Western District of New York
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Buffalo man pleads guilty to receipt of child pornographyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Odilio A. Gonzalez, 29, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara to receipt of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 20 years, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that between July 8 and August 2020, Gonzalez engaged in sexual communications with an 11-year-old minor female (Victim) using Instagram. During these communications, Gonzalez persuaded the Victim to create sexually explicit images and videos of herself and send them to him. Gonzalez also received child pornography using the internet, which he saved on his cellular telephone, and in social media accounts. In total, 30 images and 89 videos of child pornography were recovered. Some of the images and videos contained depictions of violence against children.
The plea is the result of an investigation the Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief James Stauffiger.
Sentencing is scheduled for November 15, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. before Judge Arcara.
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Two Rochester men sentenced for their roles in illegal sports betting ringRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Louis P. Ferrari, II, 42, and Dominic Sprague, 40, both of Rochester, NY, who were convicted of conspiracy to transmit wagering information in interstate commerce and conduct an illegal gambling business, were sentenced to serve three years’ probation, to include 10 months home detention, by Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford. In addition, Ferrari forfeited $150,000 and Sprague forfeited approximately $92,000 from their gambling proceeds.
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, Ferrari and Sprague conspired with Anthony Amato, Tomasso Sessa, Joseph Lombardo, Jeffrey Boscarino, James Civiletti, 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. In furtherance of the conspiracy, Ferrari, and co-defendant Amato, created accounts for Sprague, Boscarino, and Lombardo on “sport700.com”, a website for placing and tracking bets on sports events. Sprague, Boscarino, and Lombardo would call and text Ferrari to place, edit, and remove bets on sporting events for individual bettors on sport700.com. Ferrari also called and texted messages to Amato asking him to create accounts, change passwords, and place, edit, and remove bets for Sprague, Boscarino, Lombardo, and individual bettors on sport700.com.
Ferrari, Sprague, and Lombardo collected money owed by individual bettors and money owed to individual bettors in cash and through online payment applications, including CashApp, PayPal, Venmo, and Zelle. After Sprague and Lombardo collected from individual bettors, they kept a portion and paid the remainder to Ferrari. Sessa and Civiletti also collected from individual bettors in cash and through online payment applications, and then paid Sprague and Ferrari.
The sentencings are 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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Tonawanda man pleads guilty to production of child pornographyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Michael E. Swain, 36, of Tonawanda, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to production of child pornography, carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, a maximum of 30 years, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that between October 20 and November 1, 2021, Swain coerced five minor victims to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing visual depictions. Specifically, Swain communicated with a 15-year-old minor female who resided in Colorado using Discord, a social media platform. The communications included sexually graphic conversations, during which Swain requested that the minor female take sexually explicit videos and images and send them to him. In addition, Swain engaged in numerous sexual communications with the minor female from approximately 2019 to 2022, during which other sexually explicit images and videos were sent to Swain. On February 28, 2023, the FBI executed a search warrant at Swain’s residence and seized a desktop computer tower, a laptop computer, and an external hard drive, all of which were found to contain child pornography.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief James Stauffiger, the Federal Bureau of Investigation Buffalo Office Child Exploitation Human Trafficking Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, and the New York State Police, under the direction of Stanley Edwards III.
Sentencing is scheduled for December 4, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. before Judge Vilardo.
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Rochester businessman pleads guilty to tax chargeRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Jeffrey Tome, 62, of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. to filing a false tax return, which carries a maximum penalty of three years in prison and a fine of $250,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard A. Resnick, who is handling the case, stated that Tome owns Tome Enterprises Inc., which provides gutter repair and installation services in Rochester. For the tax years 2017 through 2021, Tome failed to deposit approximately 1,679 customer checks totaling $1,719,283.45 into Tome Enterprises Inc.’s business bank account, instead, cashing the checks at a local check cashing business. Tome then intentionally failed to advise the business’s tax return preparer of the money that was received from cashing the business checks, resulting in the $1,719,283.45 not being reported on the business’s corporate income tax returns. In addition, Tome failed to include the net profits from the corporation as income on his personal federal income tax returns, which resulted in Tome failing to pay personal income taxes totaling $330,137. Also, Tome paid his employees $407,573.60 in cash, which represented wages for which payroll taxes should have been paid. The payroll taxes that Tome failed to pay totaled $62,358.76.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Thomas Fattorusso.
Sentencing is scheduled for December 11, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. before Judge Geraci.
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Niagara Falls man arrested on fentanyl chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Levester Rose, 46, of Niagara Falls, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, which carries a minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum of 40 years.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy C. Lynch, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, during an ongoing narcotics trafficking investigation in Niagara Falls, Rose was identified as an individual engaged in narcotics trafficking. Rose has a history of narcotics trafficking, with drug convictions in 1995, 2014, and 2020. On July 31, 2024, investigators executed a search warrant at a 26th Street residence in Niagara Falls, a premises known to be utilized by Rose. During the search, law enforcement recovered packages of suspected fentanyl.
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 North Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief Keith Glass, the Niagara Falls Police Department, under the direction of Superintendent Nick Ligammari, and the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Michal Filicetti.
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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Settlement agreement reached with Community Bank involving alleged violations of the Americans with Disabilities ActRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, NY – U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that the U.S. Attorney’s Office has reached a settlement with Community Bank, N.A. (CBNA) to resolve two allegations that customers at CBNA’s Orchard Park, NY, branch location were denied American Sign Language interpreters for complex banking services, in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
The complainants, who are deaf and use ASL as a primary means of communication, were both customers at CBNA in connection with residential real estate purchases. Each complainant separately requested an ASL interpreter to assist with the closing of their transaction. The first request was made in January 2021; the second request was made in October 2023. In response to the January 2021 request, CBNA offered to pay one-half of the cost for an ASL interpreter. In response to the October 2023 request, CBNA refused to pay any of the cost for an ASL interpreter. Both complainants, who obtained interpreter services without assistance from CBNA, were frustrated and stressed by the efforts to obtain communication access in ASL.
Under the settlement, CBNA will not discriminate against or deny services to any individual on the basis of disability, including individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. CBNA has also agreed to develop and prominently post an ADA Effective Communications Policy at each branch location and on its website so that it can be easily read by members of the public. CBNA will also train all customer-facing employees on the Effective Communications Policy and pay each complainant $1,000 as compensation for harm.
CBNA also agreed that: CBNA will not retaliate against any person involved in this matter; CBNA will furnish appropriate auxiliary aids and services, free of charge, when necessary to ensure effective communication with individuals with disabilities; CBNA will provide timely responses to requests for auxiliary aids and services; and CBNA will not require an individual with a disability to bring another individual to interpret for him or her.
The Department of Justice’s enforcement efforts under the ADA seek equal opportunity and dignity in all aspects of life, including access to effective communications for people with disabilities.
Individuals who believe they may have been victims of discrimination may contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at (716) 843-5700 or file a complaint with the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division at: https://civilrights.justice.gov/report/. Additional information about the ADA can be found at www.ada.gov, or by calling the Department of Justice’s toll-free information line at (800) 514-0301 and (800) 514-0383 (TDD).
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney James E. B. Bobseine, Civil Rights Coordinator in the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Buffalo, New York.
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Prior felon going to prison on new child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Scott Millar 55, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of possession of child pornography, was sentenced to serve 138 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo, who handled the case, stated in July 2023, Millar was under the supervision of the United States Probation Department based on a 2009 conviction for possessing child pornography. A condition of his supervision was that he was not allowed to commit another criminal offense. A probationary search of Millar’s telephone revealed images and videos of child pornography.
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 United States Probation Office, under the direction of Chief Probation Officer Timothy Englert.
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Grand jury indicts prior felon on drug and gun chargesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that a federal grand jury has returned a three-count indictment charging Robert L. Robinson with possession with intent to distribute cocaine, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking, and being a felon in possession of firearms. The charges carry a maximum penalty of life in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Louis A. Testani, who is handling the case, stated that according to the indictment and a previously filed complaint, on June 7, 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Robinson’s Buffalo residence. During the search, investigators recovered quantities of suspected cocaine and marijuana, $35,869.00 in cash, two firearms, ammunition, and drug paraphernalia. One of the firearms was reported as a duty weapon stolen from a member of the Miami Dade Police Department on July 18, 2019. After the execution of the search warrant, Robinson was taken into custody.
Robinson was previously convicted of felony crimes in 2003 and 2011 and is legally prohibited from possessing firearms.
The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Child Exploitation Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, and the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, 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.
Cheektowaga man pleads guilty to child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that John Stuart, 35, of Cheektowaga, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy to possession of child pornography involving a prepubescent minor, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, and a fine of $250,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Rudroff, who is handling the case, stated that in August 2019, the FBI received a lead indicating that in May 2019, an online user accessed child sexual abuse and exploitation material via a website on the Tor network. Subsequent investigation traced the IP address to Stuart. In October 2020, a search warrant was executed at Stuart’s residence, during which law enforcement seized multiple electronic devices, including two laptop computers, a cell phone, a hard drive, and a desktop computer tower. A forensic review recovered approximately 8,000 videos and approximately 2,000 images of child pornography on one of the laptops, and approximately 150 images and one video of child pornography on the second laptop. Approximately 90 images and 150 videos of child pornography were recovered from the cell phone and approximately 90 images and two videos on the hard drive. Some of the images included depictions of violence against children.
Stuart also admitted during his plea that during the execution of the search warrant, law enforcement recovered live marijuana plants, more than a pound of dried marijuana ready for consumption, and that he was a chronic user of marijuana. Stuart was also found to be in possession of three firearms. Because he was a user of controlled substances, Stuart was legally prohibited from owning or possessing firearms.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Child Exploitation Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, and the Cheektowaga Police Department, under the direction of Chief Brian Coons.
Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
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Buffalo man pleads guilty to selling methRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that John R. Bollinger, 24, of Buffalo, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. to possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 40 years, and a fine of $5,000,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Pierre Richard Antoine, who is handling the case, stated that in April 2023, law enforcement began investigating the drug trafficking activities of Bollinger, who was suspected of manufacturing and selling quantities of counterfeit Adderall containing methamphetamine in the Buffalo area. Between June 13 and July 16, 2023, investigators made four controlled purchases of counterfeit Adderall pills containing methamphetamine.
The plea sentencing 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.
Sentencing is scheduled for December 3, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. before Judge Sinatra.
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Federal grand jury indicts Buffalo man for selling methRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that a federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Mario Pittman Jr., 30, of Buffalo, NY, with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, which carries a maximum penalty of life in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey E. Intravatola, who handled the case, stated that according to the indictment and a previously filed complaint, since March 2024, the FBI Safe Streets Task Force and the Lackawanna Police Department have been investigating Pittman’s drug trafficking activities. The investigation included multiple controlled purchases of methamphetamine from Pittman. The investigation also determined that Pittman has two prior violent felony convictions.
The indictment is the result of an investigation by 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, and the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, 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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Buffalo woman pleads guilty to filing a false tax returnRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Maureen Holleran, 61, of Buffalo, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara to filing a false tax return, which carries a maximum penalty of three years in prison and a fine of $250,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas A.C. Penrose, who is handling the case, stated that between September 2015 and October 2023, Holleran worked remotely as a worker’s compensation claims handler for Insurance Company 1, which is headquartered in Canada. In this role, Holleran evaluated and, if appropriate, paid workers compensation claims for policies issued by Insurance Company 1. If a claim was determined to be eligible, Holleran had authority to send payment to the claimant. She had the authority to send payments of up to $2,000 without further approval by her supervisor. Between July 2020 and June 2023, Holleran submitted more than 1,200 fraudulent claims in Insurance Company 1’s claim processing system, with each claim below the $2,000 threshold. Claims were then paid into bank accounts controlled by Holleran.
Holleran created fictious expenses, such as claims for lost wages and reimbursements for medical supplies and copays, to justify the fraudulent payments. In total, she submitted approximately $2,370,848.24 in fraudulent claims. To carry out the scheme, she created fictitious email accounts that superficially appeared to be associated with the policy claimant. Holleran then used these email addresses to sign up for Insurance Company 1’s client portal. She would then input her own banking information into the portal. For the tax years 2020 through 2022, Holleran embezzled approximately $1,592,095 from Insurance Company 1 that she did not report on her income tax returns for those years. The Internal Revenue Service estimates tax due and owing for these tax years is $545,792.
The plea sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Thomas Fattorusso.
Sentencing is scheduled for November 4, 2024, at 12:30 p.m. before Judge Arcara.
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Niagara Falls man pleads guilty meth chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Jevon Flynn, 30, of Niagara Falls, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. The charge carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum of life, a fine of $10,000,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey E. Intravatola, who handled the case, stated that on March 26, 2024, investigators executed a search warrant at a residence in Niagara Falls, during which they located Flynn in a bedroom, with his hands near a clothing hamper. A backpack and a pair of pants were found in the clothing hamper. A plastic bag containing suspected methamphetamine was found in the backpack, while two plastic baggies were found in the pants, one contained suspected fentanyl, the other contained blue-colored pressed pills. Investigators also seized another quantity of suspected methamphetamine and eight grams of suspected crack cocaine.
The plea is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino, and the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Michael Filicetti.
Sentencing is scheduled for December 3, 2024, before Judge Vilardo.
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Lockport man sentenced for his role in drug conspiracy that led to overdose deathRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that James White, 32, of Lockport, who was convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, heroin, fentanyl, and butyryl fentanyl, was sentenced to serve 84 months in prison by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey E. Intravatola, who handled the case, stated that between March 2017, and March 2019, White conspired with Bruno Haney, II, and others, to sell heroin and butyryl fentanyl. On March 24, 2017, White sold heroin that he received from Bruno to an individual identified as W.S. Later that same day, W.S. was found dead after ingesting the heroin purchased from White. Text messages between White and W.S. on the evening of March 24, 2017, were recovered from W.S.’s cell phone. In the text messages, W.S. requested a “half bun” (5 doses) of heroin from White.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Niagara County Drug Task Force and the Niagara County Sheriff’s Department, under the direction of Sheriff Michael Filicetti, the Orleans County Major Felony Crime Task Force, under the direction of Sheriff Christopher Bourke, 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 Tarentino, New York Field Division, and the Lockport Police Department, under the direction of Chief Steven Abbott. Additional assistance was provided by the Niagara County and Orleans County District Attorneys’ Offices.
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Buffalo man pleads guilty to sex trafficking minorsRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Steven Gonzalez a/k/a Steven Hernandez, a/k/a Steve, a/k/a Stevie, a/k/a Unc, 48, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. to sex trafficking by coercion, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, a maximum of life, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joel L. Violanti and Caitlin M. Higgins, who are handling the case, stated that between 2012 and March 2015, Gonzalez coerced a minor, identified as A.N., to engage in commercial sex acts. Gonzalez provided A.N. with cocaine in exchange for sex knowing that A.N. was physically addicted to cocaine. Gonzalez used A.N.’s addiction to cocaine and other drugs to keep A.N. dependent on himself and to coerce A.N. to engage in commercial sex acts with him directly.
In addition, between 2012 and 2013, Gonzalez coerced another minor identified as B.E. to engage in commercial sex acts. Gonzalez provided B.E. with heroin in exchange for sex, knowing that B.E. was physically addicted to heroin. Gonzalez used B.E.’s addiction to keep B.E. dependent on himself and to coerce B.E. to engage in commercial sex acts with him directly.
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 November 26, 2024, before Judge Sinatra.
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Sex offender pleads guilty to new chargesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Jeffrey Paden, 57, of Kennedy, NY, pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford to possession of child pornography following a prior conviction, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum of 20 years, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that in June 2015, Paden was convicted on a federal charge of possession of child pornography and sentenced to serve 57 months in prison and five years’ supervised release. On August 29, 2023, the New York State Police executed a search warrant at Paden’s residence based on information from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). Several electronic devices were seized, including a thumb drive and a laptop computer. Approximately 83 images of child pornography were stored on the thumb drive and approximately 468 images on the laptop computer. Some of the images depicted prepubescent minors, and violence against children.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Stanley Edwards III, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
Sentencing is scheduled for November 13, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. before Judge Wolford.
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Federal jury convicts Jamestown man of multiple drug chargesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that a federal jury has convicted Jose Caceras, 39, of Jamestown, NY, of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, possession of MDMA, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, and maintaining a drug involved premises. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 25 years in prison and a maximum of life.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Evan K. Glaberson and Louis A. Testani, who handled the prosecution of the case, stated that on February 27, 2023, Caceras was stopped and arrested by Jamestown Police officers working with U.S. Probation. After his arrest, Caceras attempted to discard a bag of fentanyl hidden in his pants while being transported to the Jamestown City Jail. As a result, the Jamestown Police officer transporting Caceras was exposed to fentanyl and received treatment for the exposure at a local hospital. During a subsequent search of Caceras’ stash house in Jamestown, U.S. Probation officers found over 50 grams of methamphetamine, a bag of MDMA, and drug paraphernalia.
The verdict is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Probation Office, under the direction of Chief Probation Officer Timothy Englert, the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson, and the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarentino, New York Field Division.
A sentencing date has not yet been scheduled before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo, who presided over the trial of the case.
New Jersey man charged with terrorism offenses relating to his attempted murder of Salman RushdieRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, NY – A grand jury returned a three-count indictment charging Hadi Matar, 26, of Fairview, New Jersey, with attempting to provide material support to Hizbollah, a designated foreign terrorist organization, engaging in an act of terrorism transcending national boundaries and providing material support to terrorists.
“We allege that in attempting to murder Salman Rushdie in New York in 2022, Hadi Matar committed an act of terrorism in the name of Hizbollah, a designated terrorist organization aligned with the Iranian regime,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “The Justice Department will prosecute those who perpetrate violence in the name of terrorist groups and undermine the basic freedoms enshrined in our Constitution.”
“This defendant put time and effort into traveling to the Western District of New York with the intent of taking the life of another,” stated U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross. “Only because of the brave efforts of those who were present that day, the defendant was prevented from completing his murderous intention. This indictment is a result of the collaborative efforts of our investigative partners in law enforcement, which is one step towards ensuring that the defendant be held accountable for his actions.”
“Today’s indictment demonstrates the FBI’s steadfast commitment to investigate and seek justice against individuals who jeopardize American lives and freedoms,” said FBI Buffalo Field Office Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia. “This case reflects the dangerous spread of violent radicalization which threatens our communities. It’s a challenge; but one the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force and law enforcement partners will never stop working.”
According to the court documents and statements made by the government in court, between September 2020 and August 2022, Matar, attempted to provide material support and resources to Hizbollah, a designated foreign terrorist organization. Matar did this by attempting to carry out a fatwa calling for the execution of Salman Rushdie, which Matar understood was endorsed by Hizbollah.
The indictment further alleges that Matar attempted to kill and did in fact assault Rushdie. Matar was motivated, in part, by a 2006 speech given by Hizbollah Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah, in which Nasrallah endorsed the fatwa calling for Rushdie’s death, which was originally issued in 1989.
Matar was arraigned this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy and was held pending a detention hearing on August 7, 2024, at 10:00 a.m.
If convicted, Matar faces a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Timothy C. Lynch and Charles M. Kruly for the Western District of New York and Trial Attorney Frank Russo of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case, with assistance from the District of New Jersey.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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New Jersey Man Charged with Terrorism Offenses Relating to His Attempted Murder of Salman RushdieRead the Press Release
Note: View the indictment here.
Hadi Matar, 26, of Fairview, New Jersey, was arraigned today in federal court in connection with attempting to provide material support to Hizballah, a designated foreign terrorist organization; engaging in an act of terrorism transcending national boundaries; and providing material support to terrorists.
“We allege that in attempting to murder Salman Rushdie in New York in 2022, Hadi Matar committed an act of terrorism in the name of Hizballah, a designated terrorist organization aligned with the Iranian regime,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “The Justice Department will prosecute those who perpetrate violence in the name of terrorist groups and undermine the basic freedoms enshrined in our Constitution.”
“The defendant attempted to carry out a fatwa endorsed by Hizballah that called for the death of Salman Rushdie — a fatwa issued in 1989 by Iran’s Ayatollah Khomeini,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “Violence directed at Americans for exercising their First Amendment rights will never be tolerated. The FBI will work with our partners to pursue and hold accountable those who resort to violence.”
“This defendant put time and effort into traveling to the Western District of New York with the intent of taking the life of another,” said U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross for the Western District of New York. “Only because of the brave efforts of those who were present that day, the defendant was prevented from completing his murderous intention. This indictment is a result of the collaborative efforts of our investigative partners in law enforcement, which is one step towards ensuring that the defendant be held accountable for his actions.”
According to the court documents and statements made by the government in court, between September 2020 and August 2022, Matar attempted to provide material support and resources to Hizballah. Matar did this by attempting to carry out a fatwa calling for the execution of Salman Rushdie, which Matar understood was endorsed by Hizballah.
The indictment further alleges that Matar attempted to kill and did in fact assault Rushdie. Matar was motivated, in part, by a 2006 speech given by Hizballah Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah, in which Nasrallah endorsed the fatwa calling for Rushdie’s death, which was originally issued in 1989.
If convicted, Matar faces a maximum penalty of life in prison.
The FBI is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Timothy C. Lynch and Charles M. Kruly for the Western District of New York and Trial Attorney Frank Russo of the Justice Department’s National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case, with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Randolph postal employee charged with stealing gift cards from the mailRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Melissa Olson, 45, of Randolph, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with theft of mail by officer or employee, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles M. Kruly, who is handling the case, stated Olson was hired by the United States Postal Service (USPS) in 2020 as a rural carrier associate assigned to the Randolph Post Office. According to the complaint, in May 2023, the USPS Office of Inspector General received information that a $200.00 Visa gift card was stolen from the mail. At the time, USPS management believed Olson could be involved in the theft of the card, which was used at retail locations in the Randolph area. Subsequent investigation determined that Olson did in fact use the gift card to make purchases at the retail locations. The complaint further states that in June 2023, Olson stole Walmart and Target gift cards included in a greeting card sent through the mail.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Matthew Modafferi, Special Agent-in-Charge Northeast Field Office.
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.
Leader of Lockport drug trafficking organization going to prisonRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Bruno J. Haney, II, 35, of Niagara Falls, NY, who was convicted of conspiring to possess with intent to distribute, and distributing, heroin, fentanyl, and butyryl fentanyl, was sentenced to serve 184 months in prison by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who handled the case, stated that between April 2017 and March 2019, Haney organized and led a drug trafficking organization. In June 2017, the Niagara County Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at Haney’s residence, during which investigators seized several bags containing butyryl fentanyl, hydrocodone, acetaminophen, and alprazolam pills, $515 in cash, and drug paraphernalia. In January 2019, Haney was arrested, and a search warrant was executed at a second residence. During that search, investigators recovered quantities of fentanyl, a mixture of heroin and fentanyl, marijuana, $978 in cash, and drug paraphernalia. In February 2019, Haney was released from custody on various conditions, which included that he not commit any offense in violation of federal, state, or local law. On March 7, 2019, another search warrant was executed at Haney’s residence, during which a bag containing a mixture of heroin and fentanyl, $373 in cash, and a digital scale were recovered.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Niagara County Drug Task Force and the Niagara County Sheriff’s Department, under the direction of Sheriff Michael Filicetti, the Orleans County Major Felony Crime Task Force, under the direction of Sheriff Christopher Bourke, 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 Tarentino, New York Field Division, and the Lockport Police Department, under the direction of Chief Steven Abbott. Additional assistance was provided by the Niagara County and Orleans County District Attorneys Offices.
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Jamestown woman sentenced on drug chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Brandi M. Whitford, 28, of Jamestown, NY, who was convicted of maintaining a drug-involved premises, was sentenced to time served and three years’ probation by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who handled the case, stated that between September 2019 and October 23, 2019, Whitford, and co-defendant Richard E. Kinsey Jr., used a residence on Newland Avenue in Jamestown, to manufacture, distribute, and use methamphetamine. On September 6, 2019, investigators executed a search warrant at the residence, recovering three firearms. A fourth firearm was thrown from the residence during the execution of the search warrant. Investigators also recovered methamphetamine, approximately $12,045 in cash, assorted ammunition, and drug paraphernalia.
Co-defendant Richard Kinsey was previously convicted.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarentino, New York Field Division; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan Miller, New York Field Division; and the Jamestown Metro Drug Task Force, under the direction of Jamestown Police Chief Timothy Jackson.
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Jamestown man arrested on multiple drug and gun chargesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Richard Pearson, 47, of Jamestown, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute acetyl fentanyl, cocaine, crack cocaine, and methamphetamine, being a felon in possession of a firearm, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and aiding and abetting. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, and a maximum penalty of life.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, late in the evening on June 25, 2024, investigators executed a search warrant on Newland Avenue in Jamestown, during which Pearson was present. During the search, they seized suboxone strips, $200 in cash, a digital scale, quantities of acetyl fentanyl, crack cocaine, cocaine, methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and a firearm and ammunition. Pearson was previously convicted of three felony crimes and is legally prohibited from possessing firearms.
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 complaint is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson and the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarentino, New York Field Division.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Federal jury convicts Rochester woman of drug related chargeRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that a federal jury has convicted Danielle Hampton, 50, of Rochester, NY, of maintaining a drug-involved premises, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $500,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Katelyn M. Hartford and Nicholas M. Testani, who handled the case, stated that in September 2021, members of the Greater Rochester Area Narcotics Enforcement Team (GRANET) began investigating the drug trafficking activities at 304 Adams Street in Rochester. During the investigation, investigators made controlled purchases of cocaine from the residence. On November 18, 2021, a search warrant was executed at the residence, during which investigators encountered Hampton inside. During the search, a loaded firearm, approximately 9 grams of crack cocaine, $571.00 in cash, and drug paraphernalia was recovered from the residence. Two children were present during the search. Hampton was taken into custody at that time.
The verdict is the result of an investigation by the Greater Rochester Area Narcotics Enforcement Team (GRANET), which includes Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter, and the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Smith.
Sentencing is scheduled for October 9, 2024, before U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr., who presided over the trial of the case.
Wilson man pleads guilty to drug and gun chargesRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Kevin S. Wise, Jr., 34, of Wilson, NY, who was convicted of possession with intent to distribute marijuana, being a user of a controlled substance in possession of firearms, and being a felon in possession of firearms, was sentenced to serve 36 months in prison by Senior U.S. District Judge William M. Skretny.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who is handling the case, stated that on September 6, 2020, Wise was arrested following a traffic stop on a domestic complaint for two counts of Aggravated Harassment. Subsequently, a search warrant was executed at his two residences on Youngstown Road in Wilson, including vehicles located on the properties. During the searches, investigators recovered 23 firearms, 18,446 rounds of ammunition, ammunition, firearms parts, approximately 374 grams of marijuana, a quantity of MDA, psilocybin mushrooms, two digital scales, and $2,717.00 in U.S. currency. Law enforcement also located 11 marijuana plants and observed multiple trail cameras positioned throughout the back yard, woods, and location of the marijuana plants. Wise admits that, at the time of his possession of the firearms, he was an unlawful user of marijuana and methamphetamine.
On August 1, 2022, investigators executed another search warrant at one of Wise’s Youngstown Road residences in Wilson. Wise was on federal pre-trial release at the time of the search. During the search, law enforcement recovered seven additional firearms, approximately 3,692 rounds of ammunition, numerous firearms parts and accessories, drug paraphernalia and suspected marijuana and THC products. Wise was convicted of a felony in Niagara County in October 2014 and is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office Drug Task Force, under the direction of Sheriff Michael Filicetti; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan Miller, New York Field Division; and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino.
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Spencerport man pleads guilty to his role in fraud schemeRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Michael Grimm 44, of Spencerport, NY, pleaded guilty to wire fraud before U.S. District Court Judge Charles J. Siragusa. The charge 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 Grimm, and at least one other person, engaged in an extensive pattern of conduct involving document fraud, wire fraud, bank fraud, retail theft, and identity theft. Part of the scheme involved Grimm and others obtaining merchandise by theft or fraud from local retailers, which was then returned in exchange for gift cards and store credit or sold to third parties. In furtherance of the scheme, Grimm presented forged and/or stolen passports and other stolen identification information to merchants. Grimm also admitted his role in the theft of personal identifying information and credit information belonging to multiple individuals, which he and others used to make fraudulent purchases, including car and hotel rentals. The stolen identity information was also used in attempts to open credit cards and obtain loans. To date, at least 10 identity theft victims have been identified resulting in thousands of dollars in losses.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Department of State Diplomatic Security Service, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Brian Wood, and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino.
Sentencing is scheduled for November 11, 2024, at 9:30 am before Judge Siragusa.
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Rochester man going to prison on gun chargeRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Edward A. Pearce, 30, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm, was sentenced to serve 48 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas E. Gregory, who handled the case, stated that on August 12, 2023, Pearce was arrested by the United States Marshal’s Service Fugitive Task Force following a traffic stop in the area of 1071 Dewey Avenue in Rochester. Law enforcement located a loaded 40 caliber pistol in his waistband. In June 2018, Pearce was convicted of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in Ulster County Court, and is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation conducted by the United States Marshal’s Service, under the direction of Marshal Charles Salina, the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Smith, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan Miller, New York Field Division.
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Rochester man already serving 30 year sentence, sentenced to an additional 20 years in prisonRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Deadrick D. Fulwiley a/k/a Deucy, 31, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 100 kilograms or more of marijuana, and possession of a machine gun, was sentenced to serve 20 years in prison by U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. The sentence will be served concurrent to a 30-year sentence Fulwiley received in New York State Court for committing two homicides in July 2022 with Kelvin Vickers and Raheem Robinson. Vickers was also convicted of murdering Rochester Police Officer Anthony Mazurkiewicz and wounding Officer Sino Seng.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas E. Gregory, who is handling the case, stated that between April and July 21, 2022, Fulwiley conspired with others to sell marijuana, utilizing drug houses on Sixth and St. Paul Streets in Rochester. In addition, marijuana was stored at Fulwiley’s Laser Street residence. On July 16 and July 21, 2022, search warrants were executed at the Sixth Street residence, during which more than 24 pounds of marijuana, drug ledgers, approximately $13,390 in cash, and several firearms and ammunition were seized, including a machine gun.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Smith, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan Miller, New York Field Division, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, and the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarentino, New York Field Division.
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Jamestown man arrested, charged with drug possessionRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Craig Vanhook, 34, of Jamestown, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1,00,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, on April 4, 2024, a Jamestown Police officer observed Vanhook on Allen Street. The officer had prior knowledge that Vanhook had an outstanding warrant out of Lakewood Busti, NY. Vanhook was taken into custody and arrested. At the time of his arrest, officers seized a large clear baggie containing approximately 24 grams of a crystal-like substance, which tested positive for methamphetamine, a switchblade knife, a black digital scale with white residue, and $363 from Vanhook. Officers also searched Vanhook’s backpack and discovered multiple glassine envelopes, as well as bags with white substances, brown substances, green substances, and rock like substances, which tested positive for methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, and crack cocaine. In total, Vanhook possessed approximately 40 grams of methamphetamine, 18.5 grams of fentanyl, and 21 grams of cocaine and crack cocaine.
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 complaint is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson and the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarentino, New York Field Division.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Niagara Falls man pleads guilty to meth chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Asaad Rivers, 36, of Niagara Falls, NY, pleaded guilty to distribution of methamphetamine before U.S. Magistrate Judge H. Kenneth Schroeder, Jr. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey E. Intravatola, who is handling the case, stated that on March 7 and March 12, 2024, investigators conducted controlled purchases of methamphetamine from Rivers in Niagara Falls. On March 26, 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Rivers residence, during which they seized a .22 caliber rifle and .22 caliber ammunition, and approximately 12 ounces of suspected methamphetamine and eight grams of suspected crack cocaine.
The plea is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino, the Niagara County Drug Task Force, under the direction of Sheriff Michael Filicetti, and CBP Air and Marine Operations, under the direction of Brian Manaher, Director of Marine Operations.
Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
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Buffalo woman who lied to the FBI during murder investigation sentencedRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Deshema Clark, 46, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of making a materially false statement, was sentenced to serve 30 days in prison and two years’ supervised release by Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Maeve E. Huggins and Joseph M. Tripi, who handled the case, stated that on October 9, 2019, during the course of a federal criminal investigation, the FBI executed a search warrant at Clark’s Buffalo residence. During the search, Clark spoke with an FBI Special Agent, then went to Buffalo Police Department Headquarters to provide a voluntary statement to law enforcement. Clark knowingly made several false statements regarding the whereabouts of DeAndre Wilson during the evening of September 15, 2019, through the morning of September 16, 2019. Clark falsely stated that she and DeAndre Wilson returned to her residence after attending a concert the evening of September 15, 2019, ate dinner and went to sleep. Clark further falsely stated that a few hours later, she woke up and DeAndre Wilson was still asleep. Clark told investigators that she did not remember DeAndre Wilson leaving her residence on the evening of September 15, 2019, through the morning of September 16, 2019. However, Clark knew that DeAndre Wilson did not remain at her residence, eat dinner, and go to bed.
DeAndre Wilson was convicted by a federal jury and sentenced to serve three consecutive life sentences plus 30 years for the murders of Miguel Anthony Valentin-Colon, Nicole Marie Merced-Plaud, and Dhamyl Roman-Audiffred on or about September 15-16, 2019.
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 Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia; the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff John Garcia; the Erie County Central Police Services Forensic Laboratory.
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Former Jericho Road employee charged with theft of government fundsRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Dejan Karlovic, 29, of Amherst, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with theft of government funds, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Rudroff, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, between October 16, 2023, and July 2, 2024, Karlovic was employed by Jericho Road as a Senior Grants Accountant. In this position, he had access to three commercial credit cards issued through M&T Bank. Among the expenses charged to these credit cards were charges purportedly related to UHAUL, with many of the most significant UHAUL related charges supported by invoices from an entity named D and D. Between March 1 and June 26, 2024, there were more than $574,000 in D and D related transactions conducted on the credit cards.
In March 2024, Jericho Road switched its credit card process to an online credit card management system called Ramp. Ramp accounts were issued to a limited number of personnel, which did not include Karlovic. One employee who was to receive a Ramp account with administrative access, did not establish his user profile in a timely manner. However, an unknown individual established the employee’s profile on Ramp. At approximately the same time the profile was established, an invitation for administrative access to Ramp was sent to Karlovic and a credit card through Ramp was issued to Karlovic. Karlovic was questioned about this, and he admitted that he received the invitation. Karlovic’s access to the Ramp credit card was revoked. However, when the Ramp program was rolled out to Jericho Road, Karlovic received access to two credit cards. He was to manage the program expenses related to these cards, and was able to make legitimate program purchases using both these credit cards. Between April 10 and June 17, 2024, there were more than $10,000 in D and D related transactions that were conducted on one of the two credit cards Karlovic had access to through Ramp.
Subsequent investigation determined that some of the funds allegedly stolen by Karlovic in the name of D and D, were transferred to his personal bank account at Northwest Bank. The timing of the transactions coincided with transactions on the M&T credit cards. Jericho Road became aware of the suspicious nature of the transactions involving D and D, conducted an internal investigation, and concluded that the charges were not for legitimate business purposes. Since Karlovic’s access was revoked, no new purchases from D and D have cleared on Ramp.
The criminal 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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Registered sex offender going to prison for 35 years for production of child pornographyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Charles Porterfield, 37, of Springville, NY, who was convicted by a federal jury of production of child pornography and committing the offense as a registered sex offender, was sentenced to serve 420 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Richard J Arcara.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul E. Bonanno, who handled the prosecution of the case, stated that in 2011, Porterfield was convicted in Erie County Court of Engaging in a Course of Sexual Conduct in the 2nd Degree and sentenced to five years in prison and three years post release supervision. Porterfield was also required to register as a sex offender for life. Less than one month after completing his post release supervision, Porterfield paid a 13-year-old girl (Victim) to engage in an online sexual relationship. Porterfield used the Victim to produce images and videos of child pornography.
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 Northern York County Regional Police Department.
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Corning sex offender facing new child pornography chargesRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Ryan M. Newman, 33, of Corning, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with production, distribution, receipt, and possession of child pornography. As a convicted sex offender at the time of the alleged crimes, Newman faces an enhanced minimum penalty of 25 years in prison, of maximum penalty of 50 years, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle P. Rossi, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, Newman was convicted of child pornography crimes by New York State in 2012, sentenced to serve a local jail term and 10 years’ probation, and required to register as a Level 3 Sex Offender, which is someone considered to be at high risk of re-offending and a threat to public safety.
In January 2021, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) received a report from Snapchat that a user had uploaded a video of child pornography. NCMEC sent the tip to the New York State Police, who executed a search warrant on Newman’s person and residence in 2022. The search determined that Newman uploaded the child pornography video to Snapchat and possessed other child pornography on his electronic devices. Newman remained out of custody following the 2022 search warrant by the State Police.
In April 2024, the FBI Corning received a tip that pornography involving a child in the Corning area, was distributed to an undercover agent in Illinois. Subsequent investigation determined that Newman sexually abused the child and produced the child pornography. Newman was taken into custody by the FBI and Corning Police. In addition, to federal charges, he is also facing charges in Steuben County Court.
Newman made an initial appearance today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Marian W. Payson and is being held without bail.
The criminal complaint is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Corning Office, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, and the Corning Police Department, under the direction of Chief Kenzie Spaulding.
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 who threatened to blow up the VA sentencedRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Demont Coston, 56, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of assault upon a federal employee, was sentenced to time served by U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Romer.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew J. Henning, who handled the case, stated that on September 12, 2023, Coston called the U.S. Veterans Affairs Crisis Line and made repeated threats to blow-up the Buffalo VA facility. Later that same day Coston again called the VA Crisis Line and stated that “I should go blow... I should go burn the building down.” On September 14, 2023, Coston texted the Crisis Line that “The VA haven't done (expletive) for me in 30 years, it’s time to get rid of it, by any means necessary.” Coston also said that he would be “Taking out all V.A. facilities, but I have 1 n mind first” and “I'm in DC, near the main VA ha ha ha good, I know where to hit them.”
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the VA Medical Center Police, under the direction of Chief Richard King and the VA Office of Inspector General, Criminal Investigations Division, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Christopher Algieri.
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Former Rochester firefighter pleads guilty to child pornography chargesRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Brett Marrapese, 32, of Irondequoit, NY, pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford to distribution and receipt of child pornography, The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison per count, a maximum of 40 years, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle P. Rossi, who is handling the case, stated that between January 2016, and June 13, 2023, Marrapese used a cell phone, laptop computer, an email account, and multiple social media and internet chat applications, including Omegle; Kik; Snapchat; and Instagram, to produce, receive, distribute, and possess child pornography. In total, Marrapese received more than 600 images of child pornography that he obtained from others via the internet. He also posed as a teenage boy causing minors to produce and send to him sexually explicit images of themselves. Some of the images that Marrapese distributed and received depicted violence against and sexual abuse of children, infants, and toddlers.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Irondequoit Police Department, under the direction of Chief Scott Peters, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, under the direction Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.
Sentencing is scheduled for November 6, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. before Judge Wolford.
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North Tonawanda businessman sentenced for tax evasionRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that George Ward, 57, of North Tonawanda, NY, who was convicted of tax evasion, was sentenced to serve four years’ probation, of which the first six months will be home incarceration and the second six months will be home detention, by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. Ward was also ordered to pay restitution to the IRS totaling $2,635,542.66 and to the NYS Department of Taxation and Finance totaling $646,770.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas A. C. Penrose, who handled the case, stated that between 2015 and 2020, Ward owned and operated a fire protection and inspection business in Amherst, NY. During this time period, Ward failed to file personal income tax returns, which included substantial business revenues received by his business. Ward also failed to pay income, social security, and Medicare taxes withheld from the pay of his employees. This resulted in a tax loss to the IRS of $953,793. Ward also failed to file his taxes with the New York Department of Taxation and Finance, resulting in a tax loss of $165,645. In addition to failing to file tax returns, Ward also made false statements to an IRS revenue officer regarding the filing of his taxes and the status of his business, used a check cashing business for over $2,000,000 in gross receipt checks from customers rather than depositing them into his business’ bank account, and deposited cash derived from his business’ activities into a bank account held in his wife’s name.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Thomas Fattorusso.
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Settlement agreement reached with hotel chain involving alleged violation of the Americans with Disabilities ActRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, NY – U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that the U.S. Attorney’s Office has reached a settlement with the DelMonte Hotel Group to resolve allegations that a hotel in the group discriminated against an individual with a disability in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA).
The complainant, an individual with Parkinson’s disease who uses a wheelchair, stayed for two nights at a DelMonte Hilton on Celebration Drive, in Rochester, NY. She alleges that while an accessible room was reserved, no clean, accessible rooms were available when she arrived. The complainant further alleges that the room she was provided had no fixed seat in the bathtub, forcing her to shower sitting on the floor of the bathtub. When she asked for a chair or bench, the complainant alleges that hotel staff provided a plastic chair, which she sat on to take showers, at great risk.
Under the settlement reached, the DelMonte Hotel Group will provide a report and photos every six months until the issue with respect to accessible bathrooms has been corrected; provide copies of any complaint received during the reporting period alleging that it did not comply with the ADA or otherwise discriminated against any person on the basis of disability; and cooperate with all requests by the United States to access DelMonte hotels in Western New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio, and for information and documents concerning DelMonte’s compliance with the agreement and the ADA. DelMonte will complete all necessary changes within 18 months, pay $7,500 to the complainant, and pay a civil penalty to the United States.
The agreement also calls for DelMonte to train staff who work at its hotels in Western New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio on the ADA. DelMonte must also implement and enforce a written policy regarding ADA compliance at these hotels.
The Department of Justice’s enforcement efforts under the ADA seek equal opportunity and dignity in all aspects of life, including access to public accommodations such as hotel rooms.
Individuals who believe they may have been victims of discrimination may contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at (716) 843-5700 or file a complaint with the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division at: https://civilrights.justice.gov/report/. Additional information about the ADA can be found at www.ada.gov, or by calling the Department of Justice’s toll-free information line at (800) 514-0301 and (800) 514-0383 (TDD).
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney James E. B. Bobseine, Civil Rights Coordinator in the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Buffalo, New York.
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Rochester man pleads guilty to being a felon in possession of ammunitionRead the Press Release
Rochester, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Raymond G. Girard, 36, of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. to being a felon in possession of ammunition, which carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert A. Marangola, who is handling the case, stated that on January 14, 2023, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Girard’s Rochester residence and seized over 400 rounds of various caliber ammunition. In June 2016, Girard was convicted in Monroe County Court of Attempted Criminal Possession of a Weapon 2nd and is legally prohibited from possessing ammunition.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Monroe County Sheriff's Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Miklos Szoczei II, 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.
Sentencing is scheduled for October 9, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. before Judge Geraci.
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Buffalo man going to prison on gun and drug chargesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Mario Kelly, 38, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition, was sentenced to serve 130 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan E. Leydecker, who handled the case, stated that in April 2022, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Kelly’s Kenmore residence, during which they seized approximately 374 grams of fentanyl, approximately seven grams of crack cocaine, drug paraphernalia, and three firearms. Kelly was previously convicted of two felony crimes in Erie County Court, and three federal crimes in the Western District of New York, and is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm.
The sentencing 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.
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Oregon man arrested for indecent exposure after flight from Oregon to New Hampshire is diverted to BuffaloRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.- U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Neil McCarthy, 25, of Oregon, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with indecent exposure, which carries a maximum penalty of six months in prison and a $5,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles M. Kruly, who is handling the case, stated according to the complaint, on July 3, 2024, the Niagara Frontier Transit Authority (NFTA) Police were called to Gate 2 at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport, to respond to a report made by an American Airlines flight that a man exposed himself and urinated in the aisle of the aircraft while the plane was in flight. The aircraft was diverted from the original destination of Manchester, New Hampshire, to Buffalo. When the flight landed, an officer boarded the airplane and spoke to a flight attendant, who said that McCarthy had exposed himself and urinated on the flight. McCarthy was taken into custody and escorted off the plane.
McCarthy made an initial appearance this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy and was released on his own recognizance.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Niagara Frontier Transit Authority Police, under the direction of Chief Brian Patterson and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Federal jury convicts Florida woman on four counts of wire fraud for operating illegal debt collection businessesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.- U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that a federal jury has convicted Angela Burdorf, 44, of New Port Richey, Florida of wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Franz M. Wright and Aaron J. Mango, who handled the prosecution of the case, stated that between March 2016 and May 2017, Burdorf conspired with others to operate various illegitimate debt collection businesses in Western New York, from Kenmore, Buffalo, Lackawanna, to the Town of Niagara. The businesses employed fraudulent means to collect on debts, to re-collect on debts already collected, to over-collect on debts actually owed, and to process and transfer payments related to the collection of such debts. Burdorf’s businesses, and the businesses she associated with, used false and threatening statements during collection telephone calls in an effort to induce the payment of debts, including referencing criminal statutes, and threatening to file criminal complaints and/or arrest warrants. Debtors were routinely routed to employees who posed as attorneys during the calls, in order to intimidate debtors and collect payment.
The verdict is the result of an investigation by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino; the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Thomas Fattorusso; the Federal Matthew Miraglia; and the United States Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division, under the direction of Inspector-in-Charge Ketty Larco-Ward.
Sentencing is scheduled for November 26, 2024, at 12:30 p.m. before U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara, who presided over the trial.
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Buffalo man who threatened to blow up the VA pleads guiltyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Demont Coston, 56, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Romer to assault upon a federal employee, which carries a maximum penalty of one year in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew J. Henning, who is handling the case, stated that on September 12, 2023, Coston called the U.S. Veterans Affairs Crisis Line and made repeated threats to blow-up the Buffalo VA facility. Later that same day Coston again called the VA Crisis Line and stated that “I should go blow... I should go burn the building down.” On September 14, 2023, Coston texted the Crisis Line that “The VA haven't done (expletive) for me in 30 years, it’s time to get rid of it, by any means necessary.” Coston also said that he would be “Taking out all V.A. facilities, but I have 1 n mind first” and “I'm in DC, near the main VA ha ha ha good, I know where to hit them.”
The plea is the result of an investigation by the VA Medical Center Police, under the direction of Chief Richard King and the VA Office of Inspector General, Criminal Investigations Division, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Christopher Algieri.
Sentencing is scheduled for July 11, 2024, at 3:30 p.m. before Judge Roemer.
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Rochester man pleads guilty to stealing mailRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.- U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Nathan Romar Arnold, 23, of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. to possession of United States Postal Service key, and theft of mail, which carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Katelyn M. Hartford, who is handling the case, stated that on October 1 and 2, 2023, Arnold and others stole mail matter from USPS mail receptacles located near the USPS Brighton Station Post Office on N. Winton Road, the Greece Post Office on Latta Road, and the Jefferson Road Post Office. The key had been stolen from a USPS letter carrier and thereafter used to open the mail receptacles and steal the mail matter, which Arnold intended to keep for his own use and profit.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Inspector in Charge Ketty Larco-Ward, Boston Division, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter, and the Greece Police Department, under the direction of Chief Michael Wood.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 25, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. before Judge Geraci.
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Federal jury convicts Rochester man of possessing a machinegunRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.- U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that a federal jury convicted David L. Rivera-Ruiz, 31, of possession of a machinegun in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes, possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes, being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition, and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 30 years in prison, and a maximum of life in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Douglas E. Gregory and Brandon Gonzalez, who handled the prosecution of the case, stated that on October 27, 2022, Ruiz possessed a machinegun, a 9mm semiautomatic pistol, equipped with a conversion device. Ruiz also possessed additional firearms. In addition, Ruiz possessed with the intent to sell, quantities of fentanyl and cocaine. In September 2016, Ruiz was convicted of felon gun crimes in Camden County, New Jersey and is legally prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition.
The verdict 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 Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Smith.
Sentencing is scheduled for October 29, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. before Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford, who presided over the trial.
Uzbekistan man extradited from Ukraine and arraigned on charges of stealing millions of dollars in cryptocurrencyRead the Press Release
Buffalo, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced that Nikita Andreevich Sklyuev a/k/a Valeriy Dorojkin, 37, of Uzbekistan, was extradited from Ukraine and arraigned today on an indictment charging him with wire fraud and fraudulent use of unauthorized access device. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas A. C. Penrose, who is handling the case, stated that according to the indictment, in June 2018, Sklyuev submitted a computer software application, “EOSIO Wallet Explorer,” to Apple to be sold through the Apple App Store. The EOSIO Wallet Explorer purported to be a cryptocurrency wallet, but was in fact a malicious computer software application designed to steal the cryptocurrency user’s private key, thereby giving Sklyuev access to the user’s cryptocurrency funds. In September 2018, an individual in the Western District of New York (Victim) purchased the EOSIO Wallet Explorer application and then installed it on his iPhone. Once the Victim entered his private key following the installation, Sklyuev had unauthorized access to the Victim’s cryptocurrency wallet, which contained approximately 2,092,395.5356 EOS cryptocurrency, which at the time was valued at approximately $11.8 million dollars. On September 25, 2018, Sklyuev changed the private key to the Victim’s wallet, which resulted in the Victim losing all control and access to his wallet. In February 2019, Sklyuev transferred the EOS cryptocurrency from the Victim’s wallet to numerous other online wallets that were under his control.
Sklyuev was arraigned this morning before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy and is being held pending a detention hearing on July 3, 2024. Today’s arraignment follows the successful June 20, 2024, extradition of Sklyuev from Ukraine. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with Romanian and Ukrainian authorities to secure his arrest and extradition.
The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia and the 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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Sex offender convicted on new child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Jordan E. Brodie, 37, of LeRoy, NY, pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography following a previous conviction for possession of child pornography, before U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa. The charge carries a minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum of 20 years, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle P. Rossi, who is handling the case, stated that in May 2023, Brodie, a convicted sex offender under the active supervision of the Genesee County Probation Department, became involved in a chat application in which he and others traded child pornography. Brodie uploaded at least one of the images to a different platform, which then reported the image to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. An investigation by the New York State Police determined that the upload took place from Brodie’s home in LeRoy. A search warrant was executed at Brodie’s residence during which investigators seized his phone, and the contents of the social media account that uploaded the image. Images of child pornography depicting children less than 12 years old were recovered from both the phone and the social media account. Some of images included violence against children. Brodie was previously convicted of a child pornography charge in May 2021 in Genesee County, for which he was being actively supervised at the time of the current offense.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Miklos Szoczei II, the Federal Bureau of Investigation Child Exploitation Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
Sentencing is scheduled for October 21, 2024, at 9:15 a.m. before Judge Siragusa.
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Rochester man sentenced for his role in stolen check scheme involving hundreds of victimsRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Shydequan C. Wynn, 31, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of financial institution fraud, was sentenced to serve 18 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Katelyn M. Hartford, who handled the case, stated between October 2019, and March 2022, Wynn executed a scheme, with others, to defraud financial institutions. Wynn stole checks included in mail from unattended mailboxes. He then forged or altered the stolen checks, often changing the amounts and making them payable to himself or another co-conspirator. He or a co-conspirator then cashed the fraudulent checks for financial gain. The scheme involved approximately 112 victims and stolen and altered checks totaling approximately $179,447. Of this amount, approximately $74,911.50 involved checks that were successfully altered and negotiated.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Inspector in Charge Ketty Larco-Ward, Boston Division, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter, and the Greece Police Department, under the direction of Chief Michael Wood.
Jamestown woman going to prison for selling methRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Tracey Wynn, 42, of Jamestown, NY, who was convicted of conspiring to possess with intent to distribute, and distributing, 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, was sentenced to serve 24 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who handled the case, stated that between September 2018 and January 2019, Wynn was a drug trafficking associate of Douglas Beardsley and sold methamphetamine supplied by Beardsley. On four separate occasions, Wynn sold methamphetamine to an individual working with the DEA. On August 7, 2017, investigators executed a search warrant at Wynn’s residence and recovered a quantity of methamphetamine, approximately $347 in cash, drug paraphernalia, as well as items indicating children lived at the residence. On October 23, 2019, Wynn committed a moving traffic violation and was stopped by a Jamestown Police officer. A search of the vehicle recovered two digital scales, one of which had crystal methamphetamine on it. Wynn was arrested for driving with a suspended license and possession of drug paraphernalia. At the jail, a bag of marijuana was found in Wynn’s sweatshirt pocket, and plastic bags of methamphetamine were found on her person. Douglas Beardsley was previously convicted and sentenced.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson, the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarentino, New York Field Division; and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan Miller, New York Field Division.
Woman going to prison for her role in narcotics conspiracy operating in Jamestown, NY, areaRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Kylie Reeves, 31, of Jamestown, NY, who was convicted of conspiring to possess with intent to distribute, and distributing, 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, was sentenced to serve 108 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who handled the case, stated that Reeves was part of a drug trafficking ring led by co-defendant Rocco Beardsley. Reeves distributed methamphetamine and heroin for Beardsley, who controlled the supply and set the prices. Reeves also allowed Beardsley to utilize her residence in Jamestown and she communicated with others on his behalf. In March 2020, Beardsley was arrested on New York State warrants following a traffic stop. Law enforcement officers recovered large quantities of methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, crack cocaine, hydrocodone, and other controlled substances from Beardsley’s vehicle. Investigator’s then searched Beardsley’s residence, recovering methamphetamine, a glass plate with white powder material, digital scale, and $185.00 in United States currency. Reeves and her three minor children also lived at the residence. Following Beardsley’s arrest, Reeves conducted drug trafficking activities on his behalf, communicating with co-conspirators, associates, suppliers, and customers in order to continue receiving proceeds. Beardsley was previously convicted and is awaiting sentencing.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department and the Jamestown Metro Drug Task Force, under the direction of Jamestown Police Chief Timothy Jackson; the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarentino, New York Field Division; and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan Miller, New York Field Division.
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