Western District of New York
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Leader of Violent Rochester Drug Ring Sentenced to Life in Prison for Drug and Gun Charges, and MurderRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Carlos Javier Figueroa a/k/a Javi, a/k/a Big Bro, 44, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted following a federal jury trial of narcotics conspiracy, possession and discharge of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and murder while engaged in narcotics conspiracy, was sentenced to serve life in prison plus 25 years by U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert A. Marangola, Cassie M. Kocher, and Katelyn M. Hartford, who handled the prosecution of the case, stated that Figueroa was the leader of a Rochester-based drug trafficking organization that was involved in the transportation and sale of cocaine in the City of Rochester and responsible for acts of violence in furtherance of the organization’s drug trade. These acts of violence included the September 12, 2016, shooting death of Walter Ross at the corner of Burbank Street and North Clinton Avenue. Figueroa provided the 9mm handgun that co-defendant Jonathan Cruz-Carmona used to murder Walter Ross. The gun was also used by co-defendant Obed Torres Garcia to shoot at police officers on Burbank Street when they attempted to raid Figueroa’s residence on January 29, 2018.
Various locations throughout Rochester were utilized to receive, store, and sell the supply of illegal narcotics. Figueroa coordinated shipments of cocaine from Puerto Rico, which were sent to locations in Rochester via the United States Postal Service (USPS). Once the packages arrived in Rochester, the cocaine was broken down and packaged for sale. On January 29, 2018, during the execution of state search warrants, investigators seized more than $700,000 in cash, six assault rifles, three loaded handguns, over four kilograms of cocaine, and a quantity of suspected heroin and fentanyl.
A total of 12 defendants were charged and convicted in this case.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge John B. Devito; the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Interim Chief David Smith; the Greater Rochester Area Narcotics Enforcement Team (GRANET), under the direction of Lieutenant Robert Hill; the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division; the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia; the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter; the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office, under the direction of District Attorney Sandra Doorley; the Greece Police Department, under the direction of Chief Michael Wood; and U.S. Border Patrol, under the direction of Chief Patrol Agent Thomas G. Martin.
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Buffalo Man Going to Prison for Selling Heroin and FentanylRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Moralles Mendez, 44, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, was sentenced to serve 90 months in prison by Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Meghan E. Leydecker and Charles E. Watkins, Jr., who are handling the case, stated that in August and September 2019, investigators conducted two controlled purchases of heroin and fentanyl from Mendez. On September 25, 2019, another controlled purchase was arranged and when Mendez arrived at the pre-determined location, he was arrested with a quantity of heroin and fentanyl on the front passenger seat of his vehicle. Law enforcement also executed a search warrant at Mendez’s residence and recovered five cellphones and two digital scales.
The sentencing 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.
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Texas and Maryland Women Arrested for COVID-19 Relief FraudRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Brandie S. Williams, 41, of Dallas, Texas, and Brittany L. Herbert, 35, of Brandywine, Maryland, were arrested and charged by criminal complaint with one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and one count of bank fraud. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura A. Higgins, and Cory E. Jacobs and Jennifer L. Bilinkas of the Criminal Division’s Fraud, who are handling the case, stated according to the complaint, between May 2020 and June 2021, Williams and Herbert conspired with Adam Arena and Amanda Gloria, and others, to fraudulently obtain and misuse multiple COVID-19 Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) emergency relief loans, including:
• Williams, Herbert, and Gloria worked together to fraudulently obtain a $290,000 loan for William’s business, Beyond the Next Level, Inc. After receiving the PPP loan, Williams did not use the funds for legitimate business-related purposes. For instance, she transferred $10,000 into bank accounts of Amanda Gloria’s daughters, $11,953.10 to a business account controlled by Amanda Gloria, and $21,953.10 to an account controlled by co-defendant Herbert.
• Williams, Herbert, and Gloria and Arena worked together to fraudulently obtain a loan for approximately $954,000 for Arena's business, ADA Auto Group. After the PPP loan proceeds were transferred into an account controlled by Arena, he conducted a series of financial transactions, including for his own personal benefit, for Gloria's benefit, and for the benefit of others.
• Williams, Herbert, and Gloria worked together to fraudulently obtain at least 42 additional loans for at least 31 entities owned by other individuals, requesting a total of approximately $10,200,000. This resulted in Herbert and Gloria personally receiving at least approximately $383,000. The defendants submitted false and fraudulent documents to support the loan applications, including falsified payroll expenses, fraudulent bank records, and fabricated federal tax filings.
Adam Arena and Amanda Gloria were previously convicted and are awaiting sentencing.
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act is a federal law enacted on March 29, 2020, designed to provide emergency financial assistance to the millions of Americans who are suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. One source of relief provided by the CARES Act was the authorization of up to $349 billion in forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other expenses, through the PPP. In April 2020, Congress authorized over $300 billion in additional PPP funding.
The PPP allows qualifying small businesses and other organizations to receive loans with a maturity of two years and an interest rate of 1%. PPP loan proceeds must be used by businesses on payroll costs, interest on mortgages, rent, and utilities. The PPP allows the interest and principal on the PPP loan to be forgiven if the business spends the loan proceeds on these expense items within a designated period of time after receiving the proceeds and uses at least a certain percentage of the PPP loan proceeds on payroll expenses.
The Fraud Section leads the Department of Justice’s prosecution of fraud schemes that exploit the CARES Act. In the months since the CARES Act was passed, Fraud Section attorneys have prosecuted more than 100 defendants in more than 70 criminal cases. The Fraud Section has also seized more than $65 million in cash proceeds derived from fraudulently obtained PPP funds, as well as numerous real-estate properties and luxury items purchased with such proceeds. More information can be found at: https://www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/cares-act-fraud.
Anyone with general 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: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
The criminal complaint is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia; the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Thomas Fattorusso; the United States Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division, under the direction of Inspector-in-Charge Ketty Larco-Ward; and the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Sharon B. MacDermott, New York Field Division.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Postal Manager and Employee Arrested, Charged with Using the Mail to Distribute Cocaine and MarijuanaRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Ralph Minni, 52, and Grace Marie Lopez, 30, of Greece, NY, were arrested and charged in separate criminal complaints with conspiring and attempting to possess with intent to distribute marijuana and 500 grams or more of cocaine. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 40 years, and a $5,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean C. Eldridge, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaints, Minni is the manager of the Greece, NY Post Office, and Lopez works for the Post Office at the main Jefferson Road facility in Rochester. Minni and Lopez are accused of utilizing their positions to obtain quantities of marijuana and cocaine through the mail and then redistributing the narcotics in the Rochester area.
During the investigation, law enforcement conducted numerous controlled purchases of narcotics from Lopez, who discussed how she obtained the narcotics from her then-boyfriend Minni and described how he used his position as a postal employee to avoid detection and to protect the narcotics. Throughout the investigation, Minni was observed removing mail packages from the post office work floor and taking them into his private office at the Greece Station, later emerging with one or more packages that often appeared to be repackaged. Minni would put the original package back into the mail stream and take a separate box with the contents from the parcel to his personal vehicle. On at least three occasions, video surveillance captured Minni taking cocaine from his desk or pocket and giving it to another employee to snort.
On May 2, 2022, investigators observed Minni remove a package from the work room floor and take it into his office. After removing the contents, Minni returned the original package to the mail stream, took the contents to his vehicle in a separate box, and left the post office shortly after, at which time he was taken into custody. During the execution of search warrants at Minni’s office, his residence, and his vehicle, investigators recovered approximately four pounds of marijuana, over $75,000 worth of narcotics, including THC, marijuana, and cocaine, 40 firearms, over 5,000 rounds of ammunition, and a bullet proof vest.The complaint is a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia; the United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General, Eastern Area Field Office, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Modafferi; and the United States Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division, under the direction of Inspector-in-Charge Ketty Larco-Ward. Additional assistance was provided by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, New York Field Division, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge John B. Devito; the Greece Police Department, under the direction of Chief Michael Wood; and the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Barry Chase.
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 Pleads Guilty to Narcotics ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Kevin Hughes, 60, of Jamestown, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. to narcotics conspiracy. The charge carries a minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum of life, and a $10,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua A. Violanti and Misha Coulson, who are handling the case, stated that Hughes assisted co-defendant Jun Martinez in his drug trafficking operation, receiving drug packages via mail at his residence, frequently driving Martinez in and around Jamestown for drug trafficking activities, assisting with retrieving money from customers, vacuum sealing the money, and subsequently mailing the money to the source of supply. In September 2020, during a trip out of New York State to acquire narcotics from a source of supply, an Illinois State Police Trooper stopped Hughes and Martinez around Frankfort, Illinois. A search of their vehicle resulted in the seizure of approximately 9,589 grams of methamphetamine, 3,157 grams of fentanyl, 2,241 grams of cocaine, and marijuana products.
Jun Martinez 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 plea is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Metro Drug Task Force, under the direction of Jamestown Police Chief Timothy Jackson, and the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division.
Sentencing is scheduled for November 1, 2022, at 2:00 p.m. before Judge Sinatra.
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Former Buffalo Public School Teacher Going to Prison for Selling Marijuana and Possessing Firearms in Furtherance of His Drug Trafficking ActivitiesRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Michael Masecchia, 57, of Williamsville, NY, who was convicted of possession with intent to distribute marijuana, and possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes, was sentenced to serve 84 months in prison by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph M. Tripi and Brendan T. Cullinane, who handled the case, stated that since at least 1999 through his arrest on August 23, 2019, Masecchia was involved in the sale of marijuana in the Buffalo and its surrounding suburbs. Masecchia and others also participated in marijuana grow operations in Ellicottville and Franklinville, in Cattaraugus County, NY. The marijuana grown at those operations was harvested and distributed to resellers and users. In addition, the defendant possessed firearms to protect himself, his proceeds, and property where he stored marijuana and currency.
As part of his plea agreement, Masecchia admitted that he received sensitive law enforcement information from his co-defendant Joseph Bongiovanni, who worked as a Special Agent of the United States Drug Enforcement Administration in Buffalo. The information included the names of potential cooperators and whether or not Masecchia and others were under federal investigation, and such information helped Masecchia and others to continue selling marijuana undetected by other members of law enforcement.
On August 23, 2019, a search warrant was executed at the Masecchia’s Main Street residence and seized $27,950.00 in U.S. currency; Two rifles, five shotguns, and a pistol; ammunition; marijuana and suspected cocaine; steroids; hypodermic needles; THC edibles; cannabis syrup; drug paraphernalia; and four cell phones.
Charges remain pending against co-defendant Joseph Bongiovanni.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino; the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia; the Erie County Sheriff's Office, under the direction of Sheriff John Garcia; the Niagara County Sheriff's Office, under the direction of Sheriff Michael Filicetti; and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of John B. Devito.
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Two West Seneca Women Arrested, Charged with Selling OxycodoneRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Renee Ferrentino, 48, and Kiara Hurd, 20, both of West Seneca, were arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession with the intent to distribute, and to distribute, Oxycodone and conspiracy to distribute Oxycodone. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Misha A. Coulson, who is handling the case, stated that in August 2021, the Drug Enforcement Administration the New York State Police began investigating the narcotic sales and trafficking of defendant Ferrentino who was distributing Oxycodone pills. On two separate dates in April 2022, investigators conducted controlled purchases of Oxycodone/Hydrochloride and Oxycodone/Acetaminophen pills from Ferrentino and Hurd at their Union Road residence. On April 28, 2022, investigators executed a search warrant the residence and seized numerous prescription bottles, which contained amounts of suspected controlled substances including:
• amphetamine and dextroamphetamine;
• Oxymorphone Hydrochloride;
• Oxycodone-Acetaminophen;
• Buprenorphine Hydrochloride;
• Tramadol Hydrochloride;
• alprazolam;
• lorazepam;
• Zolpidem TartrateThe prescription bottles were in multiple names, some of which did not include the defendants. A bag of cash and various drug paraphernalia were also recovered.
The complaint 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 Eugene Staniszewski, and the West Seneca Police Department, under the direction of Chief Edward Baker.
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 Arrested on Multiple Child Pornography Charges, Including ProductionRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Nathan Follett, 35, of Rochester, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with production, possession, receipt, and distribution of child pornography. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, in August 2021, the Monroe County Sheriff's Office received a report that Follett was in possession of sexual images of 17 and 14-year-old minors and that Follett also admitted to having sex with a minor without her consent. Subsequent investigation determined that Follett communicated on social media, including Snapchat, with multiple minor girls. Between 2016 and December 2021, Follett is suspected of coercing a total of 11 victims to send naked images to him.
On December 16, 2021, a search warrant was executed at Follett’s residence and several digital devices were seized, including two cell phones and two computers. A bag of suspected cocaine was also seized. A forensic review of the electronic devices recovered approximately 106 images and 47 videos of child pornography.
Follett made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Marian W. Payson and was detained.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter, the Federal Bureau of Investigation Child Exploitation Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia, and the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Barry Chase.
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 Cocaine Dealer Going to PrisonRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Ernest Gamble, 20, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and crack cocaine, was sentenced to serve 63 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. McGrath, who handled the case, stated that Gamble was a member of a drug trafficking organization that distributed large quantities of cocaine and crack cocaine out of a drug house on Glenwood Avenue in Rochester. On May 19, 2021, a search warrant was executed at the Glenwood Avenue residence, during which investigators seized cocaine, drug paraphernalia and counter surveillance devices. Gamble was present during the search, and it appeared that he and others were in the process of flushing narcotics down the toilet after law enforcement made entry into the residence. Gamble was taken into custody with over $5,000 in cash in his pockets.
The sentencing is the culmination of an investigation by the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Interim Police Chief David Smith, the Greater Rochester Area Narcotics Enforcement Team, and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino.
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Jamestown and California Men Charged with Operating National Narcotics ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, NY—U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that a federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Aaron Miller, 28, of Jamestown, NY, and La D. Huynh a/k/a Paul a/k/a P, 39, of Chula Vista, CA, with narcotics conspiracy. 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 indictment, between July 2019, and October 16, 2020, Miller and Huynh are accused of conspiring with others to import methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl from California to be sold in the Jamestown, NY, area.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division and the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of 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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Buffalo Man Pleads Guilty to His Role in Interstate Marijuana Trafficking OperationRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Vincent Lopresti, 26, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty to misprision of a felony before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo. The charge carries a maximum penalty of three years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who is handling the case, stated that between 2016, and June 2019, Lopresti received marijuana from the Robert Fiels drug organization, distributed and helped distribute the marijuana, concealed the marijuana and stored it until he could sell it, and by his actions helped the marijuana distribution conspiracy to continue. Lopresti failed to notify the Department of Justice and Homeland Security Investigations of the criminal conduct.
Robert Fiels 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 plea is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino and the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Eugene Staniszewski.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 1, 2022, before Judge Vilardo.
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Buffalo Man Pleads Guilty to Brandishing A Firearm During A Drug DealRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Charlie Yancey, 29, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty to brandishing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy. The charge carries a minimum penalty of 7 years and a maximum of life in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremiah E. Lenihan, who is handling the case, stated that on July 28, 2019, Yancey met an individual in the parking lot of a convenience store on Main Street in Buffalo to purchase marijuana. Yancey got into the individual’s vehicle and attempted to pay for the marijuana with counterfeit money, which resulted in an argument. Yancey pulled out a 9mm semi-automatic pistol, with an obliterated serial number, and fired nine shots at the individual, causing non-life-threatening injuries. The firearm was later recovered by law enforcement and linked to spent shell casings recovered at the scene.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia, and the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia.
Sentencing is scheduled for August 5, 2022, before U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara.
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Salamanca Man Arrested on Multiple Child Pornography Charges Including Production, Receipt and PossessionRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Robert Calkins, Jr., 37, of Salamanca, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with production, receipt, and possession of child pornography. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, lifetime supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Rudroff, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, in April 2020, the New York State Police (NYSP) began an investigation after receiving multiple reports from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) referencing Calkins as the subject of activity and material involving suspected child pornography. In September 2020, NYSP investigators executed a search warrant at Calkins’ E. Jefferson Street residence in Salamanca, seizing four cell phones and an SD card. A forensic analysis recovered thousands of images and videos of suspected child pornography on the phones and SD card. Some of the images depict a minor female whom Calkins had contact with. Also recovered were sexually explicit Facebook Messenger conversations between Calkins and what is believed to be a 16-year-old minor female.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Eugene Staniszewski, and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Acting 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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Dunkirk Man Pleads Guilty to Cocaine ChargeRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, NY—U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Hector Santos-Morales, 32, of Dunkirk, NY, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute, and to distribute, 500 grams or more of cocaine before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo. The charge carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 40 years in prison and a $5,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Adler, who is handling the case, stated that in June 2020, a United States Postal Inspector executed a federal search warrant on a parcel from Puerto Rico addressed to “Hector D. Santos” on Beaver Street in Dunkirk, NY. During the search, the Postal Inspector seized approximately one kilogram of suspected cocaine. On June 29, 2020, investigators replaced the cocaine with “sham” and conducted a controlled delivery of the parcel to the Beaver Street address. After a device inside the parcel alerted investigators that it has been opened, law enforcement approached the residence and took Santos into custody.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the United States Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Inspector-in-Charge Ketty Larco-Ward of the Boston Division, the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division, and the Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Force, under the direction of the Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office and Sheriff Timothy Whitcomb.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 2, 2022, before Judge Vilardo.
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Convicted Felon on Supervised Release Pleads Guilty to Cocaine ChargeRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, NY—U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Charles Jones, 49, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine before Senior U.S. District Judge William M. Skretny. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a $2,000,000 fine. Jones also pleaded guilty to a violation of supervised release.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan E. Leydecker, who is handling the case, stated that Jones was on supervised release following the completion of a 66-month prison sentence for a federal cocaine conviction. As a condition of his supervised release, on August 16, 2021, Jones reported to the U.S. Probation Office in Buffalo. While at the Probation Office, Probation Officers executed a search of Jones’s Broadway Avenue apartment. Jones had not reported this address as required, but U.S. Probation determined that he resided at this apartment. During the search, U.S. Probation Officers recovered quantities of crack cocaine, cocaine, and marijuana, a digital scale, $2,900 in cash, a Rolex watch appraised at $3,450, and two necklaces appraised at $1,350. According to the apartment complex’s manager, the defendant began leasing the apartment in March 2021.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Probation Department, under the director of Chief Probation Officer Timothy Englert, the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff John Garcia, 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 August 3, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. before Judge Skretny.
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Convicted Felon Arrested on Multiple Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, NY—U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Jason Koscielski, 33, of Rochester, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with enticement of a minor, and possession and distribution of child pornography by an individual with a prior sex offense conviction. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum of 40 years.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, in December 2011, Koscielski was convicted on federal charges of possession, receipt and distribution of child pornography and sentenced to serve 135 months in prison and 30 years of supervised release. In September 2020, Koscielski was released from the Bureau of Prisons custody and began his term of supervised release. On September 15, 2020, during a meeting with a United States Probation Officer to review the terms of his supervision, Koscielski told the officer that he was in possession of an unmonitored cellular telephone. The officer confiscated the cell phone for review and installation of monitoring software. During a review of the cell phone, probation personnel observed images and videos that they believed could constitute child pornography. An FBI review of the images confirmed that the images and videos were child pornography. On September 16, 2020, Koscielski was charged with violating the conditions of his supervised release for possessing and downloading child pornography.
On December 17, 2020, Kosclelski pleaded guilty to a violation of his supervised release and was sentenced to serve another 12 months in prison. On July 26, 2021, Koscielski was once again released from Bureau of Prisons custody and began his second term of supervised release. In August 2021, Koscielski was placed at the Volunteers of America, Residential Reentry Center in Rochester, NY. However, in November 2021, Koscielski was unsuccessfully discharged from the program, resulting in another charge of violating supervised release. Koscielski was arrested on November 9, 2021.
On November 16, 2021, the Volunteers of America, Residential Reentry Center alerted probation that while bagging up Koscielski’s belongings in his bedroom at the center, another cell phone was located with his personal belongings. A review of the cell phone once again revealed suspected images of child pornography. The FBI examined the cell phone and observed numerous images of child pornography as well as several instant message conversations, during which he exchanged images of child pornography with two unidentified individuals and a 15-yeal-old minor victim.The complaint is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Probation Department, under the director of Chief Probation Officer Timothy Englert and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Child Exploitation Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Cheektowaga Man Pleads Guilty to Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Kenneth Ritchie, 31, of Cheektowaga, NY, pleaded guilty to production of child pornography before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, a maximum of 30 years, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that on June 16, 2021, Ritchie engaged in sexually explicit conduct with a minor victim and used a cellular telephone to produce visual depictions of the conduct. The visual depictions were located in image files saved on Ritchie’s cell phone.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Cheektowaga Police Department, under the direction of Chief Brian Gould, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia.
Sentencing is scheduled for August 24, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. before Judge Sinatra.
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Buffalo Man Pleads Guilty to Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Marquis Workman a/k/a Smurf, 27, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. the charge carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of life, and a fine of $250,000
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who is handling the case, stated that on June 2, 2021, investigators obtained a federal search warrant for a parcel addressed to the residence of Workman and his girlfriend Cameile Garrett on Beverly Road in Buffalo. Inside the parcel were two separate sealed bags of pills containing Methyl 2-(4-fluorophenyl)-2-(piperidin-2-yl) acetate, a controlled substance analogue. During the execution of a search warrant of the Beverly Road residence on June 4, 2021, investigators recovered quantities of cocaine, adinazolam, carisoprodol, clonazepam, $5,753 in cash, a scale consistent with the weighing and measuring narcotics, a loaded handgun, a loaded revolver handgun, and two long guns.
Cameile Garrett was previously convicted and is awaiting sentencing.
The plea 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.
Sentencing is scheduled for October 19, 2022, before Judge Sinatra.
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Buffalo Man Accused of Lying on Passport ApplicationRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Melvin Leon Lee a/k/a Mohammad Caliph Lei, 70, of Buffalo, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with making a false statement in application and use of passport. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura A. Higgins, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, in April 2021, Melvin Leon Lee applied for a United States Passport. When Lee was asked if he had ever used any other names, he left that box on the application blank. The application was denied. Subsequent investigation determined that Lee falsely claimed that two prior passports, issued in July 1976 and March 1980, were lost. The investigation also uncovered Lee’s use of a second identity, “Mohammad Caliph Lei.” The defendant’s “Lei” identity was prevented from receiving a passport because of $12,450 in unpaid child support debt. As a result of that debt, Lei has been certified for passport denial since November 2001.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Department of State, Diplomatic Security Service, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Keith J. Byrne, New York Field Office and the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Sharon B. MacDermott, New York Field Division.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Prior Felon Going to Prison for Possessing A Gun and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y.—U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Marco Sweat, 41, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, was sentenced to serve 21 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan E. Leydecker, who handled the case, stated that on June 9, 2019, the FBI Safe Streets Task Force, Buffalo Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, executed a search warrant at Sweat’s residence on Langfield Drive in Buffalo. During the search, investigators seized three firearms and 125 rounds of ammunition. Sweat, having previously been convicted in Erie County Court of Attempted Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Fifth Degree, and Attempted Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Fifth Degree, is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm and ammunition.
The sentencing is result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Safe Streets Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia; the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia; and 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 Substitute Teacher and Coach Pleads Guilty to Receipt and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Steven Gasiorek, 36, of Cheektowaga, NY, pleaded guilty before Senior U.S. District Judge Williams M. Skretny to receipt of child pornography and possession of child pornography involving a prepubescent minor. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of five years, a maximum penalty of 40 years, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that between March 2014, and April 16, 2019, Gasiorek worked as a substitute teacher and athletic coach at John F. Kennedy Middle and High Schools in Cheektowaga, NY. During that time, Gasiorek pretended to be a teenage girl living in California and used a fictitious Instagram account in the name of LEXIGURL1015 to communicate with numerous minor males and receive child pornography from them. Gasiorek knew the victims he was communicating with were minors, and he served as a teacher or coach to some of the victims he received child pornography from.
On April 16, 2019, during the execution of a search warrant at Gasiorek’s residence, a laptop computer and external hard drive were seized. A forensic examination recovered images and videos of child pornography depicting many minor males, of which 29 have been positively identified. The victims lived in Cheektowaga, Lancaster, Virginia, Texas, and Florida. In total, Gasiorek possessed over 600 images and videos of child pornography.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia, the Cheektowaga Police Department, under the direction of Chief Brian Gould, the West Seneca Police Department, under the direction of Chief Edward Baker, and the Fauquier County, Virginia, Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Jeremy Falls.
Sentencing is scheduled for July 27, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. before Judge Skretny.
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Buffalo Man Pleads Guilty to Selling HeroinRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Victor Quinones, 25, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of distribution of heroin, was sentenced to serve 84 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel L. Violanti, who handled the case, stated that on July 16, 2019, Quinones sold heroin to an individual working with the FBI. A few days later, on July 18, 2019, a federal search warrant was executed at Quinones’ residence on Leroy Avenue where he was apprehended. Investigators recovered drug packaging and a quantity of butyryl fentanyl. Quinones admitted to distributing heroin in the Buffalo area for approximately one year, including the sale of heroin to an individual who overdosed and died.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia, and the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia.
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Buffalo Felon Pleads Guilty to Drug and Gun Charges, His Girlfriend Admits Lying to AuthoritiesRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, NY—U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Frankie Cook, 28, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to possession with intent to distribute 100 grams of heroin and 40 grams of fentanyl and being a felon in possession of a firearm, which carry a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 40 years and a $5,000,000 fine. In addition, Shawntee Ellison, 28, also of Buffalo, pleaded guilty to misprision of a felony, which carries a maximum penalty of three years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles E. Watkins, who is handling the case, stated that on February 11, 2020, in Erie County Court, Cook was convicted of Attempted Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree and is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm. On February 26, 2020, Erie County Probation officers went to Cook’s residence on Dartmouth Avenue in Buffalo, for an initial information visit. During the visit, officers discovered what appeared to be a drug preparation station with gloves, masks, and plastic bags in the basement. Officers then searched the basement and found a hidden safe with approximately 240 grams of fentanyl, 156 grams of heroin, drug paraphernalia, a .45 caliber magazine, .45 caliber ammunition, 9mm ammunition, and a stolen loaded 9mm handgun inside.
Shawntee Ellison knew that Cook possessed the heroin and fentanyl, and the firearm, but failed to notify the proper federal law enforcement authorities. She also took steps to conceal Cook’s actions, including falsely telling law enforcement authorities that she did not know about the heroin, fentanyl, and firearm in the safe at her residence or that Cook was involved in distributing controlled substances.
The pleas are the result of an investigation by the Erie County Probation Department, under the direction of Commissioner Michelle Olszowy; the Erie County Sheriff’s Department, under the direction of Sheriff John Garcia; and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia.
Frankie Cook is scheduled to be sentenced on September 1, 2022, at 1:00 p.m. and Shawntee Ellison is scheduled to be sentenced on September 23, 2022, at 10:00 a.m., both before Judge Vilardo.
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Cocaine Dealer Pleads Guilty to Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Timothy Granison, 43, of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine before U.S. District Court Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. The charge carries a minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 40 years and a $5,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. McGrath, who is handling the case, stated that Granison was a member of a drug trafficking organization led by Jason Siplin that distributed large quantities of cocaine and crack cocaine out of a Glenwood Avenue drug house. Over the course of the conspiracy, Granison regularly obtained bulk quantities of cocaine from Jason Siplin, which he then sold to his own customers. On May 19, 2021, investigators intercepted telephone calls between Granison and co-conspirator Dkeidron Dublin, during which the two discussed Granison resupplying Dublin with cocaine sometime that afternoon. At approximately 3:23 p.m., surveillance officers observed Granison pull up to Dublin’s Birch Crescent residence in Rochester. Dublin came out of the residence and got into Granison’s vehicle. Investigators then surrounded the vehicle and took Granison and Dublin into custody. During the execution of search warrants on the vehicle and Dublin’s residence, 31 grams of cocaine and $1,241.00 in cash was recovered.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Barry Chase, the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Interim Chief David Smith, the Greater Rochester Area Narcotics Enforcement Team, and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 6, 2022, at 2:00 p.m. before Judge Geraci.# # # #
Buffalo Man Going to Prison for His Role in Cocaine Conspiracy Stretching from El Paso, Texas to BuffaloRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Lance Parker, 44, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of conspiring to possess with intent to distribute, and distributing, 500 grams or more of cocaine, was sentenced to serve 78 months in prison by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Adler, who is handling the case, stated that in July 2018, Parker conspired with co-defendants Edgar Pavia, Adrian Goudelock, Eric Young, and others, to sell cocaine. Pavia brokered bulk quantity cocaine from the Southwest border to multiple areas in the country including Buffalo, NY, Kentucky, and Georgia. On July 25, 2018, Parker met Eric Young in a parking lot in West Seneca and was observed by investigators removing a bag from his pick-up truck and putting it in the driver’s side of the tractor-trailer that Young was operating. Parker was further observed removing a different bag from the tractor-trailer. Investigators subsequently seized both bags, one contained 17 kilograms of cocaine, and the other contained 52 shrink-wrapped and taped bundles of currency, totaling $519,580. Law enforcement officers also found three plastic wrapped packages of bulk U.S. currency totaling $145,380 secreted in the tractor-trailer. A phone seized from Parker revealed text messages from co-defendant Goudelock with instructions where to go to find the tractor-trailer.
Defendants Pavia, Goudelock, and Young were previously convicted.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) - Buffalo, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino; the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia; the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Eugene Staniszewski; the Erie County Sheriff’s Department, under the direction of Sheriff John Garcia; and Customs and Border Protection, Air and Marine Unit, under the direction of Brian Manaher, Director, Marine Operations. Additional assistance was provided by the New York National Guard; HSI-Louisville; the Kentucky State Police; the Louisville Metro Police; and the Greater Hardin County Drug Task Force.
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Rochester School Bus Driver Arrested, Charged with Sexually Abusing A 13 Year Old on A Bus and Witness TamperingRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Tomas Rosario, 74, of Rochester, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with attempted receipt of child pornography, possession of child pornography, and attempted tampering with a witness. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of five 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, on March 11, 2022, the Rochester Police Department received a report of a sexual assault of a 13-year-old female (Minor Victim). Subsequent investigation determined that the Minor Victim was allegedly touched inappropriately by her school bus driver, later identified as Rosario. A review of surveillance video captured on cameras installed on the school van shows Rosario having inappropriate sexual discussions with the Minor Victim on the way to and from school. The Minor Victim and Rosario are the only occupants in the van. Rosario also the drove the Minor Victim past his residence and told her that if there comes a day when she does not want to go to school, he could provide her with his phone number so that Minor Victim could call him. Rosario then gave the Minor Victim a piece of paper with his phone number written on it. Rosario also told the Minor Victim not to tell anyone about their conversation. During the ride home from school, Rosario directed the Minor Victim to do something sexually inappropriate. The Minor Victim reminds Rosario about the camera inside the vehicle. Rosario then inappropriately touches the Minor Victim multiple times. Rosario tells the Minor Victim again not to tell anyone because he could have a big problem. A few days after this sexual assault occurred, Rosario encountered the Minor Victim in a convenience store and again warned her not to tell anyone. This encounter was captured by the store’s security cameras.
On April 13, 2022, the Rochester Police Department obtained a warrant to search Rosario’s cell phone, during which investigators recovered images of child pornography.
Members of the public who have information regarding this case are asked to call the FBI at 1-585-546-2220.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Interim Police Chief David Smith, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Child Exploitation Task Force, under the direction of Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia, and the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office, under the direction of District Attorney Sandra Doorley.
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 Wanted on an Outstanding Warrant in Texas Arrested on Charges of Distribution and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Joseph Perez, of Rochester, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with distribution of child pornography and possession of child pornography involving a prepubescent minor. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire, who is handling the case, stated that in December 2020, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) received a cybertip from Twitter, Inc. that an individual, later identified as Perez, uploaded four images of suspected child pornography to Twitter. Subsequently, in March 2021, NCMEC received a cybertip from Instagram indicating that Perez uploaded one file of suspected child pornography. On November 5, 2021, the New York State Police executed a search warrant at Perez’s Avenue D residence and recovered several electronic devices were seized. A forensic analysis found approximately 125 videos of child pornography on a cellular telephone. At the time of his arrest, investigators discovered that there is an active warrant for Perez’s arrest out of Potter County, Texas, where he was charged with Indecency with a Child/Sexual Contact.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Eugene Staniszewski, and the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office, under the direction of District Attorney Sandra Doorley.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Registered Sex Offender Faces Mandatory Minimum 10 Years in Prison After Pleading Guilty to Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y.- U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Matthew Bald, 40, of Lockport, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. to possession of child pornography involving a prepubescent minor by a person having a prior conviction for sexual abuse, aggravated sexual abuse, or abusive sexual contact involving a minor or ward. The charge carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum of 20 years, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Rudroff, who is handling the case, stated that in November 2011, Bald was convicted in Niagara County Court of Sexual Abuse in the First Degree and sentenced to serve six months in prison and 10 years’ probation. On December 15, 2020, while still on probation, Bald possessed more than 600 images of child pornography on a laptop computer. Some of the images of child pornography depicted prepubescent minors.
The plea is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security investigations, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Eugene Staniszewski, the Niagara County Probation Department, under the direction of Director John Cicchetti, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
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Olean Man Pleads Guilty to CyberstalkingRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Luke Marshall Wenke, 29, of Olean, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. to cyberstalking. The charges carry a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Charles M. Kruly and David J. Rudroff, who are handling the case, stated that between January 23 and January 24, 2022, Wenke threatened to injure an individual identified as R.G. in Minnesota. R.G. is a criminal defense attorney who represents an acquaintance of Wenke’s in a criminal matter in the District of Minnesota. Beginning in September 2020, Wenke grew dissatisfied with the representation that R.G. provided to the acquaintance, and began to harass and threaten R.G. Between September 22, 2020, and January 24, 2022, Wenke sent R.G. more than 76 emails, a voicemail, made two phone calls to R.G.’s law firm, and attempted to visit R.G.’s law firm in-person on one occasion, in addition to numerous fake internet reviews of R.G.’s law firm. Several of the communications referenced Wenke’s possession of firearms, and/or his familiarity with explosives.
On January 23, 2022, Wenke sent R.G. an email in which he stated, among other things, “They say men respect each other after a fight. I will gladly take a steel chair to your face until I get what I want here. You don’t respect me. . . but you will.” On January 24, 2022, Wenke sent another email to R.G. in which he stated, among other things, “This fight will happen, do not fear and do not worry. Do not cross certain lines. Oh boy do I have work to do tomorrow.” That same day, Wenke sent another email and attached a photo depicting an aerial view of R.G.’s residence.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia and the Olean Police Department, under the direction of Chief Ron Richardson.
Sentencing is scheduled for August 18, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. before Judge Sinatra.
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Grand Island Man Pleads Guilty to Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Frank Vacanti, 41, of Grand Island, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to maintaining a drug involved premises. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of $500,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who is handling the case, stated that between 2016 and June 29, 2020, Vacanti worked with others, including co-defendant Robert Fiels, to sell marijuana. On June 29, 2020, investigators executed a search warrant at Vacanti’s East River Road residence seizing marijuana; THC and cannabis oil; THC edibles, gummies and cartridges; packaging material; ketamine; vape cartridges; approximately $2,000.00 in cash; five shotguns; and hundreds of shotgun shells.
Robert Fiels 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 plea is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations Buffalo, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino, and the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Michael Filicetti.
Sentencing is scheduled for August 22, 2022, before Judge Vilardo.
Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty to Robbery Spree Across Orleans and Monroe CountiesRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that John Cecchini, 28, of Albion, NY, pleaded guilty to bank robbery and four counts of Hobbs Act robbery before U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. Each charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean C. Eldridge, who is handling the case, stated that between April 2 and April 5, 2021, Cecchini committed robberies at five locations across Clarkson, Lyndonville, Albion, and Medina:
o On April 2, 2021, Cecchini robbed the Five Star Bank branch at 2 West Avenue, Clarkson, NY. He handed a bank employee a note which read, “Please do not make me hurt you. I need all of your money in your drawer and hurry up. You delay, I’ll start shooting.” Before the teller could read the note, Cecchini said, “give me all of the money in the drawer before I start shooting.” The teller complied and gave him cash, and Cecchini fled the area.
o On April 3, 2021, Cecchini robbed the Discount Groceries and More at 11 South Main Street, Lyndonville, NY. He entered the store and handed a store employee a note that read “I don’t want anyone to get hurt” and verbally demanded all of the money in the cash drawer. The employee complied with Cecchini’s demands and handed him cash, and Cecchini left the store and fled the area.
o On April 4, 2021, Cecchini robbed the Alexander’s Mobil Gas Station at 4118 Lake Road, Clarkson, NY. He told an employee that he had a taser and said “This is a stick up. Keep your hands on the counter, act normal.” The employee handed Cecchini cash from the cash register while Cecchini placed his hand in his sweatshirt pocket as if he had a gun. Cecchini took the cash, exited the store, and fled the area.
o On April 5, 2021, Cecchini robbed the Crosby’s Gas Station at 202 North Main Street, Albion, NY. He showed an employee a taser gun and demanded money, saying that the taser had probes in it and he wasn’t afraid to use it if the employee didn’t hurry up. The employee handed Cecchini cash, and Cecchini fled the area.
o Later in the day on April 5, 2021, Cecchini robbed the Family Dollar at 11322 Maple Ridge Road, Medina, NY. Cecchini asked a store employee “have you ever been robbed before?” while holding an object in his hand as if it were a weapon. The employee handed Cecchini cash, and he fled the area in a car. After a brief chase, Cecchini was apprehended.
The plea is the result of/culmination of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Major Crimes Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia, the Monroe County Sheriff's Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter, the Medina Police Department, under the direction of Chief Chad Kenward, the Albion Police Department, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Eugene Staniszewski, the Orleans County Sheriff's Office, under the direction of Sheriff Christopher Bourque, and the Orleans County District Attorney's Office, under the direction of District Attorney Joseph Cardone.
Sentencing is scheduled for June 16, 2022, at 3:00 p.m. before Judge Geraci.
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Greece Man with Prior Child Sexual Abuse Conviction Going to Prison on Child Pornography ChargeRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Hector Savage, 37, of Greece, NY, who was convicted of possession of child pornography by an individual with a prior conviction, was sentenced to serve 10 years in prison and 15 years supervised release by U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire, who handled the case, stated that on July 31, 2003, Savage was convicted in Monroe County Court of Sexual Abuse 1st: Sexual Contact with Individual Less than 11 Years Old. On May 25, 2019, Savage possessed approximately 20 images of child pornography on an Apple iPhone. Some of the images depicted prepubescent minors or minors under 12 years old.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Child Exploitation Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia, and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter.
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Federal Jury Convicts Twice Convicted Felon of Possessing A GunRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that a federal jury convicted Ernest Green, a/k/a Fire, 37, of Buffalo, NY, of being a felon in possession of a firearm. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael J. Adler and Timothy C. Lynch, who handled the prosecution of the case, stated that on July 26, 2020, Green was seen on video running in an easterly direction away from the Towne Gardens Housing Complex. This was shortly after a shooting incident occurred in the Housing Complex during which a vehicle crashed into a tree in the middle of the courtyard. The firearm Green possessed was found five blocks east of where the shooting occurred. In November 2004, Green was convicted of a felony in Erie County Court. In October 2010, Green was convicted of a felony in New York State Court. As a result of those convictions, he is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm.
The verdict is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge John B. Devito;
the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia; and the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia.Sentencing is scheduled for August 4, 2022, before U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. who presided over the trial.
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Registered Sex Offender Arrested on Charges of Possession and Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that John Fadden, 48, of Savona, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession and distribution of child pornography by an individual who has a prior conviction involving the sexual abuse of a child. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum of 40 years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire, who is handling the case, stated that in March 2021, The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received two cybertip reports from Yahoo! Inc. that in February and March, 2021, user [email protected] uploaded approximately 185 image files of suspected child pornography. In October 2021, investigators executed a search warrant at Fadden’s residence and seized multiple electronic devices and storage media. A forensic analysis recovered more than 100 files of child pornography on a Sandisk thumb drive.
Fadden is a Level 3 registered sex offender. He was convicted in 1991, 1992, and 2001 of Sexual Abuse 1st: Sexual Contact with Individual Less Than 11 Years Old. In 2013, Fadden was convicted of Sex Offender Fail to Report Change of Address/Status In 10 Days.
The indictment is a result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino, 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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Paroled Murderer Arrested on Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Israel Rivera-Reyes, 48, of Rochester, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with production of child pornography. The charge carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum of 30 years.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, in March 1995, Rivera was convicted of Murder 2nd Degree: With Intent and sentenced to serve five years to life in prison. Rivera was released in August 2006 on New York State Parole. Rivera’s parole was subsequently revoked in 2012, 2013, and 2014. He was most recently re-paroled on March 14, 2019.
On April 7, 2022, the Irondequoit Police Department received a referral from Child Protective Services (CPS), which stated that Rivera had sexual intercourse with Minor Victim 1 on multiple occasions. At the time, Rivera was approximately 47 years old and Minor Victim 1 was 16 years old. The complaint states that Rivera also sent nude pictures and videos to Minor Victim 1’s phone. A search of Minor Victim 1’s recovered multiple sexually explicit videos. On April 13, 2022, a search warrant was executed at Rivera’s Norcrest Drive residence in Rochester, during which investigators seized Rivera’s cell phone. Rivera was taken into custody at that time.
The complaint is a result of an investigation by the Irondequoit Police Department, under the direction of Chief Alan Laird, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia, and the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office, under the direction of Sandra Doorley.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Grand Jury Indicts Cheektowaga Man on Multiple Charges Including Sex TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that a federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging James Fox, 38, of Cheektowaga, NY, with two counts of sex trafficking by coercion, distribution of heroin causing serious bodily injury, distribution of heroin and crack cocaine, using and maintaining a drug-involved premises, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 25 years in prison and a maximum of life in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicholas T. Cooper and Aaron J. Mango, who are handling the case, stated that according to the indictment and a previously filed complaint, between 2019, and May 2020, Fox is accused of coercing Victim 1, using force and threats, to engage in a commercial sex act. Between 2018, and 2021, Fox is accused of coercing Victim 2, also using force or threats of force, to engage in a commercial sex act. In addition, on March 3, 2020, Fox is accused of selling heroin to another individual, which resulted in serious bodily injury.
On February 3, 2022, investigators executed a search warrant at Fox’s residence on Beach Road in Cheektowaga, NY, during which they seized, among other items, a loaded shotgun; additional rounds of ammunition; Narcan; two electrical tasers; and a stun gun. The Government alleges that Fox frequently used his residence to distribute illegal narcotics and solicit prostitutes who were addicted to heroin and crack cocaine, and that Fox provided the prostitutes with illegal narcotics in exchange for sex acts.
The indictment is a result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia, the Lancaster Police Department, under the direction of Chief William Karn. Jr. and Cheektowaga Police Department, under the direction of Chief Brian Gould.
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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Canadian Man Charged with Eluding Inspection at the Peace BridgeRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Pawel Aleksander Grodkowski, 53, of Fort Erie, Ontario, Canada, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers. The charge carries a maximum penalty of six months in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles M. Kruly, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, at 8:50 a.m., on April 14, 2022, Grodkowski was observed on a security video monitor kneeling down on the pedestrian walkway on the U.S. side of Peace Bridge Port of Entry. Two Customs and Border Protection officers approached Grodkowski and noticed a pair of wire cutters protruding from a bag he was carrying. Grodkowski was escorted to secondary for further inspection and subsequently arrested. Security video showed Grodkowski climbing a security fence and cutting three separate stands of barbed wire. A search of Grodkowski’s bag recovered a pair of wire cutters.
The complaint further states that Grodkowski also entered the U.S. in a similar fashion in August and September of 2021. Wire cutters were also discovered on the Peace Bridge pedestrian walkway by CBP officers during those months.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by Customs and Border Protection, under the direction of Director of Field Operations Rose Brophy.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Buffalo Man Already Charged with Selling Drugs That Led to A Death Indicted on New Charges of Sex Trafficking MinorsRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that a federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Steven Gonzalez a/k/a Steven Hernandez, a/k/a Steve, a/k/a Stevie, a/k/a Unc, 43, of Buffalo, NY, with conspiracy to commit sex trafficking, sex trafficking of a minor, sex trafficking by coercion, conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, and possession with intent to distribute and distribution of controlled substances. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum of life.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua A. Violanti, Misha A. Coulson, and Joseph M. Tripi, who are handling the case stated that according to the indictment, between 2012, and March 2015, Gonzalez conspired with others to coerce, with use of force or threats of force, two minors identified as A.N. and B.E., to engage in sex trafficking. In addition, between 2006 and November 2018, Hernandez is accused of conspiring with others to sell controlled substances, including marijuana, heroin, cocaine, and crack cocaine.
Gonzalez was previously indicted in May 2020, on charges of distribution of heroin, fentanyl, and acetyl fentanyl causing death; conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin, fentanyl, and acetyl fentanyl; possessing with intent to distribute heroin; and using and maintaining a drug involved premises. Those charges remain pending.
The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia, and the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Timothy Foley, New York Field Division.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Buffalo Man Pleads Guilty to Cocaine PossessionRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Swazine Swindle, 43, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to possession with intent to distribute cocaine. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan E. Leydecker, who is handling the case, stated that on September 22, 2021, the Buffalo Police Department Narcotics Unit executed a search warrant on a vehicle in the vicinity of 320 Kenmore Avenue in Buffalo. During the search, Swindle was in the driver's seat of the vehicle. Investigators seized approximately four plastic bags, which contained a total of 10 grams of crack cocaine, and $3,349 in cash. Prior to executing the search warrant, investigators observed Swindle enter and exit 319 Kenmore Avenue. After securing the vehicle, a search warrant was executed at the residence and approximately 1.79 grams of cocaine was seized as well as two digital scales.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia; the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia; the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff John Garcia; and the Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief James Stauffiger.
Sentencing is scheduled for August 31, 2022, at 9:30 a.m. before Judge Vilardo.
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Robert Morgan Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Robert Morgan pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford to conspiracy to commit wire fraud. The charge carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Evan Glaberson and Paul Parisi, who are handling the case, stated that Morgan was the manager of Morgan Ellison Heights LLC, which was the majority owner of Ellison Heights Apartments LLC. In September 2016, Morgan, along with one or more co-conspirators, caused ESL Federal Credit Union to issue a construction loan based on inaccurate information regarding the construction contract price. Morgan saw and was aware of documents reflecting inaccurate information and agreed, along with one or more co-conspirators, for that information to be submitted to ESL to obtain a larger amount of the construction loan than what would have otherwise been supported by the actual figures.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia, and the Federal Housing Finance Agency, Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Robert Manchak, Northeast Region.
Sentencing is scheduled for July 22, 2022, before Judge Wolford.
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Buffalo Man Going to Prison for 10 Years for Selling Fentanyl That Led to A DeathRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Octavio Cruz, 39, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, butyryl fentanyl, was sentenced to serve 120 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremiah E. Lenihan, who handled the case, stated that on December 27, 2018, Cruz sold a quantity of butyryl fentanyl to an individual identified as C.H. At approximately 9:17 p.m. that night, the West Seneca Police Department responded to a call for an unresponsive person. Officers discovered C.H. unresponsive and later confirmed C.H. was deceased. An autopsy confirmed the cause of death to be acute intoxication from butyryl fentanyl. Officers recovered C.H.’s cell phone, which contained text messages between C.H. and Cruz. In addition, officers recovered a small plastic bag that contained suspected heroin. Testing determined the substance to be butyryl fentanyl.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the West Seneca Police Department, under the direction of Chief Edward Baker, the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Timothy Foley, and the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Eugene Staniszewski.
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Jamestown Woman Pleads Guilty to Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Antasia Babcock, 28, of Jamestown, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 100 grams or more of acetyl fentanyl; 50 grams or more of methamphetamine; 400 grams or more of fentanyl; and 500 grams or more of cocaine. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum of life, and a $10,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua A. Violanti and Misha Coulson, who are handling the case, stated that Babcock conspired with others, including co-defendant Jun Martinez, to sell cocaine, methamphetamine, and heroin in the Jamestown area. Martinez arranged to receive the narcotics via mail from a source out of state. In mid-September 2020, Martinez traveled out of state to acquire more narcotics in-person and was pulled over by an Illinois State Police Trooper. During a search of his vehicle, law enforcement officers recovered approximately 6,359 grams of methamphetamine, 3,157 grams of fentanyl, 2,241 grams of cocaine, and marijuana products. While Martinez was detained on Illinois state charges, Babcock continued the narcotics distribution in Jamestown. On October 16, 2020, investigators executed a search warrant the Wescott Street residence that Babcock shared with Martinez and recovered methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, a plastic packaging sealer machine, a drug ledger, and approximately $62,255 in U.S. currency.
Jun Martinez 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 plea is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Metro Drug Task Force, under the direction of Jamestown Police Chief Timothy Jackson, and the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Timothy Foley, New York Field Division.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 21, 2022, before Judge Sinatra.
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Williamsville Man Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography ChargeRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Christopher D. Robbins, 61, of Williamsville, NY, pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Rudroff, who is handling the case, stated that in January 2020, Robbins was identified as a member of a group on Kik used to exchange images and videos of child pornography. Subsequently, on July 2, 2020, the FBI executed a search warrant at Robbins’ residence in Williamsville, seizing several electronic items that contained child pornography.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Milwaukee Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in Charge Robert E. Hughes; the Buffalo Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Stephen Belongia; and the Town of Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief William Strassburg.
Sentencing is scheduled for August 8, 2022, before Judge Sinatra.
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Twice Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty to Drug Trafficking and Firearms Possession ChargesRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Rudolph Brumfield a/k/a Rudy, 36, of Geneva, NY, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, five kilograms or more of cocaine, and possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon before Senior U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. The charges carry a minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum of life, and a $10,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brett A. Harvey, who is handling the case, stated that Brumfield was the leader of a cocaine trafficking organization operating in Geneva and other areas of Ontario County. During the conspiracy, Brumfield obtained quantities of cocaine and marijuana from suppliers in California and elsewhere. In January 2020, investigators and officers from the Geneva Police Department and the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office executed search warrants at the Toledo Street residence of Brumfield’s girlfriend, which was used to store, manufacture, and sell the cocaine and marijuana, and at Brumfield’s North Genesee Street residence. During the searches, they recovered:
• 2.7 kilograms of cocaine and 69.7 grams of crack cocaine;
• 18 one-pound packages of marijuana;
• $161,581 in cash;
• two firearms, one which was reported stolen in 2013, and a box of ammunition;
• and materials commonly used to package drugs for street-level distribution.Brumfield was previously convicted in 2006 and 2012 of felony charges in Ontario County Court and is legally prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Philip Povero, the Geneva Police Department, under the direction of Chief Mike Passalacqua; and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent In Charge John B. DeVito.
Sentencing is scheduled for July 13, 2022, at 3:30 p.m. before Judge Geraci.
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Sex Offender Going to Prison for 10 Years on Child Pornography ChargeRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Daniel Rammacher, 63, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of possessing child pornography following a conviction for the New York State crime of Sexual Abuse in the First Degree, was sentenced to serve 10 years in prison and 10 years supervised release by U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa. Rammacher was also ordered to pay $42,000 in restitution to victims.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle Rossi, who handled the case, stated that in 2014, Rammacher was arrested by the New York State Police in Warren County, NY, after it was discovered that he sexually abused a four-year-old child in his care. Rammacher was sentenced to serve a 10-year term of sex offender probation, which was transferred to the Monroe County Probation Department in 2015, after Rammacher moved to Rochester. During a routine visit in 2019, probation officers discovered that Rammacher possessed a laptop computer, which contained sexually explicit material, in violation of probation conditions. Officers confiscated the computer and, after a preview did not reveal the presence of any additional contraband, submitted the computer to the Regional Forensic Computer Laboratory in Rochester for a full forensic review. While the computer was being forensically examined, Rammacher confessed to probation officers that he had used the computer to access and view child pornography. The forensic analysis ultimately confirmed the presence of images of child pornography on the computer.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Monroe County Probation Department, under the director of Chief Probation Officer Jennifer Ball, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia.
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Rochester Man Arrested at the Peace Bridge with A Gun Is Going to PrisonRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Christopher Kendrick, 27, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm, was sentenced to serve 30 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Franz M. Wright, who is handling the case, stated that in October 2011, Kendrick was convicted in Monroe County Court of 3rd Degree Robbery and is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm. On May 11, 2021, while traveling in Buffalo, Kendrick made a turn onto the Peace Bridge and entered the Customs and Border Patrol passenger processing area. At that time, U.S. Border Patrol Agents observed Kendrick in his vehicle and questioned him. Kendrick, who presented a New York State identification but had no other identification, was removed from his vehicle, and escorted to the Peace Bridge Administration Building. During a secondary screening of Kendrick’s vehicle, a .25 caliber semiautomatic pistol and ammunition were located in the glove compartment.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by Customs and Border Protection, under the direction of Director of Field Operations Rose Brophy and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino.
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Maryland Man Pleads Guilty to I-D FraudRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Eric Kelechi Nwachukwu, 32, of Baltimore, MD, pleaded guilty before Senior U.S. District Judge William M. Skretny to fraud in connection with a means of identification. The charge carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul E. Bonanno, who is handling the case, stated that on June 20, 2020, Nwachukwu, and two passengers, were referred for secondary inspection by Customs and Border Protection at the Peace Bridge Port of Entry. During the secondary inspection, CBP Officers found multiple fraudulent driver’s licenses in the names of other individuals known to the government, as well as two cellular telephones. Homeland Security Investigations Special Agents subsequently executed search warrants on the phones and recovered identification consisting of names and dates of birth, among other information, belonging to approximately 30 other individuals known to the government. Nwachukwu possessed the identifications without authorization and with the intent to commit bank fraud. The investigation determined that between April 26 and September 25, 2019, Nwachukwu used the identifications of four these individuals to conduct approximately 11 unauthorized withdrawals totaling $52,800 at financial institutions in Washington, D.C., Virginia, and Maryland.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation Customs and Border Protection, under the direction of Director of Field Operations Rose Brophy and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino.
Sentencing is scheduled for July 6, 2022, at 9:00 a.m. before Judge Skretny.
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California Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Wire FraudRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Shola Yusuf Adediji a/k/a Michael Kopeck, 38, of Los Angeles, CA, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul E. Bonanno, who is handling the case, stated that between May and August 2019, Adediji conspired with others to defraud two electronics businesses, one in Amherst, NY, and one in Fort Myers, Florida, to obtain high-end electronic merchandise. Adediji and others posed as customers and completed fraudulent purchase orders. Throughout the scheme, both businesses shipped merchandise to Adediji and others throughout the United States. Adediji used the fictitious name “Michael Kopeck” to rent a storage unit where the fraudulently obtained merchandise was stored.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia.Sentencing is scheduled for September 22, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. before Judge Sinatra.
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Convicted Felon Going to Prison on Methamphetamine Charge Involving A DeathRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Jason Yelder, 39, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of possessing with intent to distribute five grams or more of methamphetamine, was sentenced to serve 135 months in prison and eight years supervised release by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Adler, who handled the case, stated that in 2017, Yelder was convicted of methamphetamine trafficking and sentenced to serve 20 months in prison and five years post-release supervision, which began on May 25, 2018. In February 2019, Yelder broke off all contact with probation personnel. In July 2019, the U.S. Marshal’s Service located Yelder at a hotel on Delaware Avenue in Buffalo, he had rented and was using distribute methamphetamine. On July 15, 2019, Yelder was arrested and found to be in possession of 21 baggies containing a total of approximately 30 grams of between 98% and 99% pure methamphetamine.
Subsequent investigation determined that on May 28, 2019, an individual identified as K.L. was found dead by the train tracks near 355 Lakefront Boulevard in Buffalo. Previously, K.L. had been at another hotel room rented by Yelder on Pearl Street. While at the hotel, the defendant gave K.L. a vial of liquid methamphetamine. The toxicology report for K.L. revealed methamphetamine in K.L.’s system, and the medical examiner concluded that, but for the methamphetamine in K.L.’s system, K.L. would not have died. The defendant admitted his role in the overdose death of K.L.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia, the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Timothy Foley, New York Field Division, and the U.S. Marshals Service, under the direction of Marshal Charles Salina.
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Woman Pleads Guilty for $43.8 Million COVID-19 Relief Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, NY – An Oklahoma woman pleaded guilty today in the Western District of New York for a scheme to defraud the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) of over $43.8 million in COVID-19 relief loans guaranteed by the Small Business Administration (SBA) under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.
According to court documents, Amanda J. Gloria, 45, of Altus, admitted that she conspired to submit at least 153 fraudulent PPP applications seeking a total of approximately $43.8 million on behalf of at least 111 entities between approximately May 2020 and June 2021. Gloria admitted that she falsified or aided and assisted with falsifying various information on these loan applications, including the number of employees, payroll expenses and documentation, and federal tax filings. Gloria then submitted or aided and assisted with the submission of the fraudulent PPP applications to financial institutions. In total, the recipient entities unlawfully obtained approximately $32.5 million in PPP funds. From those fraudulently obtained funds, Gloria personally received at least approximately $1.7 million.
Gloria also admitted that she conspired with Adam D. Arena to submit a fraudulent PPP loan application seeking approximately $954,000 for ADA Auto Group LLC, a previously inactive Florida-based business owned and controlled by Arena. After fraudulently obtaining the PPP loan, Gloria directed Arena to launder the proceeds, including by transferring nearly $25,000 to a bank account held in the name of WildWest Trucking LLC, an Oklahoma-based business owned and controlled by Gloria. Gloria also admitted that she submitted and fraudulently obtained a separate PPP loan for WildWest Trucking LLC for approximately $421,000. Arena pleaded guilty in November 2021 to one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and one count of engaging in a monetary transaction with criminally derived proceeds in a related case.
Gloria is scheduled to be sentenced on July 20 and faces up to 30 years in prison for conspiracy to commit bank fraud and up to 10 years in prison for money laundering. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite, Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross for the Western District of New York; Assistant Director Luis Quesada of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division; Special Agent in Charge Stephen Belongia of the FBI’s Buffalo Field Office; and Special Agent in Charge Thomas Fattorusso of IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS CI) made the announcement.
The FBI and IRS-CI are investigating the case.
Assistant Chief Cory E. Jacobs and Trial Attorney Jennifer Bilinkas of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura A. Higgins for the Western District of New York are prosecuting the case.
The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s prosecution of fraud schemes that exploit the PPP. Since the inception of the CARES Act, the Fraud Section has prosecuted over 150 defendants in more than 95 criminal cases and has seized over $75 million in cash proceeds derived from fraudulently obtained PPP funds, as well as numerous real estate properties and luxury items purchased with such proceeds. More information can be found at https://www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/ppp-fraud.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
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 (NCDF) Hotline at 866 720 5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
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