernalia in the car, as well as approximately 29 grams of fentanyl on Graham’s person.
On March 2, 2024, Graham was a passenger in a car that fled from law enforcement officers trying to conduct a traffic stop. A subsequent search of the vehicle resulted in the recovery of approximately 12 grams of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and $1,134.00 cash.
On April 30, 2024, Jamestown Police officers located and arrested Graham. At the time of his arrest, he was in possession of 10 assorted bank and benefit cards, some of which were issued to individuals other than Graham, approximately 53 grams of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and $185.
The sentencing is a result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.
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Federal grand jury indicts Olean man on narcotics conspiracy chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that a federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Theodore E. Coffie, 54, of Olean, NY, with narcotics conspiracy, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who is handling the case, stated that between July 2016, and March 2021, Coffie conspired with Joseph S. Zaso, and others, to sell heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, crack cocaine, and marijuana in the Olean area. Zaso was previously convicted and is awaiting sentencing.
Coffie was arraigned this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer and is being held pending a detention hearing.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson and the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarentino, New York Field Division.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Buffalo man sentenced for being a felon in possession of a firearmRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Henry Ford, 37, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm, was sentenced to time serve (approximately 11 months) and three years’ supervised release by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Donna M. Duncan, who handled the case, stated that in April 2024, a search warrant was executed on Ford’s person and at Ford’s Erb Street residence. Investigators recovered a loaded handgun from Ford’s pocket. Subsequent investigation revealed the handgun was reported stolen from Georgia in September 2019. During the search of Erb’s residence, investigators recovered a second firearm and ammunition. That firearm was reported stolen in the City of Buffalo in March 2024. In October 2008, Ford was convicted of a felony in Erie County Court and is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan Miller, and the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Alphonso Wright.
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Jamestown man pleads guilty to drug and gun chargesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Richard Pearson, 47, of Jamestown, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to possession with intent to distribute cocaine, and being a felon in possession of a firearm, which carry a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who is handling the case, stated that on June 25, 2024, investigators executed a search warrant at a Newland Avenue residence in Jamestown, seizing cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl, p-fluorofentanyl, suboxone strips, $200 in cash, a digital scale, and a firearm. Pearson was present during the search. He was previously convicted of felony charges in 2018 and 2009 in Chautauqua County Court, and in 2006 in Federal Court. As a result, Pearson is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson and the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarentino, New York Field Division.
Sentencing is scheduled for July 11, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. before Judge Vilardo.
Former Wellsville man charged with multiple counts of production of child pornographyRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced that a federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Jason Goodsell, 39, formerly of Wellsville, NY, with seven counts of production of child pornography and one count of distribution of child pornography. the charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a possible maximum penalty of 225 years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Rudroff, who is handling the case, stated that according to the indictment, between June 1, 2020, and December 2, 2021, Goodsell coerced a minor victim to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of the conduct. In addition, between June 1 and June 30, 2022, Goodsell distributed the images of child pornography that he produced.
Goodsell was arraigned this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge H. Kenneth Schroeder, Jr. and detained.
The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, and the Wellsville Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy O’Grady. Additional Assistance was provided by the Pittsburgh Office of the FBI.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Buffalo business owner sentenced for Medicaid fraudRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Arkan Fadhel, 30, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to commit health care fraud, was sentenced to serve three years supervised release to include 12 months home incarceration by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo. In addition, Fadhel was also ordered to perform 400 hours of community service. Fadhel will also forfeit $781,186.80 and pay restitution totaling $250,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Franz M. Wright and Mary Clare Kane, who handled the case, stated that Fadhel is the owner of Queen City Transportation, Inc., which has been providing non-emergency Medicaid transportation rides since August 2018. Fadhel and several dozen other individuals drove Queen City beneficiaries to appointments, primarily at methadone clinics. Prior to operating Queen City, Fadhel was a driver for Great Lakes Transportation, another non-emergency Medicaid transportation company. Between August 6, 2018, and December 31, 2020, Fadhel submitted false and fraudulent attestation records to Medical Answering Service, a non-emergency Medicaid transportation management company. The attestation records included claims that rides were provided but never actually took place as well as billing group rides as if the rides had been separate, individual rides. The total loss amount to Medicaid was greater than $250,000.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by Western New York Health Care Fraud Task Force, which includes Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, the New York State Department of Financial Services, under the direction of Superintendent Adrienne A. Harris, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto, and Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Naomi Gruchacz.
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Wayne County man going to prison for stealing a firearmRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced that Lucas Burke, 23, of Wolcott, NY, who was convicted of theft of a firearm from a federal firearms licensee, was sentenced to serve 30 months in prison by United States District Judge Charles J. Siragusa.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Moynihan, who handled the case, stated on October 7, 2023, the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office responded to East Side Traders on Wooster Way in Ontario, NY, for a call of intruders inside. Eastside Traders was a Federal Firearms Licensee authorized to sell firearms under federal law. Subsequent investigation determined that at approximately 4:55 a.m. that morning, Burke smashed a window near the entrance to Eastside Traders and entered the building. Once inside, he stole a rifle. He attempted to steal two others but was unsuccessful.
The matter was brought by the United States Attorney’s Office as part of its Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) initiative. PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the director of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan Miller, New York Field Division.
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Two Venezuelan gang members arrested, charged with bank theft and conspiracyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. –U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that David Jose Gomez Cegarra, 24, and Jesus Segundo Hernandez-Gil, 19, both of Venezuela, were arrested and charged by criminal complaint with bank theft and conspiracy to commit bank theft. The charges carry a maximum penalty of ten years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jeffrey E. Intravatola and Douglas A.C. Penrose, who are handling the case, stated that the defendants are members of the Tren de Aragua Gang, which has been designated by the White House as a Global Terrorist Organization. They are accused of participating in an ATM Jackpotting scheme. ATM Jackpotting involves removing an ATM’s cover and infecting the ATMs hard drive with malware or removing the hard drive and replacing it with an infected hard drive, which allows the operator to assume control of the ATM and cause it to dispense currency.
According to the complaint, Gomez-Cegarra, Hernandez-Gil, and other co-conspirators successfully completed an ATM Jackpotting scheme at a Radius Federal Credit Union in Kenmore, NY, on October 5, 2024. Video surveillance shows that at approximately 4:05 p.m., a vehicle, driven by Gomez-Cegarra, approached the drive-up ATM, a co-conspirator exited the vehicle and opened the ATM utilizing a key, appeared to install something in the ATM, pressed buttons, and closed the ATM. The vehicle then left the area. Over the next several hours, the vehicle re-appeared multiple times at the ATM and conducted illegal withdrawals. Radius Federal Credit Union reported that $110,440.00 was stolen from the ATM during this ATM Jackpotting event.
Gomez-Cegarra, Hernandez-Gil, and other co-conspirators are also believed to be responsible for ATM Jackpotting events St. Maly’s Federal Credit Union in Framingham, Massachusetts, on October 6, 2024, at First National Bank of Dryden in Dryden, NY, on October 17, 2024, and at two Community First Bank locations in Mount Vernon, Illinois, on November 11, 2024. During these events, approximately $187,000 was reported stolen.
On November 11, 2024, the Mahomet, Illinois Police Department stopped Gomez-Cegarra and Hernandez-Gil in a vehicle together for suspicious activity. Both men presented Venezuelan identifications. They were arrested by the Mahomet Police Department, and ultimately charged by the Mount Vernon Police Department in relation to the incidents that occurred at the Community First Bank locations in Mount Vernon, IL.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, the Kenmore Police Department, under the direction of Chief Thomas Phillips, the Homer, NY, Police Department, under the direction of Chief Robert Pitman, the Framingham, MA, Police Department, under the direction of Chief Lester Baker, and the Mahomet, Illinois, Police Department.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Prior felon pleads guilty to gun chargeRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced that Taraja Green, 28, of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Meredith A. Vacca to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, which carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, and a fine of $250,000 or both.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Moynihan, who is handling the case, stated that on March 17, 2024, Rochester Police officers found Green asleep in the driver seat of a running vehicle in the roadway on Seward Street. When the officers approached the vehicle, they could see a 9mm pistol on Green’s lap. Officers later discovered that the firearm was loaded. Green was previously convicted of a felony in August 2019, in Monroe County Court, and is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm.
The matter was brought by the United States Attorney’s Office as part of its Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) initiative. PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Smith, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan Miller, New York Field Division.
Sentencing is scheduled for July 8, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. before Judge Vacca.
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Niagara Falls man pleads guilty to drug and gun chargesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Edward Rollie, 49, of Niagara Falls, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer to possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, and being a felon in possession of a firearm, which carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy C. Lynch, who is handling the case, stated that on August 28, 2024, investigators executed search warrants associated with Rollie at a Spruce Avenue residence in Niagara Falls, where Rollie’s son resides. They recovered approximately 594 grams of fentanyl, approximately 683 grams of cocaine, and a 9mm semi-automatic handgun. In July 2002, Rollie was convicted of a federal felony drug charge in the Western District of Pennsylvania, and is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm. The investigation also included controlled purchases of fentanyl from Rollie.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, the Niagara Falls Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Nick Ligammari, the Niagara County Sheriff’s Department, under the direction of Sheriff Michael Filicetti, the North Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief Keith Glass, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto, and the Erie County Sheriff’s Department, under the direction of Sheriff John Garcia.
Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
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Man from Dominican Republic pleads guilty to illegal reentryRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Rolando Antonio Rosado, 59, of the Dominican Republic, pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford to illegal re-entry after deportation. Rosado was then sentenced to time served and transferred to the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire, who handled the case, stated that in June 2000, an immigration judge ordered Rosado removed in absentia. However, Rosado did not surrender himself for removal. On October 22, 2003, Rosado was arrested by the Rochester Police Department and charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon. As a result, in April 2004, Rosado was physically removed from the United States. In 2014, he illegally re-entered the United States near Laredo, Texas. On September 26, 2024, Rosado was found in the Western District of New York.
The plea and sentencing are the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan.
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Former Gow School administrator pleads guilty to production of child pornographyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Matthew Fisher, 51, of South Wales, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy to production of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, a maximum of 30 years, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that between June 2022, and November 2023, Fisher was employed as the Associate Director of Enrollment and Management at the Gow School, a private boarding school in South Wales, NY. Fisher resided on the Gow School campus. He utilized hidden cameras in his residence to create and attempt to create videos of at least five minor males engaged in sexually explicit conduct. During the investigation, several of Fisher’s electronic devices were seized and found to contain child pornography depicting the five victims and several yet to be identified minor individuals.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Child Exploitation Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, the Town of Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief James Stauffiger, the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority Transit Police Department, under the direction of Chief Brian Patterson, and the East Aurora Police Department, under the direction of Chief Patrick Welch.
Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
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Federal grand jury indicts two men for their roles in narcotics conspiracyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.–U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Ernest Brown, a/k/a Wayne Perry, a/k/a Wayne Brown, 42, Buffalo, NY, and James Jackson, a/k/a Bookah 38, of Jamestown, NY, with narcotics conspiracy. Brown faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum of life, while Jackson faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua A. Violanti and Louis A. Testani, who are handling the case, stated that according to the indictment, between 2018, and May 26, 2022, Brown and Jackson conspired with Joseph S. Zaso and others, to sell fentanyl in the Buffalo and Jamestown areas. Joseph Zaso was previously charged and convicted and is awaiting sentencing.
Brown and Jackson were arraigned before U.S. District Judge Michael J. Roemer and detained.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson, the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division, and the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James Quattrone.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Federal grand jury indicts Rochester man for role in narcotics conspiracyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.–U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Quentin L. Yancey a/k/ a Q, 38, of Rochester, NY, with narcotics conspiracy, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua A. Violanti and Louis A. Testani, who are handling the case, stated that according to the indictment, between 2018, and May 26, 2022, Yancey conspired with Joseph S. Zaso and others, to sell heroin and fentanyl in the Rochester area. Joseph Zaso was previously charged and convicted and is awaiting sentencing.
Yancey was arraigned before U.S. District Judge Michael J. Roemer and detained.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson, the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division, and the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James Quattrone.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Attorney General Pamela Bondi appoints Michael DiGiacomo as U.S. AttorneyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-Michael DiGiacomo was appointed as the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of New York by Attorney General Pamela Bondi on February 28, 2025. Mr. DiGiacomo was sworn in today, March 3, 2025, by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo. He will serve as the U.S. Attorney for 120 days or until a Presidential nominee has been confirmed by the United States Senate.
Mr. DiGiacomo has been an Assistant U.S. Attorney since 2002. He began in the Narcotics and Violent Crimes Division, where he prosecuted multi-defendant narcotics traffickers. Mr. DiGiacomo then moved to the White Collar and General Crimes Division, where he served as Chief for 10 years, supervising 12 attorneys and a deputy chief. Mr. DiGiacomo’s White Collar prosecutions included child exploitation, defense procurement fraud, intellectual property violations, health care fraud, international parental kidnapping and immigration offenses. In addition, Mr. DiGiacomo serves as the computer hacking and intellectual property coordinator for the Western District of New York.
Prior to joining the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Mr. DiGiacomo was an attorney in private practice in Buffalo, NY.
Mr. DiGiacomo stated, “Having served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in this office for the past 23 years, I am both honored and humbled to be chosen to serve as United States Attorney.”
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Two previously deported individuals charged with illegal re-entryRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. –Acting U.S. Attorney Joel Louis Violanti announced today that Manuel Alejandro Estrada-Gonzalez, 31, of Mexico, and Juan Carlos Castro-Cidcas, 44, of El Salvador, were arrested and charged in separate complaints with illegal re-entry after deportation, which carries a maximum penalty of two years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Aaron J. Mango and Charles M. Kruly, who are handling the cases, stated that according to the complaint against Manuel Alejandro Estrada-Gonzalez, on February 20, 2025, Estrada-Gonzalez was identified as a suspected illegal alien staying at the Buffalo Airport Inn in Cheektowaga, NY. U.S. Border Patrol Agents surveilled the area and located Estrada-Gonzales. He was arrested at the scene. A records check determined that Estrada-Gonzales was ordered removed by an immigration officer twice, once in January 2019, and a second time in February 2019.
According to the complaint against Juan Carlos Castro-Cidcas, on February 11, 2025, U.S. Border Patrol Agents were conducting surveillance in Cheektowaga. A records check of a vehicle parked at the Hilton Garden Inn came back to an illegal alien from El Salvador, later identified as Castra-Cidcas. On February 12, 2025, agents returned to the area to conduct further surveillance and spotted him getting into the vehicle. Agents approached Castra-Cidcas but he refused to exit the vehicle. He did exit the vehicle after Cheektowaga Police were called, at which time he was taken into custody. A records check determined that Castra-Cidcas was previously removed from the country in August 2010, and November 2019.
Estrada-Gonzalez and Castro-Cidcas made initial appearances before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer and were detained.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by U.S. Border Patrol, under the direction of Patrol Agent-in-Charge Martin B. Coombs, and the Cheektowaga Police Department, under the direction of Chief Brian Coons.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Southern tier man going to prison for role in meth conspiracyRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. – Acting U.S. Attorney Joel Louis Violanti announced today that Kenneth Turner, 36, of Hornell, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, five grams or more of methamphetamine, was sentenced to serve 96 months in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Moynihan, who handled the case, stated that Turner was arrested in December 2021, after law enforcement discovered a package sent from an address in Nevada to Turner’s residence in Hornell, contained approximately 111 grams of methamphetamine. During the execution of a search warrant at the residence, investigators recovered drug paraphernalia, as well as more methamphetamine.
Sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarentino, New York Field Division, the United States Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Ketty Larco Ward, and the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Jim Allard.
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Jamestown drug ring leader going to prison for 25 yearsRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Joel Louis Violanti announced today that Rocco A. Beardsley, 39, of Jamestown, NY, who was convicted of narcotic conspiracy and distribution of fentanyl causing death, was sentenced to serve 300 months in prison by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua A. Violanti, Evan K. Glaberson, and Jeffrey E. Intravatola, who handled the case, stated that between late 2018 and March 2020, Beardsley conspired with seven others sell methamphetamine, fentanyl, and other controlled substances in the Jamestown area. On April 9, 2019, Beardsley sold acetyl fentanyl and fentanyl, which resulted in the death of an individual identified as J.A. After learning of J.A.’s death, Beardsley took steps to conceal his involvement in the drug overdose, including by directing others to destroy evidence from the death scene.
Beardsley bought and sold fentanyl, and methamphetamine for profit and for his own use, utilizing social media to conduct his drug trafficking activities. Beardsley also utilized residences on Sampson Street and Cowden Place in Jamestown for his drug trafficking activities. During the investigation, law enforcement conducted five controlled purchases from Beardsley. In addition, Beardsley and his co-conspirators also participated in a series of money transfers in furtherance of the narcotics conspiracy.
During the investigation, search warrants were executed at residences associated with the drug conspiracy, during which law enforcement seized approximately 100 grams of methamphetamine, 66 grams of fentanyl, 28 grams of cocaine, 4 grams of crack cocaine, a 12-gauge shotgun, and drug paraphernalia.
Beardsley was previously convicted in Federal Court in 2007 of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine and sentenced to serve 57 months in prison. In 2017, he was convicted in New York State Court of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, and Narcotic Drug Intent To Sell.
A total of seven defendants were charged and convicted in this case.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarantino, III, New York Field Division, the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan Miller, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie P. Feroleto, and the Town of Ellicott Police Department, under the direction of Chief William Ohnmeiss Jr.
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Spencerport man going to prison for role in fraud schemeRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-Acting U.S. Attorney Joel Louis Violanti announced today that Michael Grimm 45, of Spencerport, NY, who was convicted of wire fraud, was sentenced to serve 60 months in prison by U.S. District Court Judge Charles J. Siragusa. Grimm was also ordered to pay approximately $16,000 in restitution.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle P. Rossi, who handled the case, stated that Grimm, and co-defendant Nickola Marie Ferra, engaged in an extensive pattern of conduct involving document fraud, wire fraud, bank fraud, retail theft, and identity theft. Part of the scheme involved Grimm and others obtaining merchandise by theft or fraud from local retailers, which was then returned in exchange for gift cards and store credit or sold to third parties. In furtherance of the scheme, Grimm presented forged and/or stolen passports and other stolen identification information to merchants. Grimm also admitted his role in the theft of personal identifying information and credit information belonging to multiple individuals, which he and others used to make fraudulent purchases, including car and hotel rentals. The stolen identity information was also used in attempts to open credit cards and obtain loans. To date, at least 10 identity theft victims have been identified resulting in thousands of dollars in losses.
Nickola Marie Ferra was previously convicted and sentenced to serve 27 months in prison.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Department of State Diplomatic Security Service, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Brian Wood, and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan.
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Federal grand jury indicts five defendants for their roles in Jamestown drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. –Acting U.S. Attorney Joel Louis Violanti announced today a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Andres Pizzaro Campos a/k/a Kiki, 33, Max Pizzaro Campos, 34, Cindy Frank, 52, Edward Leeper a/k/a Edward Barnes. 46, and Jaquez L. Thomas a/k/a Quez, 21, all of Jamestown, NY, with narcotics conspiracy, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life. In addition, Andres and Max Pizzaro Campos are also charged with possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking and maintaining a drug involved premises, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, consecutive to any other penalty. Cindy Frank is also charged with obstruction of justice.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua A. Violanti and Louis A. Testani, who are handling the case, stated that according to the indictment, between 2018, and May 26, 2022, the defendants conspired with Joseph S. Zaso and others, to sell heroin and fentanyl in the Jamestown area. Andre and Max Pizarro Campos are accused of utilizing a Hazzard Street residence and possessing firearms to conduct their drug trafficking activities. In addition, on July 26, 2023, Cindy Frank allegedly falsely testified, concealing her knowledge of Joseph S. Zaso's drug trafficking activities.
Joseph Zaso was previously charged and convicted and is awaiting sentencing.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson, the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division, and the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James Quattrone.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Two previously deported Honduran nationals arrested for illegal re-entryRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. –Acting U.S. Attorney Joel L. Violanti announced today that Javier Antonio Cruz, 27, and Junior Eduardo Garcia Castro, 28, both citizens of Honduras, were arrested and charged in separate complaints with illegal re-entry after deportation, which carries a maximum penalty of two years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys David J. Rudroff and Andrew J. Henning, who are handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, on the evening of February 18, 2025, the North Tonawanda Police Department stopped a vehicle on Niagara Falls Boulevard for a traffic violation. Both defendants were passengers in the vehicle.
A records check determined that in 2020, defendant Cruz was convicted in Irving, Texas, of a felony charge of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Further investigation also determined that Cruz was ordered removed multiple times by an immigration judge, and deported in 2018 and 2024. A second records check determined that defendant Castro faces multiple charges for Driving Without a License in the state of Georgia. And further investigation determined that he also was ordered removed multiple times by an immigration judge and was also deported from the United States in 2018, and on two occasions in April 2022.
Cruz and Castro made initial appearances before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer and were detained.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan and Customs and Border Protection, under the direction of Director of Field Operations Rose Brophy.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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