Northern District of Ohio
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Seventeen indicted for drug tracking conspiracy in Mansfield area; fifteen arrested in takedown operationRead the Press Release
Seventeen individuals were charged today in an unsealed, 26-count indictment handed down by a federal grand jury in Cleveland for their alleged roles in a drug trafficking conspiracy that involved the distribution of methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl and crack cocaine in the Mansfield area. Fifteen were arrested during an early morning takedown operation.
U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio Justin Herdman, FBI Special Agent in Charge Eric B. Smith, Mansfield Police Chief Keith Porch and Richland County Sheriff J. Steve Sheldon made the announcement.
“During the past few years, federal and local law enforcement partners have been working tirelessly to identify, arrest and incarcerate drug traffickers in the Mansfield and Richland areas,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “Anyone attempting to sell drugs in this community should be prepared for a strong law enforcement presence and response.”
“Another group of drug traffickers are being held accountable for their illicit distribution of illegal narcotics on our neighborhood streets,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Eric B. Smith. “Over the past three years, collaborative law enforcement efforts have rid the streets of Mansfield of over 150 individuals for bringing poison to our community. Law enforcement will continue to identify, disarm and disrupt drug trafficking organizations in our territory.”
“Today’s operation was another fine example of collaboration between local law enforcement, our federal law enforcement partners, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office from the Northern District of Ohio, in targeting drug trafficking suspects and removing illegal drugs from Mansfield as well as the surrounding communities in Richland County,” said Mansfield Police Chief Keith Porch.
“The drug trafficking problem in the city of Mansfield and Richland County is being addressed on a continuing basis,” said Richland County Sheriff J. Steve Sheldon. “We are greatly appreciative of our fellow local, state, and federal law enforcement partners for their assistance.”
Named in the indictment are:
Antoine Bentley, 36, of Mansfield; Tiffany Boggs, 25, of Mansfield; Jerry Bowen, 28, of Mansfield; Ryan Day, 37, of Butler; Ashley Fields, 25, of Mansfield; Sheldon Holbrook, 27, of Mansfield; Eric Jackson, 43, of Bellville; Michelle Jarvis, 36, of Ashley; Jason Jarvis, 40, of Mansfield; Brandon Mann, 38, of Mansfield; Gregory McClintok, 27, of Mansfield; Michael Murphy, 37, of Mansfield; Mark Spear, 37, of Ashland; Roger Schlupp, 33, of Tiffin; Nicholas Vargas, 39, of Plymouth; Zachary Wallen, 39, of Mansfield and Roz Whitworth, 38, of Mansfield.
According to the indictment, from March 2018 to September 2020, these defendants are accused of conspiring together to distribute and possess methamphetamine, heroin and fentanyl throughout the Mansfield area via drug suppliers in California. The indictment states that defendants Eric Jackson, Jason Jarvis, Mark Spear and Roz Whitworth obtained the illegal drugs and distributed them to the other named defendants, who then sold the drugs to various customers in the Northern District of Ohio.
The conspirators are accused of conducting their drug trafficking activity using cell phones, text messages and Facebook messenger. To reduce the risk of being detected by law enforcement, and to conceal the identity of the person using the device, co-conspirators often used cellular telephones that had been obtained in the names of other persons or in fictitious names, the indictment states.
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, each 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.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Cleveland Division of the FBI, Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), Metrich Unit, Ashland Police Department, Mansfield Police Department, Richland County Sheriff’s Office, Richland County Prosecutor’s Office and Ashland County Prosecutor’s Office. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Vasile C. Katsaros.
Concord Township man indicted for threatening communicationsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announced that a federal grand jury sitting in Cleveland has returned a one-count indictment against Thomas G. Bares, age 53, of Concord Township, Ohio for interstate threatening communications.
According to court documents, between on or about August 18, 2020 and on or about August 21, 2020, the defendant is accused of knowingly and willfully transmitting communications containing threats to injure students, teachers, and staff at Gilmour Academy in Gates Mills, Ohio. The defendant allegedly posted online videos, images and sent a text message to a person whose identity is known to the grand jury, all threatening physical harm against the school.
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.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Cleveland Division of the FBI and the Village of Gates Mills Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ranya Elzein.
Federal jury finds two men guilty of felon in possession of firearms or ammunitionRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in Cleveland and Akron this week returned separate guilty verdicts for two men charged with felon in possession of a firearm or ammunition. These are separate cases and are not related. They are the first federal jury trials held in the Northern District of Ohio since March of earlier this year.
“Federal jurors in Cleveland and Akron sent a strong message to those who illegally possess weapons or ammunition,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “Both of these men have a long history of previous convictions for crimes of violence– including multiple domestic violence convictions. Statistics show that domestic violence offenders with a firearm are far more likely to potentially use it against their spouse or law enforcement. These verdicts are a victory for the victims of these offenders and for the cities of Akron and Cleveland. We have not let the COVID-19 pandemic reduce the timeliness and effectiveness of our law enforcement response, and we are pleased that the criminal justice system has been able to safely move forward with jury trials during this difficult time.”
A federal jury in Cleveland convicted Jaron R. Kirkland, age 35, of Akron, on Monday, September 21, on one count of felon in possession of firearm or ammunition.
According to the indictment in this matter, on or about May 31, 2019, Kirkland knowingly possessed a .380 caliber semi-automatic pistol and three rounds of ammunition for said firearm. Kirkland is prohibited from possessing a firearm after having been previously convicted of two separate felony domestic violence charges on June 18, 2015 and November 8, 2016, both in the Summit County Common Pleas Court.
Kirkland is scheduled to be sentenced on January 21, 2021, before Judge James S. Gwin. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Akron Police Department and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Damoun Delaviz and Yasmine Makridis.
A separate federal jury in Akron convicted Ronald Mickel, age 41, of Lorain, on Tuesday, September 22, on one count of felon in possession of ammunition.
According to the indictment in this matter, on November 26, 2019, Mickel knowingly possessed 32 rounds of 9mm Luger ammunition. Mickel is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition after having been previously convicted of felony aggravated robbery on June 18, 1999, felony domestic violence on May 27, 2014, felony domestic violence and intimidation of a victim on July 27, 2015, felony burglary on September 30, 2015, and felony domestic violence in January of 2019, in the Lorain County Common Pleas Court.
Mickel is scheduled to be sentenced on January 14, 2021 before Judge Sara Lioi. This case was investigated by ATF and Ohio Adult Parole Authority and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John C. Hanley and Bryson Gillard.
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announces update on fight against the opioid crisis in Lorain County two years after launch of Operation S.O.S.Read the Press Release
In July 2018, the Department of Justice announced the launch of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S), a program aimed at reducing the supply of synthetic opioids in 10 high impact areas, including Lorain County in the Northern District of Ohio, and identifying wholesale distribution networks and international and domestic suppliers.
Two years ago, under Operation S.O.S, the United States Attorneys in 10 districts with some of the highest drug overdose death rates in the country each designated a county where they would focus on prosecuting every readily available case involving fentanyl, fentanyl analogues, and other synthetic opioids, regardless of the drug quantity.
Over these two years, Operation S.O.S has resulted in approximately 750 defendants charged in federal court, with 384 of those defendants charged thus far in F.Y. 20. Most importantly, the districts participating in the program have seen a decline in opioid overdoses. From 2017 to 2019, most S.O.S counties reported a decline of 14% to 24%.
“The Justice Department’s commitment to fighting the opioids epidemic is stronger than ever, and we are using every tool in our arsenal to disrupt the supply of these drugs on our streets,” said Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey A. Rosen. “Operation S.O.S has had a significant positive impact on the communities where it is being employed. The Department will continue to build on these successes and work to stop the drug traffickers who so callously wreck lives.”
Since the launch of the operation in Northern Ohio, the U.S. Attorney’s Office has prosecuted 121 defendants from Lorain County for their involvement in the distribution of opioids. Approximately 22-percent of these defendants possessed a firearm when they committed their federal offense and about 23-percent of these defendants are classified as “career offenders”, in that they have two or more prior convictions for either drug trafficking or violent offense convictions. The average sentence for an S.O.S. defendant in the Northern District has been 70.4 months.
In Lorain County, opioid overdose deaths have decreased by 31% from 2017 to 2019.
“Drug dealers and other criminals have long targeted Lorain County as an area to exploit and sell their deadly product,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “Since 2018, as part of Operation S.O.S, we have committed to assisting our state and local partners by federally prosecuting any fentanyl or opioid trafficking offense from Lorain County. These numbers should send a strong message – if you deal dope in Lorain County, you will face federal prosecution.”
Notably, in the Northern District as part of Operation S.O.S.:
- In July 2020, ten individuals were arrested and charged in a conspiracy to sell crack cocaine, cocaine and a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of oxycodone throughout the Elyria area. Read more here.
- A “career offender” in Elyria was sentenced to more than 14 years in prison for drug trafficking. Read more here.
- In June of 2019, fifteen people indicted for their roles in a conspiracy to traffic fentanyl, heroin and crack cocaine in Lorain. Read more here.
46 indicted for involvement in Marion drug trafficking organization; 43 arrested during early morning takedownRead the Press Release
Federal, county and local law enforcement officials today announced that 46 individuals were charged for their roles in a drug trafficking conspiracy that involved the distribution of heroin, cocaine, crack cocaine and fentanyl in the Marion area. 43 were arrested during an early morning takedown. The operation is ongoing.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bridget Brennan, FBI Special Agent in Charge Eric B. Smith, Marion Police Chief William Collins and Marion County Sheriff Tim Bailey made the announcement.
“Organizations like the one dismantled here today target communities like Marion because they mistakenly assume that they can operate either without detection or without people speaking up,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bridget Brennan. “Let these indictments serve as notice that law enforcement partners in this District and the residents of Marion are paying attention. And we will act.”
“Possession and distribution of illegal narcotics and the illegal possession of firearms will not be tolerated in our communities or by the good citizens who live there,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Eric B. Smith. “Likewise, the FBI will continue it’s targeted, exhaustive, and collaborative efforts with our local, state and federal partners to identify and dismantle drug trafficking organizations that bring poison and violence into our neighborhoods.”
“These arrests are the result of dedicated work of multiple agencies with one shared goal -- to keep this community safe and free from dangerous drugs,” said DEA Detroit Field Division Special Agent in Charge Keith Martin.
“Our unending commitment to this community is to work relentlessly in collaboration with our law enforcement partners at every level, bringing every combined resource to bear with the unified mission to deliver those persons to justice who contribute to this deadly scourge,” said Marion Police Chief William Collins. “I'm immensely proud of the collective achievements born from this 2-year investigation, while I also remain dedicated to ensuring that this important work continues well into the future.”
The following is a breakdown of the charges:
Charged in a 29-count indictment with conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and distribution of controlled substances, distribution of a controlled substance, possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance and use of a communications facility to facilitate a drug trafficking offense are:
Raheem Brown, age 28, of Marion; Eric Carter, age 57, of Marion; Tawana Cochran, age 37, in state custody; Harold Cowans, age 81, of Columbus; Brittany Crabtree, age 29, of Marion; Rex Cumston, age 58, of Marion; Jeff Ellinwood, age 38, of Marion; Andy Fernandez, age 39, of Ypsilanti, Michigan; Paula Foreman, age 58, of Marion; Juan Demetrius Hartwell, age 46, of Marion; Mitchem Hopper, age 30, in state custody; Marty Keifer, age 29, of Marion; Ricky Kensler, in federal custody; Jamal Mincey, age 32, of Marion; Andre Pearson, age 40, of Marion; Terry Phillips, age 61, of Marion; Lawrence Redrick, age 43, in federal custody; Clifton Ross, age 45, of Columbus; Toni Sparks, age 29, of Marion; Terell Steen, age 43, in state custody; William Swartz, Jr, age 61, of Marion; Billie Jean White, age 32, of Marion; Taylor Williams, age 27, of Marion.
Charged in a 22-count indictment with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, distribution of a controlled substance, possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance, felon in possession of a firearm and use of a communications facility in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense are:
Robert Baker, age 38, of Marion; Corey Cesar, age 28, of Marion; Tawana Cochran, age 37, in state custody; Kenneth Crumpton, age 31, of Farmington Hills, Michigan; Kenneth Drake, age 40, of Marion; Rodney Tyson Hall, age 37, of Larue, Ohio; Warren Harris, age 40, of Marion; Josten Jones, age 29, of Marion; Ronald Jordan, age 33, in state custody; Courtney Miles, age 35, in state custody; Lindsay Pacha, age 26, of Marion; Clifton Ross, age 45, of Columbus and Terry Worthington, age 41 in state custody.
Charged in a 16-count indictment with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, distribution of controlled substance and use of a communications facility in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense are:
Kendall Bender, age 33; Michael Collins, age 41; Meghan Landon, age 34; Destiny Pyles, age 23; Timothy Reed, age 36 and Alisha Taylor, age 24, all of Marion.
Charged in six separate indictments with possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance distribution of a controlled substance are:
Otis Oliver, age 32; Darrius Kevin Karl Young-Owens, age 26; Anthony Robinson, age 32; all of Marion; James Glass, age 36; Curtis Thomas, age 33 and Johnny Thomas, age 34, both in state custody.
According to the indictments, from October 2015 to January 2019, these 46 individuals are accused of operating a drug trafficking organization that distributed large quantities of cocaine, crack cocaine, heroin and fentanyl throughout the Marion area via suppliers in Ohio, Michigan, Illinois and elsewhere. The conspirators are accused of using multiple cellular devices and code words to conceal their activity. In some instances, the indictments states that members of the drug trafficking organization used firearms in the conduct of their drug trafficking activity.
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, each 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.
The investigation preceding the indictments was conducted by the Cleveland Division of the FBI, DEA, Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Taskforce (OCDETF), Marion Police and Marion County Sheriff’s Office. This case is being investigated by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew Simko and Robert Melching.
Attorney General William P. Barr and U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announce update on Operation LegendRead the Press Release
During a press conference in Milwaukee today, Attorney General William P. Barr and U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announced updates on Operation Legend.
Since Operation Legend’s launch in July 2020, more than 3,500 arrests – including approximately 200 for homicide – have been made; more than 1,000 firearms have been seized; and nearly 19 kilos of heroin, more than 11 kilos of fentanyl (enough to deliver more than five million fatal doses), more than 94 kilos of methamphetamine, nearly 14 kilos of cocaine, and more than $6.5 million in drug proceeds have been seized.
Of the more than 3,500 individuals arrested, approximately 815 have been charged with federal offenses. More than 440 of those defendants have been charged with firearms offenses, while more than 300 have been charged with drug-related crimes. The remaining defendants have been charged with various offenses.
In Cleveland, 72 defendants have been charged with federal crimes, including 42 defendants charged with narcotics-related offenses, 26 charged with firearms-related offenses and four with other violent crimes.
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman released the following statement:
“Operation Legend continues to remove persons prohibited from possession of firearms or ammunition, such as convicted felons, persons with histories of domestic violence, and traffickers of illegal narcotics off the streets,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “As long as drugs, violence, and illegal firearms continue to harm our community, we will use our collaborative law enforcement partnerships and any resources available under Operation Legend to fight back.”
The Attorney General launched Operation Legend on July 8, 2020, as a sustained, systematic and coordinated law enforcement initiative in which federal law enforcement agencies work in conjunction with state and local law enforcement officials to fight violent crime. The initiative is named in honor of four-year-old LeGend Taliferro, who was shot and killed while he slept early in the morning of June 29 in Kansas City.
Launched in Kansas City, MO. on July 8, 2020, the operation expanded to Chicago and Albuquerque on July 22, 2020; to Cleveland, Detroit, and Milwaukee on July 29, 2020; to St. Louis and Memphis on August 6, 2020; and to Indianapolis on August 14, 2020. A breakdown of the federal charges in each district can be found here.
Operation Legend: Case of the DayRead the Press Release
Each weekday, the Department of Justice will highlight a case that has resulted from Operation Legend. Today’s case is out of the Northern District of Ohio. Operation Legend launched in Cleveland on July 29, 2020, in response to the city facing increased homicide and non-fatal shooting rates.
United States vs. Antwan Bohanon
An Ohio man was charged on Aug. 13, 2020, in federal court in the Northern District of Ohio with illegally dealing in firearms without a federal firearms license.
“This defendant is accused of dealing firearms in the city of Cleveland without a license,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “He went to great lengths to acquire, advertise and sell firearms to many people in the city of Cleveland, including those who are prohibited under federal law from purchasing or possessing a gun. In fact, some of the firearms that the defendant allegedly sold later appeared in separate criminal cases. Even just one gun in the hands of someone who should not be in possession of a firearm can have dire consequences.”
According to court documents, Antwan Bohanon allegedly purchased multiple firearms outside of the city of Cleveland and later resold them inside of the city to various individuals, including some prohibited under federal law from purchasing or possessing a firearm. Bohanon would often post images of his firearms for sale to his personal Instagram account at prices higher than market value. According to the ATF affiant of the affidavit in support of the criminal complaint, individuals who are unable to purchase firearms legitimately will frequently pay a much higher price to obtain one.
In addition, court documents show that some of the firearms Bohanon sold were later used in criminal activity.
The following is a list of firearms Bohanon is accused of importing, manufacturing, or dealing:
- A Glock, Model 22 pistol
- A Glock, Model 19 pistol
- A Ruger, Model Lc9 pistol
- A Glock, Model 23 pistol
- A Ruger, Model SR9c pistol
- A Glock model 26 pistol
- A Taurus, model PT92AF pistol
- A Smith and Wesson, Model SD40VE pistol
- A Taurus, Model PT24/7 Pro C pistol
- A Smth and Wesson, Model M&P 9 Shield pistol
- A Glock, Model 40 pistol
- A Taurus, Model PT111 G2 pistol
- A Taurus, Model G2C pistol
- A Taurus, Model G2C pistol
- A Tuarus, Model G2C pistol
- A Tuarus, Model PT111 G2 pistol
- A Tuarus, Model PT111 G2 pistol
- A Glock, Model 19 pistol
- A Springfield/HS Product Model XD pistol
- A Glock, Model 23 pistol
- A Tuarus, Model PT111 G2 pistol
- A Tuarus, Model PT111 G2 pistol
- A Springfield/HS Product Model XD pistol
- A Glock, Model 30S pistol
- A Glock, Model 26 pistol
- A Glock, Model 27 pistol
- A Glock, Model 26 pistol
- A Glock, Model 23 pistol
- A Glock, Model 23 pistol
- A Tuarus, Model PT111 G2 pistol
- A Tuarus, Model PT111 G2 pistol
- A Ruger, Model LC9 pistol
- A Glock, Model 27 pistol
- A Glock, Model 26 pistol
- A Glock, Model 23 pistol
- A Glock, Model 26 pistol
- A Glock, Model 27 pistol
- A Springfield/HS Product Model XD pistol
- A Ruger, Model Security 9 pistol
The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Background on Operation Legend
Since its inception, Operation Legend has yielded more than 2000 local, state, and federal arrests, with more than 592 defendants charged with federal crimes.
President Trump promised to assist America’s cities that have been plagued by violence. In July, Attorney General William P. Barr announced the launch of Operation Legend, a sustained, systematic and coordinated law enforcement initiative across all federal law enforcement agencies working in conjunction with state and local law enforcement officials to fight violent crime in cities across America that were experiencing an uptick in violence. Operation Legend is named after four-year-old LeGend Taliferro, who was shot and killed on June 29th in Kansas City, Missouri, while asleep in his home.Operation Legend was launched in Kansas City, Mo., on July 8, 2020, and expanded to Chicago and Albuquerque on July 22, 2020, to Cleveland, Detroit, and Milwaukee on July 29, 2020, to St. Louis and Memphis on Aug. 6, 2020, and to Indianapolis on Aug. 14, 2020. As part of Operation Legend, Attorney General Barr has directed federal agents from the FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, DEA and ATF to surge resources to these cities to help state and local officials fighting violent crime.
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announces more than $2 million to help address violence against women in the Northern District of OhioRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announced today that the Department of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) has awarded more than $2.3 million to Northern Ohio organizations to help reduce violence against women and to strengthen services to victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking.
“Every dollar that the Department of Justice provides to address domestic violence in Northern Ohio has a positive impact on the lives of victims and survivors,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “These organizations have a strong program in place to address crucial needs or expand services.”
The award breakdown is as follows:
Cuyahoga County, Improving Criminal Justice Responses Program – $824,800
The Improving Criminal Justice Response Program encourages state, local, and tribal governments and state, local, and tribal courts to treat domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking as serious violations of criminal law requiring the coordinated involvement of the entire criminal justice system.
Cleveland Rape Crisis Center, Children and Youth Program – $497,873
The Grants to Prevent and Respond to Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking Against Children and Youth Program supports projects that develop, expand, and strengthen prevention, intervention, and response strategies that target children and youth who are victims of and/or exposed to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking, including support for the non-abusing parents, caretakers, and legal guardians.
Cleveland Rape Crisis Center, Enhanced Training and Services to End Abuse in Later Life Program – $399,991
The Enhanced Training and Services to End Abuse in Later Life Program’s purpose is to increase and strengthen training for police, prosecutors, and the judiciary in recognizing, investigating, and prosecuting instances of abuse, neglect, exploitation, domestic violence, and sexual assault against older individuals; provide or enhance services for older victims; create
or support multidisciplinary collaborative community responses to older victims; and conduct cross-training for victim service organizations, governmental agencies, courts, law enforcement, and nonprofit, nongovernmental organizations serving older victims.
The University of Toledo, Grants to Reduce Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking on Campus Program - $299,999
Heidelberg University, Grants to Reduce Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking on Campus Program - $299,946
These programs provide a unique opportunity for institutions of higher education to establish multidisciplinary approaches to combat domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking on campuses. These comprehensive efforts are designed to enhance victim services, implement prevention and education programs, and develop and strengthen security and investigation strategies in order to prevent, prosecute, and respond to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking.
“For domestic violence victims, the added stressors of the pandemic can make a dangerous situation even worse,” said OVW Principal Deputy Director Laura Rogers. “Our grants in Ohio are a timely contribution to approaches already underway to keep victims safe and hold offenders accountable for their crimes.”
For more information on the Office of Violence Against Women, visit https://www.justice.gov/ovw
Toledo pair indicted for possession of stolen motor coach vehicles, fraud and operating a chop shopRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announced that a federal grand jury sitting in Cleveland has returned an eleven-count indictment charging Derrick Lamont Jones, 56, and Kelly Marie Thomas, 50, both of Toledo, with conspiracy to transport stolen vehicles, possession of stolen vehicles, operating a chop shop, violation Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations and conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
According to the indictment, from 2003 to 2019, the defendants are accused of stealing charter buses, altering and disguising them to avoid law enforcement detection and organizing and marketing for-profit trips, without incurring the cost of legitimately obtaining charter buses. The defendants allegedly purported to own several motorcoach companies that offered and provided charter transportation to passengers in Ohio, including Destiny Tours, Kelly Tours, Marie’s Tour’s and Travel, Elite Tours, and GT Tours. At no point were the defendant’s companies ever incorporated under the laws of any state, including Ohio and at no point in time did any of these companies receive FMCSA operating authority or complete the FMCSA registration process, states the indictment.
The defendants allegedly defaced, disguised, and removed the identity of the stolen motorcoach buses by painting over previous bus company logos and markings. After having stolen and defaced the buses, the defendants allegedly advertised charter passenger transportation services on the internet, social media, and in local newspapers. The defendants are accused of contracting with a Toledo-based church group to provide charter bus service from Toledo to New York. This trip never took place, and money collected by the defendants prior to the trip was never returned, according to the indictment.
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, each 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.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the U.S. Department of Transportation - Office of Inspector General, Midwestern Region, with significant assistance by the U.S. Department of Transportation – Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, Ohio Division; the Ohio State Highway Patrol; Toledo Police Department; and the Michigan State Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ashley A. Futrell.
Felon charged with illegal firearm possession over Labor Day weekendRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announced today that Andrew Kmon WILLIAMS, age 23, of Youngstown, was charged in federal court via criminal complaint as a felon in possession of firearms. WILLIAMS was charged as a firearms offender under Operation Red-Zone, a combined federal, state and local partnership to reduce gun violence over the Labor Day weekend.
“This defendant was in the Red-Zone, meaning that he was prohibited from possessing firearms under federal law based on a prior felony conviction,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “Over this past Labor Day weekend, this defendant was in the Red-Zone and is alleged to have illegally possessed two firearms. Each and every illegal firearm we can take off the streets makes our communities a safer place to live.”
According to the complaint, police identified Williams while driving a vehicle that was suspected in a previous felonious assault incident. During a search of the vehicle, law enforcement agents seized two 9mm pistols. WILLIAMS later admitted to knowing that the firearms were in the vehicle. WILLIAMS is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to a previous felony conviction for possession of heroin in the Mahoning County Court of Common Pleas.
A federal criminal complaint is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Yasmine Makridis.
Seven charged in multi-state scheme to purchase vehicles and watercrafts using false and stolen identification documentsRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announced today that seven individuals were charged for using stolen identities of United States citizens from Puerto Rico and falsified identification documents to fraudulently purchase and finance vehicles and watercrafts from dealerships in Northern Ohio. The charges were made public in a forty-count indictment unsealed today in a federal court in the Northern District of Ohio.
In a coordinated effort, the District of New Jersey, the State of New Jersey and the District of Massachusetts also charged defendants in this scheme.
“These defendants allegedly attempted to profit off of the stolen identities of U.S. citizens by purchasing various motor vehicles and watercrafts at Ohio dealerships and then, in some cases, proceeded to ship the vehicles out of the state and country,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “Thanks to tireless work of law enforcement across the country, this identify theft ring has been disrupted, and these defendants can no longer use the funds of hard-working citizens to enrich themselves.”
“Concluding a nearly three-year investigation, Sandusky Bay Border Patrol Agents worked hand-in-hand with the AUSA, FBI, HSI, and the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office to bring an interstate crime ring to an end,” said Douglas Harrison, Chief Patrol Agent, U.S. Border Patrol Detroit Sector. “In all, seven suspects were charged in Ohio after defrauding banks using stolen identities and selling bank owned assets across state lines in New Jersey. I am extremely proud of the work our agents do every day, especially when it culminates in a successful operation after years of effort.”
"These defendants victimized individuals and financial institutions with their selfish greed,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Eric B. Smith. “Victims had their identities stolen and used for lavish purchases. The FBI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to ensure fraudsters, no matter where they reside, are held accountable."
Charged today on counts of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, bank fraud, aggravated identity theft, misuse of a social security number and interstate transportation of stolen vehicles are:
- Guillermo Alexander Cruz-Guerrero, age 38, of Dominican Republic. Currently in federal custody in Ohio.
- Carmen Teresa Cabrera, age 29, of Haskel, New Jersey. Arrested in New Jersey.
- Reyfy Gonzalez, age 31, of Cliffside Park, New Jersey. Arrested in New Jersy.
- Andy Arleny Mazara-Garcia, age 29, currently in state custody in Massachusetts.
- Willie Antonio Samuel-Baldayaquz, age 38, currently in custody in Connecticut.
The following defendants remain at large:
- Rene Guzman-Aquino, age 36, of Puerto Rico.
- Julio Fernando Valdez-Pimentel, age 27, of Pennsylvania.
According to court documents, from January 2017 to July of 2019, the defendants are accused of orchestrating a scheme to obtain genuine Ohio Driver licenses from the Ohio BMV using stolen identification documents from real U.S. citizens and phony driver’s licenses from Puerto Rico.
The indictment states that the defendants then obtained fraudulent credit cards and bank accounts using the stolen identity documents. These defendants then allegedly visited Northern Ohio motor vehicle dealerships to purchase late-model vehicles and jet skis using 100% financed loans. In support of their loan applications, the defendants are accused of providing the biographical information of real United States citizens, as well as fraudulent Puerto Rico driver’s licenses and social security cards as proof of identification. After the group purchased these vehicles, many were transported to New Jersey and some were exported out of the country.
In total, law enforcement identified over 70 vehicles and watercraft in all states from all defendants with an estimated total value of $3,750,268.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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 offenses and the characteristics of the violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the U.S. Homeland Security Investigations’ Document and Benefit Fraud Task Force, the Cleveland Division of the FBI, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, Elyria Police Department and Akron Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brad J. Beeson and Jason W. White.
18 charged in Youngstown-Warren area for distribution of narcotics, including fatal fentanyl overdoseRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announced today that 18 individuals were charged for their roles in a drug trafficking conspiracy which involved the illegal distribution of cocaine, crack, heroin, fentanyl, fentanyl analogues and other drugs in the Youngstown-Warren area, including providing a substance that led to the fatal overdose of one person. Law enforcement operations arrested 14 individuals today, while four remain at large. The charges were made public in four indictments unsealed today in federal court.
“Because of today‘s operation, 14 drug traffickers in the Youngstown and Warren areas accused of dealing deadly narcotics and opioids are now off the streets,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “These drug traffickers charged and arrested today are accused of brazenly selling all types of lethal drugs, including one instance that led to a fatal overdose, according to the indictment. I want to thank all of our dedicated law enforcement partners involved in this successful operation who work tirelessly to keep harmful narcotics and opioids out of our comminutes.”
“This group of individuals brought danger, illegal drugs, and violence to our communities,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Eric B. Smith. “Law enforcement will continue to identify, disrupt and hold accountable drug trafficking organizations conducting their unlawful activities on our neighborhood streets.”
“Through this collaborative effort with our law enforcement partners, these drug traffickers have been taken off the streets,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Keith Martin. “We remain committed to pursuing anyone pushing illegal narcotics and spreading violence in our communities.”
The following is a breakdown of the charges:
Charged in a 92-count indictment detailing a broad range of criminal activity including use of a communications facility in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, felon in possession of firearm and ammunition, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and various charges of trafficking heroin, fentanyl carfentanil, crack cocaine and more are:
- Vincent Richardson, 28, of Warren, Ohio.
- Del’reno Armstrong, 22, of Warren, Ohio.
- Marcus Williams, 27, of Warren, Ohio. Williams remains at large.
- Randall Morgan, 34, of Warren, Ohio.
- Sean King, 33, of Warren, Ohio.
- William Crenshaw, 35, of Warren, Ohio. Crenshaw remains at large.
- Kvonn Watson, 26, of Warren, Ohio. Watson remains at large.
- Matthew Cavin, 30, of Warren, Ohio.
- Stashon Williams, 35, of Niles, Ohio. Williams remains at large.
- Jalissa Morgan, age 38, of Warren, Ohio.
- Aubrey Adams, 38, of Warren, Ohio.
Charged in a 14-count indictment for conspiracy to distribute cocaine, use of a communications facility in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and possession with intent to distribute cocaine are:
- Vincente R. Turner, age 43, of Youngstown, Ohio.
- Christopher J. Anderson, age 36, of Mineral Ridge, Ohio.
- Nicholas A. Anderson, age 33, of Mineral Ridge, Ohio,
- Kenneth P. Mazurkiewicz, age 53, of Youngstown, Ohio.
Charged in a nine-count indictment for conspiracy to distribute cocaine, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, distribution of cocaine, possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, possession with intent to distribute Oxycodone and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime are:
- Williams L. Stubbs, age 41, of Youngstown, Ohio.
- EC Robinson, age 35, of Sharon, Pennsylvania.
Charged in a five-count indictment for distribution of fentanyl resulting in a death and distribution of heroin, fentanyl, and carfentanil are:
- Tyron T. Scott, age 23, of Youngstown
- Kenneth P. Mazurkiewicz, age 53, of Youngstown, Ohio.
According to court documents, from March 2019 to February 2020, defendant Vincent Richardson operated a drug trafficking organization in the Youngstown-Warren areas with other members listed in the indictment. The indictment states that Richardson supplied the narcotics and other members of the drug trafficking organization conspired together to facilitate their drug distribution in the areas. The drug trafficking organization allegedly distributed detectable amounts of fentanyl, fentanyl analogues, crack cocaine, heroin and other drugs in the area during this time. On one occasion, the indictment alleges that defendant Vincent Richardson possessed a firearm during a drug trafficking crime.
In addition, court documents state that on October 15, 2019, defendants Tyron T. Scott and Kenneth P. Mazurkiewicz, members of the drug trafficking organization, allegedly distributed a substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl that led to a fatal overdose.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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 offenses and the characteristics of the violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
The investigation preceding the indictments was conducted by the DEA, FBI, Mahoning Valley Law Enforcement Task Force, Mahoning Valley Violent Crimes Task Force, Trumbull Action Group, Trumbull County Sheriff’s Office, Warren Police Department and Youngstown Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David Toepfer. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District would like to acknowledge and thank the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General for their assistance with this matter.
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman and Police Chief Kral announce results of Operation Red-ZoneRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman and Toledo Police Chief George Kral announced the results of Operation Red-Zone over the holiday weekend in the city of Toledo:
- 7 individuals were investigated for firearms violations
- 3 were referred for federal prosecution and
- 6 firearms were seized
In addition to these firearm investigations, the number of persons shot in the city of Toledo decreased by 83% compared to the same time as last year and no homicides were reported.
“Any firearm carried illegally is a firearm that could potentially cause serious harm or end a life,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “Each illegal firearm and offender we get off the streets makes the community a safer place to live. I want to thank Chief Kral and the Toledo Police for their partnership in this endeavor and look forward to further cooperation and success. We need the help of everyone in law enforcement and the greater community to help end violent crime. ”
“As cities across the nation work towards stopping the escalation in gun violence, I am proud of the teamwork displayed this weekend amongst Toledo Police and Federal Agents,” said Toledo Police Chief George Kral. “The cases referred for federal prosecution will set an example to those who illegally carry firearms and disrupt the peace in our city that it will not be tolerated in Toledo. As TPD and Federal Agents continue to work together to arrest these dangerous criminals, it is my hope that as a community we work towards a feasible solution to eliminate gun violence.”
Operation Red-Zone was a combined federal, state and local partnership aimed at reducing gun violence over the Labor Day weekend. In addition, Operation Red-Zone seeks to pursue federal charges, where applicable, against individuals who are prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms, or who otherwise use firearms in a violent crime or drug trafficking offense.
Canton man enters guilty plea to illegal possession of a firearmRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announced today that Matthew Paul Slatzer, 36, of Canton has entered a plea of guilty to one charge of possession of a firearm by a person with a domestic violence conviction.
“This guilty plea will serve as an important reminder of the serious consequences of domestic violence,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to do everything possible to prohibit firearms possession by those, like this defendant, who are prohibited under federal law due to a prior domestic violence conviction.”
According to the indictment filed in this matter, On February 2, 2020, the Canton Police Department responded to a call at a bar for an intoxicated male with a gun inside the establishment. The indictment alleges that Slatzer knowingly possessed a .38 caliber revolver. Slatzer is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to a prior misdemeanor domestic violence conviction on October 29, 2010.
Slatzer is scheduled to be sentenced on December 17, 2020 before Judge Donald C. Nugent.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Canton Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Toni Beth Schnellinger Feisthamel.
Attorney General William P. Barr and U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announce update on Operation Legend during press conferenceRead the Press Release
At a press conference in Chicago today, Attorney General William P. Barr and U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announced updates on Operation Legend.
Since the operation’s launch, there have been more than 2,000 arrests in Legend cities, including defendants who have been charged in state and local courts. Of those arrests, approximately 592 defendants have been charged with federal crimes. In addition, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has seized 587 firearms, more than 1.2 kilos of heroin, and more than five kilos of methamphetamine; the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has seized almost 70 kilos of methamphetamine, more than 16 kilos of heroin, more than 7 kilos of fentanyl, more than 12 kilos of cocaine, 268 firearms, and approximately $5.19 million in drug proceeds; the FBI has recovered 241 weapons; and the United States Marshals Service has recovered 169 firearms and made 1810 arrests, including 163 for homicide and 120 for sexual assault.
In Cleveland, 66 defendants have been charged with federal crimes, including 41 defendants charged with narcotics-related offenses, 22 charged with firearms-related offenses and 3 with other violent crimes. U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman released the following statement:
“We have made significant progress in Cleveland since the launch of Operation Legend. This progress includes arresting and charging drug traffickers, removing illegal firearms off our streets and putting repeat violent crime offenders behind bars. Additionally, thanks to a strong law enforcement partnership, police were able to arrest an individual suspected in the homicide of Eric Hakizamana. This investigation was the focus of law enforcement in Cleveland when Operation Legend was announced on July 29th.
The success we have had in this initiative is thanks, in large part, to law enforcement officers like Detective James Skernivitz, who was killed in the line of duty. Detective Skernivitz was a sworn Operation Legend task force officer assigned to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Violent Crimes Task Force. The work he and his unit have done to help reduce violent crime in our community is invaluable and will have long-lasting effects. Operation Legend will not be the same without Detective Skernivitz, but the good work he has done will live on."
The Attorney General launched Operation Legend on July 8, 2020, as a sustained, systematic and coordinated law enforcement initiative in which federal law enforcement agencies work in conjunction with state and local law enforcement officials to fight violent crime. The initiative is named in honor of four-year-old LeGend Taliferro, who was shot and killed while he slept early in the morning of June 29 in Kansas City.
Launched in Kansas City, MO. on July 8, 2020, the operation expanded to Chicago and Albuquerque on July 22, 2020; to Cleveland, Detroit, and Milwaukee on July 29, 2020; to St. Louis and Memphis on August 6, 2020; and to Indianapolis on August 14, 2020. A breakdown of the federal charges in each district can be found here.
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman and Canton Police Chief Jack Angelo announce Operation Red-Zone ahead of Labor Day weekendRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman and Canton Police Chief Jack Angelo announced today the launch of Operation Red-Zone in the city of Canton over the Labor Day holiday weekend. Joining the U.S. Attorney and the Canton Police Chief in the announcement were representatives from the ATF, DEA, FBI, U.S. Marshals, Stark County Prosecutor and Stark County Sherriff’s office.
“We are here today ahead of the Labor Day holiday weekend to announce the launch of Operation Red-Zone in the city of Canton,” said U.S. Attorney Herdman. “What this means is that if you are prohibited from possessing a firearm under federal law, either because you have a prior felony conviction, a prior misdemeanor conviction, or some other disqualifying condition, then you are in the Red-Zone. If you possess a firearm this weekend while in the Red-Zone, we are going to stop you and prosecute you in federal court.”
“The Canton Police Department would like to thank the US Attorney's office for its commitment to Canton,” said Canton Police Chief Jack Angelo. “Like most other cities, we have been dealing with increased gun violence and illegal possession of firearms all summer. I am sure with the assistance of our federal law enforcement partners, during Operation Red Zone, we will be able to see significant efforts in enforcement.
“ATF is here with our law enforcement partners to encourage everyone to take a step back from the violence and enjoy a peaceful Labor Day weekend,” stated Roland Herndon, ATF’s Special Agent in Charge for the Columbus Field Division. “But be aware, if you choose to use firearms to commit crimes, ATF and our law enforcement partners will be there, working to hold you accountable for those acts.”
U.S. Attorney Herdman announced that the Northern District will pursue federal charges, where applicable, against individuals who are prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms, or who otherwise use firearms in a violent crime or drug trafficking offense. In addition, the U.S. Attorney announced that law enforcement agents with ATF, DEA, FBI and U.S. Marshals will be out in full force over the holiday weekend.
“The people of the city of Canton deserve peace and days and nights free from anxiety and fears caused by violent criminals, said U.S. Attorney Herdman. "We will stop at nothing to ensure that people who are causing this violence are put in federal prison.”
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announces update on Operation Legend in the city of ClevelandRead the Press Release
On July 8, 2020, Attorney General William P. Barr announced the launch of Operation Legend, a sustained, systematic and coordinated law enforcement initiative in which federal law enforcement agencies work in conjunction with state and local law enforcement officials to fight violent crime. The initiative is named in honor of four-year-old LeGend Taliferro, who was shot and killed while he slept early in the morning of June 29 in Kansas City.
Launched first in Kansas City, MO., on July 8, 2020, the operation was expanded to Chicago and Albuquerque on July 22, 2020, to Cleveland, Detroit, and Milwaukee on July 29, 2020, to St. Louis and Memphis on August 6, 2020, and to Indianapolis on August 14, 2020.
Since the operation’s launch through Monday, August 31, 2020, more than 2000 arrests – included 147 for homicide – have been made; more than 544 firearms have been seized; and more than seven kilos of fentanyl, 14 kilos of heroin, 12 kilos of cocaine, and 50 kilos of methamphetamine have been seized.
Of those individuals arrested, 476 have been charged with federal offenses. Two hundred and forty-nine (249) of those defendants have been charged with firearms offenses, while 185 have been charged with drug-related crimes. The remaining defendants have been charged with various offenses.
“Operation Legend has had a strong start in the city of Cleveland and we hope to build upon this early success,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “This initiative has already seen more than 50 defendants charged with federal crimes and has removed numerous firearms and drugs off our streets. This success is due to the strong partnership that we have here in Cleveland between city, state and federal law enforcement.”
The breakdown of federal charges in Cleveland is below.
Cleveland, Ohio
54 defendants have been charged with federal crimes outlined below.
- 39 defendants have been charged with narcotics-related offenses;
- 13 defendants have been charged with firearms-related offenses; and
- 2 defendants have been charged with other violent crimes.
To view Operation Legend results in other cities, click here.
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman and city of Youngstown announce Operation Red-Zone ahead of Labor Day weekendRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman, Youngstown Mayor Jamael Tito Brown and Police Chief Robin Lees announced today the launch of Operation Red-Zone in the city of Youngstown over the Labor Day holiday weekend. Joining the U.S. Attorney, Youngstown Mayor and Police Chief today were representatives from the ATF, DEA, FBI, U.S. Marshals, Mahoning County Prosecutor, Mahoning County Sherriff and the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
“We are here today ahead of the Labor Day holiday weekend to announce the launch of Operation Red-Zone in the city of Youngstown,” said U.S. Attorney Herdman. “What this means is that if you are prohibited from possessing a firearm under federal law, either because you have a prior felony conviction, a prior misdemeanor conviction, or some other disqualifying condition, then you are in the Red-Zone. If you possess a firearm this weekend while in the Red-Zone, we are going to stop you and prosecute you in federal court.”
“These type of partnerships are beneficial to the city of Youngstown and its residents,” said Police Chief Robin Lees. “The city’s 19 homicides this year are just one shy from last year’s total. This is just one of many reasons why we need to target repeat gun offenders, put them behind bars, and make sure they stay there.”
“ATF is here with our law enforcement partners to encourage everyone to take a step back from the violence and enjoy a peaceful Labor Day weekend,” stated Roland Herndon, ATF’s Special Agent in Charge for the Columbus Field Division. “But be aware, if you choose to use firearms to commit crimes, ATF and our law enforcement partners will be there, working to hold you accountable for those acts.”
During the press conference, U.S. Attorney Herdman announced that the Northern District will pursue federal charges, where applicable, against individuals who are prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms, or who otherwise use firearms in a violent crime or drug trafficking offense. In addition, the U.S. Attorney announced that law enforcement agents with ATF, DEA, FBI and U.S. Marshals will be out in full force over the holiday weekend.
“The people of the city of Youngstown deserve peace and days and nights free from anxiety and fears caused by violent criminals, said U.S. Attorney Herdman. "We will stop at nothing to ensure that people who are causing this violence are put in federal prison.”
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman and Toledo Police Chief George Kral announce Operation Red-zone ahead of Labor Day weekendRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman and Toledo Police Chief George Kral announced today the launch of Operation Red-Zone in the city of Toledo over the Labor Day holiday weekend. Joining the U.S. Attorney and Toledo Police Chief in the announcement were representatives from the ATF, DEA, FBI, U.S. Marshals, Lucas County Prosecutor, Lucas County Sherriff and the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
“It is no secret that violent crime in the city of Toledo and elsewhere around the country has been increasing,” said U.S. Attorney Herdman. “With the Labor Day holiday weekend approaching, I’m announcing the launch of Operation Red-zone in the city of Toledo. What this means is that if you are prohibited from possessing a firearm under federal law, either because you have a prior felony conviction, a prior misdemeanor conviction, or some other disqualifying condition, then you are in the Red-Zone. If you possess a firearm this weekend while in the Red-Zone, we are going to stop you and prosecute you in federal court.”
“In a year where gun violence has spiked not only in Toledo but across our nation, this closer collaboration with the U.S. Attorney’s office over the upcoming Labor Day weekend could not come at a better time,” said Toledo Police Chief George Kral. “It is my department’s job to keep Toledoans safe by taking illegal guns out of the hands of violent offenders; the extra assistance from Attorney Herdman’s office will be crucial in taking those criminals off the street and keeping them behind bars for a long time. With the hope of peace in the forefront of our minds, we also remain grounded that the threat of violence exists and we are prepared to prevent it.”
“ATF is here with our law enforcement partners to encourage everyone to take a step back from the violence and enjoy a peaceful Labor Day weekend,” stated Roland Herndon, ATF’s Special Agent in Charge for the Columbus Field Division. “But be aware, if you choose to use firearms to commit crimes, ATF and our law enforcement partners will be there, working to hold you accountable for those acts.”
During the press conference, U.S. Attorney Herdman announced that the Northern District will pursue federal charges, where applicable, against individuals who are prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms, or who otherwise use firearms in a violent crime or drug trafficking offense. In addition, the U.S. Attorney announced that law enforcement agents with ATF, DEA, FBI and U.S. Marshals will be out in full force over the holiday weekend.
“The people of the city of Toledo deserve peace and days and nights free from anxiety and fears caused by violent criminals, said U.S. Attorney Herdman. "We will stop at nothing to ensure that people who are causing this violence are put in federal prison.”
Cleveland Postal Service Manager accused of distribution of controlled substances and theft of mailRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announced that a federal grand jury sitting in Cleveland has returned a six-count indictment charging Anthony Sharp, age 30, of South Euclid, Ohio, with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, money laundering and theft of mail.
“This defendant allegedly stole what he believed to be were drugs shipped through the mail and then sold them for a great profit,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “I am grateful for the work of the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service for their hard work on this investigation and to help keep illegal drugs out of our community.”
U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General Special Agent in Charge Kenneth Cleevely stated: “Postal employees are paid to deliver mail and parcels, not steal and distribute drugs in the community. When a postal employee decides to violate the public’s trust, special agents with the USPS OIG will work with our law enforcement partners to see that they lose their job, their pension, and their freedom. To report postal employees engaged in criminal activity, contact our special agents at www.uspsoig.gov or 888-USPS-OIG.”
“This arrest is a shining example of the coordinated efforts of federal and local law enforcement to protect the mail system from being used for criminal purposes, such as drug transportation and trafficking”, said Acting Inspector In Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Tosha Dennis. “This partnership between the US Postal Inspection Service, USPS OIG and local law enforcement (Euclid, South Euclid and Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Office) should serve as a warning to anyone dealing in dangerous and illegal substances. The Postal Inspection Service has always made it their mission to protect the public and the United States Postal Service from these illegal and dangerous drugs.”
According to court documents, the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General (USPS OIG) began an investigation into the defendant based on suspicions that the defendant, a Postal Service Manager in Cleveland, was profiling U.S. Mail suspected to contain controlled substances, illegally opening the parcels and stealing the contents.
On July 22, 2020, USPS OIG special agents and postal inspectors observed Sharp arrive at a Postal Service processing facility to help sort Express Mail by hand, states the affidavit in support of the criminal complaint. Sharp is then allegedly observed removing two packages, which contained methamphetamine and cocaine, and placing them into his own mail hamper and removed them from the postal facility, placing them in his personal vehicle.
Sharp was later detained during a traffic stop, and a search of his vehicle produced the two packages that contained methamphetamine and cocaine, as well as a third package that contained two kilograms of a mixture of fentanyl. The complaint alleges that the packages were opened. Additionally, agents discovered several other open Express and Priority Mail parcels inside the trunk of the vehicle, absent the contents.
As a result of the offenses, the defendant is ordered to forfeit approximately $100,000 seized, a 2008 Harley Davidson motorcycle and a 2019 White Polaris Slingshot.
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.
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.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General and U.S. Postal Inspection Service. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Margaret Sweeney and Kathryn Andrachik.
Second charged in series of Youngstown-area armed robberiesRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announced that an information charge was filed against Edgar Ramirez, age 22, of Youngstown, Ohio. Ramirez is charged with three counts of interference with commerce by means of robbery and three counts of using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
Melvin Lee Jackson was previously charged in this matter.
According to court documents, from December 17 to December 21, 2019, Ramirez and Jackson are accused of robbing a Speedway in Boardman, a Subway in Youngstown and a Kwik Fill in Struthers. During each robbery, Ramirez and Jackson allegedly held store employees at gunpoint and demanded money.
An information charge 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 offenses and the characteristics of the violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio would like to acknowledge and thank investigators with the Mahoning County Juvenile Justice Center and the Youngstown, Boardman, and Struthers police departments for their cooperation with this matter. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Yasmine Makridis.
Cleveland man accused of attempting to evade income taxRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announced that a federal grand jury sitting in Cleveland has returned a four-count indictment charging Yaser Najjar, age 58, of Westlake with attempt to evade and defeat income tax.
According to the indictment, from 2009 to 2017, the defendant allegedly owned and operated a gas station on East 152nd Street in Cleveland. During this time, the defendant allegedly maintained a handwritten ledger documenting the gas station’s daily gross receipts, gasoline and convenience store sales and used an accountant to prepare his taxes for the calendar years 2009 through 2016. The indictment states that in connection with the preparation of these taxes, and as part of a scheme to evade income taxes due and owing, the defendant materially misrepresented and concealed a substantial portion of the gas station’s gross receipts to his accountant.
The defendant is accused of providing the accountant with the markup (profit) per gallon of gasoline and convenience store sales, which figures substantially underreported actual gross receipts as reflected in the handwritten ledger. It is alleged that the defendant did not provide the accountant with certain information related to actual gasoline and convenience store sales and concealed other sources of income, including ATM fees, vacuum machine receipts, air machine receipts, and car wash receipts.
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.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan R. Miller.
Cleveland man charged with COVID-19 hoaxRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announced today that a federal grand jury in Cleveland has returned a four-count indictment charging Walter Ray Poindexter, age 32, of Cleveland with false information and hoaxes.
According to court documents, on March 14, 2020, Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (GCRTA) Police Officers responded to calls of an intoxicated individual aboard a downtown trolley, later identified as Poindexter. The defendant was subsequently arrested and transported to the Cuyahoga County Jail due to an outstanding warrant in Franklin County. During the processing of the defendant for public intoxication and a parole violation warrant, the defendant allegedly claimed that he had difficulty breathing and that he had the coronavirus. As the GCRTA officers attempted to carry the defendant into the jail, the defendant is accused of purposefully coughing into the police officers’ faces. The defendant is also accused of intentionally coughing in the direction of the Cuyahoga County Jail nurse after repeatedly claiming that he had coronavirus.
The defendant was then transferred to MetroHealth hospital for medical evaluation. Upon arrival in the emergency room, the defendant is alleged to have repeatedly claimed to have coronavirus and once again began coughing and spitting in the direction of the paramedics, police officers and hospital staff. It is alleged that while the paramedics attempted to move the defendant from the gurney to the hospital bed, the defendant sat up and spat directly in the face of a paramedic.
The defendant and paramedic were later administered a pathogen test that came back as negative for the virus.
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 Cleveland Division of the FBI and the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority Police. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Om Kakani and Jerome J. Teresinski.
Attorney General William P. Barr and U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announce update on Operation Legend during press conferenceRead the Press Release
During a press conference in Kansas City, MO., today, Attorney General William P. Barr, U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman and other U.S. Attorneys announced an update on the progress of Operation Legend in several cities across the country, including Cleveland.
Since the launch of Operation Legend, there have been more than 1,000 arrests, including defendants who have been charged in state and local courts. Of those arrests, approximately 217 defendants have been charged with federal crimes. These numbers exclude Indianapolis, whose operation was just announced last Friday. In addition, nearly 400 firearms have been seized by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
“In just a few short weeks, federal investigators working side-by-side with state and local law enforcement have begun to make significant progress towards reducing violence related to illegal firearms, drug trafficking and other crime in our neighborhoods,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “In Cleveland, Operation Legend’s law enforcement operations have already resulted in 32 defendants charged federally with various drug trafficking and firearms violations. These early results show the potential that Operation Legend has to make our cities and communities a safer place for everyone to live.”
The Attorney General launched the operation on July 8, 2020, as a sustained, systematic and coordinated law enforcement initiative in which federal law enforcement agencies work in conjunction with state and local law enforcement officials to fight violent crime. The initiative is named in honor of four-year-old LeGend Taliferro, who was shot and killed while he slept early in the morning of June 29 in Kansas City.
Launched first in Kansas City, MO., on July 8, 2020, the operation was expanded to Chicago and Albuquerque on July 22, 2020, to Cleveland, Detroit, and Milwaukee on July 29, 2020, to St. Louis and Memphis on August 6, 2020, and to Indianapolis on August 14, 2020. A breakdown of the federal charges in Cleveland are listed below:
Cleveland, Ohio
32 defendants have been charged with federal crimes outlined below, with some defendants charged with multiple offenses. Two defendants remain fugitives.
- 22 defendants have been charged with federal drug trafficking charges;
- Nine defendants have been charged with federal firearms violations; and
- One defendant has been charged with carjacking.
To view Operation Legend results in other cities, click here.
Four found in Northern Ohio indicted for illegal reentry into U.S.Read the Press Release
A federal grand jury sitting in Cleveland has indicted four individuals in the Northern Ohio area on charges of illegal reentry. These are separate cases and are not related.
Ervin David Carias Raudales, aka Carlos Jose Heraso, age 38, a citizen of Honduras, was indicted on one charge of illegal reentry into the United States after having been previously removed. Carias Raudales, who has been removed four times prior (the last time was on or about July 27, 2019), was found in Ashtabula, Ohio. The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrea Isabella.
Samuel Hernandez-Hernandez, age 22, a citizen of Guatemala, was indicted on one charge of illegal reentry into the United States after having been previously removed. Hernandez-Hernandez, last removed on or about February 12, 2019, was found in Columbiana County, Ohio. The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Vanessa V. Healy.
Fabian Chavez-Canales, age 32, a citizen of Mexico, was indicted on one charge of illegal reentry into the United States after having been previously removed. Chavez-Canales, last removed on May 17, 2016, was found in North Royalton, Ohio. The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Bryson Gillard.
Rene Cabrera-Ramos, age 42, a citizen of El Salvador, was indicted on one charge of illegal reentry into the United States after having been previously removed. Cabrera-Ramos, last removed on March 11, 2011, was found in Cleveland, Ohio. The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Bryson Gillard.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Each 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 a 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.
Youngstown man indicted for using and discharging a firearm during string of armed robberiesRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announced that a federal grand jury sitting in Cleveland has returned a 10-count indictment charging Terron Jones, 21, of Youngstown with five counts of interference with commerce by means of robbery, four counts of using or carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence and one count of using or carrying, and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
According to the indictment, from May 2020 through June 2020, the defendant is accused of using a firearm, threatening force and obtaining monies in the custody, possession and presence of serval Youngstown area businesses. In addition, the indictment alleges that on or about May 23, 2020, Jones used, carried, and discharged a firearm during one of these robberies.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Each 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 a 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.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Youngstown Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Yasmine Makridis.
Three individuals charged with arranging adoptions from Uganda and Poland through bribery and fraudRead the Press Release
Three women were charged in a 13-count indictment filed on Aug. 14 in the Northern District of Ohio for their alleged roles in schemes to corruptly and fraudulently procure adoptions of Ugandan and Polish children through bribing Ugandan officials and defrauding U.S. adoptive parents, U.S. authorities, and a Polish regulatory authority.
Margaret Cole, 73, of Strongsville, Ohio, Debra Parris, 68, of Lake Dallas, Texas, and Dorah Mirembe, 41, of Kampala, Uganda, were charged in the indictment. In relation to the Uganda scheme, Parris and Mirembe were each charged with one count of conspiracy to violate the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) and commit visa fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and wire fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, three substantive FCPA counts and three substantive counts of money laundering. Parris was also charged with one count of mail fraud. In relation to the Poland scheme, Parris and Cole were each charged with one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States. Cole was further charged with one count of making a false statement to a U.S. accrediting entity and one count of making a false statement to a Polish authority.
“These defendants are accused of orchestrating an alleged scheme that bribed Ugandan officials, defrauded the United States and manipulated parents inside and outside of the country,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman of the Northern District of Ohio. “As a result of this alleged conduct, prospective parents were deceived, hundreds of thousands of dollars were misused and innocent children were displaced from their homes.”
“The defendants allegedly resorted to bribery and fraud to engage in an international criminal adoption scheme that took children from their home countries in Uganda and Poland without properly determining whether they were actually orphaned. The defendants sought to profit from their alleged criminal activity at the expense of families and vulnerable children,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Brian C. Rabbitt of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “These charges clearly show that the Department of Justice is committed to protecting children worldwide, including those involved in the international adoption process.”
“These three defendants preyed on the emotions of parents, those wanting the best for their child, and those wishing to give what they thought was an orphaned child a family to love,” said Special Agent in Charge Eric B. Smith of the FBI’s Cleveland Field Office. “These defendants allegedly lied to both sides of the adoption process, and bribed Ugandan officials who were responsible for the welfare of children. Parents, prospective parents and children were emotionally vested and were heartbroken when they learned of the selfishness and greed in which these three engaged. The FBI will never cease in its efforts to protect the innocent and unwitting from those who prey on that trust and confidence and we will vigorously pursue and hold those responsible accountable.”
With respect to the Uganda scheme, the indictment alleges that Parris and Mirembe, together with others, engaged in a scheme to pay bribes to Ugandan officials to corruptly procure the adoption of Ugandan children by families in the United States, including the adoption of children who were not properly determined to be orphaned and who had to be ultimately returned to their birth parents.
Specifically, Parris, Mirembe, and their co-conspirators allegedly (1) paid bribes to social welfare officers in exchange for them issuing welfare reports recommending that certain children be placed into orphanages without first ensuring that the children were actually orphaned or that putting them up for adoption was in the children’s best interest; (2) paid bribes to Ugandan magistrate judges to obtain court orders placing those children in an orphanage that was willing to accept the children without inquiring into whether they were actually orphans; (3) paid bribes to court registrars to cause the court registrars to assign the cases of these children to two corrupt “adoption-friendly” judges; and (4) paid bribes to the corrupt Ugandan judges to obtain orders to permit their clients to bring the children to the United States for adoption.
Parris, Mirembe, and others also allegedly lied to, and concealed material information from, adoptive parents, including lying about the bribe payments and whether the children were properly determined to be eligible for adoption, and concealing other material information about the children’s history. The indictment also alleges that Parris, Mirembe, and others agreed to cause false documents to be submitted to the U.S. Department of State to hide the corrupt and fraudulent scheme and to mislead it in its adjudication of visa applications for the Ugandan children being considered for adoption. The co-conspirators and the entities they worked for received more than $900,000 in connection with these adoptions.
With respect to the Poland scheme, the indictment alleges that after clients of their adoption agency determined they could not care for one of the two Polish children they were set to adopt, Cole and Parris took steps to transfer the child to Parris’s relatives, who were not eligible for intercountry adoption and one of whom had a criminal arrest record. After the child was physically abused, Cole and Parris took steps to conceal their improper conduct from the entity responsible for accrediting U.S. intercountry adoption agencies—and from the Polish authority responsible for intercountry adoptions—in an attempt to continue profiting from these adoptions.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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.
This case is being investigated by the FBI’s Cleveland Field Office and is being prosecuted by and Assistant U.S. Attorney Chelsea Rice of the Northern District of Ohio and Trial Attorneys Jason Manning and Alexander Kramer of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section.
The Criminal Division’s Fraud Section is responsible 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.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Three Individuals Charged with Arranging Adoptions from Uganda and Poland Through Bribery and FraudRead the Press Release
Three women were charged in a 13-count indictment filed on Aug. 14 in the Northern District of Ohio for their alleged roles in schemes to corruptly and fraudulently procure adoptions of Ugandan and Polish children through bribing Ugandan officials and defrauding U.S. adoptive parents, U.S. authorities, and a Polish regulatory authority.
Margaret Cole, 73, of Strongsville, Ohio, Debra Parris, 68, of Lake Dallas, Texas, and Dorah Mirembe, 41, of Kampala, Uganda, were charged in the indictment. In relation to the Uganda scheme, Parris and Mirembe were each charged with one count of conspiracy to violate the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) and commit visa fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and wire fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, three substantive FCPA counts and three substantive counts of money laundering. Parris was also charged with one count of mail fraud. In relation to the Poland scheme, Parris and Cole were each charged with one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States. Cole was further charged with one count of making a false statement to a U.S. accrediting entity and one count of making a false statement to a Polish authority.
“The defendants allegedly resorted to bribery and fraud to engage in an international criminal adoption scheme that took children from their home countries in Uganda and Poland without properly determining whether they were actually orphaned. The defendants sought to profit from their alleged criminal activity at the expense of families and vulnerable children,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Brian C. Rabbitt of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “These charges clearly show that the Department of Justice is committed to protecting children worldwide, including those involved in the international adoption process.”
“These defendants are accused of orchestrating an alleged scheme that bribed Ugandan officials, defrauded the United States and manipulated parents inside and outside of the country,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman of the Northern District of Ohio. “As a result of this alleged conduct, prospective parents were deceived, hundreds of thousands of dollars were misused and innocent children were displaced from their homes.”
“These three defendants preyed on the emotions of parents, those wanting the best for their child, and those wishing to give what they thought was an orphaned child a family to love,” said Special Agent in Charge Eric B. Smith of the FBI’s Cleveland Field Office. “These defendants allegedly lied to both sides of the adoption process, and bribed Ugandan officials who were responsible for the welfare of children. Parents, prospective parents and children were emotionally vested and were heartbroken when they learned of the selfishness and greed in which these three engaged. The FBI will never cease in its efforts to protect the innocent and unwitting from those who prey on that trust and confidence and we will vigorously pursue and hold those responsible accountable.”
With respect to the Uganda scheme, the indictment alleges that Parris and Mirembe, together with others, engaged in a scheme to pay bribes to Ugandan officials to corruptly procure the adoption of Ugandan children by families in the United States, including the adoption of children who were not properly determined to be orphaned and who had to be ultimately returned to their birth parents.
Specifically, Parris, Mirembe, and their co-conspirators allegedly (1) paid bribes to social welfare officers in exchange for them issuing welfare reports recommending that certain children be placed into orphanages without first ensuring that the children were actually orphaned or that putting them up for adoption was in the children’s best interest; (2) paid bribes to Ugandan magistrate judges to obtain court orders placing those children in an orphanage that was willing to accept the children without inquiring into whether they were actually orphans; (3) paid bribes to court registrars to cause the court registrars to assign the cases of these children to two corrupt “adoption-friendly” judges; and (4) paid bribes to the corrupt Ugandan judges to obtain orders to permit their clients to bring the children to the United States for adoption.
Parris, Mirembe, and others also allegedly lied to, and concealed material information from, adoptive parents, including lying about the bribe payments and whether the children were properly determined to be eligible for adoption, and concealing other material information about the children’s history. The indictment also alleges that Parris, Mirembe, and others agreed to cause false documents to be submitted to the U.S. Department of State to hide the corrupt and fraudulent scheme and to mislead it in its adjudication of visa applications for the Ugandan children being considered for adoption. The co-conspirators and the entities they worked for received more than $900,000 in connection with these adoptions.
With respect to the Poland scheme, the indictment alleges that after clients of their adoption agency determined they could not care for one of the two Polish children they were set to adopt, Cole and Parris took steps to transfer the child to Parris’s relatives, who were not eligible for intercountry adoption and one of whom had a criminal arrest record. After the child was physically abused, Cole and Parris took steps to conceal their improper conduct from the entity responsible for accrediting U.S. intercountry adoption agencies—and from the Polish authority responsible for intercountry adoptions—in an attempt to continue profiting from these adoptions.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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 Criminal Division’s Fraud Section is responsible 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.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Northeast Ohio Correctional Center Correction Officer indicted for bribery and providing cell phones and contraband to inmatesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Justin Herdman announced that a federal grand jury sitting in Cleveland has returned a three-count indictment charging Skyler Herring, age 27, of Youngstown with bribery and providing cell phones and tobacco to inmates at the Northeast Ohio Correctional Center (NEOCC) while employed as a Correctional Officer.
According to the indictment, from November 2018 to August 2019, the defendant is accused of accepting electronic payments via a mobile payment application in exchange for smuggling cell phones and tobacco into the NEOCC.
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 Justice Office of the Inspector General and the Cleveland Division of FBI. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Seabury Gould.
Four charged as felon in possession of a firearm in ClevelandRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury sitting in Cleveland has indicted four individuals in the Cleveland area on charges of felon in possession of a firearm. These are separate cases and are not related.
Diante Colthirst, age 30, of Cleveland, was indicted on one count of felon in possession of a firearm. Colthirst is charged with the alleged illegal possession of a 9mm pistol on March 2, 2020. Colthirst is prohibited from possessing a firearm after having been previously convicted of felony offenses of attempted felonious assault, carrying a concealed weapon and having weapons while under disability and felonious assault and aggravated robbery in the Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court. The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the ATF with the help of Orange Police Department, and the matter is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Scott C. Zarzycki.
Alaric Holloway, age 30, of Lorain, was indicted on two counts of felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Holloway is charged with the alleged illegal possession of a 9mm pistol on February 26, 2020, and spent shell casing ammunition on May 25, 2020. Holloway is prohibited from possessing a firearm after having been previously convicted of felony offenses of intimidation, drug trafficking, felonious assault and domestic violence in the Lorain County Common Pleas Court. The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the FBI with the help of Lorain Police Department, and the matter is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Scott C. Zarzycki.
Samuel James McCrimon Jr., age 29, of Cleveland, was indicted on one count of felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. McCrimon is charged with the alleged illegal possession of 9mm semi-automatic pistol on June 10, 2020. McCrimon is prohibited from possessing a firearm after having been previously convicted of felony offenses of burglary in the Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court and felonious assault in the Lucas County Common Pleas Court. The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the ATF with the support of the United States Marshal Service (USMS) Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force (NOVFTF), and the matter is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Margaret A. Kane.
Cedric Roberson, age 52, of North Olmsted, was indicted on two counts of felon in possession of a firearm and possession of a firearm by a person with a prior misdemeanor domestic violence conviction. Roberson is charged with the alleged illegal possession of a .32 caliber revolver on May 8, 2020. Roberson had previously been convicted of Domestic Violence in 2008, 2013 and 2019 in Cuyahoga and Lorain County Common Pleas Courts. The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the FBI with the help of the Elyria Police Department, and the matter is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Scott C. Zarzycki.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Each 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 a 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.
Youngstown man indicted for bomb threat to courthouseRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announced today that a federal grand jury sitting in Cleveland has returned a two-count indictment charging Larese Kenneth Allen, Sr., 25 of Youngstown with making a bomb threat and as a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents, on or about June 1, 2020, the Municipal Court of Youngstown, Ohio received a phone call from an unknown caller to the clerk’s office. The caller is alleged to have spoken with a court clerk and claimed to be “coming from Cleveland to blow-up your courthouse.” Following the threat, all employees of the Municipal Court of Youngstown were immediately evacuated and the Youngtown Police Department’s Bomb Squad was dispatched and conducted a sweep of the Municipal Court. No bomb was found.
An investigation subsequently determined that the defendant was the one who had placed the phone call. During an interview with law enforcement, the defendant allegedly admitted to placing the June 1st phone call to the Municipal Court of Youngstown to delay upcoming criminal proceedings.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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 offenses and the characteristics of the violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Mahoning Valley Violent Crimes Task Force. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Yasmine Makridis.
Parma man sentenced for filing false tax returnsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announced today that Mohammad H. Mohammad, age 56, of Parma, was sentenced to 5 years of probation and ordered to pay $489,189.00 in restitution and a $100,000.00 fine.
According to the indictment, Mohammad understated his income and failed to report gross receipts or sales generated by the business operations of Muhammad Brothers Partners for calendar years 2012 and 2013. In total, Mohammad under-reported his income by $498,189.00, court records show. Mohammad, along with his brother, established Muhammad Brothers Partners, which, in turn, owned and operated Holyland Supermarket, a grocer in the city of Cleveland.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan R. Miller.
Akron man sentenced to more than 16 years after convictions of possession with intent to distribute cocaine and possession of firearms as a felonRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announced today that Jaquar Keyshore Latimer, age 43, of Akron, was sentenced by Judge Sara Lioi to 199 months imprisonment after being found guilty during a trial by jury of possession with intent to distribute cocaine and possession of firearms as a convicted felon on August 23, 2019.
“This defendant has spent the majority of his adult life dealing drugs and illegally possessing firearms,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “Violent crime and felonious assaults with a firearm are on the rise in cities like Akron and throughout Northern Ohio. We must send a strong message to the community and career-criminals that illegally possessing a stolen firearm or having a firearm with felony convictions will result in many years and months in federal prison.”
“As stated by U.S. Attorney Herdman, Latimer has spent most of his adult life spreading violence and addiction,” stated Roland Herndon, ATF’s Special Agent in Charge for the Columbus Field Division. “This lengthy sentence will ensure that he does not have the opportunity to continue to terrify and intimidate the Akron community.”
According to court documents, in December of 2017, Latimer was on supervised release from federal prison after serving a sentence for a conviction of felon in possession of a firearm. On February 9, 2018, officers with the Ohio Parole Authority conducted a home visit at the residence where Latimer resided. When APA officers entered the home, they found Latimer walking within a few feet of a firearm on a couch.
Court documents state that Akron Police Department officers arrived on the scene and assisted with searching the home. During the search, law enforcement officers discovered 11 grams of cocaine, more than $1,000 in cash, and three firearms: a 9mm automatic handgun, which had been reported stolen; a loaded .380 caliber, semi-automatic handgun; and a loaded .357 caliber revolver. Latimer was prohibited from possessing a firearm due to previous convictions of being a felon in possession of a firearm, sexual battery, aggravated assault, and drug possession.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Akron Police Department and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brendan D. O’Shea and Mark S. Bennett.
Toledo man sentenced for real estate fraud scheme and defrauding U.S. governmentRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announced today that Ronald Wilson, age 47, of Vickery, was sentenced by Judge Jack Zouhary to 90 months imprisonment and ordered to pay $3,977,919.39 in restitution with co-defendant Sherri Wilson after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, three counts of wire fraud, mail fraud, bank fraud, and embezzlement of government property on February 11, 2020.
Additionally sentenced in this matter were Sherri Wilson, age 31, of Vickery, and Murphy Feeny, age 32, of Toledo. Sherri Wilson was sentenced to 45 months imprisonment after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, three counts of wire fraud, mail fraud, bank fraud, and embezzlement of government property. Murphy Feeny was placed on probation for a term of 3 years after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and ordered to pay $32,000 in restitution.
According to court documents, beginning in 2016, Defendants Ronald and Sherri Wilson developed a scheme to recruit investors from around the world who sought to invest in Toledo’s residential real estate market. These investors were told by Ronald and Sherri Wilson that, if they sent the Wilsons money, the Wilsons would purchase properties for the investor, register a limited liability company (LLC) purportedly controlled by the investor, rehabilitate the properties, obtain tenants, and manage rental income on the investors’ behalf.
In actuality, the Wilsons routinely gave themselves control over the subject LLCs, misdirected investor funds, withheld income, took payment for rehabilitation projects, but never completed ordered work, defrauded an insurance company, engaged in “check-kiting,” and even embezzled United States Department of Housing and Urban Development funds meant to benefit low-income tenants in the City of Toledo. Many of the properties involved in this case, including a downtown hotel, have been left derelict and uninhabitable. Tenants of the now-uninhabitable properties –including vulnerable Section 8 recipients – have been unnecessarily displaced as a result of the defendants’ actions.
In sum, Ronald and Sherri Wilson caused millions of dollars in losses to investors, as described in court filings.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development Office of Inspector General, and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Robert Melching and Gene Crawford.
Nine charged in $24 million COVID-relief fraud schemeRead the Press Release
The owner of a Florida talent management company, two Northeast Ohio men, and six others have been charged via criminal complaint in federal court for their alleged participation in a scheme to file fraudulent loan applications seeking more than $24 million in forgivable Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans guaranteed by the Small Business Administration (SBA) under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Five of these complaints were unsealed today.
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman for the Northern District of Ohio, Acting Assistant Attorney General Brian C. Rabbitt of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Special Agent in Charge (SAC) Eric B. Smith of the FBI’s Cleveland Field Office, SAC Bryant Jackson of the IRS Criminal Investigation Division’s (IRS-CI) Cincinnati Field Office, and Inspector General Hannibal “Mike” Ware of the SBA Office of Inspector General (OIG) made the announcement.
Six defendants were charged in this scheme in federal criminal complaints filed in the Northern District of Ohio in July:
- Phillip J. Augustin, 51, of Coral Springs, Florida, was charged on July 28, 2020 with wire fraud, bank fraud, conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud, and obstruction of justice.
- Wyleia Nashon Williams, 44, of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, was charged on July 28, 2020 with wire fraud, bank fraud, and conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud.
- James R. Stote, 54, of Hollywood, Florida, and Ross Charno, 46, of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, were charged on June 24, 2020 with wire fraud, bank fraud, and conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud.
- Deon D. Levy, 50, of Bedford, Ohio, and Abdul-Azeem Levy, 22, of Cleveland, Ohio, were charged on June 8, 2020 with wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
Three more defendants were recently charged with wire fraud, bank fraud, and conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud by federal criminal complaints filed in the Southern District of Florida on August 3, 2020. Those defendants are Damion O. McKenzie, 38, of Miami Gardens, Florida; Andre M. Clark, 46, of Miramar, Florida; and Keyaira Bostic, 31, of Pembroke Pines, Florida.
“As many of our family, friends and neighbors suffered adverse economic consequences from our nation’s response to a global pandemic, these defendants were allegedly looking for ways to profit off of our collective troubles and fears,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman, “The Justice Department will continue to work long hours with our federal, state, and local partners to find and prosecute those who may have defrauded the public of funds meant to help the American economy recover from this once-in-a-century catastrophe.”
“The defendants are alleged to have coordinated a scheme to fraudulently obtain millions of dollars in PPP loans and to receive kickbacks for filing fraudulent loan applications for others,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Brian C. Rabbitt of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The Department and our law enforcement partners are aggressively pursuing individuals who scheme to steal PPP funds intended for legitimate small businesses suffering the economic hardships of the COVID-19 pandemic.”
“While the entire world was focused on dealing with a pandemic, it is alleged that these individuals were selfishly focused on exploiting programs designed to help people survive financially during the shutdown,” said FBI SAC Eric B. Smith. “Rest assured, as our country continues to move forward, law enforcement will identify those that have financially benefited from providing fictitious information to COVID-19 assistance programs. Law enforcement will ensure these ill-gotten gains are returned so that honest, hardworking employers and employees can continue to receive the assistance they need.”
“Criminals seize on every opportunity to exploit bad situations, and this pandemic is no exception,” said Bryant Jackson, SAC, IRS-CI, Cincinnati Field Office. “The Paycheck Protection Program under the CARES Act was designed to help Americans struggling with financial hardship and IRS Criminal Investigation along with our federal law enforcement partners will be aggressive in investigating anyone who allegedly defrauds this critical program.”
The complaints unsealed today allege that the defendants conspired to obtain millions of dollars in fraudulent PPP loans. Early on in the scheme, Augustin is alleged to have obtained a fraudulent PPP loan for his company, Clear Vision Music Group LLC, using falsified documents. After submitting that application, Augustin recruited Williams to assist in a scheme with other co-conspirators to submit numerous fraudulent PPP loan applications for confederate loan applicants, in order to receive kickbacks for obtaining said loans.
Following the success of Clear Vision’s PPP application, Augustin and Williams immediately began working to obtain additional and larger PPP loans for Augustin’s associates, generally for several hundred thousand dollars for each loan and up to as much as approximately $1.24 million, according to the complaint. The applications submitted for these loans relied on fake payroll numbers, falsified IRS forms, phony bank statements, and counterfeit checks. According to the complaint, Williams allegedly facilitated the loan applications, while Augustin continued to recruit more applicants and pressured them to send their kickbacks once funds were received.
Augustin is alleged to have recruited numerous confederate PPP loan applicants using his network of business contacts from his work as a manager for professional athletes. Augustin monitored the progress of applications and of the kickback wires he was expecting. McKenzie, Clark, and Bostic are alleged to have sought PPP loans for their own companies and to have recruited other confederate PPP loan applicants in exchange for a share of the loan proceeds.
The complaint alleges that the scheme involved the preparation of at least 90 fraudulent loan applications, most of which were submitted. The defendants are alleged to have conspired to obtain PPP loans collectively worth more than $24 million dollars. Many of those applications were approved and funded by financial institutions, paying out at least $17.4 million.
The scheme allegedly included at least two loans to entities in northeast Ohio worth approximately $875,000.
According to the complaint, investigators identified more than $2.3 million in kickback wire transfers from entities that obtained sizable PPP loans or their owners. Augustin received more than $900,000 in kickback wires in a six-week period.
The CARES Act is a federal law enacted on March 29, 2020, designed to provide emergency financial assistance to the millions of Americans who are suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. One source of relief provided by the CARES Act was the authorization of up to $349 billion in forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other expenses, through the PPP. In April 2020, Congress authorized over $300 billion in additional PPP funding.
The PPP allows qualifying small businesses and other organizations to receive loans with a maturity of two years and an interest rate of one percent. PPP loan proceeds must be used by businesses on payroll costs, interest on mortgages, rent, and utilities. The PPP allows the interest and principal to be entirely forgiven if the business spends the loan proceeds on these expense items within a designated period of time after receiving the proceeds and uses a certain amount of the PPP loan proceeds on payroll expenses.
A federal criminal complaint is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The Northern District of Ohio cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliot Morrison and Trial Attorney Philip Trout of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section.
These cases were investigated by the FBI’s Cleveland Field Office, IRS-CI Cincinnati Field Office, FBI Miami Field Office, IRS-CI Miami Field Office, the SBA-OIG, and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District would like to acknowledge and thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida for assistance with this matter.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
- Phillip J. Augustin, 51, of Coral Springs, Florida, was charged on July 28, 2020 with wire fraud, bank fraud, conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud, and obstruction of justice.
U.S. Attorney's Office recognizes employees for outstanding work in 2019Read the Press Release
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Ohio presented awards to honor exceptional advocacy, support and legal work on behalf of the district's six million residents in 2019.
"These awards recognize the best efforts put forth by our office on behalf of the citizens of the Northern District," said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. "Whether it's combating violent crime, protecting taxpayers, trying to curb the tide of the opioid epidemic, just to name a few, these employees embody the best of public service."
Details of the award winners are below:
Graduates of the Cleveland Federal Community Leadership Institute (CFCLI): Antoinette Burrell, Angelia Johnson and Crystal Williamson
The Cleveland Federal Community Leadership Institute is a program designed to develop leaders among Cleveland's federal agencies. This program gives students opportunities to network with like-minded leaders in the Cleveland area, develop effective teamwork skills, and design a community outreach project. This year, the Northern District had three graduates: Antoinette Burrell, Angelia Johnson and Crystal Williamson. Congratulations, graduates.
Wings of Excellence Award: Jeanette Albrecht and Michelle Baeppler
The purpose of this award is to recognize those employees whose outstanding performances, either on or off the job, have served as an inspiration to others and/or brought credit to the Federal service. Awardees may be recognized for on-the-job performance, community service, or both.
Jeanette Albrecht has been with the Northern District since 2014. She was hired as a Legal Assistant in the Civil Division, where she supported several Assistant U.S. Attorneys in the Financial Litigation and Defensive Units. She assisted in mentoring new legal assistants and has never missed an opportunity to support other personnel within the division.
Michelle Baeppler has handled some of the office's most notable prosecutions. She joined the U.S. Attorney's Office in 2007 as an Assistant U.S. Attorney and has since prosecuted a myriad of criminal cases, including narcotics trafficking, firearms, bank robbery, terrorism, national security and civil rights matters. She has served as the Deputy Chief of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) Unit and is currently the Branch Chief for the Akron office.
Congratulations, Jeanette and Michelle.
2020 Franklin A. Polk Public Servant Award: Renee Mackey
Renee Mackey has been recognized by the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association for demonstrating outstanding service to the legal profession, the general public, and the justice system. These merit awards are given for long and faithful service, devotion to duty, wise counsel, and unfailing patience. Renee has worked tirelessly on behalf of the Northern District's six million residents for the past 31 years and is an exemplary public servant. Congratulations, Renee.
The Bill Edwards Career Award: Jim Morford
Jim Morford is honored for over 30 years of exceptional federal service. Jim began his career as an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney in Montgomery County and joined the Northern District in 1991. Jim is an Assistant U.S. Attorney who oversees the district's forfeiture division. Jim is widely considered an expert and leading authority on all things related to both criminal and civil forfeiture. Jim's division consistently nets forfeiture results that far exceed districts much larger than Ohio Northern. Congratulations, Jim.
The Roberta Sladick Career Award: Cindy Jenkins
Cindy is described as an "invaluable asset" and "one of the best employees the U.S. Attorney's Office has had over her long career." Cindy is a leader, mentor and trainer. Cindy has trained countless new employees as they have joined the Criminal Division and is always ready to help and fill in for anyone who needs help, and she has a hands-on approach when it comes to completing the mission. Congratulations, Cindy.
Excellence in Criminal Advocacy: Dan Riedl, Duncan Brown, Om Kakani, Matt Kall and Michelle McEwen
This year's recipients are awarded the Excellence in Criminal Advocacy award for their unwavering commitment and professionalism demonstrated throughout trial. Congratulations to Dan, Duncan, Om, Matt and Michelle.
Excellence in Civil Advocacy: Renee Bacchus, James Bennett, Karen Swanson Haan, Twana Rogers and Devin Zabarsky
This year's recipients are recognized for their legal skills and adaptability while protecting the United States, and their shining example of professionalism in the face of national headlines and unexpected challenging circumstances. The team used keen legal knowledge and exceptional judgment in meeting, conferring, and negotiating with both the Plaintiffs and defense counsel, the Special Masters, the Court and numerous agency officials and attorneys. Congratulations to Renee, James, Karen, Twana and Devin.
Excellence in Criminal Support: Allison Kretz
Allison Kretz is such an instrumental part of the Northern District's Criminal Division. Many of the office's 2019 success stories would not have happened without Allison. She is approachable, knowledgeable, easy to work with, encouraging and patient. She leads by example and becomes an integral part of every team to which she is assigned. But more important than helping the office, Allison assists the victim community that the district serves. Congratulations, Allison.
Excellence in Civil Support: Donna Stroffolino
Donna Stroffolino is awarded this year's "Excellence in Civil Support" award for providing support on high-volume foreclosure matters and doing so in a timely manner. The foreclosure unit files in 17 different state courts, has approximately 1500 cases pending and bring in over $1M a year. Donna helps manage the unit's workload by assessing and reviewing each foreclosure complaint and coordinating with the respective agencies in order to enable the office to file an answer or response. Congratulations, Donna.
Excellence in Paralegal Support: Jen Bosher
Jen Bosher is awarded this year's "Excellence in Paralegal Support" award for her meticulous work and exemplary attention to detail. Jen has worked as a paralegal for the past 10-plus years and has demonstrated exceptional writing ability and the aptitude to handle large and complex discovery productions. Congratulations, Jen.
Excellence in Administrative Support: Annette Coreno
Annette is recognized for her positive attitude and willingness to assist whoever calls or walks through the door. Annette manages multiple duties and tasks throughout the day and handles all of her assignments with a pleasant attitude and smile. Congratulations, Annette.
New Assistant U.S. Attorney Award: Elliot Morrison
In the few short years that Elliot has been with the Northern District office, he has demonstrated outstanding written and oral advocacy skills, thorough and meticulous approach to case development and prosecution, and has earned numerous convictions and significant trial accomplishments. During 2019, AUSA Morrison worked tirelessly on cases involving public corruption and drug trafficking. AUSA Morrison is a conscientious, dedicated and thorough advocate and deserves recognition by his peers as this year's New Assistant U.S. Attorney award recipient. Congratulations, Elliot.
New Legal Support Award: Chiquita Bonner
Chiquita's work ethic and professionalism have earned her this year's New Legal Support award. Chiquita is always ready to say yes to a project, a quick learner, and values her time and others. Chiquita strives to represent the office with professionalism, honesty, and integrity and readily volunteers her time to assist with the planning of events, such as the diversity and outreach programs, holiday events, etc. Congratulations, Chiquita.
The Jane Corrigan Award: Anthony Myers
This award recognizes a supportive staff member who is always professional, ready to help others in the performance of their duties, who expresses a "can-do" attitude, and whose demeanor is always engaging. Anthony receives this year's award for going out of his way to assist others, ensuring that his work is professional and error-free, and addressing deficiencies in internal processes. Congratulations, Anthony.
The Craig Tame Award for Excellence in Community Outreach: Marlon Primes
Marlon is the recipient of the first-ever Craig Tame Award for Excellence in Community Outreach. Marlon is a true leader – both in the office and throughout our community. He has been a champion for Cleveland's youth for several years as he has advanced and supported the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association's 3R's program – teaching high school-aged students about their rights and responsibilities as reflected in the U.S. Constitution. Marlon organizes an annual field trip for students to visit the federal courthouse and experience a moot court opportunity. Additionally, he has been a long-standing member of the Office's Diversity and Outreach committee, leading all of us by example. He is described by his peers in many positive ways, including being described as good-natured, exceptionally kind, and "having a heart of gold and the patience of a saint." Congratulations, Marlon.
Administrative Employee of the Year: Jeff Oleyar
Jeff receives this year's award for his role in helping the office navigate the information technology challenges posed by remote-working due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Even before the pandemic, Jeff provided the office with knowledgeable, timely, and friendly service and support. Congratulations, Jeff.
Legal Support Employee of the Year: Rowenda Dellisanti
Rowenda provides outstanding support to all civil Assistant U.S. Attorneys in the Toledo Branch Office. Rowenda is the primary Legal Assistant for two Civil Assistant U.S. Attorneys, provides backup support when necessary, and also supports the bankruptcy and medicare unit, two high-volume areas. Well-organized and meticulous, Rowenda exhibits exceptional skills in all areas of civil litigation support. This includes the difficult and sometimes tedious tasks associated with civil discovery. Congratulations, Rowenda.
Assistant U.S. Attorney of the Year: Margaret Sweeney
Margaret Sweeney is this year's Assistant U.S. Attorney of the Year. Margaret's attention and dedication to her work resulted in 77 defendants charged last year, with several of these matters being significant prosecutions resulting from complex, long-term investigations.
Notable accomplishments in 2019 include:
•The first trial in this district for a fentanyl analogue under the mandatory minimum statute. It was also then the largest carfentanil seizure with 200 grams of carfentanil found.
•Indicting the leader of a drug trafficking organization that, for at least 10 years, has been trafficking upwards of 200 kilos of cocaine into the Northern District.
In 2019, Margaret was selected to be the lead Strike Force attorney for the newly created Cleveland Strike Force. In addition, she coordinates the summer intern program and mentors new Assistant U.S. Attorneys. Her colleagues describe Margaret as motivating, thoughtful and keenly observant of details. Congratulations, Margaret.
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announces more than $400,000 awarded to provide housing and assistance to victims of human trafficking in Northern OhioRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announced today that the Jordan Community Resource Center in Cleveland Heights has been awarded $497,661 from the Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs and its component, the Office for Victims of Crime, to provide safe, stable housing and appropriate services to victims of human trafficking in Northern Ohio.
“Human trafficking is a barbaric criminal enterprise that subjects its victims to unspeakable cruelty and deprives them of the most basic of human needs, none more essential than a safe place to live,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “Throughout this Administration, the Department of Justice has fought aggressively to bring human traffickers to justice and to deliver critical aid to trafficking survivors. These new resources, announced today, expand on our efforts to offer those who have suffered the shelter and support they need to begin a new and better life.”
“In addition to combating the threat and harm posed by human trafficking, the Justice Department is committed to providing much-needed resources and assistance to victims,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “These funds announced today will help our partners provide victims with necessities such as housing and utilities assistance, occupational training and counseling."
The grant, awarded to the Jordan Community Resource Center, will provide six to 24 months of transitional or short-term housing assistance for trafficking victims, including rental, utilities or related expenses, such as security deposits and relocation costs. The grant will also provide funding for support needed to help victims locate permanent housing, secure employment, as well as occupational training and counseling. The Jordan Community Resource Center is one of 73 organizations receiving more than $35 million in OVC grants to support housing services for human trafficking survivors.
“Human traffickers dangle the threat of homelessness over those they have entrapped, playing a ruthless game of psychological manipulation that victims are never in a position to win,” said OJP Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “These grants will empower survivors on their path to independence and a life of self-sufficiency and hope.”
Human trafficking offenses are among the most difficult crimes to identify, and the scope of human trafficking victimization may be much greater than the limited data reflect. A new report issued by the National Institute of Justice, another component of the Office of Justice Programs, found that the number of human trafficking cases captured in police reports may represent only a fraction of all such cases. Expanding housing and other services to trafficking victims remains a top Justice Department priority.
The Office for Victims of Crime, for example, hosted listening sessions and roundtable discussions with stakeholders in the field in 2018 and launched the Human Trafficking Capacity Building Center. From July 2018 through June 2019, 118 OVC human trafficking grantees reported serving 8,375 total clients including, confirmed trafficking victims and individuals showing strong indicators of trafficking victimization.
For a complete list of individual award amounts and jurisdictions that will receive funding, visit: https://www.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh241/files/media/document/htvictimsfactheet.pdf
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
U.S. Attorney Herdman announces MOU with Special Inspector General for Pandemic RecoveryRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Justin Herdman and Special Inspector General for Pandemic Recovery Brian D. Miller announced today that the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Office of the Special Inspector General for Pandemic Recovery (SIGPR).
“This partnership will help our office move quickly to identify and prosecute scammers and fraudsters attempting to use this pandemic to exploit others,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “I’m grateful for the work of SIGPR in the Northern District of Ohio and look forward to continued success through this partnership.”
The purpose and mission of the MOU is to develop a cooperative effort to investigate and prosecute matters involving the making, purchase, management, and sale of loans, loan guarantees, and other investments made by the Secretary of the Treasury under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act of 2020, and the management by the Secretary of the Treasury of any program established under the CARES Act, in order to achieve just results while using all criminal and civil resources most efficiently.
“I look forward to working with United States Attorney Justin Herdman and his team in the Northern District of Ohio to identify fraud, waste and abuse of the money provided under the CARES Act,” said Brian D. Miller, Special Inspector General for Pandemic Recovery. “We will bring to justice those who would steal CARES Act money, and recover money for the taxpayers. Taxpayers should expect nothing less.”
The MOU outlines four objectives: 1) To provide a coordinated response to CARES Act funding fraud, with an emphasis on organized criminal activity, as well as criminal and civil fraud affecting federal money, vulnerable victims, and fraud recidivists; 2) To facilitate legal process, case intake, and swift prosecution of CARES Act-related fraud; 3) To link and associate isolated CARES Act-related complaints with larger schemes and related unlawful activity; and 4) To deter future CARES Act funding fraud through an enhanced awareness of successful criminal prosecution and civil enforcement against individuals and companies involved in CARES-related financial fraud.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Gene Crawford will serve as liaison to the NDOH-SIGPR partnership and will be assigned specifically to SIGPR investigations and prosecutions.
The MOU also calls for the Northern District to create a streamlined, accelerated process for SIGPR investigations to obtain needed preliminary legal processes, including grand jury subpoenas and court orders, subpoenas, and civil investigative demands.
Justice Department Reaches Settlement with Toledo Public Schools to Resolve Complaints of Race and Disability Discrimination in Student DisciplineRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio announced today a settlement agreement with the Toledo Public Schools to address and prevent discriminatory discipline of students based on race or disability and to require appropriate language services for limited English proficient (LEP) parents on matters essential to their children’s education.
The agreement follows a federal civil rights investigation into complaints of discriminatory treatment of African-American students and students with disabilities in school suspensions, expulsions, and referrals to law enforcement agencies. The Department also investigated allegations concerning the district’s communications with parents and guardians with language barriers. The school district cooperated fully throughout the investigation, which was conducted under Title IV of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the Equal Educational Opportunities Act of 1974.
“Discrimination against students because of their race or disability has no place in our country’s public schools,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband. “A student’s race or disability should never mean receiving harsher punishment in school. Such practices are unfair and unlawful, and they deny students equal access to the educational opportunities that are critical to success in school and beyond. We look forward to continuing to work with the Toledo Public Schools to implement this settlement and fulfill its promise of equal treatment for all of the district’s students.”
“Federal law does not allow schools to discipline students because of their race or disability or to deny access to essential school-related information to parents and guardians with language barriers,” said Justin Herdman, the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio. “We applaud the district for its cooperation during our investigation and for its commitment to ensure that students are not denied learning opportunities because of their race, disability, or national origin. We look forward to working cooperatively with Toledo Public Schools to implement this agreement, as the district puts in place behavioral supports and services to increase opportunities for student learning.”
Under the settlement agreement, the district will take proactive steps to ensure its discipline practices do not discriminate against students based on race or disability. The district will, among other things, regularly review how schools handle discipline incidents to ensure non-discriminatory treatment, expand its use of positive behavior supports, and provide appropriate training and resources to help schools implement the agreement, including training for teachers, administrators, and school safety officers. In addition, for parents and guardians with language barriers, the district will ensure it communicates essential school-related information in a language that they understand so their children can access the district’s instructional programs.
This month marks the 30th anniversary of the ADA. Enforcement of Title II of the ADA in schools, Title IV of the Civil Rights Act, and the Equal Educational Opportunities Act are top priorities of the Civil Rights Division of the Justice Department.
Additional information about the Civil Rights Division is available on its website at www.justice.gov/crt, and additional information about the work of the Educational Opportunities Section is available at https://www.justice.gov/crt/educational-opportunities-section.
Members of the public may report possible civil rights violations at https://civilrights.justice.gov/report/
Click here to view the agreement.Justice Department Reaches Settlement with Toledo Public Schools to Resolve Complaints of Race and Disability Discrimination in Student DisciplineRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio today announced a settlement agreement with the Toledo Public Schools to address and prevent discriminatory discipline of students based on race or disability and to require appropriate language services for limited English proficient (LEP) parents on matters essential to their children’s education.
The agreement follows a federal civil rights investigation into complaints of discriminatory treatment of African-American students and students with disabilities in school suspensions, expulsions, and referrals to law enforcement agencies. The department also investigated allegations concerning the district’s communications with parents and guardians with language barriers. The school district cooperated fully throughout the investigation, which was conducted under Title IV of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the Equal Educational Opportunities Act of 1974.
“Discrimination against students because of their race or disability has no place in our country’s public schools,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband. “A student’s race or disability should never mean receiving harsher punishment in school. Such practices are unfair and unlawful, and they deny students equal access to the educational opportunities that are critical to success in school and beyond. We look forward to continuing to work with the Toledo Public Schools to implement this settlement and fulfill its promise of equal treatment for all of the district’s students.”
“Federal law does not allow schools to discipline students because of their race or disability or to deny access to essential school-related information to parents and guardians with language barriers,” said Justin Herdman, the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio. “We applaud the district for its cooperation during our investigation and for its commitment to ensure that students are not denied learning opportunities because of their race, disability, or national origin. We look forward to working cooperatively with Toledo Public Schools to implement this agreement, as the district puts in place behavioral supports and services to increase opportunities for student learning.”
Under the settlement agreement, the district will take proactive steps to ensure its discipline practices do not discriminate against students based on race or disability. The district will, among other things, regularly review how schools handle discipline incidents to ensure non-discriminatory treatment, expand its use of positive behavior supports, and provide appropriate training and resources to help schools implement the agreement, including training for teachers, administrators, and school safety officers. In addition, for parents and guardians with language barriers, the district will ensure it communicates essential school-related information in a language that they understand so their children can access the district’s instructional programs.
This month marks the 30th anniversary of the ADA. Enforcement of Title II of the ADA in schools, Title IV of the Civil Rights Act, and the Equal Educational Opportunities Act are top priorities of the Civil Rights Division of the Justice Department. Additional information about the Civil Rights Division is available on its website at www.justice.gov/crt, and additional information about the work of the Educational Opportunities Section is available at https://www.justice.gov/crt/educational-opportunities-section. Members of the public may report possible civil rights violations at https://civilrights.justice.gov/report/.
Eight charged in scheme to defraud FDA and falsify records used in clinical research trialsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Justin Herdman announced today that a federal grand jury sitting in Cleveland has returned a 19-count indictment charging Amie Demming, age 44, of Strongsville, Ohio; John Panuto, age 60, of Avon Lake, Ohio; Debra Adamson, age 67, of Spring Hill, Tennessee; Ashley Nichole Adamson, age 34, of Las Vegas, Nevada; William Adamson, age 38, of Las Vegas, Nevada; Daniel Gwin, age 43, of Lakewood, Ohio; Brent Smith, age 45, of Willoughby, Ohio; and Walter O’Malley, age 39, of Brunswick, Ohio with conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, mail fraud, wire fraud, aggravated identity theft, conspiracy to defraud the United States, and failure to maintain adequate records.
“These defendants are accused of subverting a process that ensures pharmaceutical drugs are safe and effective for public consumption,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “By doing so, and for the sole purpose of making more money for themselves, these defendants jeopardize the health and safety of the public.”
According to the indictment, from January 2013 to March 2018, the defendants are alleged to have participated in a scheme to defraud eight pharmaceutical companies and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Defendant Amie Demming founded a clinical research company in 2008 to conduct trials on behalf of various pharmaceutical companies. The office had locations in Middleburg Heights, Ohio and Franklin and Smyrna, Tennessee. Defendant John Panuto was a licensed medical doctor and the Principal Investigator for the research company at the Middleburg Heights Office and was responsible for the oversight of most clinical trials conducted at that office.
The defendants and their co-conspirators are alleged to have entered into agreements with these pharmaceutical companies, or sponsors, to conduct clinical trials of pharmaceutical drugs for public consumption. In order to perform these trials accurately, the research company was required to meet all applicable FDA regulations and other standards set by the sponsoring agencies.
The defendants are alleged to have subverted these requirements by enrolling subjects in clinical trials under fictitious names, enrolling past subjects without their knowledge, and enrolling other subjects who did not meet pre-established criteria. In addition, the defendants allegedly fabricated and falsified medical records, informed consent forms, and other documentation for fictitious study subjects.
Court documents show that defendants were able to enrich themselves in this scheme by billing the sponsoring agencies for the time and participation of these fictitious subjects.
As part of their scheme, the defendants are accused of circumnavigating the FDA’s oversight of clinical studies. In response to complaints from sponsoring agencies, the FDA conducted an investigation into the research company and found that Panuto had violated certain clinical trial criteria, such as failure to conduct studies in accordance with signed statements and failure to maintain adequate records.
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.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan R. Miller.
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announces Operation Legend in ClevelandRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Justin Herdman announced today that Operation Legend, a sustained, systematic and coordinated law enforcement initiative in which federal law enforcement agencies work in conjunction with state and local law enforcement officials to fight violent crime, will be expanding into the city of Cleveland.
“Today we are announcing that Operation Legend has come to Cleveland,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “Operation Legend is the best of what we do every day. It’s federal, state and local law enforcement partnerships – working side-by-side, on long-term investigative efforts to deliver safety and security for the residents of Cleveland. I want to thank Mayor Jackson and Police Chief Calvin Williams for their partnership as well as the various federal and state agencies that make this initiative possible.”
“The City of Cleveland will continue to partner with federal law enforcement agencies to combat violent crime in our neighborhoods within the realm of constitutional policing,” said Mayor Jackson. “Residents and their families have a right to feel safe and be safe in their own communities. Coordinated efforts between local, state and federal law enforcement agencies will allow us to more effectively address and reduce violent crimes in Cleveland neighborhoods to build a safer Cleveland for all.”
Operation Legend is named in honor of four-year-old LeGend Taliferro, who was shot and killed while he slept early on the morning of June 29 in Kansas City. The operation was first launched on July 8 in Kansas City, Missouri, and expanded on July 22, 2020, to Chicago and Albuquerque. Today, the expansion of Operation Legend was announced in Cleveland, Detroit, and Milwaukee.
As part of Operation Legend, Attorney General Barr directed the FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, DEA, and ATF to significantly increase resources into Cleveland, Detroit, and Milwaukee in the coming weeks to help state and local officials fight high levels of violent crime, particularly gun violence. Cleveland is currently experiencing a significant increase in violent crime, with homicides up more than 13% and shootings up over 35% over 2019.
“We, the US Marshals, have a long-standing partnership with the Cleveland Division of Police, the Cuyahoga County Sheriffs Department, Ohio State Highway Patrol and the Ohio Adult Parole in apprehending violent fugitives,” said Assistant Chief of the U.S. Marshals, Assistant Chief Brian Fitzgibbon. “Operation Legend will build upon these strong relationships and strengthen our commitment to protect and serve the citizens of the City of Cleveland and surrounding areas.”
During a press conference to announce the expansion of Operation Legend, FBI Special Agent in Charge Eric Smith announced that as part of the initiative, a reward of up to $25,000 would be made available for information leading to the identification and arrest of the individual responsible for the carjacking and homicide of Eric Hakizimana.
"Someone knows who shot and killed 17-year-old Eric Hakizimana,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Eric Smith. “The community and law enforcement must continue to work together to hold murderers accountable for taking our loved ones away. Operation Legend allows the FBI to offer a $25,000 reward for information leading to the successful identification and prosecution of the shooter. The FBI will continue to work collaboratively with our partners on all violent crime matters to ensure a safer community."
In the city of Cleveland, the Department of Justice will supplement state and local law enforcement agencies by sending more than 25 federal investigators from the FBI, DEA, and ATF to the city. Under the leadership of U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman, these investigators will complement the work already underway by existing joint federal, state and local task forces focused on combatting violent gangs, gun crime, and drug trafficking organizations.
The Bureau of Justice Assistance will make available $1 million to support Operation Legend’s violent crime reduction efforts in Cleveland, and the COPS Office has also made almost $8 million available to fund the hiring of 30 Cleveland Police officers, five Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers, and four Adult Parole Authority officers.
The Department of Justice has also provided assistance through the Joint Law Enforcement Operations (JLEO) fund to assist reimbursement of local law enforcement serving as federal task force officers with FBI, ATF, DEA, and the U.S. Marshals Service. Each Operation Legend city will receive $100,000 from ATF to help local agencies defray costs associated with installing or maintaining shot detection technology.
Quebec trio charged with running fraudulent cryptocurrencyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Justin Herdman announced today that a federal grand jury sitting in Cleveland has returned a five-count indictment charging Dominic Lacroix, age 38, Yan Ouellet, age 36, and Sabrina Paradis-Royer, age 26, all of Quebec, Canada, with conspiracy to commit securities fraud and wire fraud, wire fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering.
"While technologies and the means to make investments may change, one thing remains constant – securities fraud ruins lives and deprives victims of their hard-earned money and savings," said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. "Digital currencies are a new type of investment, and just like with traditional securities, you should take the time to research and know exactly what you're getting into before making any type of investment."
"This investigation highlights the specialized skills of FBI Cleveland's Midwestern Cryptocurrency Task Force in addressing matters involving cryptocurrency," said FBI Special Agent in Charge Eric B. Smith. "FBI Cleveland and its task force partners are committed to ensuring new and evolving financial technology is not used as a license to steal and evade scrutiny by law enforcement."
According to the indictment, from May 2017 to December 2017, the defendants conspired together to induce investors to purchase PlexCoin, a cryptocurrency offered through an entity known as PlexCorps. The cryptocurrency would become available to investors during an ICO or Initial Coin Offering. The defendants intended to use the ICO as a way to defraud investors and enrich themselves.
To carry out their alleged scheme, the defendants and their co-conspirators marketed and promoted PlexCorps and the PlexCoin ICO to the public, including investors within the Northern District of Ohio, via social media and publicly accessible Internet websites.
The indictment states that the defendants made numerous false claims about PlexCorps and PlexCoin in order to obtain digital and fiat currency from investors, including that PlexCorps' management consisted of a global "team" of financial, managerial and other subject-matter experts headquartered in Singapore; the proceeds of the PlexCoin ICO would be used to develop other PlexCorps products; and that investors would receive significant returns for their initial investment. The defendants are also alleged to have omitted certain materials facts about the ownership and operations of PlexCorps to conceal their true intent.
According to the indictment, around June 2017, PlexCorps began promoting PlexCoin to the public as a new digital cryptocurrency that would be available through an upcoming ICO. Around August 2017, PlexCorps published a whitepaper for PlexCoin entitled "PlexCoin: The Next Cryptocurrency" ("Whitepaper"), which was available for review on the internet by potential investors. This Whitepaper contained numerous false claims, including that some investments in PlexCoin could result in a 1,354% return.
This Whitepaper explained that funds raised through the PlexCoin ICO and pre-sale would be used to further the maintenance and development of PlexCoin and, later on, allow for PlexCorps to offer additional products and services for sale.
Investors were permitted to begin investing in PlexCoin in August of 2017. During the ICO, investors purchased PlexCoin using a variety of methods, including digital currency, such as Bitcoin, Ether and Litecoin, to wallet addresses on a blockchain. Investors also tendered fiat currency, including USD and Canadian dollars (CAD), and provided credit card information through payment portals available on the PlexCoin website or through U.S.-based online payment processors such as PayPal, Square, or Stripe.
The indictment states that the first transfer of PlexCoin occurred in August of 2017, and the PlexCoin ICO continued through October of 2017. Court documents show that the defendants and their co-conspirators regularly transferred investor funds from the PlexCoin ICO into fiat currency accounts, and cryptocurrency addresses belonging to themselves for the purpose of daily living expenses and home renovation products. Investors purchased approximately $8,000,000 USD worth of PlexCoin throughout the ICO.
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 Cleveland Division of the FBI and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Miller.
Maple Heights man charged with elder fraudRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Justin Herdman announced today that a federal grand jury sitting in Cleveland has returned a six-count indictment charging Andrew V. Thomas, age 34, of Maple Heights with three counts of wire fraud and three counts of aggravated identity theft.
“The defendant is alleged to have used his position to access the sensitive financial information of his elderly victims,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herman, “Robbing our community’s elderly members of their hard-earned life savings ruins trust and lives. The Department of Justice takes allegations and cases of elder fraud very seriously and will prosecute them to their fullest extent.”
According to the indictment, from November 2018 to November 2019, the defendant was employed as a Call Center Representative for an insurance company in Cleveland, Ohio. The defendant’s responsibilities included speaking with clients and their agents about annuities, updating client bank account information, and processing withdrawal transactions.
During this time, the defendant allegedly devised a scam to defraud three elderly victims by transferring money from his victim’s annuities into personal bank accounts. Court documents state that Victim 1 is an 84-year-old woman in Avon, Connecticut; Victim 2, an 83-year woman with dementia in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and Victim 3, a 96-year-old woman and a resident of Metairie, Louisiana were all part of the defendant’s fraud. Victim 1, Victim 2’s power of attorney, and Victim 3 all called the defendant to inquire about a policy-related matter. The defendant spoke to all of the victims and had access to their accounts.
The defendant would then use the company’s computer system to make unauthorized transfers from the annuities of Victim 1, Victim 2, and Victim 3 into the defendant’s personal bank accounts. As a result of the unauthorized transfers, Victim 1, Victim 2, and Victim 3 suffered a total loss of approximately $62,600.
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.
The investigation preceding the complaint was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Cleveland Division. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian McDonough.
Since President Trump signed the bipartisan Elder Abuse Prevention and Prosecution Act (EAPPA) into law, the Department of Justice has participated in hundreds of enforcement actions in criminal and civil cases that targeted or disproportionately affected seniors. In particular, in March 2020, the department announced the largest elder fraud enforcement action in American history, charging more than 400 defendants in a nationwide elder fraud sweep. The department has likewise conducted hundreds of trainings and outreach sessions across the country since the passage of the Act. For more information about the Elder Justice Initiative, please visit https://www.justice.gov/elderjustice.
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 7 days a week from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. eastern time. English, Spanish and other languages are available.
Hudson man charged with embezzling $600k from Discovery Tours, IncRead the Press Release
Justin Herdman, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced today that a federal grand jury sitting in Cleveland has returned a eighteen-count indictment charging Joseph A. Cipolletti, age 45, of Hudson, with wire fraud, money laundering, bank fraud, and making a false statement under oath.
“This defendant is accused of embezzling thousands of dollars from hardworking Northeast Ohio families, intended to provide their children and students with meaningful educational experiences, for his own personal use – such as buying vehicles and backyard renovations,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “As a result of the defendant’s alleged actions, his place of business was forced into bankruptcy, and our community’s schoolchildren were deprived of invaluable experiences and memories.”
“The fraud perpetrated by Mr. Cipolletti stole money from hardworking families and school districts. The scheme deprived students of annual trips that have become a tradition and provide a lifetime of memories,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Eric B. Smith. “Great work by partner agencies including the Summit County Prosecutor’s Office, the Geauga County Prosecutor’s Office, and Ohio BCI, laid the initial groundwork for the FBI and the USAO to obtain this federal indictment. We will continue to work with partners throughout Northeast Ohio to seek justice for the communities we serve.”
“When these families paid for a trip, fraud wasn’t on the itinerary,” said Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost. “This business owner didn’t keep his word, so now his next destination will be the courthouse.”
“This individual is a typical con man,” said Cuyahoga County Prosecutor Michael O’Malley. “He took money from parents and never intended on fulfilling his obligations.”
“Thank you to U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman and his office and the FBI for their thorough investigation,” said Summit County Prosecutor Sherri Bevan Walsh. “My office began an investigation into this conduct over two years ago. My hope is those responsible for taking money from local families and depriving students of a once-in-a-lifetime trip will be held accountable.”
According to the indictment, Cipolletti was employed as Vice President of Discovery Tours, Inc., a business located in Mayfield Village, Ohio, that offered educational trips for grade school and high school students to destinations such as Washington, D.C., Chicago, Illinois, New York City, New York, Columbus, Ohio, and Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. These trips took place via coach bus and included transportation, hotel accommodations, meals, sightseeing admissions, and security. The defendant’s responsibilities included managing the organization’s finances, cash withdrawals, general ledger entries, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, taxes and the defendant had signature authority on the business bank accounts.
According to court documents, from June 2014 to May 2018, the defendant is alleged to have devised a scheme to divert payments intended for these trips for personal use. The defendant defrauded parents, other student trip purchasers, and embezzled funds meant for school trips on items such as home renovations and personal vehicles. Overall, the defendant is alleged to have embezzled approximately $609,942 from his place of business.
The defendant allegedly took many actions to further his scheme, including making multiple false entries in the Discovery Tours general ledger claiming embezzled funds were trip-related expenses, forging an email to a hotel vendor claiming that the business suffered a loss of $236,022.27 due to a hacked account, paying vendors for previous student trips with deposits from future trips, and obtaining high-out interest loans to conceal his actions. The high interest on these loans ultimately led to Discovery Tours eventual bankruptcy filing.
In one instance, according to the indictment, on or about May 19, 2016, a hotel vendor sent the defendant an email stating that payment for a previous school trip had not been made and was overdue. The hotel vendor informed the defendant that because of this delay in payment, the business would be required to prepay for future events. The hotel vendor advised the defendant that payment in full for the hotel accommodations was not received by a specific time and date, then the next student group would not be permitted to check-in.
On or about May 21, 2016, knowing that his organization’s business account did not have sufficient funds, the defendant issued five checks totaling $72,540, payable to the hotel, and had an employee travel in interstate commerce from Ohio to Virginia to hand deliver the checks to the hotel. All the checks were returned for insufficient funds.
That indictment states that as a result of the defendant’s actions, on May 7, 2018, Discovery Tours abruptly ended operations and filed for bankruptcy in United States Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Ohio. Student trips to Washington, D.C. were cancelled for dozens of schools across Ohio and more than 5,000 families lost the money they had previously paid for trip fees.
Furthermore, on December 10, 2018, in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Ohio, the defendant is alleged to have knowingly made statements under oath in and in relation to his organization’s bankruptcy status. The defendant claimed that he did not owe his business any money, when in fact, and as he then knew, the defendant embezzled $609,942 from his place of business and made false entries in the general ledger.
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.
The investigation was conducted by the Cleveland Division of the FBI and Akron Resident Agency. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio would like to acknowledge and thank the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigations and the Summit County, Geauga County, and Cuyahoga County Prosecutor Offices for their cooperation with this matter. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian McDonough.
Cleveland man indicted for robbery and evidence tampering during May 30 demonstrations in Downtown ClevelandRead the Press Release
Justin Herdman, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced today that a federal grand jury sitting in Cleveland has returned a two-count indictment charging Tandre Buchanan, Jr., age 22, of Cleveland, with one count of interference with commerce by means of robbery and one count of tampering with evidence.
“This indictment is part of the Department of Justice’s commitment to identify, arrest and prosecute those who participated in the widespread looting and damaging of downtown Cleveland on May 30th,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “As I’ve said all along in this process, where we have jurisdiction, federal charges will be brought against those who abused a constitutionally-protected assembly to commit acts of destruction and violence in the downtown Cleveland neighborhood.”
“The right to engage in peaceful protest is a cornerstone of our Republic and the United States Constitution,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Eric B. Smith. “The FBI will continue to work with our state and local partners and protect our citizen’s right to protest peacefully, but we will not let those who engaged in violence and destruction to go unchecked.”
According to the indictment, on or about May 30, 2020, the defendant did and aided and abetted others in the unlawful obstruction of commerce by means of robbery. The defendant is accused of obtaining property in the custody, possession, and presence of Colossal Cupcakes employees in downtown Cleveland. The defendant did so against the will of the employees by means of actual and threatened force, violence, and fear of immediate injury.
Furthermore, the defendant is alleged to have tampered with evidence by disposing of the clothing that he wore during the commission of these offenses. The indictment states that the defendant did so with the intention of impairing the use and availability of the object in an official proceeding.
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 a 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.
The investigation preceding this indictment was conducted by the FBI with the help of the Cleveland Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Scott C. Zarzycki.
Five indicted in Toledo City Council bribery and extortion schemeRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announced today that a federal grand jury sitting in Cleveland, Ohio, has returned a 13-count indictment charging four sitting Toledo City Council members and one local attorney for their participation in a bribery and extortion scheme that encouraged soliciting and accepting cash, checks, money orders, or other things of value from local business owners in exchange for their votes on City Council.
“Today’s indictment is the next step in the process of ensuring accountability and maintaining the public’s trust in its elected officials in the city of Toledo,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “Let this indictment serve as a reminder to all who seek to exploit their elected positions for personal enrichment – the public deserves better and we, the Department of Justice, will work day in and day out to ensure that the public’s interests are protected.”
"Elected officials are elected by the people, to serve the people, not to serve their own financial self-interest,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Eric B. Smith. “The FBI will continue efforts to root out public corruption so citizens can have faith and trust in their public officials.”
Tyrone Riley, age 64, of Toledo, was indicted on one count of Hobbs Act conspiracy and five counts of Hobbs Act extortion under color of official right.
Yvonne Harper, age 71, of Toledo, was indicted on one count of Hobbs Act conspiracy, two counts of Hobbs Act extortion under color of official right and one count of conspiracy to commit extortion.
Garrick “Gary” Johnson, age 66, of Toledo, was indicted on one count of Hobbs Act conspiracy and two counts of Hobbs Act extortion under color of official right.
Larry Sykes, age 71, of Toledo, was indicted on one count of Hobbs Act conspiracy and two counts of Hobbs Act extortion under color of official right.
Keith Mitchell, age 69, of Toledo, was indicted on one count of Hobbs Act conspiracy and two counts of Hobbs Act extortion under color of official right.
According to the criminal complaint, in early 2018, the FBI began to investigate four Toledo City Council members and one attorney for soliciting monetary payments or other things of value from local business owners in exchange for their votes on City Council. In addition, Councilwoman Harper was investigated for an extortion attempt on a local business.
Read more on this case here: “Five charged in Toledo City Council bribery and extortion scheme”.
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.
This case was investigated by the Cleveland Division of the FBI and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Freeman.
Youngstown man charged with series of armed robberiesRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announced today that an information charge was filed against Melvin Lee Jackson, age 18, of Youngstown, Ohio. Jackson is charged with 3-counts of interference with commerce by means of robbery and 2-counts using or carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
According to court documents, from December 17 to December 21, 2019, Jackson is alleged to have committed a series of armed robberies at various locations in the Youngstown, Struthers and Boardman areas.
On December 17, 2019, Jackson and other suspects allegedly entered a Speedway in Boardman and then held the store employees at gunpoint and demanded money. The employees complied, and Jackson took approximately $381.00.
On December 19, 2019, Jackson and other suspects allegedly entered a Subway in Youngstown and then held the store employees at gunpoint and demanded money. The employees complied, and Jackson took approximately $381.00.
On December 21, 2019, Jackson and other suspects allegedly entered a Kwik Fill in Struthers and then held the store employees at gunpoint and demanded money. The employees complied, and Jackson took approximately $3,400.00 in cash and lottery tickets valued at $261.00.
An information charge 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 offenses and the characteristics of the violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Yasmine Makridis
Indictment unsealed charging six men with sexual exploitation of minorsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announced today that a four-count indictment was unsealed in the Northern District of Ohio charging six men with conspiracy to engage in sexual exploitation of children, sexual exploitation of children, conspiracy to receive visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct and conspiracy to access with intent to view child pornography.
Named in the indictment are David Pece, age 30, of Highland Heights, Ohio; Myron Brown, age 59, of Columbia, South Carolina; Mark Delacruz, age 31, of Temple City, California; Steven Foster, age 45, of Portsmouth, Ohio; Richard Avery, age 52, of Safford, Arizona and Ethan Shives, age 30, of Big Pool, Maryland.
According to the indictment, from November 2015 through March 2016, the defendants worked together in a group, and with others, to convince minor victims to engage in sexually explicit conduct online. Allegedly, this conduct was often preformed via webcam so that the defendants could record and view the material.
The indictment states that the defendants conspired together online with the intent to lure their minor victims into one or more chatroom-based websites. Once the minors visited these chatroom-based websites, the defendants and others would entice the victims to engage in sexually explicit acts, which they would then record.
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.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by agents with the Detroit Division of the FBI. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael A. Sullivan and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn Gaughan Andrachik.
Ten individuals arrested and charged in a conspiracy to sell drugs throughout the Elyria areaRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announced that 10 individuals were arrested and charged in a multi-count indictment today for their involvement in a conspiracy to distribute and possess crack cocaine, cocaine and oxycodone throughout the Elyria, Ohio area.
These 10 individual are Terrence Bowens, 44; Cedric Green, 34; Marcus Harder, 36 of Elyria; James Milton Jr; Lavar Thornton, 42; James Robinson, 46; Randy Glover, 44; Harold Kimbro, 46; Kavis Roberts, 43; and Melanie Grantham, 57, all of Elyria, Ohio.
“Drug dealers and others criminal have long targeted Lorain County as an area to exploit and sell their deadly product,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “Since 2018, as part of Operation SOS, we have committed to assisting our state and local partners by federally prosecuting any fentanyl or opioid trafficking offense from Lorain County. Today’s arrests send a strong message – if you deal dope in Lorain County, you will face a federal prosecution.”
“These arrests and charges are a reminder drug traffickers have little regard for human life,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Keith Martin. “DEA remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners to rid our communities of illicit drugs and to prosecute those who look to profit from criminal activity.”
According to the indictment, from January 2018 to July 2020, the defendants worked together to distribute at least 280 grams of a substance containing crack cocaine, 500 grams of a substance containing cocaine and a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of oxycodone throughout the Elyria, Ohio area. Allegedly, defendants Bowens and Green would purchase large quantities of cocaine from an individual and would then redistribute it to the other narcotics traffickers in the area.
Court documents state that defendants Bowens and Green used cellular devices to communicate and conduct their operations and used a residence on Foster Avenue in Elyria to store, cook, and distribute crack cocaine and oxycodone. Furthermore, the indictment alleges that Bowens and Green would conduct counter-surveillance of law enforcement in the area and shared information with each other on law enforcement presence.
Terrence Bowens has a previous 1st-degree felony conviction for drug trafficking from 2013 in the Lorain County Common Pleas Court.
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.
The investigation was conducted and aided by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Elyria Police Department, the Lorain County Sheriff’s Department and the Lorain County Prosecutors Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Vasile C. Katsaros and Robert F. Corts.
Lorain County is one of 10 communities around the nation that is part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S). This initiative ensures that cases involving heroin, fentanyl and any synthetic opioids are prosecuted in federal court.