Western District of New York
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Rochester woman arrested, charged with bilking elderly landlord out of tens of thousands of dollarsRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Nahtahna Castner, 45, of Rochester, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with wire fraud, bank fraud, and aggravated identity theft. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas M. Testani, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, between July 2020, and February 2023, Castner gained the trust of an elderly Victim in her mid-90’s who allowed her into her home. The Victim owned a duplex and lived on one side, while Castner lived on the other side. Using her position of trust, Castner gained access to the Victim’s personal identifying information and banking information. She then withdrew large sums of cash from ATM’s, often close to the daily ATM limit, conducted wire transfer peer-to-peer payments to her own personal bank account, and made unauthorized purchases using the Victim’s debit card. The complaint states that Castner defrauded the Victim out of approximately $252,672.97 from two different banking institutions. In addition, Castner also used the Victim’s personal identifying information to complete at least three unauthorized credit card applications, which were approved with credit limits of $2,000, $600, and $500. Castner then used the credit cards and defrauded the three financial institutions out of approximately $3,668.11. Castner used the money she stole from the Victim on a variety of purchases, such as travel, which included a trip to Hawaii, hotels, car repairs, insurance, and car payments.
On January 6, 2022, the Victim was hospitalized, but her family was not notified and only became aware a few days later. When family arrived, Castner was already there, referring to herself as the Victim’s granddaughter, and making the healthcare decisions on behalf of the Victim. Still unsure of Castner’s full involvement with Victim A and under the impression that she had helped Victim A with various tasks, family members offered to provide some money to Castner for helping the Victim when hospitalized. Castner was adamant that she did not want any money and told them she helped “out of the kindness of her heart.” However, the Victim’s son decided to go to the bank anyway to get money, at which time he became aware that the bank accounts were empty. Castner immediately moved out of the duplex without notice and did not contact any of the Victim’s family again. In speaking with his mother about the missing money, the Victim stated it must have been “Tana.” The Victim passed away on February 23, 2023. Just two months prior, her accounts at the two banking institutions had only approximately $99.59.
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 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 going to prison for 9 years for transporting minor across state lines to engage in sex traffickingRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Adrian Petty, 29, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of interstate travel for purposes of prostitution, was sentenced to serve 108 months in prison by Senior U.S. District Judge William M. Skretny.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Maeve E. Huggins, who handled the case, stated that in September 2020, Petty transported a Minor Victim that he met on Facebook from the State of New York to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, so that the Minor Victim could engage in commercial sex acts in Pennsylvania. Petty admits that he posted online commercial sex advertisements relating to the Minor Victim.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Pittsburgh Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Kevin P. Rojek, with the assistance of the Buffalo Office of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, the Monroeville Police Department, under the direction of Chief Kenneth Cole, the Cheektowaga Police Department, under the direction of Chief Brian Coons, and the Erie Crime Analysis Center, under the direction of Director Dennis Richards. Special assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Western District of Pennsylvania and Assistant U.S. Attorney Rebecca Silinski.
Lackawanna man pleads guilty to his role in kidnapping conspiracy attempting to force sister to marry in YemenRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Waleed Abughanem, 32, of Lackawanna, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. to misprision of felony, which carries a maximum sentence of three years in prison and a fine of $250,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Charles M. Kruly and Maeve E. Huggins, who are handling the case, stated that Abughanem is the son of Khaled Abughanem and the brother of Adham Abughanem. Waleed Abughanem has several other siblings, including an adult sister (Victim). On September 1, 2021, the Victim traveled from Lackawanna to Guadalajara, Mexico, to temporarily stay with her fiancé, whom she had known for several years. The Victim did so out of fear that family members would require her to enter into a non-consensual arranged marriage. Khaled and Adham Abughanem, and the Victim’s mother traveled to Guadalajara, and told the Victim that she would be allowed to marry her fiancé if she returned to the United States, which the Victim agreed to do. Waleed Abughanem knew that Khaled and Adham Abughanem did not intend to allow the Victim to marry her fiancé after she returned to the United States.
After the Victim returned to the United States, Khaled, Adham, and Waleed Abughanem restricted her freedom of movement and forced her to stay in the Abughanem family’s Lackawanna residence for several weeks in September and October 2021. In October 2021, Khaled and Adham tricked the Victim into thinking that she would be permitted to marry her fiancé if she traveled with Khaled and Adham Abughanem, and other family members to Egypt, and later to Yemen. Waleed Abughanem drove the Victim and other family members to an airport in Cleveland, Ohio, for the purpose of traveling to Egypt. Khaled and Adham Abughanem intended to find a man for the Victim to enter into a non-consensual arranged marriage, which Waleed Abughanem was aware of.
The Victim was held involuntarily in Cairo, Egypt and then in Sana’a, Yemen, from October 2021 until April 6, 2023. During this time, she did not have free access to her United States passport, and, as an unmarried woman, the Victim was not permitted to freely travel or leave Yemen without the approval of family members. Waleed Abughanem knew the Victim was being held involuntarily, and during some of this period, he was present in Yemen. When he was not present in Yemen, Waleed Abughanem instructed his wife to monitor and supervise the Victim. In December 2022, Waleed Abughanem traveled from Yemen to the United States. When questioned by U.S. Customs and Border Protection as to the whereabouts of his siblings, Waleed Abughanem told the CBP Officer that the Victim was in the United States. By making a false statement, Waleed Abughanem concealed that the Victim had been kidnapped and was being involuntarily held in Yemen.
Charges remain pending against Khaled and Adham Abughanem. They are scheduled to go to trial in October, 2024.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, and the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, under the direction of Diplomatic Security Director Carlos Matus and Deputy Assistant Secretary Paul Houston. Additional assistance was provided by the Lackawanna Police Department, under the direction of Chief Mark Packard, Customs and Border Protection, under the direction of Director of Field Operations Rose Brophy, and CPB in Boston, Massachusetts.
Sentencing is scheduled for January 24, 2025, before Judge Sinatra.
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Fentanyl trafficker going to prison for more than 17 yearsRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Arcides Castillo-Dieguez, 59, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, was sentenced to serve 210 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. McGrath, who handled the case, stated that over the course of a long-term narcotics investigation, law enforcement identified Castillo-Dieguez as a bulk supply source of fentanyl for other Rochester drug dealers. Investigators identified several locations from which Castillo-Dieguez either sold or stashed fentanyl for future distribution. In May 2023, multiple search warrants were executed at three of these locations on Avenue A, East Main Street, and Durnan Street. One of the locations was used as a day care facility. Investigators seized over four kilograms of fentanyl, fentanyl analogue and heroin. Drug paraphernalia was also seized during the searches. This is Castillo-Dieguez’s sixth felony conviction for an offense involving the illegal distribution of controlled substances.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarentino, III, New York Field Division, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter, the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Smith, and the Greater Rochester Area Narcotics Enforcement Team (GRANET).
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Southern tier man and woman charged to produce child pornographyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that David A. Johnston, 55, of Allegany, NY, and Kayla R. Kio, 26, of Olean, NY, were arrested and charged by criminal complaint with conspiracy to produce 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 according to the complaint, on March 2, 2024, the New York State were called to Wal-Mart in Olean, for a report of a domestic dispute. Kio reported that she was being stalked and harassed by her ex-boyfriend, Johnston. The two worked together at Wal-Mart. Kio stated that in February 2024, while she was in the process of breaking up with Johnston, he requested that she produce and send to him sexually explicit videos of a 5-year-old child. Troopers seized Kio’s cell phone and recovered multiple videos and images of child pornography.
On March 13, 2024, the NYSP executed a search warrant at Johnston’s Allegany residence, during which they seized four cell phones and a tablet. Investigators recovered videos of child pornography and sexually explicit communications exchanged between Kio and Johnston. Johnston was charged with Possessing a Sexual Performance of a Child and Endangering the Welfare of a Child, while Kio was charged with Promoting a Sexual Performance by a Child and Endangering the Welfare of a Child. In 2007, Johnston was convicted of Indecent Assault and Corruption of Minors in McKean, PA, County Court.
Johnston and Kio made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge H. Kenneth Schroeder, Jr. Kio was released on conditions. Johnston is being held pending a detention hearing on September 17, 2024, at 2:30 p.m.
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 New York State Police, under the direction of Major Stanley Edwards, and the Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Timothy Whitcomb.
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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Ontario man charged with conspiracy to import methRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Mohamed Patel, 39, of Ontario, CA, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with conspiracy to import morphine, and conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute morphine. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney P. Richard Antoine, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, since January 2021, Patel, working together with others, has moved bulk quantities of morphine into the Western District of New York, then subsequently shipped the controlled substances to Canada. It is believed he uses a network of truck drivers to facilitate the shipments, including Bashir Kasozi. Patel is believed to be supplied by multiple sources of supply from outside the United States, by way of India. The investigation revealed that Patel has received bulk quantities of morphine, primarily through the John F. Kennedy Airport in New York City, which are then shipped to the Western District of New York. On August 23, 2024, 62 packages were delivered and transferred to defendant Kasozi. A few hours later, Kasozi was arrested by Customs and Border Protection Officers after the 62 packages were discovered at the Lewiston Port of Entry.
The criminal complaint is the 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 Matthew Scarpino.
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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New Jersey man pleads guilty to his role in fraud schemeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Jaspreet Singh, 29, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, and a fine of $250,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Franz M. Wright, who is handling the case, stated that in July 2023, Singh conspired with others to obtain money, or other items of value, by fraudulently convincing victims, some of them elderly, to provide money and property to members of the conspiracy. Members contacted victims by telephone and falsely impersonated government officials, such as the United States Marshals Service, the Federal Trade Commission, or other federal agencies. Victims were told that illicit activity was conducted using their personal information, and in order to “clear” their name, and prevent law enforcement from arresting or prosecuting them, they had to pay money via wire transactions, gift cards, gold, and/or cash to the government. In some instances, victims were instructed to wire money from their bank accounts to various other bank accounts located around the United States, while other victims were instructed to withdraw cash from their bank accounts and deliver the “payment” to a “government courier” who was in fact, an active member of the conspiracy. Singh a co-conspirator, who served as a courier.
On July 25, 2023, Singh traveled from New Jersey to Orchard Park, NY. Singh was instructed to drive to the residence of a 76-year-old victim identified as “W.D.,” and collect several U.S. Postal Service packages, which contained gold bars. Later that day, he was stopped by the Wyoming County Sheriff’s Office for speeding. During his interaction with law enforcement, Singh provided law enforcement with conflicting stories why he was in the area, and why he was heading back to New Jersey. Singh granted the officer permission to search his vehicle, during which the officer found a USPS package containing a large quantity of American Reserve Bullion 1-Ounce Gold Bars and shipping boxes. Law enforcement interviewed W.D., who told officers that he and his wife were told their identities were used in a fraudulent scheme and they needed to “clear” their names by purchasing gold bullion bars. If they did not, the victim stated that they would be arrested and prosecuted. As a result, W.D. suffered a substantial loss to his retirement funds and savings accounts.
The plea is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino.
Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
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Baltimore woman pleads guilty to COVID fraudRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. — U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Nina M. Williams, 56, of Baltimore, Maryland, pleaded guilty before Senior U.S. District Judge William, M. Skretny to wire fraud, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
According to court documents, Williams transmitted two fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan applications on behalf of Nimiche Inc. and Nimiche Interiors Inc., a Maryland-based business, along with fraudulent supporting documentation, to a federally insured bank in Buffalo, NY, and a mortgage lending business, which participated as lenders in the PPP loan program. In May 2020, Williams electronically submitted a PPP loan application to the bank for $97,500, and in April 2021, she electronically submitted a PPP loan application to the mortgage lending business for $432,960.
Williams falsely claimed that Nimiche Inc. and Nimiche Interiors Inc. had between four and 25 employees and average monthly payrolls of, respectively, $39,000 to $173,185. Williams falsely stated that the loan funds would be used to retain workers and maintain payroll or other proscribed uses under the PPP loan rules. This resulted in the bank issuing $97,500 into Nimiche Inc.’s business account controlled by Williams. However, the funds were not used for business-related expenses. Instead, Williams used some of the funds towards the purchase of real property in Maryland. In addition, the mortgage lending business issued loan proceeds totaling $432,960, into Nimiche Inc.’s business account controlled Williams. Once again, the funds were not used for business-related expenses.
During the May 2020, through May 2021 time period, Williams worked with others to submit at least five additional fraudulent PPP and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) loan applications to the mortgage lending business and another bank. In total, based on the materially false and fraudulent representations contained in the application materials, Williams intended to fraudulently obtain a total of approximately $2.6 million in PPP and EIDL funds, and in fact fraudulently obtained approximately $1.5 million in PPP and EIDL funds.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Thomas Fattorusso, Special Agent-in-Charge, New York Field Office, Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service Boston Division, under the direction of Inspector in Charge Ketty Larco-Ward, and the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Corwin Rattler. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles M. Kruly and Trial Attorney Jennifer Bilinkas of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section.
Sentencing is scheduled for December 18, 2024, before Judge Skretny.
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Rochester man and woman charged with robbing a postal carrier, postal keys and mailRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Shyasia Kelis McCullough, 23, and Malik Shameer McCray, 24, both of Rochester, NY, were arrested and charged by criminal complaint with unlawful possession of USPS mailbox keys, mail theft, robbery of a USPS letter carrier, and conspiracy. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Katelyn M. Hartford, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, on June 5, 2023, while delivering mail on Lake Avenue in Rochester, a U.S. Postal Service letter carrier was robbed of his keys, which included a mailbox key, vehicle key, and keys to secured buildings along the mail delivery route. Postal Inspectors reviewed video surveillance in the area and identified a suspect and a vehicle suspected of being involved in the robbery. A few days later, on June 9, 2023, a Gates Police Officer spotted the vehicle entering the Westgate Post Office and conducted a traffic stop. McCray was driving the vehicle and McCullough was a passenger. McCray was taken into custody on traffic violations.
During the execution of a search warrant on the vehicle, officers located multiple filled out personal checks with multiple different names on them, as well as a USPS vehicle key and other keys similar to the ones stolen from the letter carrier. Also recovered, numerous cell phones, ski masks, blank check stock paper, invoices, and portions of what appeared to be invoice remittance slips, bank credit/debit cards and identifications in names other than the defendants. These items are indicative of mail theft, check washing, and bank fraud. A ledger was also found listing what appeared to be individuals who provided access to their financial accounts for the purposes of fraudulent check deposits. A review of McCray’s cell phone recovered a chat between McCray and McCullough, with the two discussing the robbery of the mail carrier. It also recovered a photo of the stolen mail keys.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Boston Division Inspector-in-Charge Ketty Larco-Ward, the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Smith and the Gates Police Department, under the direction of Chief Robert Long.
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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Greece woman pleads guilty for her role in fraud schemeRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Nickola Ferra, of Greece, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa to wire fraud, which carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle P. Rossi, who is handling the case, stated that Ferra engaged in an extensive pattern of conduct involving document fraud, wire fraud, bank fraud, retail theft, and identity theft. One part of the scheme involved Ferra 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, Ferra presented forged and/or stolen passports and other stolen identification and credit information to merchants. Fraudulent purchases also included car and hotel rentals. The stolen identity information was also used in attempts to open credit cards and obtain loans in other individuals’ names. At least 10 identity theft victims and thousands of dollars in losses have been identified.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Brian Wood.
Sentencing is scheduled for January 28, 2025, at 9:15 a.m. before Judge Siragusa.
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Rapids Theatre owner and associate named in superseding indictment for defrauding the Economic Injury Disaster Loan and Paycheck Protection Programs out of more than $750,000Read the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that a federal grand jury has returned a superseding indictment charging John L. Hutchins, 70, of Lewiston, NY, and Roberto Soliman, 40, of Niagara Falls, NY, with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud, bank fraud, and wire fraud. In addition, defendant Hutchins is charged with making a false statement and defendant Soliman is charged with engaging in monetary transactions with criminally derived property. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul E. Bonanno and Douglas A. C. Penrose, who is handling the case, stated that the superseding indictment charges Hutchins and Soliman with filing 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). The defendants applied for loans under the following companies owned by defendant 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 four Economic Injury Disaster Loans totaling $749,500.00. In support of each of the loans, Hutchins and Soliman submitted false revenue and expense figures for the businesses on the loan applications. Hutchins and Soliman used the loan funding for their own personal expenses, such as payments for residential properties in North Tonawanda, NY, and Lewiston, NY, a 2020 BMW, a 2020 Cadillac, homeowner association fees on a Florida condominium, and payments to relatives.
In addition, Hutchins and Soliman applied for and received two Paycheck Protection Program loans totaling $115,978.
In November 2020, Hutchins is accused of making a false statement to a Special Agent of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and to an Investigator of the United States Attorney's Office, falsely denying applying for, or authorizing anyone to apply for, any Economic Injury Disaster Loans or Paycheck Protection Program loans, with the possible exception of one PPP loan for Rapids Theater.
Soliman is also accused of engaging in monetary transactions with criminally derived property for using the fraudulent loan proceeds to pay personal expenses.
The superseding indictment 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 Special Agent-in-Charge Thomas Fattorusso, 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.
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 charged with illegal firearm possessionRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. — U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Lawrence Foggie, 66, of Buffalo, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes and being a felon in possession of a firearm, which carry a maximum penalty of life in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Donna M. Duncan, who is handling the case, stated that on September 6th, 2024, Buffalo Police and the ATF received information that an individual in the area of Main and E. Utica Streets in Buffalo, pulled a firearm on another person. Law enforcement officers responded to the area and observed Foggie as matching the description of the individual. Law enforcement approached and gave verbal commands for Foggie to stop moving. Foggie stated that he had a pistol permit and a firearm in his backpack. He was taken into custody. A loaded .38 caliber revolver, 3.6 grams of suspected methamphetamine, pills and drug paraphernalia were recovered from Foggie’s backpack. In July 2016, Foggie was convicted of a felony in Erie County Court and is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm.
Foggie made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge H. Kenneth Schroeder, Jr. and was detained.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan Miller.
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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Falconer man pleads guilty to aiding and abetting a kidnapping in cold case murder investigationRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. — U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Anthony Neubauer, 38, of Falconer, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford to aiding and abetting kidnapping. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael J. Adler and Timothy C. Lynch, who are handling the case, stated that on May 27, 2014, Neubauer and Matthew Rudy kidnapped Joseph Anthony and then traveled from Jamestown, NY, to Rudy’s property in Pennsylvania. Anthony was tricked into traveling to Pennsylvania by an offer of cocaine. Neubauer and Rudy took Anthony to Pennsylvania because they believed he was a cooperator. After arriving in Pennsylvania, Neubauer and Rudy told Anthony they did not have any cocaine, before shooting and killing him, and then burying him on Rudy’s property.
Matthew Rudy was previously convicted and is awaiting sentencing.
The plea is the 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. Additional assistance was provided by the Warren County, PA, District Attorney’s Office.
Sentencing is scheduled for January 15, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. before Judge Wolford.
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Buffalo man sentenced on drug and gun chargesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Felix Calderon-Valcarel, 34, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and distribution of, five kilograms or more of cocaine, and possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking, was sentenced to serve 87 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Assistant U.S. Attorney P. Richard Antoine, who handled the case, stated that between May 2018 and September 2018, law enforcement officers conducted a series of controlled buys and payments from Calderon-Valcarcel. In addition, between July 2018 and February 2019, officers seized approximately 8.5 kilograms of cocaine and $52,000 in U.S. currency from postal parcels shipped from Puerto Rico to various locations in the Western District of New York, Florida, Alaska, Georgia, and Pennsylvania using the United States Postal Service. The shipments were made to Calderon-Valcarcel or to a co-conspirator. Additionally, the investigation identified $55,700 in U.S. currency and/or money orders shipped in parcels from Calderon-Valcarcel or co-conspirators to Puerto Rico as payment to the source of supply for the cocaine. In March 2019, the Lackawanna Police Department executed a search warrant at Calderon-Valcarcel’s residence and vehicle. Officers seized $10,000 in cash, five kilograms of cocaine, and a 9mm firearm.
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 U.S. Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Boston Division Inspector-in-Charge Ketty Larco-Ward; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan Miller, New York Field Division; The Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarentino, New York Field Division; the Orchard Park Police Department, under the direction of Chief Patrick Fitzgerald; the Lackawanna Police Department, under the direction of Chief Mark Packard; and the Hamburg Police Department, under the direction of Chief Peter Dienes.
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Buffalo man charged with burning restaurant and barRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that John W. Burns, 40 years old, of Buffalo, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with maliciously damaging and destroying, and attempt to damage and destroy, by means of fire, a building and real property used in interstate commerce and in activity affecting interstate commerce, namely a restaurant and bar located at 223 Allen Street in Buffalo, NY, which carries a minimum penalty of 5 years in prison and a maximum of 20 years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard P. Antoine, who is handling the case, stated that on June 17, 2024, Burns was at the restaurant and bar, known as the “Old Pink”, and had a confrontation with another individual formerly contracted to work security for the Old Pink. Following that confrontation, Burns left the Old Pink and told the former security guard he would return to “burn that bitch down” and “ain’t nobody going to have a job”. Approximately two hours later, the restaurant was engulfed in flames. During the course of the investigation, law enforcement obtained video evidence, which shows an individual setting the building on fire. Burns is identified by witnesses as the individual in the video.
“Arson is an extremely dangerous crime, placing lives and property in danger”, stated United States Attorney Trini E. Ross. “Arson has tremendous ripple effects, leaving people homeless, without employment, or both. Here, the arson of the Old Pink left employees without jobs and destroyed an iconic gathering place in the Buffalo community. Such harm to our community will not be tolerated. My office will continue to investigate and prosecute all persons who commit arson, and other federal crimes, that negatively impact the Western District of New York.”
The defendant is schedule for an Initial Appearance on the criminal complaint at 1:00 pm today, before Magistrate Judge H, Kenneth Schroeder.
The complaint is the culmination of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, under the direction of Bryan Miller, Special Agent-in-Charge; Erie County District Attorney’s Office, under the direction of Acting District Attorney Michael J. Keane; Buffalo Fire Department, under the direction of Commissioner William Renaldo; and Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Joseph A. Gramaglia.
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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Jamestown woman sentenced for her role in drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Stacey Beardsley aka Stacey J. Peterson, 38, of Jamestown, NY, who was convicted of misprision of felony, was sentenced to serve two years’ probation and 50 hours community service by U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who handled the case, stated that between late 2018, and March 2020, Beardsley’s husband, Rocco Beardsley, was involved in a drug trafficking conspiracy. Rocco Beardsley purchased and distributed large quantities of heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and other controlled substances in the Jamestown area. Stacey Beardsley knew of these drug trafficking activities, financially benefited from his activities, and actively concealed and assisted in his drug trafficking activities. Following an arrest in May 2019, Rocco Beardsley called Stacey Beardsley from jail and asked her to go to Erie, PA, to get his “stuff.” She failed to notify any authority about the request, and instead drove to Erie, PA, as requested to pick up Rocco Beardsley’s stuff, including drugs. On her way back to Jamestown, Stacey Beardsley was stopped by law enforcement and a search of her vehicle recovered quantities of methamphetamine and heroin. In January 2020, two controlled purchases of drugs from Rocco Beardsley took place at the residence he shared with Stacey Beardsley, who failed to notify any authority of the federal felony conduct. Rocco Beardsley was previously 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 sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James Quattrone, the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Jamestown Police Chief Timothy Jackson, and the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division.
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Canadian man extradited from Spain on international money laundering chargesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Houssam El-Atat, 44, of Montreal, Canada, was extradited from Spain and made an initial appearance today on a criminal complaint charging him with conspiracy to engage in international money laundering, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $500,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles M. Kruly, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, in February 2021, an individual in Buffalo, NY, (Victim 1) and a marine sales company (Vendor 1) engaged in email communication regarding the purchase of a boat. These communications included specifications, pricing, and payment. In March 2021, Victim 1 received an email from the person he believed to be Vendor 1 with wiring instructions for payment. Victim 1 arranged for the full amount ($295,373.75) to be wired to Vendor 1’s company through a Bank of America account. Victim 1 subsequently learned that Vendor 1 had not received the $295,373.75 and that the wiring instructions provided to him for payment were fraudulent. After reviewing the email correspondence between himself and Vendor 1, Victim 1 realized his email account had been compromised.
Subsequent investigation by the FBI determined that the Bank of America account where $295,373.75 was deposited was owned by an individual named A.Z., who was unaware that the funds he received from Victim 1 were the result of fraudulent activity. A.Z. stated to the FBI that he received the funds from an individual who claimed that he owed A.Z.’s recently deceased father $100,000 and was resolving the debt. Then, at the request of the individual, A.Z. sent $180,200.00 of the funds to an account at La Caisse Centrale Desjardins Bank in Canada. Bank records indicate that the funds were then rapidly disbursed to a number of apparent shell companies before being distributed to El-Atat.
El-Atat made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer and was held pending a detention hearing on September 13, 2024. Today’s initial appearance follows the successful extradition of El-Atat from Spain. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with Spanish authorities to secure his arrest and extradition.
The complaint is the result of of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the supervision of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia. Additional assistance was provided by the Sûreté du Québec Provincial Police.
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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Ontario importer pleads guilty to trafficking $4.2 million dollars in counterfeit merchandiseRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Wasseem Ramjaun, 48, of Vaughan, Ontario, pleaded guilty to before Senior U.S. District Judge William M. Skretny to trafficking in counterfeit goods, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $2,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo, who is handling the case, stated that Ramjaun operated various importing and exporting businesses in Canada. From approximately October 2016 to August 1, 2017, Ramjaun agreed to provide an individual with authentic Yeti, Vera Bradley, and Lacoste merchandise. However, Ramjaun was not authorized to use the trademarks of these companies. As a result, in January 2017, Ramjaun contacted a manufacturer in China and ordered bags that appeared identical to genuine Vera Bradley bags. To make sure the bags appeared authentic, Ramjaun provided the manufacturer with photographs and tags of authentic Vera Bradley bags.
Between June 1 and June 8, 2017, Ramjaun imported the counterfeit Vera Bradley bags into the United States through a port of entry in Western District of New York. To conceal the fact the bags were fraudulent, Ramjaun provided United States Customs and Border Protection with a fraudulent manufacturing agreement. $4,216,025 is the total loss associated with Ramjaun’s conduct.
The plea is the result of of an investigation by the United States Homeland Security Investigations, under the supervision of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino.
Sentencing is scheduled for December 11, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. before Judge Skretny.
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Niagara Falls man sentenced for selling cocaineRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Ronald Rowles, 37, of Niagara Falls, NY, who was convicted of distribution of cocaine, was sentenced to serve 33 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua A. Violanti and Jeffrey E. Intravatola, who handled the case, stated that between December 2016, and June 13, 2019, Rowles sold cocaine in and around Lewiston, NY. In January 2019, law enforcement executed a search warrant at his residence, seizing approximately 59 grams of cocaine and drug paraphernalia. On June 13, 2019, while on federal pre-trial release, Rowles sold approximately an ounce of cocaine to an individual working with law enforcement.
The sentencing is the culmination of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino, the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division, the Niagara County Drug Task Force, under the direction of Sheriff Michael Filicetti, and the Town of Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief James Stauffiger.# # # #
Jamestown man pleads guilty for his role in narcotics conspiracyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Curtis Snyder, 51, of Jamestown, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, and a fine of $1,000,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua A. Violanti and Jeffrey E. Intravatola, who are handling the case, stated that Snyder was an associate and co-conspirator of Rocco Beardsley, who sold large quantities of heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and other controlled substances in the Jamestown area. On April 9, 2019, an individual identified as J.A. was discovered deceased from an apparent overdose at a residence in Jamestown and Beardsley was believed to be involved in the overdose. About a month after J.A.’s overdose death, Beardsley sent Snyder to the residence of another individual to force this individual to make a video regarding Beardsley’s lack of involvement with J.A.’s overdose death. In exchange, Snyder would receive a “bundle” of heroin/fentanyl. The individual complied and made the video, stating that Beardsley was not present at J.A. residence the date of J.A.’s overdose death.
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 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.
Sentencing is scheduled for January, 9, 2025, before Judge Vilardo.
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Buffalo man who left halfway house charged with escapeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Walter Stewart, 33, of Buffalo, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with escape from custody, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey E. Intravatola, who is handling the case, stated that on September 15, 2022, Stewart was sentenced to serve 58 months in prison after being convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. On May 20, 2024, the Bureau of Prisons furlough transferred Stewart from the Ray Brook Federal Correctional Institution, in Ray Brook, New York, to a community-based placement at CRJ Lighthouse Residential Reentry Center in Buffalo, where he was directed to serve the remainder of his sentence with a projected release date of August 10, 2024. On June 26, 2024, the U.S. Marshals Service was notified by the Bureau of Prisons that Stewart left the center without authorization. Stewart was taken into custody on August 30, 2024.
The complaint is the culmination of an investigation by the U.S. Marshals Service, under the direction of Marshal Charles Salina.
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 his role in three armed credit union robberiesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Adrian D. Applewhite a/k/a Boons, 37, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of aggravated bank robbery, brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, and violating supervised release, was sentenced to serve 229 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who handled the case, stated that Applewhite participated in the robbery of three credit unions:
- On the morning of October 26, 2017, Applewhite and two other associates robbed the Lakeshore Federal Credit Union on Erie Road in Evans, NY. Applewhite planned the robbery and provided instructions and a firearm to a co-defendant to assist in the robbery.
- On July 25, 2019, two co-defendants entered the South Towns Community Federal Credit Union on South Park Avenue in Lackawanna, NY, while Applewhite, the getaway driver, sat in a car nearby. The two co-defendants sprayed the bank tellers with pepper spray, and went to an unlocked safe, stealing $290,500 in United States currency. Applewhite took a share of the proceeds for his role.
- On November 7, 2019, two co-defendants, armed with a pistol and donning masks and gloves, entered the Clarence Community and School Federal Credit Union on Sheridan Drive in Clarence, NY, and conducted a bank robbery while Applewhite, the getaway driver, sat in a car nearby. A total of $148,793.90 in United States currency was taken. Applewhite took a share of the proceeds for his role.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Stanley Edwards; the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia; the Lackawanna Police Department, under the direction of Chief Mark Packard; the Evans Police Department, under the direction of Chief Gregory J Szarowicz; and the Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief James P. Stauffiger. Additional assistance was provided by the Erie County District Attorney’s Office.
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Rochester man sentenced to 14 years in prison for home invasion targeting drug dealersRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Raekwon Green a/k/a Bundy a/k/a Bundles, 28, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of Hobbs Act Conspiracy and Attempted Hobbs Act Robbery, was sentenced to serve 14 years in prison by U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert A. Marangola, who handled the case, stated that between February 2020 and April 1, 2020, Green conspired with Robert Forbes, Jr., and others, to commit four home invasion robberies in Rochester and Greece, NY. During some of the home invasions, individuals were restrained, pistol-whipped, and/or suffered injuries, while the defendants took controlled substances and U.S. currency from the homes.
Robert Forbes, Jr. was previously convicted and sentenced to serve 19 years in prison.
The sentencing is the culmination of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan Miller, New York Field Division, and the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Smith.
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Convicted felon going to prison on new child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Preston Herbst, 28, of Canandaigua, NY, who was convicted of transferring obscene matter, was sentenced to serve 60 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci. The sentence will be served following completion of a 36-month sentence previously imposed by Judge Geraci.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle P. Rossi, who handled the case, stated that in July 2023, Herbst was sentenced to serve 36 months in prison after being convicted on a federal charge of possession of child pornography. Herbst was allowed to self-surrender to the Bureau of Prisons and was scheduled to begin his sentence on October 12, 2023. Prior to self-surrendering, on September 3, 2023, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received information from Snap Inc., that a user had uploaded child pornography to the Snapchat platform. Subsequent investigation traced the user back to Herbst’s residence. In October and November 2023, search warrants were executed on Herbst’s Snapchat account and at his residence. The search of the Snapchat account determined that Herbst used the account to trade child pornography in September 2023, after he had been sentenced, but before self-surrendering to the Bureau of Prisons. Herbst was under the supervision of United States Probation when the uploads took place and had been using a prohibited device in violation of his release conditions.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.
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U.S. Attorney launches monthly podcastRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today the launch of “Feds Demystified,” a monthly podcast produced by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Western District of New York.
U.S. Attorney Ross stated, “The purpose of the podcast is to help the public better understand just how the federal justice system works and the differences between the federal and state justice systems.” “In addition, it’s important to provide transparency about the federal justice system and federal law enforcement agencies.”
Episode 1 of “Feds Demystified” pulls back the curtain and introduces the public to the U.S. Attorney’s Office and how it operates. Future episodes of the monthly podcast will feature guests from investigative law enforcement agencies and the community.
You can access “Feds Demystified” at https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdny or https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ga6OxUcP80E&t=6s.
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Prior sex offender arrested on new child pornography chargesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Andrew Yannello, 28, of Tonawanda, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with distribution of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, and a maximum of 40 years.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that on April 14, 2024, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children sent three cybertips to the New York State Police involving suspected child pornography that were reported by Facebook. Subsequent investigation traced the suspected child pornography to an IP address belonging to Yannello. On August 23, 2024, a search warrant was executed at Yannello’s residence. In 2014, Yannello was arrested and convicted on state charges of Sexual Abuse in the 1st Degree, Unlawful Imprisonment 1st Degree, Forcible Touching, and Criminal Obstruction of Breathing/Blood Circulation. In November 2017, Yannello violated probation, was sentenced to jail, and released in March 2019.
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 Town of Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief James Stauffiger, and the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Stanley Edwards.
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 arrested on new child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Cameron Gelsomino, 22, of Burt, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession of child pornography involving a prepubescent minor after a prior conviction related to possession of child pornography, which carries a minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum penalty of 20 years.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles M. Kruly, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, in October 2023, Gelsomino was sentenced to serve 30 days of incarceration and 10 years’ probation after being convicted of Possessing Obscene Sexual Performance by a Child in Niagara County Court. Gelsomino was also designated as a level two sex offender and subjected to the New York State Sex Offender Registry. On May 9, 2024, Niagara County Probation Officers conducted a routine visit at Gelsomino’s residence, during which they found him to be in possession of a cell phone, which he did not have approval to possess. A preliminary review of the phone showed that Gelsomino was active on social media, including asking a fellow Discord user, “Do you have any CP links?” Gelsomino and the other user went on to discuss ages and the cost to purchase child pornography. Further review of the phone recovered approximately 56 image files and two video files of child pornography.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino and the Niagara County Probation Department, under the direction of Director Deborah M LaRock.
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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Four defendants charged following Niagara Falls drug raidsRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that four Niagara Falls men were arrested and charged in separate criminal complaints for their roles in a drug trafficking ring operating in Niagara Falls, NY.
- Paul Fields, 39, and Edward Rollie, 49, are charged with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, which carry a minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of life, and a $5,000,000 fine.
- Rashawn Salmon, 39, is charged with possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, which carries a minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum of life and a $10,000,000 fine.
- Jermaine McQueen, 46, is charged with possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, which carry a minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum of life, and a $10,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy C. Lynch, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaints, on August 28, 2024, search warrants were executed at multiple residences associated with all four defendants. During the searches, law enforcement recovered 1.5 kilograms of fentanyl, over a kilogram of cocaine, three firearms, and $25,000 in U.S. currency.
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 complaints are 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 Stanley Edwards, and the Erie County Sheriff’s Department, under the direction of Sheriff John Garcia.
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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Former youth pastor sentenced on child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Nathan L. Rogers, 40, of East Aurora, NY, who was convicted of attempted receipt of child pornography, was sentenced to serve 84 months in prison by Senior U.S. District Judge William M. Skretny.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul E. Bonanno, who handled the case, stated that in July 2019, at Darien Lake Park in Genesee County, NY, Rogers, a church youth pastor, set up iPhones in his camper to surreptitiously record, for the purposes of his own sexual gratification, nude images of a minor victim. Shortly after setting up the phones, Rogers invited the minor victim to change out of her bathing suit in his camper. She agreed and, as she changed, the iPhones recorded nude images. After changing, the minor victim noticed the phones recording her, she attempted to delete the videos, and then reported the incident to authorities. Responding law enforcement officers detained and questioned Rogers. Subsequently, nude images of the minor victim were located on the phones.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff William A. Sheron, Jr.
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Ontario truck driver arrested on drug charges at the borderRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Bashir Kasozi, 41, of Ontario, Canada, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with importation of morphine and possession with intent to distribute a morphine, which carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney P. Richard Antoine, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, on the evening of August 23, 2024, Customs and Border Protection officers at the Lewiston Bridge Port of Entry encountered a commercial truck with Ontario plates being driven by Kasozi. During the outbound inspection, Kasozi told a CBP Officer that he was in the United States for three days, coming from Massachusetts with a load of paper. Asked if he had anything to declare, to include prescription or nonprescription narcotics, currency over $10,000, weapons of any kind, or if anyone else was in the vehicle with him, Kasozi stated no. Kasozi was then referred for secondary inspection. A scan of the truck detected an anomaly in the nose of the trailer by the front wall. A subsequent search of that area revealed a skid of 62 brown taped packages. One of the boxes was searched and found to contain a smaller gold box with a glass vial inside. The glass vials were found to contain morphine.
Kasozi made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Romer and was held pending a detention hearing on September 4, 2024.
The criminal complaint is the 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 Matthew Scarpino.
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 pleads guilty to fentanyl chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Hector Anaya, 51, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 40 years, and a $5,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey E. Intravatola, who is handling the case, stated that in April 2024, Buffalo Police detectives received information that Anaya was in possession of a large quantity of narcotics. Detectives surveilled Anaya’s residence and observed him making three hand-to-hand transactions of suspected heroin and cocaine during controlled purchases. On April 25, 2024, a search warrant was executed at his residence during which investigators seized a firearm, ammunition, and a quantity of suspected fentanyl. Anaya was arrested at the scene.
The plea 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 Joseph Gramaglia.
Sentencing is scheduled for January 3, 2025, before Judge Sinatra.
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Buffalo man arrested on meth chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Terell Gwyn, 30, of Buffalo, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with distribution of methamphetamine, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey E. Intravatola, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, in June 2024, Homeland Security Investigations and Amherst Police began investigating Gwyn for his involvement in narcotics trafficking. In July 2024, investigators conducted three controlled purchases of cocaine and methamphetamine from Gwyn. On August 15, 2024, a search warrant was executed at a Koons Avenue residence and on a vehicle associated with Gwyn. During the search, law enforcement recovered a rifle, magazine, ammunition, drug paraphernalia, pills, powder, and two cell phones.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino and the Amherst Police Department, under the direction of Chief Scott Chamberlin.
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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Grand jury indicts Elma man on multiple child pornography chargesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that a federal grand jury has indicted Matthew A. Steele, 53, of Elma, NY, on charges of production, distribution, and possession of child pornography, which carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum penalty of 30 years.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that according to the indictment, on more than one occasion between July 2008 and July 2012, Steele coerced a minor victim to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction. Steele then distributed some of the images that were produced. In addition, Steele possessed images of a prepubescent minor on a hard drive.
Steele was arraigned today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy and was detained.
The indictment is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino and the Great Falls, Montana Police Department, under the direction of Chief Jeff Newton.
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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Pennsylvania man going to prison for gun trafficking conspiracyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Christian Arroyo Collazo, 28, of New Castle, PA, who was convicted of conspiracy to traffic in firearms, was sentenced to serve 36 months in prison by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua A. Violanti and Jeffrey E. Intravatola, who handled the case, stated that between July 2022, and March 2023, Collazo transported, or attempted to transport, firearms to the Jamestown, NY, area. These firearms included pistols, AR-style rifles, handguns, revolvers, and high-capacity magazines. Collazo trafficked a total of approximately 40 firearms. Collazo utilized social media to conduct firearm related conversations and effectuate his firearms trafficking activities. During these conversations, Collazo would send photos of firearms to potential buyers.
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.
This case is being prosecuted under the new criminal provisions of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which Congress enacted, and the President signed in June 2022. The Act is the first federal statute specifically designed to target the unlawful trafficking and straw-purchasing of firearms.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarentino, III, New York Field Division, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Bryan Miller, Special Agent-in-Charge, New York Field Division, the Jamestown Metro Drug Task Force, under the direction of Jamestown Police Chief Timothy Jackson, and the Erie, PA, Police Department, under the direction of Chief Daniel Spizarny Sr.
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Buffalo pharmacy pays more than $140,000 to settle record keeping and misbilling allegationsRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, NEW YORK – U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Dexter Prescription Center a/k/a Dexter Pharmacy, has agreed to pay the United States $141,727 to resolve allegations that it violated the record keeping provisions of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), and overcharged federal health care programs.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David M. Coriell, who handled the case, stated that the CSA requires entities that dispense controlled substances to maintain certain records and to conduct periodic inventories to prevent against diversion of controlled substances. An inspection by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration revealed that between January 1, 2018, and February 1, 2021, Dexter Pharmacy failed to maintain accurate records relating to its purchases and sales for certain controlled substances. Dexter Pharmacy also billed federal healthcare programs for medications, including controlled substances, that were never dispensed by Dexter Pharmacy.
“My office is committed to stopping the potential abuse of prescription drugs in our community,” said U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross. “The requirement that pharmacies maintain accurate books and records is critical in preventing the diversion of prescription drugs, and we will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to ensure that pharmacies take their obligations to safeguard prescription drugs seriously.”
“Pharmacies are not exempt from their regulatory responsibilities especially when dealing with controlled substances and the dangerous effects they have when misused,” stated DEA Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarentino. “This settlement reflects DEA’s commitment to making sure measures are in place to safeguard the community and hold DEA registrants accountable. I commend our Diversion Investigators for bringing this matter to a resolution.”
This case was investigated by DEA Buffalo District Office’s Diversion Group and Tactical Diversion Squad; the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General; and the United States Attorney’s Office.
This civil settlement agreement is not an admission of any liability by Dexter Pharmacy, nor a concession by the United States that its claims were not well-founded.
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Buffalo man pleads guilty to his role in the murder of a federal informant, gun, and drug chargesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Gregory Hay, a/k/a Gunner, a/k/a Franklin Gambino, a/k/a Reggie, 35, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara to narcotics conspiracy, possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking, and discharge of firearm causing death in furtherance of crimes of violence and a drug trafficking crime. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of life, and a $1,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy C. Lynch, who is handling the case, stated that between early 2016, and August 28, 2019, Hay conspired with co-defendant Alphonso Payne and others, to sell cocaine, crack cocaine, marijuana, and heroin. The conspiracy began with Hay selling drugs in the Salamanca, NY, area, before moving his operation to the Olean area, where he used co-defendant Alphonso Payne to assist him with selling drugs. In April 2017, Hay’s vehicle was stopped by Buffalo Police and in May 2017 his vehicle was stopped by Salamanca Police. Buffalo officers seized marijuana, cocaine, crack cocaine, and heroin, while Salamanca officers seized a quantity of marijuana and a digital scale. In May 2019, investigators executed a search warrant at Hay’s residence, seizing two firearms, several magazines, ammunition, a digital scale, cash, and several cell phones. Hay used social media to display himself with firearms, letting others know that he could protect himself, his drugs, and his money. The conspiracy continued to operate until Hay was arrested in July 2019.
Following his arrest, Hay believed that an individual named Joshua Jalovick provided information to law enforcement that led to the search of his residence and subsequent arrest. As a result, Hay, Alphonso Payne, and another co-conspirator wanted Jalovick dead. On July 1, 2019, Hay and Payne lured Jalovick to a residence on Freund Avenue, where Payne fired approximately 11 rounds of ammunition toward Jalovick, striking him several times. Hay initially ran down the driveway, but then ran back toward Jalovick, stood over his body, and shot Jalovick five times. According to the Erie County Medical Examiner Report, Joshua Jalovick died from more than 15 gunshot wounds. Afterwards, Hay disposed of the murder weapons and his cell phone.
Charges remain pending against Alphonso Payne.
The plea 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, New York Field Division, and the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia. Additional assistance was provided by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, the U.S. Secret Service, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Jeffrey Burr, and the Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Timothy Whitcomb.
Sentencing is scheduled for December 10, 2024, at 11:30 a.m. before Judge Arcara.
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Chautauqua County pleads guilty to meth chargesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Darin L. Butts, Jr., 31, of Celeron, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years, a maximum of life and a 10,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Louis A. Testani, who is handling 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 plea 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.
Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
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Two people arrested, charged with fentanyl possessionRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Edwin Santana-Cosme, 56, and Arieana Garcia Del Gado, 37, both of Buffalo, NY, were arrested and charged in by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Louis A. Testani, who is handling the case, stated that according to the criminal complaint, on August 17, 2024, the New York State Police conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle being driven by defendant Santana Cosme, with defendant Del Gado in the passenger seat. Santana Cosme hesitated to pull over, while Del Gado appeared to turn around to move an unknown object behind the driver’s seat. After eventually stopping, the defendants provided conflicting stories regarding their travel. A K9 dog was brought in and alerted to the presence of narcotics in two boxes located behind the driver seat. The boxes were searched and found to contain two vacuum-sealed packages of suspected fentanyl. Both Santana Cosme and Del Gado were arrested and taken into custody.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarentino, and the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Stanley Edwards, III.
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 going to prison for using stolen credit card numbers to purchase tens of thousands of dollars worth of gasRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Cross Malik Williams, 25, of Cheektowaga, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, was sentenced to serve 12 months in prison by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles M. Kruly, who handled the case, stated that between August 2022, and July 2023, Williams, along with co-defendant Kingsley Brown, purchased approximately 570 stolen bank cards from various online marketplaces. Williams and Brown then used a card-making device to load the stolen banking card information onto blank plastic bank cards with magnetic strips, which allowed purchases to be made using the victims’ funds from the victims’ bank accounts. Williams and Brown used, or allowed others to use, the stolen bank card information to purchase gas for other individuals. The gas customers would then pay Williams and/or Brown an amount of money less than the cost of the gas. Williams agreed that he was responsible for between $250,000 and $550,000 of total loss.
Kingsley Brown was previously convicted and is awaiting sentencing.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.
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Buffalo man arrested on gun and drug chargesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Raekwon Gordon, 25, of Buffalo, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking activities, and being a felon in possession of a gun. The charges carry a maximum penalty of life in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stacey Jacovetti, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, on April 5, 2024, Buffalo Police attempted to conduct a traffic stop of a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed on Bailey Avenue. The vehicle did not comply and fled. Throughout the pursuit, the vehicle was driven in a reckless manner, passing vehicles and ignoring traffic lights, and at a high rate of speed. Officers managed to follow the vehicle until it parked in the driveway of Roslyn Street residence. Officers discovered a loaded firearm in the front yard of the house next door, which they believe was likely thrown from the front passenger side of the vehicle. A second loaded machine gun was recovered on the sidewalk down the street.
Gordon and two other individuals were taken into custody at the scene. Officers recovered 336 fentanyl pills from the vehicle and $5,526 in cash from Gordon. Subsequent investigation determined that Gordon’s DNA was present on the machinegun. In 2018 and 2022, Gordon was convicted of felony charges and is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm.
Gordon made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer and was held pending a detention hearing.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan miller, 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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Greece man pleads guilty to child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Isolino S. Presutti, Jr., 36, of Greece, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa to possession of child pornography involving prepubescent minors, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicholas M. Testani and Meghan K. McGuire, who are handling the case, stated that in March, 2023, Presutti possessed three desktop and two laptop computers, which contained approximately 5690 images and 28 videos of child pornography. Some of the images and videos depicted prepubescent children engaged in sexually explicit conduct and violence against children.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Child Exploitation Human Trafficking Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.
Sentencing is scheduled for December 12, 2024, at 9:15 a.m. before Judge Siragusa.
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Rochester man sentenced for his roles in illegal sports betting ringRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that James Civiletti, 33, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to transmit wagering information in interstate commerce and conduct an illegal gambling business, was sentenced to serve one year probation by Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Meghan K. McGuire and Melissa M. Marangola, who handled the case, stated that between April 25, 2019, and April 17, 2021, Civiletti conspired with Louis Ferrari, II, Dominic Sprague, Anthony Amato, Tomasso Sessa, Joseph Lombardo, Jeffrey Boscarino, and others, to finance, manage, and own all or part of an illegal bookmaking business, which had a gross daily revenue of approximately $2,000.00. Ferrari, Sprague, Boscarino, and Lombardo collected gambling winnings from individual bettors and paid gambling losses to individual bettors in cash and through online payment applications, including CashApp, PayPal, Venmo, and Zelle. After Sprague, Boscarino, and Lombardo collected gambling winnings from individual bettors, they kept a portion of those winnings and paid the remainder to Ferrari. Civiletti and Sessa also collected gambling winnings from and paid gambling losses to individual bettors in cash and through online payment applications, including CashApp, PayPal, Venmo, and Zelle. After Civiletti and Sessa collected gambling winnings from individual bettors, they paid the winnings to Sprague and Ferrari.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino, the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Thomas Fattorusso, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Miklos Szoczei II, the Greece Police Department, under the direction of Chief Michael Wood, and the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Smith. Additional assistance was provided by the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office.
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Niagara Falls father and son arrested on gun chargesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Dustin McCarthy, Sr., 43, and his son, Dayzon McCarthy, 21, both of Niagara Falls, NY, were arrested and charged in separate criminal complaints with firearms trafficking, which carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. In addition, Dayzon McCarthy is also charged with illegal transfer of a machine gun, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey E. Intravatola, who is handling the case, stated that according to the criminal complaints, between June 20 and August 12, 2024, the ATF and Niagara County Sheriff’s Office conducted four controlled purchases of firearms from Dayzon McCarthy, including a Glock .22 caliber pistol, a Beretta, a Davis Industries .380 caliber pistol and a “Ghost Gun” that included a 3D printed back plate auto sear, also known as a machinegun conversion device, attached to the firearm.
On July 23, 2024, investigators made a controlled purchase of a 9mm pistol from Dustin McCarthy. He has two previous felony convictions and is currently on pre-trial supervision related to federal narcotics trafficking charges.
The defendants made an initial appearance this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer and were held pending a detention hearing on August 21, 2024.
The complaints are the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan Miller, the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Michael Filicetti, and the Niagara Falls Police Department, under the direction of Superintendent Nicholas Ligammari.
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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Jamestown man arrested on multiple fentanyl chargesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Duane Lowery, 29, of Jamestown, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, and distribution of fentanyl. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Donna M. Duncan and Joshua A. Violanti, who are handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, Lowery was identified by investigators as a fentanyl and cocaine trafficker in and around Jamestown, NY. In November and December 2022, law enforcement conducted controlled purchases of fentanyl from Lowery. On December 7, 2022, a search warrant was executed at Lowery’s Jamestown residence, during which law enforcement recovered suspected fentanyl and methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and $1,140 in cash.
Lowery made an appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy and was held pending a detention hearing on August 19, 2024.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino, the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson, 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.
Buffalo man arrested on multiple child pornography chargesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Sean Braven, 37, of Buffalo, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with receipt, distribution, and possession of child pornography, which carry 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 on July 26 and August 17, 2018, an undercover law enforcement officer identified an IP address that had made available suspected child pornography on a peer-to-peer file sharing network. The officer downloaded eight files which constitute child pornography. Subsequent investigation determined that the IP address belonged to Braven. In October 2018, a search warrant was executed at Braven’s residence, during which investigators seized several items, including a computer. A forensic review of the computer recovered more than 420 image files and 540 video files containing child pornography, some of which included depictions of violence against children.
Braven made an appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer and was released on conditions.
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 Town of Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief James Stauffiger, and the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force, under the direction of Marshal Charles Salina.
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 arrested on drug and gun chargesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Robert Green, 34, of Buffalo, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute a methamphetamine and being a felon in possession of a firearm. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, a maximum of life, and a $10,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Donna M. Duncan, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, on January 23, 2024, Green was observed by law enforcement in a rental vehicle on Central Avenue in Salamanca, NY, engaged in what appeared to be drug distribution. Deputies from the Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office witnessed Green commit multiple traffic infractions and initiated a traffic stop, and as they approached, they observed Green with glassy and bloodshot eyes. There was also a strong odor of burnt marijuana emanating from the vehicle. After deputies conducted standardized field sobriety tests, Green ran on foot, but was taken into custody a few blocks away. During a search of the area where Green ran, deputies recovered a bag full of several smaller bags of suspected methamphetamine, crack cocaine, fentanyl, and hydrocodone.
On April 5, 2024, Cheektowaga Police responded to a call for service at a Kensington Avenue apartment building. Inside one apartment, they recovered five loaded handguns and a rifle, as well as evidence indicative of a narcotics processing and packaging operation. Detectives seized numerous bags of narcotics packaged in varying weights, including suspected methamphetamine, cocaine, and crack cocaine. Green’s DNA was found on at least one of the firearms. In 2007 and 2015, Green was convicted of felonies in Erie County Court and is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm.
Green made an appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy and was held pending a detention hearing on August 20, 2024.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarentino, the Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Timothy Whitcomb, 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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North Tonawanda man pleads guilty to using stolen credit card numbers to purchase tens of thousands of dollars worth of gasRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Kingsley Brown, 22, of North Tonawanda, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. to conspiracy to commit bank fraud, which carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles M. Kruly, who is handling the case, stated that between August 2022, and July 2023, Brown, along with co-defendant Cross Malik Williams, purchased approximately 570 stolen bank cards from various online marketplaces. Williams and Brown then used a card-making device to load the stolen banking card information onto blank plastic bank cards with magnetic strips, which allowed purchases to be made using the victims’ funds from the victims’ bank accounts. Williams and Brown used, or allowed others to use, the stolen bank card information to purchase gas for other individuals. The gas customers would then pay Williams and/or Brown an amount of money less than the cost of the gas. As part of his plea agreement, Brown agreed that he was responsible for $192,673 of total loss.
Cross Malik Williams was previously convicted and is awaiting sentencing.
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 December 11, 2024, before Judge Sinatra.
Falconer woman pleads guilty to child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Lily A. Brandow, 23, of Falconer, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. to possession of child pornography, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that in June 2021, Brandow sold a video to two different Snapchat users for $20 showing her, co-defendant Yusef Myrick and a 16-year-old minor female engaged in sexual relations. In addition, while Myrick was in custody in connection with this case, he instructed Brandow to “get rid of” a cell phone, which both Myrick and Brandow knew contained child pornography. At Myrick’s instruction, Brandow also logged into and deleted Myrick’s Snapchat and Google accounts, rendering them inaccessible to law enforcement. When Brandow was arrested in January 2022, the cell phone was found in her purse. A subsequent search of phone recovered an image and three videos of child pornography.
Charges are pending against Yusef Myrick.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James B. Quattrone; the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson; and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino.
Sentencing is scheduled for February 6, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. before Judge Sinatra.
West Seneca man arrested, charged with possession of child pornographyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Joseph A. Buelow, 29, of West Seneca, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession of child pornography, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, on February 7, 2024, the West Seneca Police Department was advised by members of the Finger Lakes Pred Catchers that they had information regarding Buelow contacting underage minors. Pred Catchers is a group of volunteers who work to expose online child predators. The operator of Pred Catchers, Dakota Liddiard, stated that Buelow reached out to him on the dating application Meet24, believing that he was communicating with a 13-year-old girl named “Amanda.” Liddiard said that Buelow began communicating in sexual terms almost immediately and made plans to meet “Amanda.” However, Buelow never showed up at the meeting location. In addition to “Amanda,” Buelow also reached out to “Caitlyn” on Meet24, an alleged 14-year-old girl, who was actually another member of the Pred Catchers. These conversations were also sexual in nature and Buelow requested to meet with “Caitlyn” on two occasions but did not show up either time.
On April 18, 2024, West Seneca Police reached out to the FBI, providing the images of conversations between Fred Catchers and Buelow. During some of these conversations, Buelow sent nude pictures of himself and attempted to get the minors to send nude images of herself. During the execution of a search warrant on Buelow’s cell phone, investigators recovered multiple communications between Buelow and individuals he believed were minors. They also recovered sexually explicit images of child pornography. Investigators have identified at least one minor victim that Buelow allegedly sexually abused.
Buelow made an appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer and was detained.
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 West Seneca Police Department, under the direction of Chief Brian Cosgrove and the Town of Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief James Stauffiger.
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 woman arrested, charged with defrauding Social Security and identity theftRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Wendy Stone, 63, of Rochester, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with theft of government funds, aggravated identity theft, and making a false statement to obtain social security benefits. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Testani, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, Stone’s boyfriend, Kenneth Crisman, died on December 28, 2022. Stone lived with Crisman, who received Social Security benefits prior to his death. However, Stone failed to notify anyone of Crisman’s death, instead, moving his body to the basement of their residence and continuing to collect his benefits. Stone wrapped Crisman’s body, and placed it into a plastic recycling bin, periodically pouring bleach on his body to prevent foul odor.
Prior to his death, Crisman requested a replacement debit card for his benefits. On January 6, 2023, the card was successfully activated with a new PIN number. The next day, the first debits to Crisman’s new card began. The card was depleted by January 15, 2023, with charges at The Peppermill Restaurant, Walmart, BJs Wholesalers, The Home Depot, Staples, as well as ATM withdrawals. The card was also used to open a Rent-A-Center account on March 7, 2023, for a $1,815.05 purchase. Between January and September 2023, $7,902.00 of benefits intended for Crisman were deposited into his account and depleted by Stone. On January 3, 2024, the Social Security Administration conducted a redetermination for continuing eligibility for Stone’s benefits, who falsely reported that since December 2021, no one has moved into or out of her residence, to include births or deaths, and that nobody helped pay her bills or rent since December 2021. The use of Crisman’s benefits rendered Stone ineligible for her own benefits from December 28, 2022, through September 2023.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Bradley Parker and the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Smith.
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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