Northern District of Ohio
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Texas Man Sentenced to Prison for Drug Trafficking Conspiracy in ToledoRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that Anthony Robinson, 25, of Katy, Texas, was sentenced on Thursday, January 27, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey J. Helmick to 10 years in prison after Robinson pleaded guilty to a fentanyl drug trafficking conspiracy in the Toledo area.
According to court documents, in March of 2018, Robinson and co-defendants Barbera Wilson and Darrius Lewis conspired together to distribute fentanyl in Toledo. As part of the conspiracy, Robinson and Lewis made arrangements to obtain narcotics in Houston, Texas, and transport the drugs to the Toledo area. On one occasion, Robinson and Wilson drove a rented vehicle containing narcotics from Houston to be distributed in Toledo.
On March 20, 2018, Robison mailed a package containing approximately one kilogram of fentanyl back to Houston. Federal agents subsequently seized this package. Federal law enforcement investigators then executed a search warrant at two hotel rooms Robinson, Lewis, and Wilson occupied and seized an additional amount of fentanyl and currency.
In total, investigators seized approximately 1.5 kilograms of fentanyl and 8,416 in U.S. currency related to the trafficking conspiracy.
Defendant Barbera Wilson was sentenced to 12 months in prison for her role in the conspiracy. Defendant Darrius Lewis is scheduled to be sentenced on April 26, 2022, for his role in the conspiracy.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security and the Toledo Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alissa M. Sterling and Matthew D. Simko.
Cleveland Man Sentenced to More Than 20 Years in Prison for Illegal Possession of a Firearm and Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that Lawrence Dunbar, 28, of Cleveland, Ohio, was sentenced on Thursday, January 27, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Donald C. Nugent to more than 20 years in prison. Judge Nugent pronounced the sentence after Dunbar was convicted at trial of possessing multiple controlled substances with intent to distribute and possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon.
“This sentence is reflective of what happens when a life is spent dedicated to drug trafficking and violence,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle M. Baeppler. “This sentence serves an example that felons who possess firearms and sell drugs in our communities will face consequences for their actions.”
“ATF’s mission is to protect the public from violent crime,” stated Roland H. Herndon, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Columbus Field Division. “This sentence sends a strong message to those who use firearms to further their criminal enterprises that there will be consequences. ATF will continue to work with our partners to hold responsible any individuals who spread violence and drugs in our community.”
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, on July 25, 2019, members of the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force (NOVFTF) sought to arrest Dunbar at his apartment on warrants for a felonious assault shooting and violation of parole conditions. Upon arrival, law enforcement officers cleared the apartment, located and detained Dunbar and searched the apartment. In the kitchen and bedroom, officers found large quantities of substances that contained varying amounts of carfentanil, heroin and cocaine. Additionally, they located a loaded 9mm Glock semiautomatic pistol under the couch near the hallway and close to the narcotics in the kitchen. Officers also found large amounts of drug paraphernalia, including mixing containers, cutting compounds, packaging and distribution materials, digital scales, multiple cell phones and personal protection equipment.
At the time of his arrest, Dunbar was prohibited from possessing a firearm due to prior convictions in the Cuyahoga County Court of Common Pleas, including multiple convictions for drug trafficking, drug possession, robbery and attempted felonious assault.
Judge Nugent sentenced Dunbar to a total of 245 months of incarceration and three years of supervised release.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA) Police Department and the NOVFTF. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Adam J. Joines and Margaret A. Kane.
Cleveland Man Convicted of Shooting at Federal Agents, Sex Trafficking of a Juvenile and Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that a federal jury returned guilty verdicts today against Defendant Reuben Rankin, 36, of Cleveland, Ohio, following a nine-day trial before U.S. District Judge Pamela A. Barker in Cleveland. Rankin was convicted of assaulting a federal agent with a deadly weapon, discharging a firearm during a crime of violence, sex trafficking of a minor, production of child pornography and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
On October 30, 2019, law enforcement officers with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) executed a search warrant at Rankin’s residence in Cleveland as part of an investigation into the trafficking of a minor victim. As law enforcement agents approached the residence, Rankin fired six shots in rapid succession at the agents through the window of his vehicle parked in the driveway. An agent returned fire. Officers then arrested Rankin and recovered a .45 caliber pistol, spent rounds of ammunition, drugs and two cell phones from his vehicle.
Rankin is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition due to previous convictions of kidnapping, witness intimidation, aggravated assault and abduction in the Cuyahoga Common Pleas Court.
Rankin is scheduled to be sentenced on July 12, 2022. A federal district court judge will determine a sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations, the Cuyahoga County Human Trafficking Task Force and the Cleveland Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Carol M. Skutnik, Edward F. Feran and Vanessa V. Healy.
Mahoning County Physician Pleads Guilty to Illegally Prescribing Controlled Substances and Causing the Deaths of Two PatientsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that Martin Escobar, 58, of Youngstown, Ohio, pleaded guilty in federal court today to illegally distributing controlled substances, causing the deaths of two patients, unlawfully distributing a controlled substance to a person under the age of 21 and health care fraud.
According to court documents and the plea hearing, between March 2015 and October 2019, Escobar admitted to prescribing controlled substances out of his Lake Milton medical office, including opioids such as oxycodone and hydrocodone, often in combination with benzodiazepines and stimulants, all outside the usual course of professional practice and without a legitimate medical purpose.
Escobar admitted that, in order to support his unlawful prescription practices, he used false diagnoses, falsified patient pain intensity scales in medical charts, increased dosages of controlled substances and prescribed them for prolonged periods without evidence of efficacy. Furthermore, Escobar admitted to inadequately investigating patient pain complaints, failing to pursue treatment options other than controlled substances and falsely claiming to have performed extensive physical examinations on his patients.
Escobar also admitted to ignoring warning signs of his patients’ drug addiction and abuse. This included ignoring the results of his patients’ urine drug screen tests, many of which were performed in Escobar’s medical office and later billed to the government. These tests suggested that patients were abusing the drugs that Escobar had prescribed, using other controlled substances and selling their prescription drugs on the illegal secondary market. As a result, Escobar pleaded guilty to health care fraud.
Escobar also admitted that, in July of 2015 and 2016, he unlawfully prescribed opioids and other controlled substances to two patients without a legitimate medical purpose. Both patients later fatally overdosed from the drugs. In another instance, in April of 2018, Escobar admitted that he unlawfully prescribed opioids to an individual under the age of 21 without a medical need.
Escobar is scheduled to be sentenced on May 17, 2022.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, the Ohio Attorney General’s Healthcare Fraud Section and the Ohio Board of Pharmacy. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brendan D. O’Shea, Elliot D. Morrison and Michael L. Collyer, and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan L. Metzler of the Ohio Attorney General’s Office.
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Jamaican National Charged for Role in Sweepstakes Scheme that Targeted Older AmericansRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that a federal grand jury returned a five-count indictment charging Javon Jonathan Spencer, 30, a Jamaican national, whose last known address was in Euclid, Ohio, for his role in a conspiracy that allegedly stole more than $250,000 from victims and targeted older Americans in Northern Ohio and elsewhere.
According to the indictment, from March of 2018 through April of 2019, a co-conspirator would contact victims and falsely claim that the victim had won a prize through the lottery, sweepstakes or other contest. The co-conspirator would then inform the victim that an upfront fee or tax was required to collect the full amount. The indictment alleges that the victims were then directed to mail cash, checks or money orders payable to the defendant at his address in Euclid.
In one instance, the indictment alleges that in June of 2018, a co-conspirator called a victim and claimed that the victim had won money in a sweepstakes and, to collect the full amount, had to pay $4,500 to the defendant as a fee. The victim then mailed the fee to the defendant as directed, and the defendant deposited the funds into his bank account.
As a result of the scheme, it is alleged that the conspiracy members caused a total combined loss of more than $250,000 from victims.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it is the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation.
In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum, and in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
This investigation was conducted by the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS). This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. McDonough.
If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is standing by at the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This U.S. Department of Justice hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, is staffed by experienced professionals who provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim and identifying relevant next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting, connect callers directly with appropriate agencies, and provide resources and referrals on a case-by-case basis. Reporting is the first step. Reporting can help authorities identify those who commit fraud and reporting certain financial losses due to fraud as soon as possible can increase the likelihood of recovering losses. The hotline is staffed seven days a week from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. eastern time. English, Spanish and other languages are available.
Dover Man Sentenced to Prison for Transportation of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that Brenton Cronebach, 56, of Dover, Ohio, was sentenced today by Judge Dan Polster to 121 months in prison and five years of supervised release after Cronebach pleaded guilty to transportation of child pornography in September of 2021.
“Accessing and transporting child pornography contributes to the abuse and exploitation of children here and around the world,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle M. Baeppler. “Today’s sentence demonstrates that these offenses are serious and come with significant penalties.”
According to court documents, on May 12, 2021, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Cronebach’s residence after receiving a tip that numerous files of child pornography had been uploaded to several Google accounts associated with Cronebach. During the search of the residence, investigators seized a laptop, numerous computer disks and multiple USB storage devices containing more than 10,000 images and 1,000 videos of child pornography.
During an interview with law enforcement, Cronebach stated that he downloaded the files onto USB drives and then uploaded them to Google in the event the drives were damaged.
This case was investigated by the Ohio Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the FBI, Canton Resident Agency. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael A. Sullivan.
Former Westlake Bank Teller Sentenced to Prison for Embezzling from EmployerRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that Arin Kumhall, 38, of North Olmsted, Ohio, was sentenced on January 6, 2022, by Judge James S. Gwin to five months in prison, to be followed by five months of home confinement, after Kumhall pleaded guilty to embezzling nearly $73,000 from her employer.
According to court documents, Kumhall was employed as a bank teller at a Citizens Bank in Westlake, Ohio. In addition to traditional teller responsibilities, Kumhall was responsible for ordering, receiving and inputting cash into the bank’s internal reporting system for the branch.
Court records state that on multiple occasions from September to December of 2020, Kumhall ordered a set amount of cash to be delivered to the branch. However, after the delivery, Kumhall entered and reported an amount lower than what had been delivered into the bank’s internal reporting system.
The FBI obtained and reviewed Kumhall’s personal bank account information and observed an increase in cash deposits and online gambling activity from September 2020 through December 2020.
This case was investigated by the Cleveland FBI and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brian McDonough and Erica Barnhill.
Canton Man Pleads Guilty to Sex TraffickingRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that Larrien Brown-Austin, 37, of Canton, Ohio, pleaded guilty in federal court on Thursday, January 6, 2022, to participating in a sex trafficking conspiracy that forced multiple women to perform commercial sex acts for profit.
According to court documents, from June through August of 2018, Brown-Austin lived at a residence in Canton provided by his father that he used to facilitate commercial sex acts. In June of 2018, Brown-Austin met Victim #1 and Victim #2 and forced both victims to live at the residence, perform commercial sex acts and provide him with the profits.
Court records state that Brown-Austin supplied his victims with drugs in an attempt to foster an addiction and withdrawal dependency cycle that forced them to rely upon him for more drugs. Documents show that Brown-Austin used force, threats, acts of violence and leveraged the drug dependency of his victims to coerce them into performing additional commercial sex acts. Brown-Austin also kept a mobile tracking application on the cell phones of his victims in order to determine their whereabouts at all times.
Also charged in this matter as co-defendants are Shannon Marzano, 30, and Larry Brown-Austin, 76, both of Canton. Marazano and Larry Brown-Austin have both previously pleaded guilty to their roles in the scheme.
Larrien Brown-Austin is scheduled to be sentenced on May 11, 2022.
This case was investigated by the Canton Police Department, the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction and the FBI, Canton Office. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Carol M. Skutnik.
Former Westlake Investment Advisor Pleads Guilty to Stealing More Than $9.3 Million in Ponzi SchemeRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that Tara M. Brunst, 47, of Olmsted Falls, Ohio, pleaded guilty in federal court today to participating in an investment fraud scheme that stole approximately $9.3 million from clients. Brunst pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, mail fraud and three counts of wire fraud.
According to court documents, Brunst was employed as a licensed investment advisor for co-defendant Raymond A. Erker in Westlake, Ohio. Beginning in January of 2013 and continuing through January of 2018, court records state that Brunst and the alleged co-conspirators engaged in a conspiracy that devised a scheme that stole approximately $9,366,976.37 from investors.
As part of the scheme, members of the conspiracy sold investments to clients that they misrepresented as annuities and senior secured notes with no risk of loss and with a guaranteed rate of return. Without the approval or consent of investors, investor funds were diverted to other entities they controlled and personal bank accounts.
Court records state that to keep up with promised rates of return, Brunst and the alleged co-conspirators falsely represented that payments to previous investors were rates of return and interest when the payments were actually new investor funds, the trademark of a Ponzi scheme.
Additionally, Brunst and the alleged co-conspirators failed to disclose to investors that they had substantial or limited ownership interests in companies receiving investments from the scheme.
To avoid detection, members of the conspiracy set up office fronts in Delaware and Nevada, contracted with call centers and created false websites and account statements that purported to show investor account balances.
Additionally, charged in this matter are Raymond A. Erker, 50, of Avon, and Kevin Krantz, 56, of Olmsted Falls. These two individual cases remain ongoing.
This investigation was conducted by the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Securities, the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Westlake Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian McDonough and Kathryn Andrachik.
Ashtabula Man Sentenced to More Than 10 Years in Prison for Repeat Distribution of DrugsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that Rodney P. Taylor, 37, of Ashtabula, Ohio, was sentenced on Tuesday, January 4, 2022, by Judge Benita Y. Pearson to 124 months in prison after Taylor pleaded guilty to a drug conspiracy and possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.
According to court documents, on September 4, 2018, investigators with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) observed Taylor delivering methamphetamine to a co-conspirator during a controlled drug buy operation. Prior to this incident, Taylor had been previously convicted of participating in a drug trafficking conspiracy in the Northern District of Ohio in April of 2010. At the time of the September offense, Taylor was on federal supervised release for this previous conviction.
This case was investigated by the DEA and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian S. Deckert.
Cleveland Postal Service Manager Sentenced to Prison for Stealing Packages Containing DrugsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that Anthony Sharp, 31, of Euclid, Ohio, was sentenced on Wednesday, December 29, 2021, by Judge Donald C. Nugent to 10 years in prison after Sharp admitted to stealing packages from the U.S. Mail that he suspected contained drugs.
Sharp pleaded guilty in August of 2021 to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances, money laundering and theft of mail.
According to court documents, the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General (USPS OIG) began an investigation into Sharp, a Cleveland Postal Service Manager, based on suspicion that Sharp was profiling U.S. Mail suspected to contain cocaine, fentanyl and methamphetamine and stealing the packages.
In July of 2021, USPS OIG special agents and postal inspectors observed Sharp arrive at a Cleveland Postal Service processing facility to help sort Express Mail. Sharp was then observed removing three packages from the mail stream and placing them in a hamper to be transported to his facility. Once the Express Mail was sorted, Sharp was observed loading all the Express Mail for his facility, including the three packages suspected of containing drugs, into his vehicle.
Sharp was then observed leaving the facility, opening several parcels and arriving at the postal facility that he managed. Later, Sharp left the facility and was detained during a traffic stop. A search of his vehicle produced the three packages which were opened and contained methamphetamine, cocaine and fentanyl. Law enforcement officers also observed additional Express and Priority Mail parcels opened in the trunk of the vehicle.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General and U.S. Postal Inspection Service. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Margaret Sweeney and Kathryn Andrachik.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Collects More Than $14 Million in Criminal and Civil Actions in Fiscal Year 2021Read the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced today that the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio collected $14,351,785.37 in criminal and civil actions in fiscal year 2021. Of this amount, $10,314,484.90 was collected in criminal actions and $4,037,300.47 was collected in civil actions.
“Despite the challenges brought about by the pandemic, the Financial Litigation Program in the Northern District was able to pursue and recover considerable funds from numerous civil and criminal judgments,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle M. Baeppler. “When this Office represents the United States of America and secures a collection judgment, we will seek to recover every dollar possible.”
Furthermore, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio, working with other U.S. Attorney’s Offices and Department of Justice agencies across the country, collected an additional $27,194,349.03 in cases pursued jointly by these offices.
In total, the Northern District of Ohio and partner agencies collected a combined total of $41,546,134.40 in criminal and civil actions and forfeitures in fiscal year 2021.
Notable collections and forfeitures in fiscal year 2021 include:
CRIMINAL
USA v. Stellato: Defendant Chad M. Stellato pleaded guilty in December of 2020 to defrauding Lowe’s Home Improvement stores via a fraudulent purchase and return scheme. Stellato was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $594,799.12, and final payment was collected within six months of sentencing.
USA v. Chime, et al.: Defendants John D. Chime, II, Jerry L. Stackhouse and Rogelio Alonso, Jr. were convicted of orchestrating a real estate investment scheme in 2012 and were ordered to pay $677,493.68 in restitution. Final restitution was collected in December of 2021.
USA v. Sturgill: Defendant James Sturgill pleaded guilty in December of 2000 to bank fraud and was ordered to pay $224,116.04 in restitution. Final restitution was collected in March of 2021.
CIVIL
U.S. ex rel. Ethical Solutions, LLC, et al. V. Akron General Health System, et al.: In July of 2021, Akron General Health System agreed to pay over $21 million to resolve allegations under the False Claims Act that it had improper relationships with certain referring physicians, resulting in the submission of false claims to the Medicare program.
USA v. Shaffer Pharmacy, et al.: In June of 2021, Shaffer Pharmacy, located in Toledo, Ohio, agreed to pay $375,000 to resolve a civil suit filed under the Controlled Substances Act alleging that the pharmacy and two individuals filled prescriptions that did not have a legitimate medical purpose.
Tronair, Inc.: In September of 2021, Tronair, Inc., located in Swanton, Ohio, agreed to pay $92,400 to resolve a False Claims Act investigation that it sold several federal agencies aircraft tow tractors with remanufactured transaxles, in violation of its contracts with the affected agencies.
The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the department’s litigating divisions are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the U.S. and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims. The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss.
While restitution is paid to the victim, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the Department’s Crime Victims’ Fund, which distributes the funds collected to federal and state victim compensation and victim assistance programs.
Forfeited assets deposited into the Department of Justice Asset Forfeiture Fund are used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes.
U.S. Attorney's Office Announces More Than $1.1 Million to Support Substance Abuse Programs in Western OhioRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Ohio announced today that the Department of Justice Office of Justice Programs (O.J.P.) awarded $1,199,650 in grant funding to support programs that provide services to address opioid, stimulant and substance abuse issues in Western Ohio.
The Hancock County A.D.A.M.H.S. Board was awarded $600,000 to support the Recovery Community Organization Outreach Project. This initiative provides recovery support services, peer recovery support services and access to transitional or recovery housing for individuals 18 years and older who have a history of opioid, stimulant or other substance use disorders and are either at risk or involved in the criminal justice system in Hancock County.
The City of Maumee was awarded $599,650 to implement a law-enforcement-led response to address the city's substance abuse issues. The City of Maumee plans to use the funding to embed social services into law enforcement operations for children impacted by family drug use, begin an evidence-based school drug prevention initiative - the L.E.A.D. program and expand the City's drug take-back capabilities.
The Office of Justice Programs provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation's capacity to prevent and reduce crime, advance racial equity in the administration of justice, assist victims and enhance the rule of law. More information about O.J.P. and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
Parma Man Convicted of Illegally Possessing a Firearm and NarcoticsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that a federal jury returned guilty verdicts against Defendant Baha Jaffal, 29, of Parma, Ohio, on Friday, Dec. 17, following a five-day trial before Judge Benita Y. Pearson in Cleveland. Jaffal was convicted of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, using or carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, on Nov. 11, 2019, Parma Police Officers responded to a residence on Terrace View Lane for reports of an unconscious male. Upon arrival, officers discovered Defendant Baha Jaffal overdosing and immediately administered Narcan. Officers then searched Jaffal and his belongings to determine what had caused the overdose. During this search, officers found approximately 35 grams of carfentanil and heroin in a jacket pocket.
Separately, on Dec. 12, 2019, Parma Police responded to West 54th and Snow Road for reports of a silver Chevy Suburban driving recklessly. While attempting to stop the vehicle, officers observed the driver throw a pill bottle out the window. Officers then stopped the vehicle and identified Defendant Jaffal as the sole occupant. During a search of the vehicle and Jaffal, officers discovered 27 pills containing fentanyl in Jaffal’s pocket and a loaded firearm magazine in the center console of the vehicle. Officer also recovered a firearm Jaffal threw from the vehicle and the discarded pill bottle.
Jaffal is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to previous felony convictions of burglary, domestic violence, attempted felonious assault and drug possession in the Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court.
Jaffal is scheduled to be sentenced on April 14, 2022. A federal district court judge will determine a sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and Parma Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Scott C. Zarzycki and Marc D. Bullard.
Virginia Woman Charged with Murder of Ohio Man in Cuyahoga Valley National ParkRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that a federal grand jury returned a three-count indictment charging Chelsea Perkins, 31, of Alexandria, Virginia, with first-degree murder, second-degree murder, and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
According to court documents, on or about March 6, 2021, the defendant is accused of shooting an individual identified in the indictment as M.J.D. (initials used to protect the decedent’s identity) near the Terra Vista Natural Study Area in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
Court documents state that M.J.D.’s body was taken to the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s Office for an autopsy, where it was determined that the manner of death was a gunshot wound to the back of his head. The cause of death was ruled a homicide.
On December 9, the Cleveland Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation announced the arrest of Defendant Chelsea Perkins in connection with the homicide. According to court documents, investigators linked the defendant to the shooting of M.J.D using GPS data, ballistics analysis, and DNA evidence.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it is the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation.
In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum, and in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
This investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Cleveland Division; Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification; National Parks Service; and Valley View Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Scott C. Zarzycki, Margaret A. Kane, and Adam J. Joines.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Announces More Than $6.4 Million in Funding Awarded to Support Sexual Assault Kit Testing, Investigations, Services and Training in Northern OhioRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio announced today that the Department of Justice Office of Justice Programs (OJP) has awarded more than $6.4 million in grant funding to support sexual assault kit testing, investigations and prosecutions in Northern Ohio. In addition, funding was awarded to provide services for prepubescent victims of sexual assault and assist medical nurses with obtaining specialized training.
The following is a summary of the awards.
City of Cleveland, $2,461,762.
The City of Cleveland was awarded funding to continue sexual assault kit testing, identify victims of sexual assault cold cases and continue the implementation of best practices and victim-centered approaches to investigating and prosecuting these cases.
City of Akron, $2,002,676.
The City of Akron was awarded funding to hire personnel to continue investigations and prosecutions into sexual assault cold cases. Funding was also awarded to conduct public outreach, support lab efforts for advanced DNA testing, provide support for victims and witnesses and provide training for investigators and prosecutors.
Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office, $1,395,078.
The Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office was awarded funding to help identify “John Doe” defendants, solve sexually motivated homicides and re-investigate previous sexual assault kits to find case leads.
ProMedica Metro Forensic Program: Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) and Training Expansion (PMFPE), Toledo, Ohio, $600,000.
ProMedica was awarded funding to provide coordinated forensic interviews, non-acute medical exams and follow-up care for prepubescent victims of sexual assault. In addition, the grant funding will assist nurses with obtaining their sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE) certification.
The Office of Justice Programs provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, advance racial equity in the administration of justice, assist victims and enhance the rule of law. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
Two Florida Men Plead Guilty to $35 Million COVID-19 Relief Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Two Florida men pleaded guilty this week in the Northern District of Ohio for leading a nationwide scheme to fraudulently obtain over $35 million in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans guaranteed by the Small Business Administration (SBA) under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.
According to court documents, James R. Stote, 55, of Hollywood, and Phillip J. Augustin, 52, of Coral Springs, conspired to obtain millions of dollars in fraudulent PPP loans. Augustin and Stote obtained a fraudulent PPP loan for Augustin’s company, Clear Vision Music Group LLC, using falsified documents. After submitting that application, Stote and Augustin immediately began working to obtain larger PPP loans for themselves and their associates. Stote and Augustin recruited additional PPP loan applicants and prepared and submitted fraudulent loan applications for them in exchange for a share of the loan proceeds. Augustin used his network of business contacts from his work as a manager for professional football players. The applications they submitted for all of the loans in the scheme relied on fake payroll numbers, falsified IRS forms and phony bank statements. They submitted or facilitated at least 79 fraudulent loan applications worth at least $35 million and planned to submit more. As part of the plea, Stote agreed to forfeit more than $1 million in proceeds of the fraud that had previously been seized.
The scheme included at least two loans to entities in Northeast Ohio worth approximately $875,000.
“These convictions, and the numerous convictions of others involved in this wide-ranging conspiracy, demonstrate that people will be held accountable for defrauding the PPP Program,” said Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Fraud against PPP programs directly harms taxpayers and undermine public trust in essential government support during the pandemic. We will continue to combat fraud and ensure that COVID-19 relief goes to those who deserve it.”
“While many businesses in our communities relied upon relief funds to keep their doors open and employees paid, these defendants profited off a scheme that stole millions of taxpayer dollars intended for struggling businesses and spent it lavishly on themselves,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle M. Baeppler for the Northern District of Ohio. “Theft of government funds will not be tolerated, and prosecuting PPP fraud remains a priority for law enforcement.”
Stote and Augustin each pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud. They are scheduled to be sentenced at a later date and each face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
“From submitting false documentation to recruiting other individuals, the defendants went to great lengths to defraud the Paycheck Protection Program of millions of dollars,” said Special Agent in Charge Bryant Jackson of IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), Cincinnati Field Office. “IRS-CI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to hold those accountable that defraud programs designed to help struggling Americans and businesses.”
“This sentencing serves as a deterrent to anyone who would commit fraud targeting COVID-19 relief programs,” said Acting Assistant Director Jay Greenberg of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. “Programs like these were created to help individuals during a pandemic, not for fraudsters to take advantage for personal gain. The FBI will continue to pursue criminal actors who engage in this activity.”
“Conspiring to fraudulently use SBA program funds is unacceptable,” said Special Agent in Charge Sharon Johnson of the SBA Office of Inspector General’s (SBA-OIG) Central Region. “OIG will aggressively root out fraud to protect the integrity of SBA’s programs, which are intended to provide vital assistance to the nation’s small businesses. I want to thank the Department of Justice and our law enforcement partners for their dedication and commitment to seeing justice served.”
In total, 25 people have been charged for their participation in this scheme in the Northern District of Ohio, Southern District of Florida and Middle District of North Carolina. To date, 20 of those defendants have been convicted.
The IRS-CI, FBI and SBA-OIG are investigating the cases.
This case is being prosecuted by and Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliot Morrison and Trial Attorney Philip Trout of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office Announces More Than $1.1 Million Awarded to Specialized Court Dockets in Summit CountyRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio announced today that the Department of Justice Office of Justice Programs (OJP) has awarded $1,175,000 in grant funding to support the Summit County Valor Court and Hope Court initiatives.
The Summit County Valor Court was awarded $625,000. The Valor Court was established due to the recognition that many veterans return to civilian life with serious trauma, both physical and mental, which may lead to their involvement with the criminal justice system. This specialized docket gives veterans access to programs, treatment and interaction with mentors in an initiative to enhance chances of success.
The Summit County Hope Court was awarded $550,000. The Hope Court (Healing, Opportunity, Progress & Empowerment) is the first felony specialized court for individuals who have been diagnosed with a severe and persistent mental health illness in Summit County. As a certified specialized docket with the Ohio Supreme Court, HOPE Court aims to improve life stability, reduce criminal recidivism, increase compliance with court orders and more.
Learn more about these specialty courts here.
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The Office of Justice Programs provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, advance racial equity in the administration of justice, assist victims and enhance the rule of law. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
Mansfield Man Sentenced to Prison for Sending Threats Through Facebook and Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that Bryan Shane Wolfe, 45, of Mansfield, Ohio, was sentenced today by Judge Donald C. Nugent to 46 months in prison after he pleaded guilty in August of 2021 to sending threatening communications to three individuals and possession of a firearm after having been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.
“This defendant deliberately chose to send threats to his victims due to their race, religion and ethnicity,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle M. Baeppler. “These actions were targeted, occurred on more than one occasion and caused lasting harm. Today’s sentence illustrates that threats made online have real consequences and may result in real prison time.”
"The defendant will now serve significant time in prison as a result of his despicable conduct," said FBI Special Agent in Charge Eric B. Smith. "Social media threats of this magnitude will not be tolerated and are taken seriously. The FBI is committed to investigating threats such as these due to the severe impact they can have on victims."
According to court documents, on November 2, 2019, Wolfe, through his Facebook account, sent pictures and messages to victim T.J. (an African American individual) threatening to kidnap members of the victim’s family while also making racial slurs.
Again, on September 8, 2020, Wolfe, using his Facebook account, sent victim E.H. (an Arab American individual) messages threatening to burn a Quran in the victim’s yard and further sent the victim a picture of E.H.’s home and a bonfire. Wolfe also referred to E.H. using slurs and derogatory terms.
Finally, on September 13, 2020, Wolfe, again from his Facebook account, sent messages to victim J.M. threatening to kill the victim’s biracial children and included a picture of the victim’s children. Wolfe also referred to J.M. using slurs and derogatory terms.
On September 18, 2020, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at the residence of Wolfe and recovered a pistol in plain sight. Wolfe is prohibited from possessing a firearm and ammunition due to his prior conviction for misdemeanor domestic violence in Morrow County Municipal Court.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Cleveland Division, Kentwood, Michigan Police Department and with assistance from the Ohio State Highway Patrol. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Bryson N. Gillard.
Toledo Man Charged with Submitting Fraudulent Claims for Tax RefundRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that a federal grand jury has returned a two-count indictment charging Lance Harris, 42, of Toledo, Ohio, with two counts of filing false and fictitious claims for a tax refund.
According to the indictment, in January and February of 2020, the defendant submitted fraudulent claims for a tax refund to the IRS in the amount of approximately $1.1 million for tax years 2019 and 2018.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jody L. King.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Announces More Than $250k to Support Project Safe NeighborhoodsRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio announced today that the Department of Justice has awarded $257,418 in grant funding to support the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) program in the Northern District. This funding will support efforts across the District to address violent crime, including gun violence that is often at its core. The Department of Justice also announced that it has awarded more than $17.5 million nationwide to support PSN programs in other districts.
The Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA), part of the department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), will administer the 88 grant awards, which are being made to designated fiscal agents to support local PSN projects that work in partnership with U.S. Attorneys’ Offices.
“This latest Project Safe Neighborhoods grant is critical to addressing the violent crime threatening cities and towns all across our country,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco. “Ensuring the safety of all Americans is the highest priority for the Department of Justice, but when it comes to violent crime, there is not a one-size-fits-all solution. We have to work closely with local public safety agencies as well as community organizations to craft individual strategies unique to each community’s needs. Programs like Project Safe Neighborhoods and the funding it provides allow us to do just that.”
“We are grateful for the Department’s sustained support of Project Safe Neighborhoods and its commitment to funding projects that prioritize public safety and violence prevention for our District’s communities,” said U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan. “This investment will continue to fund and support the work our office, law enforcement partners and community members do to address the most pressing issues facing our communities.”
Grant funding will support activities in the District that bring together federal, state and local law enforcement representatives with community stakeholders to develop a strategic plan to address violent crime. Objectives of this group include building trust and accountability between law enforcement and the community, enhancing crime and intelligence analysis, using data-driven measures to respond to violent crime issues and incorporating prevention and intervention activities to stop future violent crimes.
“Investing in our communities, supporting victims and building a justice system that both keeps people safe and earns their trust – these are mutually reinforcing goals that stand at the heart of Project Safe Neighborhoods,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Amy L. Solomon for OJP. “The Office of Justice Programs is pleased to join with our U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, and with jurisdictions across the country, as we work together to meet the challenges of crime and violence and achieve our shared aspirations of public safety and community trust.”
In May 2021, Attorney General Merrick B. Garland announced a new effort to reduce violent crime, including the gun violence that is often at its core. Integral to that effort was the reinvigoration of PSN, a two-decade-old evidence-based and community-oriented program focused on reducing violent crime. The updated PSN approach, outlined in the department’s Comprehensive Strategy for Reducing Violent Crime issued by Deputy Attorney General Monaco, is guided by four key principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities and measuring the results of our efforts. The fundamental goal is to reduce violent crime, not simply to increase the number of arrests or prosecutions.
This fall, U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country have enhanced their violent crime reduction efforts to ensure alignment with the department’s comprehensive violent crime reduction strategy. U.S. Attorneys’ Offices have engaged in outreach to law enforcement and other agencies and organizations serving communities to identify the most significant drivers of violence in their districts. Working together with a broad coalition of stakeholders, the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices are addressing the most pressing violent crime issues in their district to make our neighborhoods safer for all.
PSN programs are led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices in collaboration with local public safety agencies, community stakeholders and other agencies and organizations that work to reduce violent crime.
For a list of all grantees, please click here.
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The Office of Justice Programs provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, advance racial equity in the administration of justice, assist victims and enhance the rule of law. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
Enforcer for Toledo Drug Trafficking Organization Sentenced to More Than 19 Years in Prison After Conviction of Felon in Possession of Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that Darek Lathan, 52, of Toledo, Ohio, was sentenced on Dec. 8, 2021, to 235 months, about 19 and a half years, in prison by Judge George Caram Steeh, Eastern District of Michigan, after a jury found Lathan guilty of felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
According to court documents, in the spring of 2017, the FBI began an investigation into a drug trafficking organization importing kilograms of cocaine and other narcotics to be sold in Toledo, Ohio. Through the course of the investigation, law enforcement officials learned that members of the organization partnered with Lathan to provide security for the operation and during drug exchanges.
On Nov. 17, 2017, police executed a search warrant at a residence known to be occupied by Lathan and other members of the organization. During the execution of the warrant, Lathan was identified sleeping near the door next to a loaded pistol. While executing other search warrants that day, law enforcement officers obtained additional firearms and narcotics connected to the drug trafficking operation.
At trial, the leader of the drug trafficking organization described how Lathan worked for him as an enforcer, always carried a gun and that the firearm found next to Lathan was one that Lathan had acquired.
Lathan is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to multiple previous convictions in the Lucas County Common Pleas Court of aggravated robbery and kidnapping, aggravated robbery with a firearm and aggravated drug trafficking. These previous convictions qualified Lathan to be sentenced under the Armed Career Criminal Act.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation – Toledo Resident Agency. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew D. Simko and Sara Ann Al-Sorghali.
Cuyahoga Falls Man Sentenced to Prison for Attempting to Attack a Local High School and Making Threats to a Kansas Elementary SchoolRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that Allen Martin Kenna, 20, of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, was sentenced today to five years in prison by Judge Patricia A. Gaughan after Kenna pleaded guilty earlier this year to attempted use of an explosive device and interstate communication of threats.
“This defendant openly threatened to attack children while they attended classes at a local high school,” said U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan. “That he also engaged in reconnaissance efforts to prepare for such an attack and possessed the components, including ammunition, to construct the improvised explosive device he intended to use, demonstrates how very real this threat was for the children he targeted. The exceptional work of our local, state and federal partners prevented this attack. We remain grateful for their selfless dedication to protecting the residents of this District.”
"Mr. Kenna will now serve time behind bars for threatening two schools,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Eric B. Smith. “Thanks to the awareness of private citizens and the hard work of our law enforcement partners, what could have been a horrific and tragic day was stopped. Law enforcement has no higher priority than protecting others. The FBI and our law enforcement partners urge parents, relatives and friends to report suspicious and troubling behavior to authorities immediately.”
According to court documents, on January 8, 2020, law enforcement officers searched the known residence of Defendant Allen Martin Kenna after an individual informed police that Kenna had made threats to carry out an attack at Cuyahoga Falls High School (CFHS). Kenna had previously been identified entering CFHS after normal school hours, filming inside school hallways and asking others specific questions concerning school operations, facilities and resource officers.
During the search of the Kenna residence, officers obtained multiple electronic devices, several knives, firearm magazines, ammunition and various items intended to be used as components in the creation of an improvised explosive device.
Investigators then searched Kenna’s laptop and discovered numerous digital journal entries made by Kenna discussing plans, desires and research to carry out an attack at CFHS using explosives and firearms. In addition, officers found internet search history on a cell phone belonging to Kenna for topics including active shooters, firearms and weapons handling tactics, timed explosives, the search term “isis time bomb” and more.
Furthermore, investigators found multiple internet search inquiries for Lee Elementary School in Manhattan, Kansas. Investigators determined that on or about November 13, 2019, Kenna placed phone calls to law enforcement officials in Manhattan, Kansas, claiming to be an active shooter inside the elementary school. In response to this call, SWAT officers from the Riley County Sheriff’s Department deployed, and after several hours of speaking with Kenna posing as the alleged gunman, the SWAT team entered the school and discovered the event was a hoax. Journal entries found on Kenna’s laptop discussed his role in the hoax.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Joint Terrorism Task Force and the Cuyahoga Falls Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Duncan T. Brown.
U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan Releases Statement on Cuyahoga County Overdose SurgeRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan released a statement today after the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner issued a public health alert concerning suspected overdose deaths in the county.
“There are no safe street drugs,” said U.S. Attorney Brennan. “Pills that look like oxycontin or percocet are often pressed fentanyl, fentanyl analogues or carfentanil. Similarly, cocaine is not just cocaine, and heroin is not just heroin. What is being bought on the streets is killing our friends and neighbors. We will continue to identify, dismantle and prosecute anyone selling these illegal narcotics. But for those who are using, know that help is available. Please get the help you need.”
Read the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s public health alert here.
If you or anyone that you know is actively using or recovering from opioid addiction, contact Project DAWN for information at 216-778-5677. Eligible program participants are given free Naloxone kits – the opioid reversing antidote.
Additionally, the Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services (ADAMHS) Board of Cuyahoga County provides a 24-hour crisis hotline at 216-623-6888.
Mansfield Area Physician Sentenced to Prison for Prescribing Painkillers without Medical NecessityRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that Gary Frantz, 69, a Mansfield-area physician at the time of the offense conduct, was sentenced to 46 months in prison and ordered to pay a fine of $10,000 on December 2, 2021, by Judge Benita Y. Pearson after Frantz pleaded guilty earlier this year to illegally, and without medical necessity, prescribing powerful painkillers.
Christopher Fulk, 44, of Mansfield, Ohio, was also sentenced in this matter to 30 months in prison. Fulk pleaded guilty in August of 2020 to conspiracy to distribute and dispense controlled substances, distribution of fentanyl and distribution of fentanyl and oxycodone.
According to court records, from January of 2005 through June of 2017, Frantz, a licensed medical practitioner in Mansfield, Ohio, distributed prescription painkillers, such as Oxycodone, Methadone, Hydrocodone and more, that were medically unnecessary and outside the usual course of professional practice to ten individuals.
Frantz prescribed narcotics to customers whom he described as “patients”, often prescribing doses that far exceeded the standard of care, and at levels that were so high, they’re typically seen only in operating rooms and in end-of-life care. In some instances, family members came to Frantz and raised concerns that their loved ones were taking too much medication; however, Frantz continued to distribute narcotics at excessive levels and in large doses.
Furthermore, Frantz distributed excessive quantities of narcotics to persons despite knowing that they had histories of substance abuse and in the face of multiple signs that they were addicted to the medication. In some instances, pharmacists expressed concern to Frantz that the dosages and quantities of painkillers that he was prescribing and that some of his patients were filling prescriptions far too often. Nevertheless, Frantz continued to prescribe these large doses.
Frantz also prescribed large doses of perception narcotics to Defendant Christopher Fulk, who was known as a “patient”. During this time, Frantz wrote medically unnecessary prescriptions for excessively large quantities of controlled substances, including oxycodone pills and fentanyl patches, some of which Fulk then diverted and distributed to others. Fulk sold thousands of oxycodone pills and hundreds of fentanyl patches that he received from Frantz to various customers in the Mansfield area.
This case was investigated by the DEA, METRICH Drug Task Force and the Mansfield Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Margaret A. Sweeney and Edward F. Feran.
Cleveland Man Found Guilty of Threatening a Federal EmployeeRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that a federal jury today returned a guilty verdict against Defendant Lon R. Sweeney, 56, of Cleveland, Ohio, following a four-day trial before Judge Dan Aaron Polster in Cleveland. Sweeney was convicted of threatening a federal employee and acquitted of assault of an officer.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, on July 12, 2017, Sweeney left a voicemail message threatening bodily harm to an employee of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) after the VA had begun the process of assigning a fiduciary to manage Sweeney’s monetary VA benefits. During the same voicemail, Sweeney also threatened bodily harm against an employee of the Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General, Criminal Investigations Division, who had previously warned Sweeney about making threats to VA employees. Following the threats on July 12, a warrant was issued for Sweeney’s arrest.
On January 7, 2019, Sweeney appeared for a scheduled appointment at the VA Medical Center in Cleveland. After the appointment concluded, law enforcement officers apprehended Sweeney on his outstanding warrant.
Sweeney is scheduled to be sentenced on April 12, 2022. A federal district court judge will determine a sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
This case was investigated by the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of the Inspector General with the help of the Cleveland VAMC Police and Brecksville Police Departments. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Brad J. Beeson and Brian M. McDonough.
East Sparta Woman Sentenced for Stealing $100K from Social Security AdministrationRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that Jamie L. Casey, 34, of East Sparta, Ohio, was sentenced today by Judge J. Philip Calabrese to serve three days in prison, two years of post-release supervision and ordered to pay $102,822 in restitution to the Social Security Administration after Casey pleaded guilty to theft of government property in August of 2021.
According to court documents, Casey’s grandmother received Social Security retirement benefits paid to her via direct deposit into an account she co-owned with Casey. From June of 2012 to around June of 2020, and after the death of her grandmother, Casey collected the Social Security benefits and converted the funds to her own use by making electronic withdrawals even though she knew the funds were to terminate upon the death of the intended recipient.
In total, Casey collected $102,822 in benefit payments to which she was not entitled.
This case was investigated by the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason W. White.
Cleveland Man Found Guilty of Robbery and Evidence TamperingRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that a federal jury today returned guilty verdicts against Defendant Tandre Buchanan, Jr., 24, of Cleveland, following a three-day trial before Judge Donald C. Nugent in Cleveland. Buchanan was found guilty of interference with commerce by means of robbery and tampering with evidence.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, on May 30, 2020, Buchanan, wearing a bright orange jacket, head covering and shoes, threw an object that shattered a large window at Colossal Cupcakes on Euclid Avenue in downtown Cleveland. Buchanan then entered the business through the broken window and encountered the store owner and employees, who locked themselves in a bathroom to call for help.
Buchannan removed a chair from the shop and exited through the same window. Using the chair, Buchanan repeatedly smashed a second window until it finally shattered and fell out. Court documents state that multiple individuals then entered the business through the broken window, destroyed the shop’s interior and stole several items, including store inventory and iPads, all while Buchanan was smashing the second window.
According to court records, text messages regarding the incident were later recovered from Buchanan’s phone. An individual sent a text to Buchanan’s asking, “what the hell they do with all the cupcakes?” Buchanan replied, “man I was giving them out.”
The jury also found Buchanan guilty of evidence tampering after evidence showed Buchanan disposed of the bright orange clothing he wore in an attempt to conceal his identity and participation in the incident. Buchanan was ultimately identified and arrested based on multiple identifications made from photos released to the public.
Buchanan is scheduled to be sentenced on March 23, 2022. A federal district court judge will determine a sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
This case was investigated by the Cleveland FBI with the help of the Cleveland Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Scott C. Zarzycki.
Akron Man Sentenced to 20 Years for Selling Fentanyl that Led to Fatal OverdoseRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that Jurmaine A. Jeffries, 32, of Akron, Ohio, was sentenced on Nov. 30, 2021, by Judge Solomon Oliver, Jr to 20 years in prison.
In April of 2018, following a two-week trial, a jury convicted Jeffries of distribution of fentanyl resulting in death and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. The jury found Jeffries sold the fentanyl that resulted in the death of an Akron woman on Sept. 16, 2015, inside a home on Goodyear Avenue. Testimony and evidence presented at trial showed the woman called and texted Jeffries repeatedly on the day that she died, asking to buy drugs. Jeffries replied, “B right there” and records from cell phone towers put Jeffries near the woman’s residence the day that she died.
Akron police detectives then posed as the woman and texted Jeffries from her phone, asking for more drugs. Jeffries again replied that he would “be right there” and police arrested him when he arrived. Police found Jeffries to be in possession of 38 grams of fentanyl when he was arrested, according to trial testimony and evidence.
This case was investigated by the DEA and Akron Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan R. Miller.
Maple Heights Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Commit ArsonRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that Timothy Goodner, 20, of Maple Heights, Ohio, pleaded guilty in federal court today to conspiracy to commit arson during the May 30, 2020, demonstrations in downtown Cleveland.
According to court documents, on May 30, 2020, during ongoing demonstrations in downtown Cleveland, a small crowd gathered around the Shaia & PPR parking booth located on West 3rd Street. In this crowd, an unidentified individual is observed using a lighter to ignite a roll of paper towels and cardboard boxes in an attempt to set fire to the parking booth.
While members of the crowd waited for the paper towels and boxes to ignite, a second unidentified individual handed Defendant Timothy Goodner a cardboard box, which Goodner placed inside the booth. The first unidentified individual then inserted the burning paper towels and cardboard boxes inside the parking booth while Goodner and others stood nearby. Goodner then placed additional cardboard boxes inside the booth to accelerate the fire.
After the demonstrations, the Cleveland Division of Police released images and videos of suspects committing various criminal acts to the media. Goodner was identified via these images from numerous anonymous tips.
A sentencing date has not been set. A federal district court judge will determine a sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
This case was investigated by the ATF and the Cleveland Division of Police. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelly L. Galvin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio would like to acknowledge and thank the Cleveland FBI, Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office and the Ohio State Highway Patrol for their assistance in this matter.
Toledo Man Sentenced for Illegal Possession of Firearms and Improvised Explosive DeviceRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that Jeffrey Davenport, 52, of Toledo, was sentenced on Monday, November 22, by Judge Jack Zouhary to 54 months in prison after Davenport pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and possession of an unregistered destructive device.
As set out in court documents, on July 1, 2020, the Toledo Police Department’s Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team and members of the Northwest Ohio Bomb Squad executed a search warrant at Davenport’s residence on Atlantic Avenue in Toledo. During the search, law enforcement officers obtained a smoke grenade, three inert grenades, one flak jacket, miscellaneous ammunition, 11 firearms and an improvised explosive device.
While executing the warrant, law enforcement officers detained two of Davenport’s associates, who later admitted to removing several firearms and ammunition from the Davenport residence to conceal them from police. These items included eight boxes of miscellaneous ammunition, a green rifle case, seven firearms and a 12-gauge shotgun.
Davenport is prohibited from possessing firearms due to previous convictions of felonious assault and attempted felonious assault on a peace officer in 2003 in the Lucas County Common Pleas Court.
This case was investigated by the ATF and Toledo Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Deyana F. Unis.
Four Found Guilty this Week in the Northern DistrictRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced four separate guilty verdicts returned this week in criminal cases in the Northern District of Ohio. These are separate cases and are not related.
On Monday, November 15, a federal jury returned guilty verdicts against Defendant Quentin D. Watson, 35, of Akron, following a week-long trial before Judge Pamela A. Barker. Watson was found guilty of distributing a fentanyl substance that led to a fatal overdose, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Watson is scheduled to be sentenced on March 17, 2022. This case was investigated by the Akron Police Department, Akron Fire Department, Summit County Medical Examiner’s Office, Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Aaron P. Howell and Christopher J. Joyce.
On Wednesday, November 17, a federal jury in the Eastern District of Michigan returned guilty verdicts against Defendant Jay A. Schwartz, 55, of Northville, Michigan, following a three-day trial before Judge Robert H. Cleland in Port Huron. Schwartz was found guilty of conspiracy to defraud the United States and bribery involving federal programs.
Schwartz is scheduled to be sentenced on March 17, 2022. This case was investigated by the Detroit Division of the FBI. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Gene Crawford and Michael Freeman out of the Northern District of Ohio.
On Thursday, November 18, a federal jury returned guilty verdicts against Defendant Damon Lamont Irby, 45, of Youngstown, following a two-day trial before Judge John R. Adams. Irby was found guilty of felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition and possession of a firearm and ammunition by a person with a prior misdemeanor domestic violence conviction.
Irby is scheduled to be sentenced on March 15, 2022. This case was investigated by the FBI. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason M. Katz.
On Thursday, November 18, a federal jury returned guilty verdicts against Defendant Leonard Walker, Jr., 44, of Elyria, following a five-day trial before Judge Solomon Oliver. Walker was found guilty of distribution of crack cocaine, possession with the intent to distribute crack cocaine and as a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
Walker is scheduled to be sentenced on March 11, 2022. This case was investigated by the Elyria Police Department and the FBI. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert J. Kolansky and Colleen M. Egan.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Announces $5.5 Million for Law Enforcement Hiring to Advance Community PolicingRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio today announced that the Justice Department has awarded $5.5 million in grant funding through the Department’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) COPS Hiring Program (CHP) to four law enforcement agencies in the district. The awards provide direct funding to hire additional full-time law enforcement professionals.
Across the nation, the Justice Department announced that it has awarded more than $139 million in grant funding to 183 law enforcement agencies.
The following law enforcement agencies in the Northern District of Ohio received awards:
- Austintown Township, $250,000
- City of Canton, $1,000,000
- City of Cleveland, $3,750,000
- Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority Police Department, $500,000
CHP is a competitive award program intended to reduce crime and advance public safety through community policing. CHP provides funds directly to law enforcement agencies to hire new or rehire additional career law enforcement officers, thereby increasing their community policing capacity and crime prevention efforts. Of the 183 agencies awarded grants today, approximately half will use the funding to focus on building legitimacy and trust between law enforcement and communities; 41 agencies will seek to address high rates of gun violence; 21 will focus on other areas of violence; and 19 will focus CHP resources on combating hate and domestic extremism or supporting police-based responses to persons in crisis. The complete list of awards can be found here.
Since its creation in 1994, COPS has invested more than $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local and Tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of more than 135,000 officers. CHP, COPS’ flagship program, continues to be in demand today: In FY21, COPS received 590 applications requesting nearly 3,000 law enforcement positions. For FY22, President Biden has requested $537 million for CHP, an increase of $300 million.
To learn more about CHP, please visit https://cops.usdoj.gov/chp-award. For additional information about the COPS Office, please visit https://cops.usdoj.gov/.
The COPS Office is the federal component of the Department of Justice responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. The only Department of Justice agency with policing in its name, the COPS Office was established in 1994 and has been the cornerstone of the nation’s crime fighting strategy with grants, a variety of knowledge resource products, and training and technical assistance. Through the years, the COPS Office has become the go-to organization for law enforcement agencies across the country and continues to listen to the field and provide the resources that are needed to reduce crime and build trust between law enforcement and the communities served.
Texas Woman Pleads Guilty to Schemes to Procure Adoptions from Uganda and Poland through Bribery and FraudRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that a Texas woman who was a program manager at an Ohio-based international adoption agency pleaded guilty today to schemes to procure adoptions of Ugandan and Polish children by bribing Ugandan officials and defrauding U.S. authorities.
According to court documents, Debra Parris, 69, of Lake Dallas, engaged in a scheme with others to bribe Ugandan officials to procure adoptions of Ugandan children by families in the United States. These bribes included payments to (a) probation officers intended to ensure favorable probation reports recommending that a particular child be placed into an orphanage; (b) court registrars to influence the assignment of particular cases to “adoption-friendly” judges; and (c) High Court judges to issue favorable guardianship orders for the adoption agency’s clients. In her plea agreement, Parris also admitted that she continued to direct the adoption agency’s clients to work with her alleged co-conspirator Dorah Mirembe, after knowing that Mirembe caused clients of the adoption agency to provide false information to the U.S. State Department for the purpose of misleading it in its adjudication of visa applications.
According to court documents, in a second scheme, after alleged co-conspirator Margaret Cole, the adoption agency’s Executive Director, learned that clients of the adoption agency determined they could not care for one of the two Polish children they were set to adopt, Parris and her co-conspirator took steps to transfer the Polish child to Parris’s relatives, who were not eligible for intercountry adoption. In her plea agreement, Parris also admitted that after the child was injured and hospitalized, Parris agreed with her co-conspirator to conceal their improper conduct from the U.S. State Department in an attempt to continue profiting from these adoptions.
Parris pleaded guilty to conspiracy to violate the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) and commit visa fraud in connection with the Uganda scheme, and conspiracy to defraud the United States in connection with the Poland scheme. She is scheduled to be sentenced on March 9, 2022. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Trial against Cole is scheduled to commence on Feb. 7, 2022. Mirembe remains at large.
Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan for the Northern District of Ohio; and Acting Assistant Director Jay Greenberg of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division made the announcement.
If you believe you are a victim of this offense, please visit https://www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/victim-witness-program or call (888) 549-3945.
The FBI’s Cleveland Field Office is investigating the case.
Trial Attorneys Jason Manning and Alexander Kramer of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Chelsea Rice of the Northern District of Ohio are prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs assisted in the investigation.
The Fraud Section has lead responsibility for investigating and prosecuting all FCPA matters. Additional information about the Justice Department’s FCPA enforcement efforts can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal/fraud/fcpa.
Texas Woman Pleads Guilty to Schemes to Procure Adoptions from Uganda and Poland through Bribery and FraudRead the Press Release
A Texas woman who was a program manager at an Ohio-based international adoption agency pleaded guilty today in the Northern District of Ohio to schemes to procure adoptions of Ugandan and Polish children by bribing Ugandan officials and defrauding U.S. authorities.
According to court documents, Debra Parris, 69, of Lake Dallas, engaged in a scheme with others to bribe Ugandan officials to procure adoptions of Ugandan children by families in the United States. These bribes included payments to (a) probation officers intended to ensure favorable probation reports recommending that a particular child be placed into an orphanage; (b) court registrars to influence the assignment of particular cases to “adoption-friendly” judges; and (c) High Court judges to issue favorable guardianship orders for the adoption agency’s clients. In her plea agreement, Parris also admitted that she continued to direct the adoption agency’s clients to work with her alleged co-conspirator Dorah Mirembe, after knowing that Mirembe caused clients of the adoption agency to provide false information to the U.S. State Department for the purpose of misleading it in its adjudication of visa applications.
According to court documents, in a second scheme, after alleged co-conspirator Margaret Cole, the adoption agency’s Executive Director, learned that clients of the adoption agency determined they could not care for one of the two Polish children they were set to adopt, Parris and her co-conspirator took steps to transfer the Polish child to Parris’s relatives, who were not eligible for intercountry adoption. In her plea agreement, Parris also admitted that after the child was injured and hospitalized, Parris agreed with her co-conspirator to conceal their improper conduct from the U.S. State Department in an attempt to continue profiting from these adoptions.
Parris pleaded guilty to conspiracy to violate the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) and commit visa fraud in connection with the Uganda scheme, and conspiracy to defraud the United States in connection with the Poland scheme. She is scheduled to be sentenced on March 9, 2022. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Trial against Cole is scheduled to commence on Feb. 7, 2022. Mirembe remains at large.
Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan for the Northern District of Ohio; and Acting Assistant Director Jay Greenberg of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division made the announcement.
If you believe you are a victim of this offense, please visit https://www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/victim-witness-program or call (888) 549-3945.
The FBI’s Cleveland Field Office is investigating the case.
Trial Attorneys Jason Manning and Alexander Kramer of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Chelsea Rice of the Northern District of Ohio are prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs assisted in the investigation.
The Fraud Section has lead responsibility for investigating and prosecuting all FCPA matters. Additional information about the Justice Department’s FCPA enforcement efforts can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal/fraud/fcpa.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and Cole and Mirembe are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Alabama Man Sentenced to 22 Years After Conviction of Illegal Possession of Meth, 14 Firearms and Stolen Police Body ArmorRead the Press Release
Acting U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that on Monday, November 15, 2021, Judge Christopher A. Boyko sentenced Brandon L. Sheridan, 35, of Mobile, Alabama, to 22 years in prison. A jury found Sheridan and codefendant Justin Martin, 34, of Akron, guilty of possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime in July of 2021.
According to court documents, on January 10, 2018, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at a residence on Lake Street in Akron. An investigation revealed that Martin and Sheridan were using the address as a base of operations to conduct drug trafficking activities. During the execution of the warrant, officers encountered Martin and Sheridan inside the residence and located approximately 1 kilo of methamphetamine, 14 firearms (four of which were reported stolen), ammunition, approximately $7,000 in cash drug packaging materials and paraphernalia.
Officers also recovered law enforcement-issued body armor previously reported stolen from a Cuyahoga Falls police officer during a residential burglary.
Judge Boyko sentenced codefendant Justin Martin to 23 years imprisonment on October 29, 2021.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Akron Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Aaron P. Howell and Peter Daly.
Akron Man Found Guilty of Distributing Fentanyl that Led to Fatal OverdoseRead the Press Release
Acting U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that on Monday, November 15, 2021, a federal jury returned guilty verdicts against Defendant Quentin D. Watson, 35, of Akron, Ohio, following a week-long trial before Judge Pamela A. Barker in Cleveland. Watson was found guilty of distributing a fentanyl substance that led to a fatal overdose, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, on June 24, 2020, Watson distributed a fentanyl substance to a woman identified in court documents as M.M., who ingested the substance, overdosed and died. Later, in October of 2020, Akron Police stopped and searched a vehicle that Watson was driving and found various amounts of fentanyl, methamphetamine and a 9mm pistol.
Watson faces a mandatory minimum of at least 25 years imprisonment and a max possible sentence of life. A sentencing date has not been scheduled.
This case was investigated by the Akron Police Department, Akron Fire Department, Summit County Medical Examiner’s Office, Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Aaron P. Howell and Christopher J. Joyce.
Former Toledo Physician Sentenced for Sex Trafficking and Drugging VictimsRead the Press Release
Acting U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that Manish Raj Gupta, 50, of Sylvania, Ohio, was sentenced today by Judge James G. Carr to more than 19 years in prison after Gupta, a former Toledo-area physician, pleaded guilty to sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion and illegally dispensing a controlled substance. Gupta was sentenced to 235 months and ordered to pay a fine of $250,000 and over $57,000 in restitution.
"Mr. Gupta meticulously planned his attacks, including which controlled substances to pull from his medical office so that he could incapacitate vulnerable women and record his sexual assaults," said Acting U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan. "The brave women who spoke out, along with the dedicated work of the FBI and prosecutors assigned to this case, ensured that Mr. Gupta was brought to justice and will no longer be a threat to women.'
"The FBI is pleased with the lengthy sentence given today to Manish Gupta for his heinous criminal behavior," said FBI Special Agent in Charge Eric B. Smith. "He took advantage of these females and turned them into victims of sexual abuse. Gupta's incarceration may pave the way for other victims to come forward. The FBI encourages anyone that was sexually victimized by Manish Gupta to please contact the FBI at 1-877-FBI-OHIO."
As set out in court documents, Gupta was a plastic surgeon and business owner of three surgery centers located in the city of Toledo, the city of Oregon and the Southern Michigan area. As a licensed doctor, Gupta was authorized to prescribe controlled substances within the course of his medical practice and for legitimate purposes.
According to court documents, Gupta traveled to medical conferences in large urban areas, including Chicago in March and April of 2013, Cleveland in April of 2013, Miami/Ft. Lauderdale in June of 2015 and July 2019, Los Angeles in September of 2016 and various other dates in San Francisco and Detroit.
Gupta would often stay at a centrally located hotel in these cities, hire escorts in the area and administer incapacitating drugs in order to commit sexual acts of violence without consent.
Gupta often recorded these assaults and, prior to his travel, would ship a bag described in court documents as a "rape bag," containing drugs and recording equipment, to the hotel where he was staying.
In August of 2016, court documents state that Gupta began corresponding online with Victim #1, an individual he intended to hire for sexual activity prior to planned travel to Los Angeles. On September 23, 2016, Gupta met with the victim at the hotel where he was staying, administered an incapacitating controlled substance, performed sexual acts of violence and recorded the assault.
On March 6, 2020, FBI agents executed a federal search warrant at one of Gupta's plastic surgery centers in Toledo. During the search, agents obtained numerous items, including controlled substances, sedatives, recording equipment and video recording memory cards, one of which contained a recording of Gupta committing sexual assault. Agents later discovered 61 different videos of Gupta committing sex acts of violence on at least 20 different unconscious women, including Victim #1.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Toledo Resident Agency. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Tracey Ballard Tangeman and Carol M. Skutnik.
Northeast Ohio Priest Sentenced to Life in Prison for Sex Trafficking Minors, Exploitation and Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Acting U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that Robert D. McWilliams, 41, of Strongsville, Ohio, was sentenced today by Judge Sara Lioi to life in prison. McWilliams, a Northeast Ohio-area Catholic Priest at the time of the offense conduct, previously pleaded guilty to two counts of sex trafficking of a minor, three counts of sexual exploitation of a child, and one count each of transportation of child pornography, receipt and distribution of visual depiction of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct and possession of child pornography.
“This defendant violated and exploited children in nearly every manner imaginable,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan. “Using his role in the Church, Mr. McWilliams violated the sacrament of confession to identify potential victims, and offered religious counseling to victims he extorted under alter egos he intentionally created to conceal his own identity. He also used social media to target and entice young children into the exploitive world of juvenile sex trafficking, all after having already amassed a large collection of violent child pornography. We commend the victims and their families for the courage they have shown. We are also thankful to Homeland Security Investigations, the Geauga County Prosecutor’s Office, and the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force for their work on this case and all cases involving perpetrators who target our children.”
“Mr. McWilliams used his position and reputation as a priest to meet and earn the trust of these children, only to betray that trust in the worst way possible for his own twisted gratification,” said HSI Detroit Special Agent in Charge Vance Callender. “HSI Detroit has several teams of agents and forensic interviewers throughout the region who work with state and local partners and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children to identify individuals who exploit the communities’ trust.”
As set out in court documents, beginning in 2019, McWilliams used fake identities and technology to extort minors for sexually explicit images, amass a significant collection of child pornography and provide compensation to minors in exchange for sexual acts. McWilliams met some of the victims through his time in the seminary with the Catholic Diocese of Cleveland and as an appointed Parochial Vicar at a parish where the children and their families were affiliated.
According to court documents, McWilliams used the sacrament of confession to obtain information that he later exploited, by creating aliases, including posing as a minor, to seek the production of sexually explicit material from minors that he was “counseling.” Court records show that McWilliams enticed three minor victims to send sexually explicit photographs and videos, sometimes threatening to expose embarrassing information that McWilliams already knew about the victims if they did not send such images. When some victims refused to send additional images, McWilliams followed through on his threats and sent sexually explicit photographs to the victims’ mothers.
In addition, court documents state that McWilliams used the social networking website Grindr.com to make contact with a minor victim for the purpose of engaging in commercial sex. McWilliams then enticed this minor victim to identify another minor victim with whom McWilliams could engage in commercial sex acts. McWilliams met the victims on multiple occasions for the purpose of engaging in sex acts in exchange for money and alcohol.
On December 4, 2019, law enforcement officials executed a search warrant at McWilliams’ living quarters in Strongsville. During the search, officers seized a laptop and an external hard drive that contained hundreds of images and videos of child pornography. Further investigation revealed McWilliams had a Dropbox cloud storage account where he stored more than 128,000 images of child pornography. McWilliams downloaded these image files from the internet and stored them in various folders on his computer devices.
This case was investigated by the Geauga County Prosecutor’s Office with assistance from the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations and Ohio Internet Crimes Against Children (“ICAC”) Task Force. James Flaiz, the Geauga County Prosecutor, is an assigned Special Assistant U.S. Attorney on this matter. This case was prosecuted by Acting U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan and Assistant U.S. Attorney Carol M. Skutnik.
Akron Man Sentenced to 20 Years for Distribution of Carfentanil That Caused DeathRead the Press Release
Acting U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that Ellis J. Wilson, 27, of Akron, Ohio, was sentenced today by Judge Dan Aaron Polster to 20 years in prison after Wilson pleaded guilty to distribution or carfentanil with an enhanced penalty, distribution of carfentanil and possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute.
According to court documents, on April 16, 2019, Wilson agreed to provide an individual identified as “J.N.” with a quantity of heroin through a third party. Wilson then provided J.N. with a substance that contained a detectable amount of carfentanil. J.N. later ingested this substance, overdosed and died of carfentanil toxicity.
Additionally, on several occasions in May of 2019, Wilson provided a confidential source with the Summit County Drug Unit a similar substance containing a detectable amount of carfentanil. On May 23, 2019, law enforcement officers searched a residence belonging to Wilson and obtained carfentanil, heroin and multiple items used in the preparation of drug distribution, including a digital scale, plastic baggies, cutting agents, a blender with powder residue and a 9mm semiautomatic pistol.
Wilson pleaded guilty in July of 2021 to a penalty enhancement due to the death resulting from his distribution of the carfentanil mixture to J.N.
This case was investigated by the Summit County Sheriff’s Office with assistance provided by the Summit County Prosecutor’s Office. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter E. Daly and Toni Beth Schnellinger Feisthamel.
Warren Man Sentenced for Threatening Social Security Administration OfficialRead the Press Release
Acting U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that on Wednesday, Nov. 3, Judge J. Philip Calabrese sentenced Anthony D. Wilson, 35, of Warren, Ohio, to a three-year term of probation after Wilson pleaded guilty in June of 2021 to threatening an official with the Social Security Administration.
“Public servants should never be faced with threats of physical violence or intimidation in the course of their employment,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan. “The Social Security Administration employees threatened by Mr. Wilson are commended for the prompt and appropriate response to the threats made against them.”
“Mr. Wilson’s violent threats to murder a DDS employee who was performing their official duties are intolerable,” said Gail S. Ennis, Inspector General for the Social Security Administration. “The safety of SSA employees and contractors is one of our highest priorities, and we will continue to hold accountable those who jeopardize or attempt to endanger their safety. I thank our law enforcement partners for their efforts in this investigation and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for prosecuting this case.”
According to court documents, in January of 2020, the Social Security Administration (SSA) began a review of the disability status of Wilson to ensure he remained eligible to receive benefits, which required Wilson to undergo medical examinations. At the conclusion of this review, the SSA determined that Wilson was not disabled and discontinued his benefits. Wilson later appealed this decision and, in order to consider the appeal, the SSA required Wilson to undergo further medical examinations and a Claims Adjudicator with the Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities, Disability Determination Services, a contractor for the SSA, was assigned to the case.
On or about March 20 and March 21, 2021, Wilson left threatening voicemail messages on the work phone of the adjudicator threatening bodily harm to the adjudicator and other employees. Wilson made these threats in retaliation to the adjudicator’s work on Wilson’s pending case before the Social Security Administration.
As part of the investigation, federal agents obtained a copy of Wilson’s criminal history and discovered a number of prior arrests for making threatening statements and, in one instance, threatening to harm a police officer.
This investigation was conducted by the Social Security Administration – Office of the Inspector General. This case was prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason W. White.
Cleveland Man Sentenced for Laundering Drug Trafficking Proceeds by Purchasing and Leasing VehiclesRead the Press Release
Acting U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that Kenneth Slaughter, 43, of Cleveland, Ohio, was sentenced on Wednesday, October 3, 2021, by Judge Solomon Oliver to 26 months in prison and a $5,000 fine after Slaughter pleaded guilty in July of 2021 to conspiracy to launder monetary instruments.
According to court documents, from April of 2015 to March of 2019, Slaughter purchased or leased several high-end motor vehicles for known drug traffickers in return for cash payments made directly from drug trafficking proceeds. To conduct the scheme, Slaughter provided false information to car dealerships and on credit applications to obtain financing to purchase the vehicles. Slaughter then registered the vehicles in his name, his girlfriend’s name and in the name of his businesses to conceal that the traffickers, who ultimately took possession and control of the vehicles, were the true owners.
Slaughter made payments on the vehicles using drug trafficking proceeds funneled through his business bank accounts. Some of the vehicles Slaughter purchased include a Mercedes Benz GLC 300 C4, Infiniti QX80, Jaguar F-PACE, Land Rover Range Rover and a Dodge Challenger Hellcat.
These vehicles were later used to conduct drug trafficking activities in the Cleveland area.
In total, Slaughter laundered between $95,000 and $150,000 of drug trafficking proceeds through the scheme.
This effort was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
This case was investigated by the Cartel Gang Narcotics and Money Laundering Task Force, IRS Criminal Investigation and Westlake Police. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Margaret A. Sweeney.
Orville Broker-Dealer Charged with Securities FraudRead the Press Release
Acting U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan and FBI Special Agent in Charge Eric B. Smith announced that a federal grand jury returned a seven-count indictment charging Thomas Brenner, 58, of Orville, Ohio, with conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, conspiracy to commit securities fraud, mail fraud, wire fraud, securities fraud and engaging in a monetary transaction in property derived from criminal activity.
According to the indictment, the defendant was a financial broker-dealer and President of First American Securities, Inc., located in Orrville. In March of 2015, it is alleged that the defendant, Person-1 and others conspired together to recruit the defendant’s clients to “invest” in United RL Capital Services, LLC (“URL”), a company that purportedly financed medical laboratory developments.
It is alleged that the defendant and Person-1 solicited investors over the phone, through letters and in person. According to the indictment, the two misrepresented material information to the investors, including that investors’ money would finance medical laboratory developments, investors would receive their money back with interest after three years and that URL was as safe or safer than other existing investments.
It is alleged that some investors, at the defendant’s and Person-1’s encouragement, removed money from their IRAs to invest in URL and that the defendant and Person-1 misrepresented that doing so would not result in tax penalties.
The indictment describes how the defendant, instead of apportioning the investors’ money as promised, allegedly used these funds for his benefit, including large racecar-related purchases and to pay taxes. The indictment also alleges that when investors inquired about their investments, the defendant and Person-1 misrepresented that their investments were secure and provided some investors with sporadic, minimal payments, disguised as installments of earned interest, in order to lull investors into believing that their money was safe and being used as promised.
According to the indictment, the defendant knew that he was being investigated in 2015 and 2016 for selling URL securities by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”), a congressionally authorized entity that licenses and regulates broker-dealers. Despite this, it is alleged that neither the defendant nor Person-1 told prospective investors about the investigation, that First American Securities, Inc. could face closure and that the defendant could be suspended from associating with any FINRA-registered firm, which he eventually was. The defendant and Person-1 also allegedly did not inform investors that the defendant and Person-1 were related as family members.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
If convicted, a defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal records, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum, and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
This case was investigated by the Cleveland FBI – Canton Resident Agency and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan O’Shea.
Mansfield Man Charged with Threatening VA EmployeeRead the Press Release
Acting U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that a federal grand jury returned a one-count indictment charging Patrick J. Rose, 59, of Mansfield, Ohio, with one count of influencing a federal official by threat.
According to the affidavit in support of the criminal complaint, on October 6, 2021, it is alleged that the defendant left a voicemail message at the Mansfield VA Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC), threatening to kill a VA employee.
The Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General (VA OIG) investigated the incident and determined that the defendant and a Clinical Pharmacy Specialist in Psychiatry at the Mansfield CBOC had a medical appointment together on October 4, 2021, during which the specialist decided to discontinue the defendant’s prescription for Diazepam. The defendant immediately became upset, allegedly threatened to “shoot somebody” and left the appointment.
Days later, on October 6, it is alleged that the defendant left a voicemail message on a phone at the CBOC threatening to harm the pharmacy specialist and “eliminate her whole family.” The defendant was later charged and arrested.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation.
In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum, and in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
This investigation was conducted by the Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General (OIG) and the Cleveland VA Medical Center (VAMC) Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason W. White.
Cleveland Woman Sentenced to 24 Months for Aiding Armed RobberyRead the Press Release
Acting U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that the last of three individuals involved in a 2019-armed robbery of a Rally’s restaurant in Elyria was sentenced on Monday, November 1, 2021, for her role in the incident.
Alonda Bryant, 24, of Cleveland, was sentenced by Judge Dan Aaron Polster to 24 months imprisonment after Bryant pleaded guilty to attempted interference with commerce by means of robbery in April of 2021.
Previously sentenced in this matter was James. A. Jackson, 29, of Cleveland, to 130 months imprisonment and DeMario J. Horton, 32, of Cleveland, to 120 months.
According to court documents, on June 11, 2019, Jackson, armed with a box-cutter, and Horton, armed with a firearm, entered a Rally’s restaurant in Elyria at approximately 2:45 a.m. and forced the store manager and other employees into a supply closet while they committed the robbery. Elyria Police observed Jackson and Horton exit the restaurant shortly after the robbery and stopped the vehicle that the two were occupying.
After searching the vehicle, police discovered claw hammers, latex gloves, a semi-automatic magazine with .45 caliber rounds in the glove box, a wallet belonging to the Rally’s store manager and clothing matching the description of the suspect’s clothing from the robbery. The following day, officers located an empty semi-automatic firearm in a bush behind the door where Horton and Jackson entered and exited the building.
While reviewing surveillance footage of the incident, police noticed a Rally’s employee, Alonda Bryant, opening the side restaurant doors to allow Jackson and Horton into the building and later fleeing the scene. After an investigation, police learned that Bryant had listed co-defendant DeMario Horton as her spouse and emergency contact on her employment application.
After fleeing the scene, Bryant placed a diversionary call to 911 for a location approximately a half-mile away in an attempt to obstruct police. However, police dispatch determined that the call actually came from the location of the Rally’s restaurant.
Jackson pleaded guilty to attempted interference with commerce by means of robbery, using or carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence and felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition in November of 2020.
Horton pleaded guilty to attempted interference with commerce by means of robbery, using or carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence and felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition in February of 2020.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Elyria Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Margaret A. Kane and Bryson N. Gillard.
Akron Man Sentenced to Four Years for Possession with Intent to Distribute 10,000 THC Vape Cartridges and Illegal Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
Acting U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that Gage Predojev, 23, of Akron, Ohio, was sentenced today by Judge James S. Gwin to 50 months imprisonment after Predojev pleaded guilty in June of 2021 to possession with the intent to distribute 10,000 THC vape cartridges and as a felon in possession of a firearm. Judge Gwin also ordered the forfeiture of seven firearms and $18,432 as part of Predojev’s sentence.
According to court records, on September 26, 2019, law enforcement officers stopped Predojev in his vehicle for a traffic violation. Officers learned that Predojev was driving under license suspension and used a narcotics-sniffing canine to detect the presence of drugs. The canine alerted officers to an odor of narcotics emitting from the vehicle and officers conducted a search. During the search, officers discovered 10,000 Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) vape cartridges inside the vehicle labeled as “Fwaygo Extracts.” Predojev told law enforcement that the cartridges were valued at around $250,000.
Following this incident, officers executed a search warrant at an apartment in Stow, Ohio, where Predojev lived with codefendant Justin Duma. During the search of the apartment, officers discovered additional THC vape cartridges, approximately $18,000 in drug trafficking proceeds and seven loaded firearms.
Predojev is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to a previous conviction of drug trafficking in the Summit County Court of Common Pleas.
Justin Duma is scheduled to be sentenced on January 19, 2022.
The investigation was conducted by the FDA – Office of Criminal Investigations in conjunction with the Ohio Attorney General’s Organized Crime Investigations Commission – Cuyahoga County Regional Major Crimes Task Force and the Ohio State Highway Patrol. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Aaron P. Howell.
Akron Man Sentenced to 23 Years for Illegal Possession of Meth, 14 Firearms and Stolen Police Body ArmorRead the Press Release
Acting U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that on Friday, October 29, 2021, Judge Christopher A. Boyko sentenced Justin D. Martin, 34, of Akron, Ohio, to 23 years imprisonment after a jury found Martin and codefendant Brandon L. Sheridan, 34, of Akron, guilty of possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime in July of 2021.
According to court documents, on January 10, 2018, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at a residence on Lake Street in Akron. An earlier investigation had revealed that Martin and Sheridan were using the address as a base of operations to conduct drug trafficking activities. During the execution of the search warrant, officers encountered Martin and Sheridan inside the residence and secured approximately 1 kilogram of methamphetamine, 14 firearms (four of which were reported stolen), ammunition, approximately $7,000 in cash, drug packaging materials and paraphernalia.
Officers also recovered law enforcement-issued body armor from the residence, which was previously reported stolen from a Cuyahoga Falls police officer during a residential burglary.
Brandon Sheridan is scheduled to be sentenced on November 15, 2021.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Akron Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Aaron P. Howell and Peter E. Daly.
New York Man Charged with Interstate Travel to Engage in Sexual Conduct with a MinorRead the Press Release
Acting U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan announced that a federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment charging Brandon Thomas Kern, 27, of Bayport, New York, with enticement and interstate travel to engage in illicit sexual conduct.
According to court documents, on October 7, 2021, law enforcement officers with the North Olmstead Police Department began an investigation into the online communications between the defendant and a minor victim through a mobile social media application after the victim contacted the police. During the investigation, officers allegedly determined that the defendant had traveled from New York to Ohio with the intent to engage in sexual conduct with the minor.
Officers were able to locate the defendant through his online conversation with the victim, and he was subsequently arrested.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
If convicted, a defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal records, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum, and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
This investigation was conducted by the Cleveland FBI and North Olmsted Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Margaret A. Kane.
Russian National Extradited to United States to Face Charges for Alleged Role in Cybercriminal OrganizationRead the Press Release
A Russian national, residing in the Yakutsk region of Russia and in Southeast Asia, had his initial appearance in federal court today after his extradition from the Republic of Korea to the Northern District of Ohio to face charges for his alleged role in a transnational, cybercriminal organization.
Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco, FBI Deputy Director Paul Abbate, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio Bridget M. Brennan and FBI Special Agent in Charge of the Cleveland Field Office Eric B. Smith made the announcement.
According to court documents, Vladimir Dunaev, 38, was a member of a transnational, cybercriminal organization that deployed a computer banking trojan and ransomware suite of malware known as “Trickbot.”
“Trickbot attacked businesses and victims across the globe and infected millions of computers for theft and ransom, including networks of schools, banks, municipal governments, and companies in the health care, energy, and agriculture sectors,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco. “This is the second overseas Trickbot defendant arrested in recent months, making clear that with our international partners, the Department of Justice can and will capture cyber criminals around the world. This is another success for the Department's recently launched Ransomware and Digital Extortion Task Force in dismantling ransomware groups and disrupting the cybercriminal ecosystem that allows ransomware to exist and to threaten our critical infrastructure.”
“The FBI is determined to utilize our unique tools and capabilities to disrupt transnational cybercriminal organizations, such as the group that developed and delivered Trickbot, and remains committed to imposing risk and consequence upon these criminals,” said Deputy Director Paul Abbate of the FBI. “Pursuing cyber criminals requires considerable patience, expertise, and resources, but the FBI has a long memory and will ensure that these malicious actors cannot evade detection or avoid the full weight of law enforcement actions.”
“The Trickbot malware was designed to steal the personal and financial information of millions of people around the world, thereby causing extensive financial harm and inflicting significant damage to critical infrastructure within the United States and abroad,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan of the Northern District of Ohio. “Today’s announcement underscores the great lengths federal law enforcement officials and our international partners will go to hold these alleged cybercriminals accountable for their actions.”
“This indictment reflects the dynamic landscape in which international criminals utilize sophisticated cyber methods to take advantage of and defraud, unsuspecting victims anywhere in the world,” said Special Agent in Charge Eric Smith of the FBI’s Cleveland Field Office. “This multi-year investigation demonstrates the commitment by the FBI to aggressively pursue these individuals despite the complexity and global character cyber investigations can so often bring. The FBI encourages any victim of cyber fraud to file a report with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov.”
The indictment alleges that beginning in November 2015, and continuing through August 2020, Dunaev and others stole money, confidential information, and damaged computer systems from unsuspecting victims, including individuals, financial institutions, school districts, utility companies, government entities, and private businesses. To perpetuate their criminal scheme, the defendants allegedly used a network of co-conspirators and freelance computer programmers, known as the Trickbot Group, to create, deploy, and manage the Trickbot malware, which infected millions of computers and computer systems worldwide.
Dunaev is alleged to have been one such co-conspirator, working as a malware developer for the Trickbot Group. Dunaev allegedly performed a variety of developer functions in support of the Trickbot malware, including managing the malware’s execution, developing popular browser modifications and helping to conceal the malware from detection by security software.
Earlier this year, the Justice Department announced the arrest and arraignment of Alla Witte, a Latvian national charged for her role in the Trickbot Group.
According to court documents, the Trickbot malware was designed to capture online banking login credentials and harvest other personal information, including credit card numbers, emails, passwords, dates of birth, social security numbers, and addresses from infected computers through the use of web injects and keystroke logging. Later versions of Trickbot were adapted to facilitate the installation and use of ransomware.
According to the indictment, the defendants used these stolen login credentials and other personal information to gain access to online bank accounts, execute unauthorized electronic funds transfers and launder the money through U.S. and foreign beneficiary accounts.
Dunaev was extradited from the Republic of Korea on Oct. 20. He is charged with conspiracy to commit computer fraud and aggravated identity theft, conspiracy to commit wire and bank fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and multiple counts of wire fraud, bank fraud, and aggravated identity theft.
Dunaev entered a plea of not guilty and waived his detention hearing.
If convicted of all counts, Dunaev faces a maximum penalty of 60 years’ imprisonment. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
This case is the result of a four-year investigation by the FBI’s Cleveland Field Office.
The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided invaluable assistance in securing the arrest and extradition of Dunaev to the United States, with substantial support provided by the Republic of Korea.
Senior Counsel C.S. Heath of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel J. Riedl and Duncan T. Brown of the Northern District of Ohio are prosecuting the case.
This case is part of the Department of Justice’s Ransomware and Digital Extortion Task Force, which was created to combat the growing number of ransomware and digital extortion attacks. As part of the Task Force, the Criminal Division, working with the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, prioritizes the disruption, investigation, and prosecution of ransomware and digital extortion activity by tracking and dismantling the development and deployment of malware, identifying the cybercriminals responsible, and holding those individuals accountable for their crimes. The department, through the Task Force, also strategically targets the ransomware criminal ecosystem as a whole and collaborates with domestic and foreign government agencies as well as private sector partners to combat this significant criminal threat.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Click to view the indictment.
Russian National Extradited to United States to Face Charges for Alleged Role in Cybercriminal OrganizationRead the Press Release
A Russian national, residing in the Yakutsk region of Russia and in Southeast Asia, had his initial appearance in federal court today after his extradition from the Republic of Korea to the Northern District of Ohio to face charges for his alleged role in a transnational, cybercriminal organization.
According to court documents, Vladimir Dunaev, 38, was a member of a transnational, cybercriminal organization that deployed a computer banking trojan and ransomware suite of malware known as “Trickbot.”
“Trickbot attacked businesses and victims across the globe and infected millions of computers for theft and ransom, including networks of schools, banks, municipal governments, and companies in the health care, energy, and agriculture sectors,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco. “This is the second overseas Trickbot defendant arrested in recent months, making clear that, with our international partners, the Department of Justice can and will capture cyber criminals around the world. This is another success for the Department’s recently launched Ransomware and Digital Extortion Task Force in dismantling ransomware groups and disrupting the cybercriminal ecosystem that allows ransomware to exist and to threaten our critical infrastructure.”
“The FBI is determined to utilize our unique tools and capabilities to disrupt transnational cybercriminal organizations, such as the group that developed and delivered Trickbot, and remains committed to imposing risk and consequence upon these criminals,” said Deputy Director Paul Abbate of the FBI. “Pursuing cyber criminals requires considerable patience, expertise, and resources, but the FBI has a long memory and will ensure that these malicious actors cannot evade detection or avoid the full weight of law enforcement actions.”
“The Trickbot malware was designed to steal the personal and financial information of millions of people around the world, thereby causing extensive financial harm and inflicting significant damage to critical infrastructure within the United States and abroad,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan of the Northern District of Ohio. “Today’s announcement underscores the great lengths federal law enforcement officials and our international partners will go to hold these alleged cybercriminals accountable for their actions.”
“This indictment reflects the dynamic landscape in which international criminals utilize sophisticated cyber methods to take advantage of and defraud, unsuspecting victims anywhere in the world,” said Special Agent in Charge Eric Smith of the FBI’s Cleveland Field Office. “This multi-year investigation demonstrates the commitment by the FBI to aggressively pursue these individuals despite the complexity and global character cyber investigations can so often bring. The FBI encourages any victim of cyber fraud to file a report with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov.”
The indictment alleges that beginning in November 2015, and continuing through August 2020, Dunaev and others stole money, confidential information, and damaged computer systems from unsuspecting victims, including individuals, financial institutions, school districts, utility companies, government entities, and private businesses. To perpetuate their criminal scheme, the defendants allegedly used a network of co-conspirators and freelance computer programmers, known as the Trickbot Group, to create, deploy, and manage the Trickbot malware, which infected millions of computers and computer systems worldwide.
Dunaev is alleged to have been one such co-conspirator, working as a malware developer for the Trickbot Group. Dunaev allegedly performed a variety of developer functions in support of the Trickbot malware, including managing the malware’s execution, developing popular browser modifications and helping to conceal the malware from detection by security software.
Earlier this year, the Justice Department announced the arrest and arraignment of Alla Witte, a Latvian national charged for her role in the Trickbot Group.
According to court documents, the Trickbot malware was designed to capture online banking login credentials and harvest other personal information, including credit card numbers, emails, passwords, dates of birth, social security numbers, and addresses from infected computers through the use of web injects and keystroke logging. Later versions of Trickbot were adapted to facilitate the installation and use of ransomware.
According to the indictment, the defendants used these stolen login credentials and other personal information to gain access to online bank accounts, execute unauthorized electronic funds transfers and launder the money through U.S. and foreign beneficiary accounts.
Dunaev was extradited from the Republic of Korea on Oct. 20. He is charged with conspiracy to commit computer fraud and aggravated identity theft, conspiracy to commit wire and bank fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and multiple counts of wire fraud, bank fraud, and aggravated identity theft. If convicted of all counts, Dunaev faces a maximum penalty of 60 years’ imprisonment. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
This case was investigated by the FBI’s Cleveland Field Office.
The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided invaluable assistance in securing the arrest and extradition of Dunaev to the United States, with substantial support provided by the Republic of Korea.
Senior Counsel C.S. Heath of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel J. Riedl and Duncan T. Brown of the Northern District of Ohio are prosecuting the case.
This case is part of the Department of Justice’s Ransomware and Digital Extortion Task Force, which was created to combat the growing number of ransomware and digital extortion attacks. As part of the Task Force, the Criminal Division, working with the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, prioritizes the disruption, investigation, and prosecution of ransomware and digital extortion activity by tracking and dismantling the development and deployment of malware, identifying the cybercriminals responsible, and holding those individuals accountable for their crimes. The department, through the Task Force, also strategically targets the ransomware criminal ecosystem as a whole and collaborates with domestic and foreign government agencies as well as private sector partners to combat this significant criminal threat.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.