Western District of New York
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
North Carolina man sentenced for being a felon in possession of a gunRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Michael Alan Jones, 24, of Charlotte, North Carolina, who was convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, was sentenced to time served (10 months) by U.S. District Judge David G. Larimer.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles E. Moynihan, who handled the case, stated that in February 2019, Jones was convicted in Alamance County, North Carolina, of two felony crimes, and as a result is legally prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition. On March 19, 2022, in the Town of Leroy, in Genesee County, Jones possessed a semiautomatic rifle and ammunition in a vehicle in the vicinity of Route 33 and Griswold Road and School Road.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff William Sheron, Jr., and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.
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Buffalo man pleads guilty to production of child pornographyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Michael Regan, 41, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. to production of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, a maximum of 30 years and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Caitlin M. Higgins, who is handling the case, stated that in August 2020, Regan took a sexually explicit photo of Minor Victim 1 using his cellular telephone. Also in August 2020, during communications over the social media application TextNow, Regan directed Minor Victim 2 to send him sexually explicit images of herself. Regan then met Minor Victim 2 to engage in sexual contact. After the sexual contact, Regan instructed Minor Victim 2 not to tell anyone or he would come to her house. Minor Victim 2 felt threatened by Regan’s statement.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Child Exploitation Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.
Sentencing is scheduled for January 25, 2024, before Judge Sinatra.
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Fairport man pleads guilty to attacking a federal officer during a campaign eventRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that David G. Jakubonis, 44, of Fairport, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Marian W. Payson to assaulting a federal officer, which carries a maximum penalty of one year in prison and a $100,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean C. Eldridge, who is handling the case, stated that on July 21, 2022, during a campaign event in Perinton, NY, Congressman Lee Zeldin gave a speech from the bed of a flatbed trailer. During the speech, Jakubonis walked onto the trailer, approached the Congressman, extended a keychain with two sharp points toward him and grabbed his arm. A struggle then ensued between Congressman Zeldin and Jakubonis and, as bystanders intervened, Jakubonis pulled Congressman Zeldin down onto the bed of the trailer, stating several times during the assault, “you're done.” Jakubonis was subdued and arrested.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, the U.S. Capitol Police, under the direction of Assistant Special Agent-in-Charge Chad Beckett, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Brian Ratajczak, the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Smith and the Brighton Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Catholdi.
Sentencing is scheduled for December 14, 2023, at 3:30 p.m. before Judge Payson.
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Depew man pleads guilty to selling fentanyl that led to the deaths of two individualsRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Jonathan DiPirro, 33, of Depew, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra to distribution of acetyl fentanyl and fentanyl causing death, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 20 years in prison, a maximum of life, and a fine of $1,000,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Adler, who is handling the case, stated that on Nov. 1, 2019, DiPirro sold controlled substances to an individual identified as J.L. During the morning hours of Nov. 2, 2019, emergency personnel arrived at J.L.’s residence and determined J.L. was deceased. An autopsy by the Erie County Medical Examiner’s Office determined the cause of death to be acute mixed drug intoxication, to include acetyl fentanyl, fentanyl, and cocaine. On March 4, 2020, at approximately 3:00 p.m., DiPirro sold controlled substances to an individual identified as S.L. At approximately 4:53 p.m., emergency personnel arrived at S.L.’s residence and determined S.L. to be deceased. An autopsy determined the cause of death to be acute mixed drug intoxication, to include acetyl fentanyl and fentanyl.
In addition, between approximately Oct. 2019, and March 24, 2020, DiPirro conspired with his co-defendant, Sarah Szymanski, and others, to sell acetyl fentanyl and fentanyl. In February 2020, investigators conducted four controlled purchases of controlled substances from DiPirro. Sarah Szymanski was previously convicted and is awaiting sentencing.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Lancaster Police Department, under the direction of Chief William Gummo; the Depew Police Department, under the direction of Chief Jerome Miller; the Cheektowaga Police Department, under the direction of Chief Brian Gould; the New York State Police Violent Gang Narcotics Enforcement Team, under the direction of Major Eugene Staniszewski; and the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino, III, New York Field Division.
Sentencing is scheduled for March 26, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. before Judge Sinatra.
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Rochester Drug Conspiracy Leader Going to Prison for More Than 17 YearsRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Jancarlos Gonzalez-Rivera a/k/a Los, 37, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and distribute, 400 grams of more of fentanyl, for his role as the leader of a large and long-standing illegal narcotics ring operating in the Rochester area, was sentenced to serve 210 months in prison by Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford. Gonzalez-Rivera was also ordered to forfeit three firearms, $225,000 in cash, and jewelry seized from his house valued at approximately $118,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Everardo A. Rodriguez, who handled the case, stated that between May 2018, and April 30, 2020, Gonzalez-Rivera conspired with others to sell fentanyl. Gonzalez-Rivera’s role in the conspiracy included communicating with his suppliers to arrange for fentanyl deliveries, arranging for drugs and drug proceeds to be stored at locations in the Rochester area, including 79 Branch Street, bagging and processing fentanyl for distribution to customers and co-conspirators, distributing fentanyl to others, and receiving and storing cash proceeds from the distribution of fentanyl. On April 30, 2020, numerous search warrants were executed in connection with the investigation, including at one of Gonzalez-Rivera’s stash houses where investigators seized approximately 982 grams of fentanyl and 67 grams of heroin, three handguns, drug paraphernalia, and approximately $225,000 in cash. At Gonzalez-Rivera’s residence, investigators found approximately $9,800 and numerous pieces of jewelry, including two Rolex watches valued at $55,000 and $35,000.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Rochester Resident Office, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division, the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Smith, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Brian Ratajczak, the Greece Police Department, under the direction of Chief Michael Wood, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge John B. DeVito, the U.S. Marshal Service, under the direction of Marshal Charles Salina; the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter; the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff David Cirencione, and the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, under the direction of Acting Commissioner Anthony J. Annucci. Additional assistance was provided by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Buffalo and Syracuse Resident Offices.
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Four Time Felon Pleads Guilty to New Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Ivan Morales, 48, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra. Jr. to possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and being a felon in possession of firearms. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum of life and an $8,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Louis A. Testani and Casey Chalbeck, who are handling the case, stated that on October 13, 2022, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Morales’s Ideal Street residence and seized suspected marijuana, a digital scale, and approximately $2,546.00 in U.S. currency. They also searched a Shanley Street apartment associated with Morales and seized approximately 1.5 kilograms of cocaine of cocaine, 12 clear bags containing cocaine, suspected MDMA pills, eight firearms, numerous magazines and ammunition, drug paraphernalia, and 250 $100 bills, for a total of $25,000.00 in U.S. currency. In 1998, 2004, 2006, and 2020, Morales was convicted of felonies in state and federal court and is legally prohibited from possessing firearms.
The plea is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino and the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia.
Sentencing is scheduled for January 16, 2024, before Judge Sinatra.
Albion Man Going to Prison for More Than 10 Years for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Anthony J. Alello, Jr., 32, of Albion, NY, who was convicted of possession of child pornography, was sentenced to serve 132 months in prison and 35 years of supervised release by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who handled the case, stated that in January 2022, an undercover FBI agent began communicating with Alello online using the Kik application. During these communications, Alello sent the agent links to cloud storage folders that contained child pornography. One folder contained approximately 2,484 videos of child pornography, and another folder contained approximately 45 videos of child pornography. On March 24, 2022, the FBI executed a search warrant at Alello’s residence and seized his cellular telephone. A subsequent forensic examination recovered approximately 1,744 images and six videos of child pornography, some of which depicted pre-pubescent children and violence against children.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Child Exploitation Human Trafficking Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, the Albion Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Mogle, and the Town of Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief James P. Stauffiger.
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Four Time Felon Pleads Guilty to New Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Ivan Morales, 48, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra. Jr. to possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and being a felon in possession of firearms. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum of life and an $8,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Louis A. Testani and Casey Chalbeck, who are handling the case, stated that on October 13, 2022, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Morales’s Ideal Street residence and seized suspected marijuana, a digital scale, and approximately $2,546.00 in U.S. currency. They also searched a Shanley Street apartment associated with Morales and seized approximately 1.5 kilograms of cocaine of cocaine, 12 clear bags containing cocaine, suspected MDMA pills, eight firearms, numerous magazines and ammunition, drug paraphernalia, and 250 $100 bills, for a total of $25,000.00 in U.S. currency. In 1998, 2004, 2006, and 2020, Morales was convicted of felonies in state and federal court and is legally prohibited from possessing firearms.
The plea is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino and the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia.
Sentencing is scheduled for January 16, 2024, before Judge Sinatra.
Convicted Sex Offender Charged with Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Jeffrey Swartz, 41, of Rochester, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession of child pornography by an individual with a prior sex offense, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, and a maximum of 20 years.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, in October 2009, Swartz was convicted in New York State Court of Rape 3rd: Victim Less than 17 Years Old. In September 2010, he was convicted in Federal Court of attempted production of child pornography and sentenced to serve 180 months in prison. In January 2020, Swartz was released from prison and began a 15-year term of supervised release. A condition of his release was that he must obtain authorization to use any internet accessible device and he must submit to monitoring of any such authorized device. In August 2023, the FBI was notified that Swartz was viewing child pornography on a monitored cellular telephone, which was confiscated by U.S. Probation. A review of the phone recovered images and videos of child pornography.
Swartz made an initial appearance before U.S. District Judge David G. Larimer and was detained.
The complaint 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, and the U.S. Probation Department, under the direction of Chief Probation Officer Timothy Englert.
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 Traveled to Rochester to Have Sex with A 13 Y/O Girl Going to PrisonRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Mohammed Uddin, 36, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of attempted receipt of child pornography, was sentenced to serve 72 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle P. Rossi, who handled the case, stated that Uddin engaged in sexually explicit online and text communications with an undercover law enforcement officer, who he believed was a 13-year-old girl. Over a period of approximately three weeks, Uddin discussed engaging in sexual relations with the child, sent pornography to the child, talked about taking the child’s virginity, attempted to induce the child to produce and send him sexually explicit photos and videos, and formed a plan to meet the child at her Rochester home for sex. On August 18, 2022, Uddin traveled from Cheektowaga to an address in Rochester that he believed was the child’s residence and was immediately taken into custody, at which time investigators located Uddin’s cell phone and candy that he purchased as a gift for the child.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Child Exploitation Human Trafficking Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter.
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Wilson Man Pleads Guilty to Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Kevin S. Wise, Jr., 33, of Wilson, NY, pleaded guilty before Senior U.S. District Judge William M. Skretny to 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. The charges carry a maximum penalty of life in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.
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 plea 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 John B. Devito, New York Field Division; and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpinato.
Sentencing is scheduled for December 13, 2023, at 9:00 a.m. before Judge Skretny.
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Niagara Falls Man Going to Prison for 20 Years for Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Jessy Santos, 30, of Niagara Falls, NY, who was convicted of production of child pornography, was sentenced to serve 240 months in prison by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Maeve E. Huggins, who handled the case, stated that on June 23, 2016, Santos produced a digital recording of himself engaged in sexual conduct with an eight-year-old minor victim in his care. Santos used a cellular telephone to record the conduct.
The sentencing 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 Niagara County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Michael Filicetti, the Cheektowaga Police Department, under the direction of Chief Brian Gould, and the Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief James Stauffiger.
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Lyons Man Arrested on Multiple Child Pornography and Enticement ChargesRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Randall Seeley, Jr., 45, of Lyons, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with production, receipt, and possession of child pornography, and online enticement of a minor. The charges carry a minimum penalty of 15 years in, a maximum term of life, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle P. Rossi, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, in July 2023, the New York State Police in Lyons received a report that Seeley had been involved in sexually explicit online communications with a 13 to 14-year-old minor. An investigation led to the execution of a search warrant in August 2023, at Seeley’s residence. A review of the minor’s social media accounts revealed sexually explicit communications between Seeley and the minor going back as far as July 2022. A preliminary forensic analysis of Seeley’s electronic devices recovered hundreds of images and videos of child pornography, depicting the minor and other, unknown children.
Seeley made an initial appearance 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 New York State Police, under the direction of Major Brian Ratajczak, and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Jamestown Man Arrested, Charged with Possession of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Andre Richards, 23, of Jamestown, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. The charge carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum of life and a $10,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, since January 2022, law enforcement has been investigating the drug trafficking activities of Richards in Chautauqua and Cattaraugus Counties in NY, and in Warren, PA. During the investigation, Richards was charged with several New York State felonies involving the possession and distribution of large quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl as well as criminal possession of a loaded firearm. Despite these pending felony charges, Richards continued to operate a significant drug trafficking organization. The complaint states that Richards utilized a North Main Street residence in Russell, PA, as well as a residence on South Work Street in Falconer, NY.
In March 2023, after investigators conducted surveillance of Richards driving around Jamestown, NY, and observed him engaging in activity consistent with narcotics dealing, including a brief meeting with an individual that involved a hand-to-hand exchange, search warrants were executed on his vehicle and the residence in Falconer, NY. During the searches, law enforcement seized approximately 84 grams of crystal methamphetamine, approximately $6,600.00 of United States currency, a digital scale, a drug processing press, a 9mm magazine, and bullets. During a search of the Russell, PA, residence, law enforcement seized approximately 20 lbs. of crystal methamphetamine.
Richards made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy and was detained.
The complaint is the result of a joint investigation by the Jamestown Police Department Drug Task Force, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson, the Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Force, under the direction of Chautauqua County Sheriff James Quattrone, the Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Timothy Whitcomb, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Eugene Staniszewski, the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division, and the Warren County, PA, Drug Task Force, under the direction of Sheriff Brian Zeybel.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Rochester Man Who Led Police on High Speed Chase Pleads Guilty to Carjacking and Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Jaden Z. Campbell, 19, of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. to carjacking and using or carrying a firearm during a crime of violence. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of life and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Cassie Kocher, who is handling the case, stated that in the early morning hours of July 11, 2022, Campbell approached an individual (Victim 1) as Victim 1 walked towards an apartment building near Resolute Street and North Clinton Avenue. Carrying a firearm, Campbell told Victim 1, “give me everything or I’m gonna pop you.” Victim 1 gave Campbell several items, including the keys to his 2006 Infiniti G35. While continuing to point his gun, Campbell forced Victim 1 to start the Infiniti. Campbell then drive away by himself. Once the police located the stolen car, Campbell refused to pull over, instead, leading officers on a chase for approximately 25 minutes through Monroe County. Campbell at times reached speeds of approximately 85 MPH, ultimately crashing the car in a ditch near Quaker Road in Scottsville, NY. During the chase, Campbell also tossed a 9mm pistol from the Infiniti on Cranbrook Drive in Irondequoit, NY.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Smith, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Brian Ratajczak, the Monroe County Sherriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of John B. DeVito, Special Agent-in-Charge, New York Field Division.
Sentencing is scheduled for January 17, 2024, at 10 a.m. before Judge Geraci.
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Rochester Man Going to Prison for Assaulting an OfficerRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Raymond Brock, 30, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of assaulting a federal officer, was sentenced to serve 12 months in prison by U.S. Magistrate Judge Marian W. Payson.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Katelyn M. Hartford, who handled the case, stated that on May 2, 2022, Brock was taken into custody by members of the United States Marshals Service Task Force at his Forrester Street residence. After being taken into custody, Brock was uncooperative and refused to walk under his own power. A Task Force Officer tried speaking with Brock about the circumstances of the incident and arrest, during which he was physically resistant and said he was going to spit in the face of the officer. Brock did so, and his spit, which contained blood, struck the officer in the face and went into his mouth.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the United States Marshals Service Task Force, under the direction of Marshal Charles Salina.
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North Tonawanda Man Pleads Guilty to Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Daniel Rodriguez, 40, of North Tonawanda, NY, pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford to possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum of life, and a fine up to $8,000,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Evan K. Glaberson, who is handling the case, stated that leading up to September 11, 2020, Rodriguez and co-defendant Adrienne Czosnyka resided together on Center Avenue in North Tonawanda. Rodriguez was a suspect in an investigation being conducted by the Town of Tonawanda Police Department. On September 11, 2020, investigators executed a search warrant at the Center Avenue residence and on a vehicle belonging to defendant Czosnyka. They recovered over 500 grams of cocaine, four digital scales, 10 cellular telephones, and over $4,700 in currency. Investigators also recovered a 12-gauge shotgun, and three rounds of ammunition. Rodriguez was previously convicted of felonies in 2001 and 2007, and is legally prohibited from possessing firearms.
In addition, co-defendant Adrienne Czosnyka pleaded guilty to misdemeanor possession of cocaine and faces up to a year in prison.
The pleas are the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarentino, III, New York Field Division; the Town of Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief James Stauffiger; the North Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief Keith T. Glass; and the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Eugene Staniszewski.
Sentencing is scheduled for December 5, 2023 before Chief Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford.
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Indian Citizen Pleads Guilty to Marriage Fraud ChargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Vikrant Chauhan, 35, a citizen of India living in Chicago, Illinois, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to conspiracy to commit marriage fraud. The charge carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney John D. Fabian, who is handling the case, stated that on April 2, 2018, Chauhan, a citizen of Indian, married a female United States citizen in Worcester, Massachusetts. The marriage was fraudulent in that Chauhan and the female United States citizen were not in a genuine relationship, never resided together, and entered the “contract marriage” only for the purpose of obtaining a Permanent Resident Card. also known as a Green Card, for Chauhan. On June 1, 2018, using his Indian passport, Chauhan submitted an Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status to the Department of Homeland Security citing the April 2, 2018, fraudulent marriage. In May 2019, Chauhan was interviewed by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), during which his “wife” stated that she lived together with Chauhan in Connecticut. In November 2021, Chauhan was interviewed a second time by USCIS, during which he falsely claimed to continue to reside with his “wife” in Connecticut. He also falsely claimed that his “wife” was pregnant with his child. During the course of the conspiracy, the female United States citizen whom Chauhan married brokered multiple fraudulent marriages that were conducted in Hamburg, NY, and facilitated multiple USCIS interviews that were conducted in Buffalo, NY.
The plea is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino, Customs and Border Protection, under the direction of Director of Field Operations Rose Brophy, Citizenship and Immigration Services, Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General, Chicago Field Office under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Karen Whalen, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Eugene Staniszewski, and the Hamburg Police Department, under the direction of Chief Peter Dienes.
Sentencing is scheduled for January 26, 2024 before Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
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Frewsburg Sex Offender Arrested on New Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Jeffrey Paden, 57, of Frewsburg, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with receipt and possession of child pornography, which carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, and a maximum of 40 years.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, the New York State Police (NYSP) received a report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) that an individual in Frewsburg, NY, uploaded images of child pornography on the internet. Subsequent investigation traced the images to Paden, who is currently on federal supervised release following a 2015 conviction for possession of child pornography. Paden was sentenced to serve 57 months in prison and ordered to register as a sex offender upon release. On September 12, 2023, the FBI executed a search warrant on 12 electronic devices seized earlier in the investigation by the NYSP and recovered multiple images of child pornography.
The complaint 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, and the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Eugene Staniszewski.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Former Postal Employee Charged with Stealing Gift Cards and Money from the MailRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that a federal grand jury has returned an eight-count indictment charging Anita Miller, 40, of Jamestown, NY, with six counts of theft of mail by a postal employee and two counts of delay of mail by a postal employee. The charges carry a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Franz M. Wright, who is handling the case, stated that according to the indictment, on six occasions in February and March 2022, Miller, while employed by the U.S. Postal Service, stole gift cards and cash from mailed envelopes. In addition, one two occasions in March 2022, Miller delayed delivery of mailed envelopes.
The indictment is the result of an investigation by 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.
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Former Postal Employee Charged with Stealing Gift Cards and Money from the MailRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that a federal grand jury has returned an eight-count indictment charging Anita Miller, 40, of Jamestown, NY, with six counts of theft of mail by a postal employee and two counts of delay of mail by a postal employee. The charges carry a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Franz M. Wright, who is handling the case, stated that according to the indictment, on six occasions in February and March 2022, Miller, while employed by the U.S. Postal Service, stole gift cards and cash from mailed envelopes. In addition, one two occasions in March 2022, Miller delayed delivery of mailed envelopes.
The indictment is the result of an investigation by 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.
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Pennsylvania Man Arrested, Charged with Firearms TraffickingRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Christian Arroyo Collazo, 27, of New Castle, PA, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with engaging in the firearms business without a license, unlawful shipment and transportation of firearms, and firearms trafficking. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, Collazo was identified as an individual associated with multiple Jamestown, NY, drug traffickers/users during an investigation into methamphetamine and heroin trafficking in Jamestown by the DEA and Jamestown Metro Drug Task Force. Between November 2021, and May 2022, investigators traced three firearms recovered in Jamestown to Collazo, who purchased the firearms at Duke's FFL, and Nesbit Guns, both located in New Castle, PA. Two of the firearms were recovered during the arrests of two other federal defendants. Subsequent investigation determined that Collazo utilized Facebook and Facebook Messenger to conduct firearm related conversations and effectuate his firearms trafficking activities. During these conversations, Collazo would send photos of firearms to potential buyers.
Collazo made an appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer and was released on conditions.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
This case is being prosecuted under the new criminal provisions of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which Congress enacted, and the President signed in June 2022. The Act is the first federal statute specifically designed to target the unlawful trafficking and straw-purchasing of firearms.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarentino, III, New York Field Division, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of John B. DeVito, Special Agent-in-Charge, New York Field Division, and the Jamestown Metro Drug Task Force, under the direction of Jamestown Police Chief Timothy Jackson.
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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Youth Pastor Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography ChargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Nathan L. Rogers, 39, of East Aurora, NY, pleaded guilty before Senior U.S. District Judge William M. Skretny to attempted receipt of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 20 years, and a fine of $250,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul E. Bonanno, who is handling the case, stated that in July 2019, at Darien Lake Park in Genesee County, NY, Rogers, a church youth pastor, set up iPhones in his camper to surreptitiously record, for the purposes of his own sexual gratification, nude images of a minor victim. Shortly after setting up the phones, Rogers invited the minor victim to change out of her bathing suit in his camper. She agreed and, as she changed, the iPhones recorded nude images. After changing, the minor victim noticed the phones recording her. She seized the iPhones, attempted to delete the videos, and then reported the incident to authorities. Responding law enforcement officers detained and questioned Rogers. Subsequently, nude images of the minor victim were located on the phones.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of William A. Sheron, Jr.
Sentencing is scheduled for December 13, 2023, before Judge Skretny.
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Two Jamestown Men Plead Guilty for Their Roles in Heroin/Fentanyl ConspiracyRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Justin Yuchnitz, 29, and Brandon Andino, 38, both of Jamestown, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo for their roles in a Jamestown drug conspiracy. Yuchnitz pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, heroin and fentanyl, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine up to $1,000,000. Andino pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 40 grams or more of fentanyl, and faces 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 Joshua A. Violanti, who is handling the case, stated that defendant Yuchnitz sold heroin and fentanyl that he received from co-defendant Joseph Zaso, utilizing electronic media, such as Facebook and CashApp, to carry out his drug trafficking activities. For example, in February 2021, he utilized his CashApp account to pay $2000 to Zaso to cover his drug debts. During the conspiracy, defendant Andino distributed large amounts of heroin and fentanyl that he also received from Joseph Zaso. Andino also distributed heroin and fentanyl on behalf of Zaso to Zaso’s associates and customers.
Co-defendants Brian Cessna, Denver Komenda, and Richard Philbrick were previously convicted. Co-defendants Joseph Zaso and Kyle Lewis are scheduled to go to trial in February 2024.
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 sentencings are the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division, the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson, and the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James B. Quattrone.
Yuchnitz is scheduled to be sentenced on January 5, 2024, at 9:30 a.m., which Andino is scheduled to be sentenced on January 8, 2024, at 9:30 a.m., both before Judge Vilardo.
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Rochester Man Who Led Drug Conspiracy Going to Prison for More Than 13 Years for Fentanyl Trafficking and Possessing FirearmsRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Tyrik Edwards, 31, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 40 grams or more of fentanyl, 10 grams or more of a fentanyl analogue, and 500 grams or more of cocaine, and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, was sentenced to serve 160 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brett A. Harvey, who handled the case, stated that Edwards – a two-time convicted felon – was a leader of a drug trafficking organization that distributed significant quantities of fentanyl, para-fluorofentanyl, and cocaine in the Rochester area, and Augusta, Maine. Other members of the conspiracy included Walter H. Bennett and Ray C. Mack, Jr. The organization operated a drug house on Woodward Street in Rochester, New York, where they sold fentanyl, para-fluorofentanyl, and cocaine to customers. In addition, controlled substances, firearms, and ammunition, were stored at various locations in Rochester, including the Woodward Street residence, along with residences on Argo Park and Clairmount Street. Fentanyl and drug proceeds were stored at an East Avenue apartment the residence of Edwards’ then-girlfriend, Quenteria Wilson, who lived there with her four-year-old son. During the investigation, law enforcement recovered approximately 158 grams of fentanyl, 11 grams of para-fluorofentanyl, and 580 grams of cocaine, along with more than $20,000 in drug proceeds, six firearms, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, and seven firearm magazines.
Ray C. Mack, Jr., and Walter H. Bennett were previously convicted. Mack was sentenced to serve 135 months in prison, Bennett is awaiting sentencing. Quenteria Wilson was convicted of misdemeanor possession of fentanyl and was sentenced to probation.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the 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 and the Greater Rochester Area Narcotics Enforcement Team, under the direction of Chief David M. Smith.
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Prior Sex Offender Pleads Guilty to New ChargesRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Benjamin Crout, 39, of Bath, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa to possession of child pornography by an individual with a prior sex offense, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum of 20 years.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire, who is handling the case, stated that in August 2004, Crout was convicted in Steuben County Court of Possessing Sexual Performance by a Child Less than 16 and Attempted Sexual Abuse in the 1st Degree. In June 2022, law enforcement received a cybertip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, that an individual uploaded six files containing child pornography to a Google Drive account. Investigators tracked the IP address to Crout’s residence. On January 26, 2023, a search warrant was executed at Crout’s residence during which a tablet and cell phone containing images of child pornography were seized. The devices collectively contained 1,323 images and 47 videos of child pornography, some of which included infants/toddlers engaged in sexually explicit conduct and depictions of violence.
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 and the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Eugene Staniszewski.
Sentencing is scheduled for January 4, 2024, before Judge Siragusa.
Lewiston Man Going to Prison on Meth ChargeRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Treshon Alexander, 30, of Lewiston, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. to possession with intent to distribute 400 grams of more of fentanyl, which carries a minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, a maximum of life in prison, and a fine of up to $20,000,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert A. Marangola, who is handling the case, stated that in February 2015, Alexander was convicted on federal charges of conspiracy to manufacture, possess with intent to distribute, and distribute 280 grams or more of crack cocaine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Alexander was sentenced to serve 108 months in prison and five years’ supervised release. On February 16, 2023, while on supervised release, Alexander was arrested at his Apollo Drive residence in Greece, when members of the U.S. Probation Office conducted a search there and at a Chippendale Road residence, which Alexander used to store narcotics. During the searches, investigators seized $6,654.00 in U.S. currency, multiple cell phones, materials for processing and packaging narcotics for distribution, over 2000 rounds of ammunition, a money counter, and vacuum sealer. In addition, approximately 1,394 grams of fentanyl and 504 grams of cocaine were also seized.
The plea was the culmination of an investigation by the U.S. Probation Office, under the direction of Chief Probation Officer Timothy Englert, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge John B. DeVito. Additional assistance was provided by the New York State Attorney General’s Office, under the direction of Attorney General Letitia James.
Sentencing is scheduled for January 10, 2024, before Judge Geraci.
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Federal Grand Jury Indicts Buffalo Brothers on Charges of Narcotics Conspiracy and Selling FentanylRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that a federal grand jury has returned an 11-count indictment charging Arquan Butler aka Easy, 25, and Jahaun Butler, 25, both of Buffalo, NY, with narcotics conspiracy, and distribution of crack cocaine and fentanyl. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 40 years, and a fine up to $1,000,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Louis A. Testani, who is handling the case, stated that according to the indictment, between May 9 and July 5, 2023, the defendants conspired with others to sell fentanyl and crack cocaine in the Buffalo and Cheektowaga, NY, areas. The investigation included controlled purchases of crack cocaine and/or fentanyl on 10 separate occasions.
Jahuan Butler appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge H. Kenneth Schroeder, Jr. today for a detention hearing and was released on conditions. Arquan Butler will be arraigned on September 28, 2023.
The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Brian Ratajczak, and the Amherst Police Department, under the direction of Chief Scott Chamberlin.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Federal Grand Jury Indicts Buffalo Brothers on Charges of Narcotics Conspiracy and Selling FentanylRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that a federal grand jury has returned an 11-count indictment charging Arquan Butler aka Easy, 25, and Jahaun Butler, 25, both of Buffalo, NY, with narcotics conspiracy, and distribution of crack cocaine and fentanyl. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 40 years, and a fine up to $1,000,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Louis A. Testani, who is handling the case, stated that according to the indictment, between May 9 and July 5, 2023, the defendants conspired with others to sell fentanyl and crack cocaine in the Buffalo and Cheektowaga, NY, areas. The investigation included controlled purchases of crack cocaine and/or fentanyl on 10 separate occasions.
Jahuan Butler appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge H. Kenneth Schroeder, Jr. today for a detention hearing and was released on conditions. Arquan Butler will be arraigned on September 28, 2023.
The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Brian Ratajczak, and the Amherst Police Department, under the direction of Chief Scott Chamberlin.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Two Brothers Plead Guilty to $7.6M COVID-19 Relief FraudRead the Press Release
Two brothers pleaded guilty yesterday to their participation in a scheme to file fraudulent loan applications seeking approximately $7.6 million in forgivable Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans that the Small Business Administration (SBA) guaranteed under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.
According to court documents, between April and September 2020, Larry Jordan, 45, of Lancaster, New York, and Sutukh El, aka Curtis Jordan, aka Hugo Hurt, aka Hugo Hermes Hurtington, 41, of Buffalo, New York, conspired to submit eight fraudulent PPP loan applications on behalf of companies they owned or controlled. The defendants submitted three of the applications to Evolve Bank & Trust and five to Lendio, a financial technology company based in Utah. The applications contained false statements about the 2019 payroll expenses of each company, which the SBA used to calculate the amount of PPP funds to which the applicant-companies would be entitled. To corroborate the applications, Jordan and El submitted IRS forms, which they had never filed with the IRS, as well as fraudulent payroll registers that purported to identify the names, personal information, and salary of the employees identified on the PPP applications. The money was then deposited into an account controlled by El, which the brothers used for their own investments, personal expenses, and home improvements.
Jordan and El pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud and wire fraud, which carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine. Jordan also pleaded guilty to bank fraud, which carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison, and engaging in monetary transactions in criminally derived property, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. The brothers are scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 17, 2024. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross for the Western District of New York; Special Agent in Charge Patricia Tarasca of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General (FDIC OIG), New York Region; Special Agent in Charge Brian Tucker of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s Office of the Inspector General (FRB-CFPB OIG), Eastern Region; Special Agent in Charge Robert Manchak of the Federal Housing Finance Agency Office of Inspector General (FHFA-OIG), Northeast Region; Assistant Director Luis Quesada of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division; and Special Agent in Charge Amaleka McCall-Brathwaite of the Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General (SBA-OIG), Eastern Region made the announcement.
The FDIC OIG, FRB-CFPB OIG, FHFA-OIG, FBI, and SBA-OIG are investigating the case.
Trial Attorneys Ariel Glasner and Della Sentilles of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Charles Kruly and Grace Carducci for the Western District of New York are prosecuting the case.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Two Brothers Plead Guilty to COVID Relief FraudRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, NY – U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that two brothers, Larry Jordan, 45, of Lancaster, NY, and Sutukh El a/k/a Curtis Jordan a/k/a Hugo Hurt a/k/a Hugo Hermes Hurtington, 41, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. to conspiracy to commit bank fraud and wire fraud for their participation in a scheme to file fraudulent loan applications seeking forgivable Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans guaranteed by the Small Business Administration (SBA) under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine. In addition, Jordan pleaded guilty to bank fraud, which carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and engaging in monetary transactions in criminally derived property, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.
According to court documents, between April and September 2020, Jordan and El conspired to submit eight fraudulent PPP loan applications on behalf of companies they owned or controlled. Three of the applications were submitted to Evolve Bank & Trust and the other five were submitted to Lendio, a financial technology company based in Utah. The applications contained false statements about the 2019 payroll expenses of each company, which were used to calculate the amount of PPP funds to which the applicant-companies would be entitled. To corroborate the applications, Jordan and El submitted IRS forms, which had never been filed with the IRS, as well as fraudulent payroll registers that purported to identify the names, personal information, and salary of the employees identified on the PPP applications.
For example, a PPP loan application was submitted on behalf of 5 Stems Inc to Evolve. The application represented that in 2019, 5 Stems Inc had 194 employees and an average monthly payroll of $242,133.33. In truth, 5 Stems Inc had nine employees in 2019 and paid those employees a total of approximately $57,380 for all of 2019. Evolve approved the application and funded a $605,200 loan. The money was deposited into an account controlled by defendant El. Some of the money was used for the defendants’ own investments, as well as personal expenses and home improvements.
This case was investigated by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation’s Office of Inspector General, the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection’s Office of the Inspector General, the Federal Housing Finance Agency’s Office of the Inspector General, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Small Business Administration’s Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Charles Kruly and Grace Carducci for the Western District of New York and Trial Attorneys Ariel Glasner and Della Sentilles of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Sentencing is scheduled for January 17, 2024, before Judge Sinatra.
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Tonawanda Man Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography ChargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Michael Szczepanik, 38, of Tonawanda, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara to possession of child pornography, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Franz M. Wright, who is handling the case, stated that in December 2021, Szczepanik’s IP address was identified on a file sharing site where files of child pornography were being shared. In February 2022, investigators executed a warrant at his residence and seized electronic devices, which contained images and videos of child pornography. The items included a desktop and the hard drives located on the device, where more than 600 images and videos of child pornography were discovered. Some of the images included prepubescent minors and depictions of 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.
Sentencing is scheduled for December 18, 2023, before Judge Arcara.
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Three Jamestown Residents Going to Prison in Two Separate Cases for Selling Fentanyl That Led to A DeathRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Garson E. Butcher, 31, and Alisha Centi, 29, both of Jamestown, NY, who were convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine, were sentenced by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. Butcher was sentenced to serve 240 months in prison and Centi was sentenced to serve 84 months in prison. In a separate case, Judge Sinatra sentenced Ryan Bloom, 37, also of Jamestown, to serve 240 months in prison. Bloom was also convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who handled the cases, stated that between March 2020, and June 2021, Butcher and Centi conspired with others to possess and sell heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine. On March 29, 2020, Butcher and Centi sold fentanyl which resulted in the death of an individual identified as T.R. On September 28, 2020, Butcher and Centi sold heroin to an individual identified as K.K., who overdosed but regained consciousness after receiving multiple doses of Narcan. In addition, Butcher and Centi used residences on Fairview Avenue and Roland Road to manufacture and distribute heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Violanti stated that defendant Bloom bought and sold heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine for profit and his own use. Bloom and co-conspirator, Rachelle Allison, utilized a Fairview Avenue residence in Jamestown to conduct their drug trafficking activities, selling drugs, and running a needle exchange out of the residence. These activities resulted in numerous overdoses occurring at that location. On April 5, 2020, the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office responded to a Hoag Road residence in Ashville, NY, for a possible overdose death. Upon arrival, an individual identified as D.R., was found deceased. A search of D.R.’s cellular telephone revealed Facebook messages between D.R. and Bloom the previous day that were drug related. Bloom admits that he and Allison distributed heroin and fentanyl to D.R. the day before D.R.’s death. On July 19, 2020, Bloom sold heroin and fentanyl to an individual identified as A.R. at the Fairview Avenue residence, resulting in A.R. overdosing. After receiving two doses of Narcan, A.R. and was revived and regained consciousness.
Rachelle Allison was previously convicted and is awaiting sentencing.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The sentencings are the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division, the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson, and the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James B. Quattrone.
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Rochester Man Arrested, Charged with Destroying and Sinking A VesselRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Vyacheslav S. Migitskiy, 33, a Ukrainian national living in Rochester, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with destruction of a vessel, making a false statement, and sinking of a vessel in a navigable channel. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, on August 26, 2022, the U.S. Coast Guard received a report from a local mariner of a partially submerged vessel, a 1987 25’ Bayliner, approximately a half mile offshore east of Little Pond in Rochester. A Coast Guard small boat responded to the area and an active search and rescue mission began. It was determined that no individuals were on vessel. It was also determined that the propellers and boat plug were missing, and all electronics were removed from the vessel. The total estimated loss of the United States Coast Guard’s search and rescue efforts was $14,194, and the New York State Police rescue helicopter cost recovery was $1,248.00.
Subsequent investigation traced the vessel to Migitskiy, who claimed that he had given the vessel to unknown individuals two weeks prior. According to the complaint, a witness, and a review of surveillance video show Migitskiy placing the vessel in the water, and then using a different boat that he owned to tow the vessel out into the lake, where it was later discovered.
Migitskiy made an initial appearance today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark W. Pedersen and was released on conditions.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Coast Guard Investigative Service, under the direction of Joshua Packer, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge, Central Region, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Brian Ratajczak, and the Gates Police Department, under the direction of Chief Robert Long, the Rochester Fire Department, under the direction of Chief Stefano Napolitano, the Irondequoit Police Department, under the direction of Chief Scott Peters, and the Greece Police Department, under the direction of Chief Michael Wood.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Prior Felon Going to Prison on Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Paul Pringle, 44, of Hilton, NY, who was convicted of being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition, was sentenced to serve 60 months in prison by Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Everardo A. Rodriguez, who handled the case, stated that on March 2, 2023, during a joint investigation by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, the Rochester Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, investigators executed a search warrant at Pringle’s Underwood Avenue residence and two firearms, over 900 rounds of ammunition, and 12 gun assembly kits. As part of his plea, Pringle admitted that he manufactured and sold in excess of 10 Personally Manufactured Firearms (PMF) to others. Pringle has three prior felony convictions for possessing firearms or ammunition and is legally prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition.
The sentencing is the culmination of an investigation by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter, the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Smith, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge John B. DeVito, New York Field Division.
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Former IRS Employee Pleads Guilty and Is Sentenced on Tax ChargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Lisa Hughes, 52, of Hamburg, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy to unauthorized inspection of returns or return information. Judge McCarthy then sentenced Hughes to one year probation and a $1,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas A. C. Penrose, who is handling the case, stated that while working as a Case Advocate within the Internal Revenue Service’s Taxpayer Advocate Service, in Buffalo, Hughes would receive calls from Individual 1 and Individual 2, who worked at a local tax preparation firm (Company). Individual 1 and Individual 2 would inquire about returns filed for the Company’s clients. Hughes would then access the returns or other return information in the IRS” Integrated Data Retrieval System (IDRS). Between April 25, 2014, and August 16, 2019, Hughes accessed return information for Company 1 clients on more than 120 occasions. The calls received from Individual 1 and Individual 2 were not part of Hughes’s job responsibilities and she knew that she was not authorized to access the return information in response to these calls. In addition, between 2016 and 2019, Hughes also prepared over 100 tax returns for Company 1 clients, for which she was compensated. For the 2016 to 2018 tax years, Hughes also prepared approximately 250 returns for friends and family, for which she was sometimes compensated. Hughes knew that IRS regulations prohibited her from preparing tax returns for others in return for compensation.
The plea and sentencing are the result of an investigation by the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge William Kalb.
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Niagara Falls Man Going to Prison for Five Years on Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Lazarus R. Hayes, 34, of Niagara Falls, NY, who was convicted of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, was sentenced to serve 60 months in prison by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy C. Lynch, who handled the case, stated that on June 19, 2021, the Niagara Falls Police Narcotics Unit and Niagara County Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at Hayes’s Pierce Avenue residence. During the search, they recovered from a bag belonging to co-defendant Gerald Harper approximately 93 grams of cocaine, 9 grams of fentanyl, 26 grams of amphetamine, 245 milligrams of hydrocodone, and 720 milligrams of oxycodone. In addition, within Hayes’s residence, investigators seized approximately 8 grams of cocaine, 20 clonazepam tablets, a digital scale, two loaded firearms, $3,958 in cash, which is proceeds of drug trafficking activities.
Gerald Harper was previously convicted and sentenced.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Niagara Falls Police Department, under the direction of Superintendent John Faso, the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division, and the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Michael Filicetti.
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Chautauqua County Man Arrested on Meth ChargesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Darin Butts, 30, of Celeron, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years, a maximum of life and a 10,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Louis A. Testani, who is handling the case, stated that investigators conducting surveillance of a E. Duquesne Street residence in Jamestown observed Butts exit the residence, remove a white and black shopping bag from his vehicle and place it in a nearby vehicle, which belonged to his girlfriend, Nikita Benson. Benson gave investigators permission to search the vehicle. They recovered the white and black shopping bag, which contained a large quantity of suspected methamphetamine, packaged in smaller, individual-sized quantities, a scale, packaging materials, and cash. A backpack containing a large quantity of suspected methamphetamine was also recovered. All of the methamphetamine seized totaled 856 grams. Butts was taken into custody at that time.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson, the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division, the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James Quattrone, the Ellicott Police Department, under the direction of Chief William Ohnmeiss Jr., and the Dunkirk Police Department, under the direction of Chief David C. Ortolano.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Buffalo Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Patrick Malloy, 33, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography before Senior U.S. District Judge William M. Skretny. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Russell T. Ippolito, Jr., who is handling the case, stated that on June 24, 2023, a search warrant was executed at Malloy’s residence and several electronic devices were seized. The devices contained approximately 28,000 images of child pornography, including images of prepubescent minors under the age of 12 engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
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.
Sentencing is scheduled for December 6, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. before Judge Skretny.
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Webster Business Owner Pleads Guilty to Tax Fraud for Failing to Report Hundreds of Thousands of Dollars in Income to the IRSRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Steven Rosenbaum, 57, of Webster, NY, pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford 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 Rosenbaum owns 50% of Swoop1, Inc., a security business that provides security personnel to various high schools, colleges, businesses, and performing arts venues in the greater Rochester area.
For the years 2016 through 2021, Rosenbaum and his Swoop1 co-owner, identified as A.L., failed to report on Swoop1’s corporate income tax returns gross receipts totaling $5,598,354. Rather than deposit hundreds of checks received from clients into their business bank account, the defendant and A.L. cashed the checks at a local check cashing business. From the money received from the checks cashed, Rosenbaum and A.L. paid fees to the check cashing business totaling $112,619, and paid hundreds of Swoop1’s employees some of or all their wages in cash. The remaining amount of the money received from the checks cashed, $2,550,787, was split by Rosenbaum and A.L. this resulted in Rosenbaum failing to report $1,390,315 in income and failing to pay $355,225 in taxes to the IRS. In addition, Rosenbaum and A.L. failed to pay payroll taxes on the $2,675,467 in cash that was paid to the employees of Swoop1, resulting in a loss to the IRS of $204,673.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Thomas Fattorusso, Special Agent-in-Charge.
Sentencing is scheduled for December 20, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. before Judge Wolford.
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Greece Man Going to Prison on Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Jason Lane, 28, of Greece, NY, who was convicted of receipt of child pornography, was sentenced to serve 60 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle P. Rossi, who is handling the case, stated that in July and August 2022, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) received tips from Yahoo that a user uploaded approximately 260 files of possible child pornography to a Yahoo email account. NCMEC forwarded the information to the New York State Police and a subsequent investigation traced the files to an IP address belonging to Lane, a former Town of Greece police recruit, who was terminated following a probationary period. The files include an image of a partially nude preschool-aged child, which appears to have been taken at a childcare facility in the Rochester, NY, area. The files also include sexually explicit images of two minor victims (Victim 1 and Victim 2), that appear to have been taken by Lane.
On August 9, 2022, the NYSP executed a search warrant at a residence in Brighton, NY, and seized a cellular phone belonging to Lane. A second search warrant was executed at a residence in Greece, NY. A forensic analysis of the phone recovered child pornography. A search warrant was also executed on Lane’s Yahoo account. That search recovered additional images of child pornography that were produced by Lane, in images that Lane obtained via the internet, and images of students at Spencerport High School that appear to have been take surreptitiously by Lane when he worked as a security guard at the school.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Brian J. Ratajczak, and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino.
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Penfield Man Pleads Guilty to Perjury for Lying Under Oath in George Moses InvestigationRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Francis Cardinell, 77, of Penfield, NY, pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford to perjury by materially inconsistent statements, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a fine of $250,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles M. Kruly, who is handling the case, stated that George Moses, former chairman of the board of the Rochester Housing Authority, was convicted and sentenced to serve 78 months in prison for defrauding three organizations, including the Rochester Housing Charities. In April 2019, Cardinell, owner of Akwasasne Construction, a general contracting firm in Rochester, was interviewed as a witness in connection with the investigation. When asked about a $63,000 contract for boiler work to be performed by his company at the Rochester Housing Charities, Cardinell advised that he paid a cumulative amount of more than $20,000 in cash to Moses as kickbacks related to this contract. Cardinell also stated that he gave Moses $14,000 in cash out of a payment of $28,000; $7,500 in cash out of a payment of approximately $18,000; and another $3,500 in cash out of an $8,000 payment he received, for a total of approximately $25,000 in kickbacks. However, during the federal trial of George Moses, while under oath on the witness stand, Cardinell testified on cross-examination that he had lied about the kickback scheme and that he never made payments to Gorge Moses in exchange for contracts for his company.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Christina D. Scaringi, and Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Thomas Fattorusso, Special Agent-in-Charge.
Sentencing is scheduled for December 18, 2023, before Judge Wolford.
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Miami Woman Pleads Guilty to Fentanyl Charge Following Traffic Stop in JamestownRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Elina Martinez, 65, of Miami, FL, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara to possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, which carries mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 40 years, and a fine of $5,000,000.
On December 7, 2022, a Jamestown Police Officer conducted a traffic stop after observing Martinez’s vehicle, bearing a Missouri license plate, committing a number of traffic violations. Martinez, who produced a Florida driver’s license and car rental paperwork to the officer, gave consent for the officer to search the car. Officers opened the hood of the car and observed an “aftermarket” car battery that appeared to be too large for the car and tampered with due to the presence of an unknown adhesive. Officers cut into the battery and found a plastic bag containing a large quantity of blue pills. The defendant was detained, and the car was towed for a more extensive search. Officers later searched the car battery and the car and discovered a plastic bag containing approximately 9 lbs. 13 oz. of blue pills bearing the markings “m” and “30.” The pills contained 4,389 grams of fentanyl.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson, the Chautauqua County Sheriff Office, under the direction of Sheriff James Quattrone, and the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division.
Sentencing is scheduled for December 8, 2023, at 12:30 p.m. before Judge Arcara.
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Jamestown Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy for His Role in Narcotics Ring Operating in Jamestown and BuffaloRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, NY--U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Brian Cessna, 63, of Jamestown, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 400 grams or more of fentanyl, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in, a maximum of life, and a fine of $10,000,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who is handling the case, stated that during the course of the conspiracy, Cessna bought and sold heroin and fentanyl, for profit and his own use. He also assisted co-conspirator Holly Berenguer in selling heroin and fentanyl, for profit and her own use, delivering on her behalf and collecting payments. An individual known as “Joey Cracks” (co-defendant Joseph Zaso) was Berenguer’s source of supply. Cessna utilized his Fairview Avenue residence for drug trafficking purposes, and also allowed Berenguer to utilize the residence to sell drugs.
Holly Berenguer and co-defendants Denver Komenda and Richard Philbrick were previously convicted and are awaiting sentencing. Charges remain pending against co-defendants Joseph Zaso, Brandon Andino, Justin Yuchnitz, and Kylie Lewis.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson, the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division, and the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James Quattrone.
Sentencing is scheduled for January 9, 2024, before Judge Vilardo.
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Buffalo Man Going to Prison for His Role in String of Credit Union RobberiesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.- U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Ronald Morris, 48, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of aggravated bank robbery, attempted bank robbery, and using, possessing, and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, was sentenced to serve 171 months in prison and pay restitution totaling $551,286 by U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who handled the case, stated that Morris was involved in robbing three credit unions:
- On February 27, 2019, Morris a/k/a Cracks and Adrian D. Applewhite entered the Tonawanda Community Federal Credit Union on Delaware Street in Tonawanda, armed with a firearm. The two men forcibly took approximately $111,992.18 in United States currency before fleeing in a vehicle.
- On July 25, 2019, the defendant and Myron McCollum entered the South Towns Community Federal Credit Union on South Park Avenue in Lackawanna wearing dark colored clothing and face masks and conducted a bank robbery with pepper spray and a pistol. Morris and McCollum traversed the teller’s counter, sprayed the tellers with pepper spray, and went to the unlocked safe, forcibly taking $290,500 in United States currency.
- On November 7, 2019, Morris and Carl Wilson and Myron McCollum, armed with a pistol and donning masks and gloves, entered the Clarence Community and School Federal Credit Union on Sheridan Drive in Clarence, and conducted a bank robbery while Applewhite, the getaway driver, sat in a car nearby. Morris and his accomplices ordered all the employees to the ground and demanded money. Wilson and McCollum went behind the teller line and went through teller’s drawers, while Morris went to the vault. They forcibly took $148,793.90 in United States currency.
Carl Wilson, Adrian Applewhite, and Myron McCollum were all previously convicted.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Eugene Staniszewski; the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia; the Lackawanna Police Department, under the direction of Chief Mark Packard; the Evans Police Department, under the direction of Chief Gregory Szarowicz; and the Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief James P. Stauffiger.
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Albion Man Going to Prison for 10 Years for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.- U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Spencer Hart, 39, of Albion, NY, who was convicted of possession of child pornography involving a prepubescent minor and having a prior conviction under the laws of any state relating to the possession or receipt of child pornography, was sentenced to serve 120 months in prison by Senior U.S. District Judge William M. Skretny.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Maeve E. Huggins, who handled the case, stated that in October 2018, Hart was convicted in Orleans County Court of attempted possession of an obscene sexual performance by a child. On July 16, 2020, a search warrant was executed at Hart’s residence and child pornography was found on a computer belonging to Hart. In total, Hart possessed more than 600 images of child pornography, some of which included prepubescent minors and depicted violence against children. Hart also admitted that he distributed child pornography using a peer-to-peer software program in June 2020.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, and the Orleans County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Christopher Bourke.
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Jamestown Woman Pleads Guilty to Her Role in Sex Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Jasmin Osteen, 26, of Jamestown, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. to conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of a minor, which carries a maximum penalty of life in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jonathan Cantil and Douglas Penrose, who are handling the case, stated that between August and October 2020, Osteen conspired with others to coerce two 17-year-old minors to engage in commercial sex acts. Osteen transported the minor victims to a hotel in Buffalo, where they were supplied with alcohol and drugs. Osteen then contacted various clients, who each engaged in commercial sex acts with minor victims. Osteen utilized Facebook to arrange for the commercial sex acts, and then received a majority of the proceeds.
The plea is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino, the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James Quattrone, and the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson.
Sentencing is scheduled for December 19, 2023 at 9 a.m. before Judge Sinatra.
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Bath Man with Prior Sex Offense Conviction Going to Prison on Child Pornography ChargeRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Joshua Wormley, 38, of Bath, NY, who was convicted of possession of child pornography by an individual with a prior sex offense conviction, was sentenced to serve 120 months in prison by Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire, who handled the case, stated that in July 2017, Wormley was convicted of attempted possession of a sexual performance of a child. In February 2021, Wormley possessed a cell phone containing approximately 800 images and two videos of child pornography. Some of the images and videos depicted prepubescent minors.
The sentencing 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 and the Yates County Sheriff's Office, under the direction of Sheriff Ronald Spike.
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North Tonawanda Man Pleads Guilty to Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Michael Angstenberger, 48, of North Tonawanda, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara to receipt of child pornography. The charges carry a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison, a maximum of 20 years, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles M. Kruly, who is handling the case, stated that Angstenberger created and used a Snapchat account with the username “catybug1234,” to communicate with, and obtain sexually explicit images from, minor girls. When doing so, he posed as a minor girl. Angstenberger communicated with minor victims in other states and countries. For example, Angstenberger communicated with a victim located in Kentucky (Victim 1), who was 12 years old. On December 5, 2021, Angstenberger asked Victim 1 to send him sexually explicit photos, which she did. Angstenberger communicated with a second victim located in Arkansas (Victim 2), who was approximately 11-12 years old. Victim 2 also sent sexually explicit photos as Angstenberger’s request.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
Sentencing is scheduled for December 1, 2023, before Judge Arcara.
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Business Owner Pleads Guilty to Tax ChargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Julie Dotton, 51, of Orchard Park, NY, pleaded guilty to willful failure to truthfully account for and pay over employment taxes before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. The charge carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Russell T. Ippolito, Jr., who is handling the case, stated that Dotton was the President, CEO, and majority shareholder of Applied Sciences Group (ASG), a technology business that largely developed software. She was also the founding partner of the partnership KRP Holdings (KRP). By law, businesses must account for income tax, social security tax, and a hospital insurance (Medicare) tax in the wages of individual employees, equal to a percentage of the wages earned by the employee. These taxes are commonly referred to as “trust fund taxes” because employers hold these taxes in trust for the government. For all of 2018 and three quarters of 2019, Dotton failed to pay over the trust fund taxes to the IRS on behalf of the employees of ASG and KRP, resulting in a loss of approximately $1,100,837 to IRS. Dotton also admitted that she obtained a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan from the federal government in the amount of $117,277, to which she was not entitled.
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 20, 2023, at 9:00 a.m. before Judge Sinatra.
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