Northern District of Ohio
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Bookmaker to forfeit $600k and pay $200k as restitution for running illegal gambling operation, laundering proceeds and filing false income tax returnRead the Press Release
Justin Herdman, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced today that Ryan Driscoll, age 48, of Aurora, was sentenced to three years of probation and ordered to forfeit $628,950.00 in cash seized during a search warrant and pay $208,693.00 to the IRS as restitution after entering a plea of guilty on January 15, 2020, to running an illegal sports gambling business with others, laundering the proceeds and filing a false income tax return.
“Not only did this individual try to enrich himself illegally, but he also attempted to avoid paying taxes on these ill-gotten proceeds in order to further profit and conceal his crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “This substantial forfeiture and restitution reflect the nature and great lengths that Driscoll went to avoid paying his duly owed income taxes.”
“Individuals are required to pay taxes on all sources of income, even income earned from illegal gambling,” said Bryant Jackson, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office. “Ryan Driscoll also attempted to launder the profits from his offshore illegal gambling business, but the IRS followed the money trail, which was vital to dismantling his criminal conduct.”
According to court documents, from July 2015 to August 2019, Driscoll operated as a bookmaker for his clients and provided them with access to offshore sports gambling websites. The websites allowed Driscoll’s clients to place bets on sporting events and track wins and losses and monies due. Driscoll paid out winnings and collected losses locally. During this time, Driscoll concealed the fact that the majority of his income came from the illegal gambling business and hid the proceeds as large bundles of cash in $10,000 increments in his home.
In 2019, Driscoll made a payment for membership at “The Mayfield Sand Ridge Club” country club using the proceeds from the illegal gambling business. This transaction was designed to conceal and disguise the nature and source of the illegal funds. Between 2014 and 2017, Driscoll also deposited approximately $167,827.00 in cash into his personal bank accounts and used an additional $197,879.00 in cash and money orders to make payments on vehicles and his country club membership.
For the tax years 2014 through 2017, Driscoll underreported his income by approximately $825,323.00, which resulted in additional tax due and owing of approximately $208,693.00. In 2018, Driscoll knowingly submitted a false income tax return that grossly underreported his income and failed to disclose proceeds made from the illegal gambling business.
This case was investigated by the IRS-Criminal Investigation and U.S. Secret Service. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alex A. Abreu, Robert E. Buford and James L. Morford and former U.S. Attorney Carmen E. Henderson.
Westlake man sentenced for illegal slaughter and discharge of animalsRead the Press Release
Justin Herdman, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced today that Amin M. Salem, age 61, of Westlake, was sentenced to 33-months imprisonment after entering a plea of guilty to money laundering, unpermitted discharged into a waterway of the United States, and the slaughter of animals for commercial use without a permit on December 17, 2019. According to court documents, Amin Salem operated an unregulated slaughterhouse in Elyria and polluted a stream by dumping animal blood and other fluids. Salem then laundered the profits from the illegal slaughterhouse operation at Cleveland-area gas stations.
"Salem's blatant disregard for the rules and regulations governing our food and water supply put the health of countless people at risk, all so he could make a quick profit," said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. "These actions, combined with his admitted money laundering activities, all show that Salem's sentenced was earned and justified."
“Amin Salem attempted to conceal the profits from the illegal sale of lamb through his legitimate gas station bank accounts, but the financial expertise of IRS Criminal Investigation and the joint investigative efforts of our federal, state and local counterparts unraveled this money laundering scheme,” said Bryant Jackson, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office.
“The defendants blatantly disregarded environmental laws by discharging animal waste directly into a local stream,” said Special Agent in Charge Jennifer Lynn of EPA’s criminal investigation program in Ohio. “This sentencing demonstrates that EPA and its law enforcement partners will not tolerate actions that endanger communities and natural resources.”
According to the indictment, from September 2014 through March 2016, Salem owned two properties in Elyria, Ohio where he, and others, slaughtered animals for commercial sale and personal consumption without any licenses or permits. As part of the slaughterhouse operation, Salem discharged blood and other bodily fluids into Engle Ditch, a waterway that emptied into Beaver Creek and Lake Eire. In total, Salem slaughtered at least 400 lambs or goats weighing approximately 25,000 pounds.
From October 2010 through March 2016, Salem owned several Cleveland area gas stations where he sold his adulterated and uninspected meat. Proceeds from the sales of the meat were deposited into gas station bank accounts in an attempt to conceal their source and further facilitate the illegal slaughtering operation. In total, over $695,000 was deposited into the banks accounts for the gas station located at 3934 West 117th Street in Cleveland, Ohio, with approximately $88,000 coming from the illegal sale of meat.
Also indicted in this matter were Mohamed Salem (Amin Salem's son), age 34, of Westlake and Zahran Al-Qadan, age 57, of Cleveland. Al-Qadan was sentenced to two years of probation, the first four months as home confinement. Mohamed Salem is awaiting sentencing.
This case was investigated by the FBI, IRS-Criminal Investigations, USDA-OIG, USDA-FSIS, EPA-CID, Ohio Investigative Unit, Ohio Department of Taxation, Ohio Department of Agriculture, BCI, Ohio EPA, Lorain County Sheriff's Office, Guernsey County Sheriff's Department, Cleveland Division of Police, Westlake Police Department and Strongsville Police Department.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Duncan Brown and Brad Beeson.
Three men indicted for conspiracy to submit fraudulent tax refund claims for fictitious business entitiesRead 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 four-count indictment charging Brandon R. Mace, age 43, of Youngstown, Terris Chanley Baker, age 49, of Canton and Robert J. Rohrbaugh II, age 46, of Youngstown with Conspiracy to Commit Offenses against the United States, Aiding and Abetting Theft of Government Property, Aiding and Abetting False Claims against the United States and Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering.
According to the indictment, from March 2015 to April 2016, the defendants conspired together to submit fraudulent federal income tax returns in the names of various fictitious entities to the IRS in order to obtain tax refunds for the enrichment of themselves and others. On one occasion, the defendants were successful in obtaining a refund check for a fictitious business in the amount of $1,352,779. After obtaining the refund, the defendants then attempted to launder the money by purchasing high-end and luxury vehicles.
In order to carry out their conspiracy, the defendants created phony business entities, trusts, Employer Identification Numbers (EINs) and prepared fraudulent income tax return documents, which reported large tax withholdings that never existed.
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 Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan R. Miller.
Thee Michigan men indicted for distribution of THC vape cartridgesRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND, Ohio – A federal grand jury sitting in Cleveland, Ohio has returned a two-count indictment charging Artyom Garber, age 33, Paul Queenan, age 64 and John Botsford, age 62, all of Michigan with conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and possession with the intent to distribute Tetrahydrocannabinols (THC).
According to court documents, Garber (formally of Cleveland, Ohio), Queenan and Botsford agreed to deliver 9,800 THC vape cartridges from Ann Arbor, Michigan to a residence in Cleveland, Ohio. On October 10, 2019, agents from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) performed an investigative stop of Queenan and Botsford in Cleveland and seized the cartridges. During an investigation, detectives learned of an additional 700 THC cartridges remaining in a storage unit in Dearborn Heights, Michigan that belonged to Garber and Queenan.
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 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 FDA – Office of Criminal Investigations in conjunction with the Ohio Attorney General’s Organized Crime Commission Major Crimes Task Force. The Task Force consists of the Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Department, Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office, FDA, U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron P. Howell.
Northeast Ohio priest indicted on charges of child pornography, child exploitation and juvenile sex traffickingRead the Press Release
Justin Herdman, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced today that a federal grand jury sitting in Cleveland, Ohio has returned an eight-count indictment against Robert D. McWilliams, age 40, of Strongsville. The defendant is charged with two counts of Sex Trafficking of a Minor, three counts of Sexual Exploitation of Children, one count of Transportation of Child Pornography, one count of Receipt and Distribution of Visual Depictions of Real Minors Engaged In Sexually Explicit Conduct and one count of Possession of Child Pornography.
“Today’s indictment reflect the serious and elaborate nature of the acts allegedly taken by the defendant to traffic and exploit local area children,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “The alleged acts committed in this case are a disturbing and strong reminder for parents to be vigilant about who their children talk to and what they do online.”
“Allegations of child exploitation against a trusted member of the religious community has long-term reverberations beyond just the criminal acts of the accused," said Vance Callender, special agent in charge of HSI Detroit. "Identifying people who violate their positions of public trust will always be a priority for those in HSI that investigate child exploitation."
According to court documents, from 2017-2019, McWilliams engaged in sexually explicit conduct and behavior involving minors. McWilliams pretended to be a female on social media applications, which he used to make contact with minor male victims. Allegedly, certain of McWilliams’s victims were young boys McWilliams knew because he served as a priest in parishes with which these children and their families were affiliated.
Posing as a female, McWilliams allegedly enticed the minor male victims to send sexually explicit photographs and videos, sometimes threatening to expose embarrassing information McWilliams already knew about the victims if they did not send such images. At times, McWilliams is alleged to have threatened to send those photographs to family and friends if the minor male victims did not send additional photographs and videos. McWilliams is also alleged to have followed through on this threat by sending the mothers sexually explicit photographs he received from minor male victims.
The affidavit also alleges that McWilliams was in possession of, received or distributed approximately 1,700 images and videos of child pornography and approximately 150 files of child pornography in a Dropbox cloud storage account.
Additionally, McWilliams is alleged to have used the social networking website Grindr.com to make contact with a minor male victim for the purpose of engaging in commercial sex. McWilliams allegedly met the victim on multiple occasions and, in exchange for sex, paid the victim for each act.
Anyone with knowledge of McWilliams’s contact with children should contact Homeland Security Investigations at (216) 749-9602.
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.
This investigation is being conducted by the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Geauga County Prosecutor’s Office and Ohio Internet Crimes Against Children (“ICAC”) Task Force. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Carol M. Skutnik and Bridget M. Brennan.
Maple Heights man indicted on arson charge from 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, Ohio has returned a one count indictment charging Timothy James Goodner, age 19, of Maple Heights with arson. According to court documents, Goodner was involved in an act of arson concerning the Shaia’s Parking Lot attendant booth on 1242 West 3rd Street on Saturday, May 30th, 2020.
“Today’s indictment reflects the continued resolve of federal law enforcement to identify, arrest, and prosecute those individuals responsible for the widespread damage in our downtown on May 30,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “This defendant is alleged to have committed arson during the riot that followed an otherwise peaceful, Constitutionally-protected assembly. We will continue to seek out and prosecute those who were engaged in similar acts on that day.”
According to the affidavit in support of the criminal complaint, Goodner and other persons gathered around an attendant booth in the West 3rd Street parking lot during the demonstrations on May 30th. Images and videos released from that day show a suspect setting fire to cardboard boxes and paper towels and then placing them inside the attendant booth. Goodner is then allegedly observed contributing to the fire by placing boxes and other combustible products inside the both to help accelerate the burning.
Afterwards, the Cleveland Division of Police released images and video of suspects committing various criminal acts from the demonstrations to the media. Goodner was identified via these images from numerous anonymous tips by his clothing and a visible tattoo.
Goodner was arrested and booked into the Cuyahoga County Jail on June 22, 2020, by the Ohio State Highway Patrol on an active warrant obtained by the Cleveland Police Department for aggravated arson.
A charge 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 is being investigated by the Cleveland Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Cleveland Division of Police. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John Hanley. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio would like to acknowledge and thank the Cleveland FBI, Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office and the Ohio State Highway Patrol for their assistance with this matter.
Wellington man charged with possession and transportation of child pornographyRead the Press Release
William D. Schaffer, age 52, of Wellington was arrested this week on a federal criminal complaint filed in the Northern District of Ohio, charging him with possession/access with intent to view child pornography and transportation of child pornography. The defendant was last employed as a Firefighter/EMT/Driver-engineer with the Elyria Fire Department.
“According to the allegations in the complaint, this defendant held a position of public trust and was simultaneously contributing to the online exploitation of children,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “Our office will continue to work with law enforcement at every level to ensure that we continue to hold our public servants accountable for their actions.”
“Allegations of child exploitation crimes are troubling enough, but even more disturbing is when the suspect is employed in a position that demands the public's trust as a firefighter,” said Vance Callender, special agent in charge of HSI Detroit. “HSI will take swift action against suspects in any public trust position to save children and ensure the community’s confidence in those employed in such jobs.”
According to the affidavit in support of the complaint, on April 30, 2020, the defendant used an email account to upload approximately 355 files of apparent child pornography over the Yahoo mail platform. On June 30, 2020, law enforcement agents executed a search warrant at Wellington address listed for the defendant. An iPhone, laptop computers, and external storage media were seized. The defendant told investigators that they would find images of child pornography on his computer and that he has viewed other files depicting child exploitation in the past.
A complaint 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 investigation is being conducted by the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Carol M. Skutnik.
Five charged in Toledo City Council bribery and extortion schemeRead the Press Release
Four sitting Toledo City Council members and one local attorney were charged in a criminal complaint today for their participation in a bribery and extortion scheme that encouraged soliciting and/or accepting cash, checks, money orders, or other things of value from local business owners in exchange for their votes on City Council.
Charged today were Tyrone Riley (District 1), Yvonne Harper (District 4), Garrick “Gary” Johnson (At-Large), Larry Sykes (At-Large) and Keith Mitchell all of Toledo. All defendants were charged via a federal criminal complaint filed in the Northern District of Ohio with Receipt of Bribe by Agent of Organization Receiving Federal Funds and Hobbs Act Extortion Under Color of Official Right. Additionally, defendant Harper was charged with Interstate Communications with Intent to Extort.
“As alleged in the Complaint, four Toledo City Council members and a local attorney have been engaged in a pay-to-play scheme involving bribes for Council votes,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “Maintaining the public’s trust in its elected officials is one of the Department of Justice’s core responsibilities. The residents of Toledo should know, as should every other resident of the Northern District of Ohio, that where there are allegations of public corruption and kickbacks, we and our federal partners will be there every time.”
"Elected officials are elected by the people, to serve the people, not to serve their own financial self-interests,” 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.”
According to the criminal complaint, in early 2018, the FBI began to investigate Toledo City Council members 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.
The following is a summary of the events listed in the complaint:
From May of 2018 to April of 2019, a local businessman, Source 1, applied for a Special Use Permit “SUP” for a curb cut at Source 1’s place of business off of Dorr Street in Toledo.Source 1 bribed Councilman Tyrone Riley with $2,000 and other items of value in return for the Councilman’s support of the SUP. On April 30, 2019, the SUP passed council unanimously with Councilman Riley abstaining. Later on, Source 1 would provide an additional $700 bribe to remove a sprinkler system requirement written into Source 1’s SUP.
In April of 2018, a local businessman, Source 2, applied for a SUP for the re-zoning of an internet café business on Holland-Sylvania Rd. Source 2 bribed Councilman Tyrone Riley $1,000 in return for the Councilman’s support of the re-zoning SUP. On October 23, 2018, Riley and the rest of City Council voted in favor of SOURCE 2’s SUP for his/her internet café on Holland-Sylvania Rd.
From 2018 to 2020, Source 2 solicited and bribed council members Yvonne Harper (through local attorney Keith Mitchell), Tyrone Riley, Garrick “Gary” Johnson and Larry Sykes with monetary payments and other items of value in return for their support of a SUP to open an internet café on Central Avenue in Toledo.
Source 2 paid Councilwoman Harper, through Mitchell, a total of $2,825 ($2,000 for Harper for the Central Ave. SUP; $500 for Mitchell; and $320 for Harper’s fundraiser), Councilman Johnson $1,000 in a check for him in some else’s name, Councilman Riley $5,000 and Councilman Sykes $1,500 all in return for their support of the Central Ave SUP. On February 25, 2020, the Central Avenue internet café SUP passed City Council unanimously.
In 2019, Source 2 applied for two SUPs for two internet cafés on Reynolds Rd. During the same approximate time period, Source 2 wanted City Council to pass a moratorium to prohibit any additional internet cafés within the city for a specified time frame. Source 2 then paid Councilman Sykes in return for three votes in favor of the two internet cafes on Reynolds Rd., the moratorium legislation, and paid Riley $5,500 in bribe money for his three votes in favor of these issues. Source 2 also paid Councilman Tyrone Riley $500 for his support of the two Reynolds Rd internet cafes and moratorium legislation.
On January 2, 2020, Sykes and Riley voted yes on a moratorium on internet cafés and the two Reynolds Rd SUPs; all three measures passed.
In 2019, an acquaintance of Source 2, A.M., applied for a SUP to open an internet café on Manhattan Blvd. A.M. provided two bribes, one to Councilwoman Harper’s reelection campaign for $5,000 and a separate fee to Mitchell for $1,500. 114. On July 23, 2019, Harper voted in favor of A.M.’s SUP during the City Council meeting. A.M.’s SUP was approved unanimously.
Additionally, in 2019, A.M., applied for a SUP to open an internet café on Secor Rd. A.M. and Source 2 paid Councilman Johnson $2,000 in return for his support of the SUP. The SUP ultimately failed to garner the required votes in Planning Commission and in City Council.
In November of 2019, Councilwoman Harper and Source 1 convened a meeting to discuss a Facebook post by one of Harper’s constituents claiming that Source 1’s tenant used racial slurs when interacting with a female customer from the neighborhood. Harper then threatened Source 1 with protests, negative media attention and potential loss of their liquor license unless the constituent was compensated appropriately. On January 31, 2020, Source 1 paid the constituent $2,500.
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 Cleveland Division of the FBI and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Freeman.
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Maple Heights man charged with damaging by means of fire a parking lot attendant booth during May 30 demonstrationsRead the Press Release
Justin Herdman, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced today that Timothy James Goodner, age 19, of Maple Heights, has been charged with maliciously damaging or destroying by means of fire or explosion any building or property. According to the criminal complaint, Goodner was involved in an act of arson concerning the Shaia’s Parking Lot attendant booth on 1242 West 3rd Street on Saturday, May 30th, 2020.
“Today’s arrest demonstrates the continued resolve of federal law enforcement to identify, arrest, and prosecute those individuals responsible for the widespread damage in our downtown on May 30,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “This defendant is alleged to have committed arson during the riot that followed an otherwise peaceful, Constitutionally-protected assembly of our neighbors. Let this arrest serve as a reminder to all those who were engaged in similar crimes on that day - we are going to find you, we are going to arrest you, and we are going to hold you accountable.”
According to the criminal complaint, Goodner and other persons gathered around an attendant booth in the West 3rd Street parking lot during the demonstrations on May 30th. Images and videos released from that day show a suspect setting fire to cardboard boxes and paper towels and then placing them inside the attendant booth. Goodner is then observed contributing to the fire by placing boxes and other combustible products inside the both to help accelerate the burning.
Afterwards, the Cleveland Division of Police released images and video of suspects committing various criminal acts from the demonstrations to the media. Goodner was identified via these images from numerous anonymous tips by his clothing and a visible tattoo.
Goodner was arrested and booked into the Cuyahoga County Jail on June 22, 2020 by the Ohio State Highway Patrol on an active warrant obtained by the Cleveland Police Department for aggravated arson.
A charge 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 is being investigated by the Cleveland Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Cleveland Division of Police. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John Hanley. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio would like to acknowledge and thank the Cleveland FBI, Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office and the Ohio State Highway Patrol for their assistance with this matter.
Department of Justice announces $3.6 million in funding to combat illegal manufacture and distribution of opioids in OhioRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorneys Justin Herdman, David DeVillers and Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost announced today that the Department of Justice Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) has awarded the Ohio Attorney General’s Organized Crime Investigations Commission (OCIC) $3,658,998 in funding to combat the illegal manufacture and distribution of heroin and prescription opioids in Ohio.
“Every day in Ohio, we continue to see the adverse effects that the heroin and opioid epidemic have in our community,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “This funding will help the Ohio Attorney General’s office continue their great work against this epidemic and support our law enforcement officers on the front lines.”
“One of the biggest challenges facing Ohio is opioid related overdose deaths, specifically involving fentanyl," said U.S. Attorney David DeVillers. "The only way to effectively combat this crisis is through coordination and cooperation with our state and local partners. This award will go a long way to assure that this is accomplished.”
“We appreciate the partnership and the additional funding that will be used to disrupt the supply chain of illegal drugs in Ohio,” said Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost. “OCIC’s interdiction task forces strive to stay a step ahead of the ever evolving drug dealers who plague on our street and poison our youth. They aren’t stopping, but we aren’t either.”
“The scourge of opioid and methamphetamine use continues to take a devastating toll on our nation’s communities,” said COPS Office Director Phil Keith. “By providing these resources to law enforcement to help combat the further spread, the COPS Office is demonstrating our commitment to this Administration’s priority of reducing drug use and protecting our citizens from this public health and safety crisis.”
The COPS Office is awarding more than $29.7 million in grant funding to 14 state law enforcement agency task forces through the Anti-Heroin Task Force Program (AHTF). The AHTF program provides three years of funding directly to state-level law enforcement agencies with multijurisdictional reach and interdisciplinary team (e.g., task force) structures, in states with high per capita rates of primary treatment admissions for heroin, fentanyl, carfentanil, and other opioids.
This funding will support the location or investigation of illicit activities through statewide collaboration related to the distribution of heroin, fentanyl, or carfentanil or the unlawful distribution of prescription opioids. AHTF funding has a significant impact on state investigative and seizure work. During the five-month period between October 2019 and February 2020, current AHTF grantees reported the seizure of over $4 million in cash and 1,213 firearms.
The complete list of Anti-Heroin Task Force Program award recipients, including funding amounts, can be found here: https://cops.usdoj.gov/ahtf-award
The COPS Office is a federal agency responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. Since 1994, the COPS Office has invested more than $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of approximately 135,000 officers and provide a variety of knowledge resource products including publications, training and technical assistance. For additional information about the COPS Office, please visit www.cops.usdoj.gov.
Two identity thieves sentenced to a collective 7 yearsRead the Press Release
Justin E. Herdman, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced today that Ricardo Labrador-Ortiz, age 46, was sentenced to 31-months imprisonment after pleading guilty to one count of misuse of a social security number and one count of aggravated identity theft on January 17, 2020. Renzo Bienvenido Pimentel-Arias, age 49, was sentenced to 54-months imprisonment after pleading guilty to two counts of false claim of citizenship to obtain a federal or state benefit and two counts of aggravated identity theft on January 17, 2020.
According to court documents, Ricardo Labrador-Ortiz and another man, Guillermo Alexander Cruz-Guerrero, age 38, conspired together to use fraudulent identification documents in order to obtain Ohio driver licenses and purchase high-end vehicles and watercraft.
On July 18, 2019, Cruz-Guerrero entered a powersports store in Elyria, Ohio, and attempted to purchase two jetskis using fraudulent identification, phony employment information, and requested a $40,000 loan application. Cruz-Guerrero did not intend to leave a down payment and was adamant about leaving the store with the jetskis as soon as possible. A credit check of the submitted identification and paperwork came back as positive for fraudulent activity. Store employees notified Cruz-Guerrero that the bank was closed and that they were unable to process the loan application and advised him to return the following day. Soon after, Elyria Police were notified of the fraudulent activity and his expected return. Cruz-Guerrero did return the following day and attempted to complete the purchase of the jetskis. Immediately after completing all the necessary paperwork to process the loan and take possession of the jetskis, Cruz-Guerrero was arrested by Elyria Police.
Police were advised of a second individual who had accompanied Cruz-Guerrero in a vehicle outside the store. Police performed a traffic stop of this vehicle and identified the man as Ricardo Labrador-Ortiz. Elyria Police took Labrador-Ortiz and Cruz-Guerrero into custody as part of a fraud investigation.
During a search of both individuals and the vehicle, detectives seized multiple items, including fraudulent driver licenses and numerous sets of keys that appeared to be for storage containers/facilities. Detectives then executed a search warrant on two storage units tied to the seized keys. Inside they discovered printing equipment and other fraudulent documents including identification cards, driver’s licenses, power of attorney forms, bank and credit card information, residency forms and vehicle keys matching models of known stolen vehicles.
On August 08, 2019, Elyria police were notified that the storage unit's lessee was returning to claim his belongings. Police subsequently arrested the individual and later identified him as Renzo Bienvenido Pimentel-Arias.
A background investigation conducted by the FBI and Border Patrol into Renzo Bienvenido Pimentel-Arias revealed that Pimentel-Arias had received a fraudulent identification from Cruz-Guerrero, no immigration history into the United States, and had a long history of using fake identification documents in multiple states.
On August 28, 2019, Ricardo Labrador-Ortiz was indicted on charges of knowingly using another person’s social security number for the purpose of obtaining an Ohio State driver’s license.
On September 26, 2019, Guillermo Alexander Cruz-Guerrero was indicted on two counts of false claim of citizenship to obtain a federal or state benefit and two counts of aggravated identity theft and is awaiting trial.
On October 17, 2019, Renzo Bienvenido Pimentel-Arias was indicted on two counts of false claim of citizenship to obtain a federal or state benefit and two counts of aggravated identity theft.
The investigation preceding this indictment was conducted by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Detroit Sector Intelligence Unit, FBI, HSI, Elyria Police Department, Ramey Sector Intelligence Unit, Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, Ohio National Guard Counterdrug Task Force and the New England State Police Information Network. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad J. Beeson and Jason W. White.
Two Akron men indicted on illegal firearms chargesRead the Press Release
Justin. E. Herdman, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced today that a federal grand jury in Cleveland has indicted two men in the Akron area on charges of illegal firearm possession. These are separate cases and are not related.
Brandon M. Ricks, age 31, of Akron, was indicted on one count of felon in possession of firearm and ammunition. According to the indictment, on January 24, 2020, Ricks possessed a .45 caliber pistol. Ricks is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to previous convictions of aggravated assault in 2008 and robbery in 2014, both in the Summit County Court of Common Pleas. The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the ATF and Akron Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron P. Howell.
Brandon M. Ward, age 26, of Akron, was indicted on one count of felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. According to the indictment, on January 28, 2020, Ward possessed a 5.7 mm caliber pistol and ammunition. Ward is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to a previous conviction of trafficking in marijuana from 2017 in the Summit County Court of Common Pleas. The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the ATF and Akron Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron P. Howell.
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.
Toledo man sentenced for accepting bribe while employed as a corrections officer for the Lucas County Correctional CenterRead the Press Release
Justin E. Herdman, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced today that Marcus Henderson, age 34, of Toledo was sentenced to 12 months imprisonment after a trial by jury found Hendersen guilty of one count of Hobbs Act extortion under color of official rights and one count of providing contraband in prison.
According to court filings, Hendersen was a corrections officer at the Lucas County jail in 2016 when he accepted a $500 bribe to smuggle a cell phone and tobacco into the jail for an inmate.
This case was investigated by the FBI and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Freeman and Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley A. Futrell.
Akron man sentenced to 22 years for selling fentanyl which caused the death of a Wooster woman and firing a handgun during the robbery of an Akron grocery storeRead the Press Release
Justin E. Herdman, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced today that Dayviaire Rogers, 27, of Akron, was sentenced to 264 months imprisonment by United States District Court Judge Patricia A. Gaughan. Rogers pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute and distribution of fentanyl, interference with commerce by robbery, possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence on February 7, 2020.
“Today’s sentence sends a strong message that selling fentanyl and violent crime will result in a lengthy prison term,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “We will continue to seek long prison sentences for individuals who sell opioids in our neighborhoods and who use firearms to commit acts of violence.”
According to court documents, on March 16, 2019, Rogers sold a substance containing fentanyl to a Wooster woman who used the substance several hours later at a Wadsworth bar, causing her death. Medical examiners later determined the cause of death to be acute fentanyl intoxication.
While investigators from the DEA, Wadsworth Police Department, and the Medina County Drug Task Force were investigating the overdose death, investigators from the ATF and the Akron Police Department were investigating an armed robbery on of an Akron grocery store. As agents and prosecutors collaborated on the parallel investigations, they realized Rogers was suspected of both crimes. On April 20, 2019, Rogers entered the grocery store wearing a mask and aimed a loaded handgun in the face of the store owner and her minor daughter. Rogers stole approximately $7,000 and discharged his firearm during the robbery.
A review of Rogers’ criminal record revealed he was prohibited from possessing a firearm due to prior felony convictions.
These investigations were conducted by the ATF, Drug Enforcement Administration, Medina County Drug Task Force, Medina County Prosecutor’s Office, Wadsworth Police Department and the City of Akron Police Department. The matter was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher J. Joyce and Patrick P. Burke.
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman’s statement commemorating JuneteenthRead the Press Release
On this day in 1865, Major General Gordon Granger led his Union troops to Galveston, Texas, with this purpose – to formally and finally deliver news that the Civil War had ended and that all enslaved people were free. As part of this announcement, General Granger read General Order Number 3: “The people of Texas are informed that in accordance with a Proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between them that becomes that between employer and hired laborer.” With those few legalistic words, the last bonds of slavery were slipped in the United States.
The date we now honor with Juneteenth came two months after the formal cessation of hostilities in the Civil War, and more than two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was first issued. Yet it is important because it marks the historical date on which the original promise of freedom, as embodied in our American Revolution, was extended to those who had been excluded from birth – both their individual births and the birth of the United States.
Importantly, though, June 19, 1865, was not the end of guaranteeing the promise of freedom for all Americans. The Department of Justice was created almost exactly five years later, during the administration of President Ulysses S. Grant, to help guarantee the “absolute equality of rights” of all persons, as recognized in General Order Number 3. In fact, the Department’s first order of business was to prosecute members of the Ku Klux Klan who were engaged in a campaign of terror directed against newly-freed slaves across the South. I like to say that our DOJ was born fighting, and that fight has never ceased in the ensuing 150 years.
As men and women of the Justice Department, it is important for us to take a moment today to remind ourselves why we have chosen to work here. The Department of Justice is the only cabinet-level agency named for a moral virtue – Justice -- and that is what we seek, what we obtain, and what we are committed to preserving.
Juneteenth this year is different. We are all witnessing a righteous public outcry against not just unacceptable individual acts of police brutality, but longstanding societal unfairness that still, after 155 years, has not been fully redressed. As members of the Department of Justice who are proudly tasked with carrying forward a grand tradition of upholding the equal rights of all persons, we are in a unique – and I would say, fortunate – position at this time in American history. Although the absolute equality of rights for all has not yet been experienced in this country, this does not mean that it will not ever happen. If it is to happen, and I believe that it will, the Department of Justice will play an important role. For as long as we continue to have men and women who step forward to join this great institution, we are all guaranteed a Department of Justice that will pursue America’s long-sought, collective moral virtue.Juneteenth is a celebration. It is a day of freedom – that was long overdue – and we should all remember and acknowledge it as such.
-Justin E. Herdman, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio
Labor trafficker sentenced for encouraging the illegal entry of Guatemalan nationals, including unaccompanied minors, into the United StatesRead the Press Release
Justin E. Herdman, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced that Pablo Duran Ramirez, age 52, was sentenced to 37 months imprisonment, three years supervised release and ordered to pay a $67,232 fine after pleading guilty to one count of encouraging illegal entry for financial gain on September 17, 2018. According to court documents, Ramirez encouraged the illegal entry of Guatemalan nationals, including unaccompanied minors, into the United States, knowing that the individuals had been smuggled into the United States through coercion or threat.
“Ramirez exploited the desperation of migrant workers and, in some instances, their children for his own personal financial gain,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “Human trafficking can take many forms, and this sentence reflects the Justice Department’s commitment to combat this plague in every shape it takes.”
"Ramirez, in conspiracy with three other previously convicted individuals, coerced and assisted individuals to enter the United States illegally, many of them children, forcing them to live in deplorable conditions and work for little to no wages,” said Special Agent in Charge Eric B. Smith of the FBI’s Cleveland Division. “These reprehensible actions are unacceptable. The FBI will continue to work with our partners to identify and bring to justice those who engage in human trafficking."
Ramirez, through his company, Haba Corporate Services, contracted to provide labor to Trillium Farms, knowing that the workers were unlawfully present in the United States. He further admitted to knowing that some of the workers were unaccompanied minors who had been coerced or threatened to enter the United States and then housed in an isolated trailer park in Marion, Ohio. In 2013 and 2014, Trillium Farms paid the defendant’s company approximately $6 million for its labor services.
Three other defendants—Aroldo Castillo-Serrano, of Guatemala, Ana Angelica Pedro-Juan, of Guatemala, and Conrado Salgado-Soto, of Mexico—previously pleaded guilty for their roles in the same labor trafficking scheme. Castillo-Serrano, the lead smuggler and primary enforcer, was sentenced to 188 months in prison; Pedro-Juan, who oversaw the victims in Ohio, was sentenced to 120 months; and Salgado-Soto, a subcontractor hired by Duran Ramirez, was sentenced to 51 months.
Those defendants admitted to recruiting workers from Guatemala, some as young as 14 or 15 years old, falsely promising them good jobs and a chance to attend school in the United States. The defendants then smuggled and transported the workers to a trailer park in Marion, Ohio, where they ordered them to live in dilapidated trailers and work at physically demanding jobs at Trillium Farms for up to 12 hours a day. The work included cleaning chicken coops, loading and unloading crates of chickens, de-beaking chickens and vaccinating chickens. During their sentencing, Senior United States District Judge James G. Carr found that they had threatened workers with physical harm and withheld their paychecks in order to compel them to work. Eight minors and two adults were identified as victims of the scheme.
Three additional defendants, including Duran Ramirez’s son, pleaded guilty for their roles in encouraging the workers’ illegal entry into the United States.
This case was investigated by the FBI’s Cleveland Office, Mansfield Resident Agency and the Department of Homeland Security. The case was jointly prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Chelsea Rice and Dana Mulhauser, formerly of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section.
Akron man twice convicted for domestic violence indicted for possession of a firearmRead the Press Release
Justin E. Herdman, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced today that a federal grand jury in Cleveland, Ohio has returned a two-count indictment charging Michael D. McCullough, age 44, of Akron with felon in possession of a firearm and possession of a firearm by a person with a domestic violence conviction.
“Prosecuting individuals who unlawfully possess a firearm with a domestic violence conviction has been a priority for the Northern District during my tenure,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “Last year, the District charged 17 defendants with possession of a firearm while prohibited by the Violence Against Women Act. We will continue to prosecute these types of cases as statistics show that domestic violence offenders with a firearm are far more likely to use it against their spouse or law enforcement.”
According to the indictment, on March 12, 2020, the defendant illegally possessed a .380 caliber pistol with previous felony convictions. McCullough is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to previous convictions of drug abuse and aggravated drug trafficking in 1995 in the Court of Common Pleas of Summit County, domestic violence, a misdemeanor, in 1997 in the Municipal Court of Akron, and a second charge of domestic violence, a felony, in 2006 in the Court of Common Pleas of Summit County.
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 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 ATF and Akron Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Damoun Delaviz.
Two Ashtabula men indicted on illegal drug and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
Justin. E. Herdman, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced today that a federal grand jury in Cleveland has returned separate indictments against two men in the Ashtabula area on charges of illegal drug and firearm possession. These are separate cases and are not related.
William Campany, age 35, of Ashtabula was indicted on one count of felon in possession of a firearm. The indictment alleges that on October 29, 2019, Campany possessed a .40 caliber pistol. Campany is prohibited from possessing firearms due to a previous sexual battery conviction in 2010 in the Ashtabula County Court of Common Pleas. The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the ATF. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Yasmine Makridis.
Joseph Kelsey, Sr., 45, of Ashtabula, was charged on a three-count indictment with felon in possession of firearms, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. According to the indictment, on October 9, 2019, Kelsey possessed two semiautomatic pistols and intended to distribute at least 5 grams of methamphetamine. Kelsey is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to a previous conviction of illegal assembly or possession of chemicals for the manufacture of drugs in 2005 in the Ashtabula County Court of Common Pleas. The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the ATF and Crime Enforcement Agency of Ashtabula County. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Yasmine Makridis.
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.
Toledo man indicted for possession with intent to distribute cocaineRead the Press Release
Justin E. Herdman, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced today that a federal grand jury in Cleveland, Ohio has returned an indictment charging Kevin L. Arnold, age 54, of Toledo, Ohio with two counts of possession with intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base.
According to the indictment filed in this matter, in March 2020, Arnold possessed and intended to distribute approximately 121 grams of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine base and approximately 124 grams of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine.
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 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 Toledo Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alissa M. Sterling.
Lima man charged with unlawful drug use in possession of a firearmRead the Press Release
Justin E. Herdman, U.S Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced today that a federal grand jury in Cleveland, Ohio has returned a three-count indictment charging Trevor Leis, 27, of Elida, Ohio with two counts of being an unlawful drug user in possession of firearms and one count of making false statements in connection with the purchase of firearms. Leis was arrested this morning by the FBI without incident.
According to the indictment filed in this matter, from January 2018 to March 2020, Leis possessed multiple firearms and rifles while knowingly using [or a drug user of] illegal controlled substances. Additionally, in March 2018, Leis made false statements to a licensed firearms dealer in order to purchase two firearms illegally.
As a result of these offenses, Leis must forfeit to the United States all firearms and ammunition involved in these offenses, including, but not limited to, the following:
- Beretta, Model PX4 Storm Pistol, Caliber 9X19
- P. Beretta, Model AL391 Urika Shotgun, 20 Gauge
- Remington Arms Company, Model 1100 Shotgun, Caliber 20 Gauge
- Remington Arms Company, Model Remington 870 Wingmaster Shotgun, Caliber 20 Gauge
- Harrington & Richardson 1871 LLC (H&R), Model Pardner Shotgun, Caliber .410” Gauge
- Rifle, Izhmash (IMEZ), M1944, 7.62x54r
- FN America (FNH USA), model FN15 Rifle, Caliber Multi
- Colt, Defender model, .45 caliber pistol
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 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. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tracey Ballard Tangeman.
Last of six sentenced in scheme to defraud Medicaid of millionsRead the Press Release
Youngstown, Ohio – Justin E. Herdman, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced today that Jennifer Sheridan, age 42, of Austintown, Ohio, was sentenced to 27 months imprisonment, and ordered to pay $15,957,148 in restitution after pleading guilty to one count of health care fraud conspiracy.
Jennifer Sheridan is the last of six defendants to be sentenced for crimes related to a health care fraud conspiracy in which Medicaid was billed $48 million for drug and alcohol recovery services, many of which were not provided, not medically necessary, lacked proper documentation, or had other issues that made them ineligible for reimbursement.
“Today’s sentencing marks the conclusion of a case in which the defendants conspired together to use the drug epidemic as a way to steal tens of millions of dollars from taxpayers through fraudulent billing practices and other crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “The defendants’ actions have earned them jail time and over $24 million in restitution. We will continue to hold anyone accountable who tries to take advantage of the drug epidemic and Ohio taxpayers.”
"This is the last defendant to receive their deserved sentence for fraudulent and deceptive criminal behavior,” stated FBI Special Agent in Charge Eric Smith. “These individuals preyed on a healthcare system that is in place to help those in need and not to be used as an ATM to cipher millions of dollars from the taxpayers for their own pleasures.”
“Today’s sentencing should serve as a message to all healthcare professionals who choose to fraud the government and contribute to the misuse of prescription drugs,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Keith Martin.
“This sentence is the final chapter of a heartless plot to exploit recovering addicts for personal gain,” Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost said. “I’m proud to work alongside our federal partners to hold these wrongdoers accountable.”
On January 22, 2020, Ryan P. Sheridan, 39, of Leetonia was sentenced to 7 ½ years imprisonment and ordered to pay $24,479,939 in restitution after pleading guilty to various health care fraud conspiracy crimes. Ryan Sherdian was the owner and operator of Braking Point Recovery Center, which operated in the Youngstown and Columbus areas.
On March 12, 2020, co-defendant Kortney L. Gherardi was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment and ordered to pay $2,413,838.42 in restitution after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud.
On January 21, 2020, co-defendants Dr. Thomas Bailey and Dr. Arthur Smith were sentenced to 2 years of probation with 6 months of community service and a $5,000 fine. Co-defendant Lisa Pertee was sentenced to 1 year of probation with 60 days of community service, and order to pay $2,200 in special assessments.
According to court documents:
Ryan Sheridan was the sole owner of Braking Point Recovery Center, which operated drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers in Austintown and Whitehall, Ohio, that provided detox, intensive outpatient treatment, day treatment and residential living rehabilitation.
Between January 2015 and October 18, 2017, Sheridan and various other defendants submitted or caused to be submitted billings to Medicaid for drug and alcohol services that were: coded to reflect a service more costly than was actually provided; without proper documentation; without proper assessment documents containing valid diagnosis; billings for patients whose records did not contain diagnosis by a physician; related to treatment at unlicensed inpatient beds; billings related to dispensing of Suboxone, even though the treating physician did not have the authority to do so; for case management services when, in fact, the clients were working out at Sheridan’s gym; billings based on quotas provided to the nurses by the defendants to bill four to five hours of treatment daily, even if the services were not medically necessary; billing for in-patient detox and drug treatment services that were, in fact, provided in an out-patient setting, among other violations.
Braking Point submitted approximately 134,744 claims to Medicaid for more than $48.5 million in services it claimed to provide between May 2015 and October 2017. The claims caused Medicaid to pay Braking Point more than $31 million. Medicaid suspended payments to Braking Point on October 18, 2017.
Sheridan and other defendants developed a standard protocol of distributing the same amount of Suboxone to every patient seeking drug treatment immediately upon entering Braking Point’s detox program without being evaluated by a properly licensed physician to determine the medical necessity for the use of Suboxone. Sheridan had the treating physician use another physician’s DEA data waiver license to dispense more than 3,000 doses of Suboxone in 2017 alone without the data waiver physician having seen the patients.
Sheridan also made numerous financial transactions in excess of $6 million, involving money derived from these unlawful activities, including health care fraud and conspiracy to commit health care fraud. As such, Sheridan was ordered to forfeit property and proceeds obtained as a result of these crimes, including nearly $3 million, property in Columbiana, Mahoning and Trumbull counties, and eight automobiles, including replicas of vehicles used in the movies “Back to the Future,” “Ghostbusters,” and “Batman.”
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Mark S. Bennett and Jason M. Katz, and Special Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan Metzler following an investigation by the Department of Health and Human Services -- Office of the Inspector General, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service, and the Ohio Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud and Control Unit.
Lima man charged as a felon in possession of firearmRead the Press Release
Justin E. Herdman, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced today that a federal grand jury in Cleveland, Ohio has returned a one-count indictment charging Dominic Wright, 25, of Lima, Ohio with felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
According to court documents filed in this matter, On October 16, 2019, Wright possessed a Hi-Point 380 caliber pistol and ten (10) rounds of ammunition. He was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition because of a 2016 conviction in Lucas County Common Pleas Court for unlawful sexual conduct with a minor.
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 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Deyana Unis and Matthew D. Simko.
Cleveland man indicted for distribution of controlled substancesRead the Press Release
Justin E. Herdman, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced today that a federal grand jury in Cleveland, Ohio has returned a two-count indictment charging Walter R. Maclin, age 46, of Cleveland with distribution of controlled substances.
The indictment filed in this matter alleges that on March 19 and March 27, 2020, Maclin did knowingly and intentionally distribute approximately 1.54 grams of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of crack cocaine.
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 DEA, ATF, and Cleveland Police Department. This matter is part of Operation Relentless Pursuit (ORP), an initiative aimed at combating violent crime.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brian S. Deckert.
Canton man indicted for possession of a firearm by a person with a domestic violence convictionRead the Press Release
Justin E. Herdman, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced today that a federal grand jury in Cleveland, Ohio has returned a one-count indictment charging Matthew Paul Slatzer, 36, of Canton, Ohio, with possession of a firearm by a person with a 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 domestic violence conviction on October 20, 2010.
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 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 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.
Akron man indicted for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams of methamphetamineRead the Press Release
Justin E. Herdman, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced today that a federal grand jury in Cleveland, Ohio has returned a one-count indictment charging Cody Scott Sharnsky, age 26, of Canton, Ohio with possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.
According to the indictment filed in this matter, on January 28, 2020, Sharnsky knowingly and intentionally possessed with the intent to distribute approximately 58 grams of methamphetamine.
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 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 FBI and Akron Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Toni Beth Schnellinger Feisthamel.
Two Pennsylvania men indicted on rioting and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
Justin E. Herdman, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced today that a federal grand jury returned a four-count indictment charging Brandon Michael Althof Long, age 23, and Devon Bryce Poland, age 22, both of Erie, Pennsylvania with one count each of conspiracy to riot and cause civil disorder, conspiracy to use fire to commit a felony, interstate travel to riot and transporting any firearm in furtherance of civil disorder.
“Today’s indictment alleges that these two defendants traveled across state lines not to engage in Constitutionally protected free speech, but with the intent to burn and loot downtown Cleveland,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “The men and women of the Justice Department, working with our state and local partners, are committed to holding accountable anyone responsible for the numerous criminal actions that occurred in Cleveland on May 30. This indictment represents the first of such federal charges filed in this district, but they are not expected to be the last.”
“The indictments of Mr. Poland and Mr. Long mark just the beginning of our combined law enforcement effort to identify, locate, and apprehend those who exploited a peaceful protest for their personal, but very short-term, gain,” said FBI SAC Eric B. Smith. “The FBI, along with all of our federal, state, and local partners, will not cease in our efforts to bring those responsible for May 30th's carnage to justice. We continue to review every available photo, video, and social media posting to piece together the violent activity that occurred in Cleveland, and to identify those who had a hand in making it happen."
According to the indictment, on May 30, 2020, Long and Poland drove to the city of Cleveland with the intent to participate in a riot and commit acts of violence. Long and Poland were arrested near the intersection of East 8th Street, an alleyway, and Huron Avenue in downtown Cleveland, Ohio, in possession of a black backpack containing a hammer, two containers of Sterno Firestarter Instant Flame Gel, a can of spray paint and a glass bottle of liquor with a bar-style pour top. A Glock semi-automatic firearm and two magazines loaded with ammunition were also located in their vehicle.
On May 31st, The FBI executed a search warrant on iPhones found in the defendant’s vehicle and reviewed messages between Long and Poland that contain statements that demonstrate an intent by Long and Poland to travel from Pennsylvania to Cleveland, Ohio on May 30, 2020, to participate in, promote, encourage, and aid and abet the criminal riots. In these messages, the defendants discuss bringing with them supplies for an incendiary device, looting and rioting.
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 records, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
This case is being investigated by the Cleveland Division of the FBI and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Duncan Brown.
Toledo man indicted for using a firearm in a crime of violenceRead the Press Release
Justin. E. Herdman, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced today that a federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment charging Juarvez Whitfield Neeley, 22, of Toledo with interference with commerce by threats or violence and using, carrying, or possessing a firearm during and in retaliation of a crime of violence.
According to the criminal complaint filed in this matter, On March 29, 2020, officers with the Toledo Police Department responded to a report of an armed robbery at the Summit Market on 3740 North Summit Street, Toledo, Ohio. Upon arrival, officers identified two victims that had been shot. The victims claimed that two armed men entered the store and one of the men, later identified as Neeley, approached the counter, demanded money and ultimately shot both victims.
A Toledo Police Officer and numerous tips received identified one of the unknown suspects as Juarvez Whitfield Neeley. On May 15, 2020, Neeley was placed into custody without incident by the United States Marshals Service. The second suspect remains at large.
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 FBI and the Toledo Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Matthew D. Simko.
Lorain man indicted for robbery of credit unionRead the Press Release
Justin. E. Herdman, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced today that a federal grand jury in Cleveland has returned a one-count indictment charging Travone D. Edwards, age 26, of Lorain with one count of interference with commerce by means of robbery.
According to the criminal complaint filed in this matter, on February 28, 2020, a lone suspect, later identified as Edwards, entered the GenFed Financial Credit Union (GFCU) located on Oberlin Ave in Lorain, Ohio. Edwards gave a note to the bank teller demanding that the teller “Put all 50’s and 100’s in the bag, don’t say anything, make a scene, or call the police or I will shoot”. The teller complied, and Edwards fled the scene. Edwards was later identified during the ensuing investigation and was arrested on April 17, 2020, by the FBI and the U.S. Marshals Service Violent Fugitive Task Force on multiple outstanding warrants.
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.
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.
Cleveland man sentenced to 10 years for role in armed bank robberyRead the Press Release
Justin E. Herdman, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced today that Joseph Kyle Sanders, age 20, of Cleveland, was sentenced to 128 months imprisonment after being found guilty of armed bank robbery and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence.
According to court documents filed for this case, on June 1, 2018, Sanders entered a Citizen’s Bank in Richmond Heights and threatened to shoot multiple bank employees in the head. Sanders produced a plastic bag and demanded the employees fill it with money. Approximately $14,000 was stolen from the bank. Once the bag was filled, Sanders fled and ran through a parking lot when a dye pack exploded, causing him to drop the bag. An investigation revealed that Sanders and I’ziah Clark, age, 21, of Cleveland, worked together to aid and abet one another in order to execute the bank robbery.
I’ziah Clark previously plead guilty in this matter to one count of armed bank robbery and was sentenced to 68 months in prison in May 2020.
Sanders was found guilty of a similar offense committed on June 12, 2018, just twelve days after the Citizen’s Bank robbery. In that case, a firearm was also used in the commission of a robbery at a LoanMax in Cleveland Heights.
This case was investigated by the Cleveland Division of the FBI and the Richmond Heights Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Zarzycki and Assistant U.S. Attorney Katheryn Andrachik.
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman’s remarks regarding demonstrations in Cleveland, prosecuting violent individuals, and police accountabilityRead the Press Release
The following are remarks from U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman during a press conference to announce federal charges against two Pennsylvania men that were arrested and charged for traveling to Cleveland to commit acts of violence.
“We are here to announce arrests early this morning of two Erie, Pennsylvania men - Brandon Michael Althof Long and Devon Bryce Poland - for a number of federal offenses, including transporting a firearm or incendiary device in furtherance of civil disorder and conspiracy to use fire or an explosive in furtherance of a federal felony. Special Agent in Charge Eric Smith will address the particulars of these charges at the moment, but in summary, Althof and Poland travelled to Cleveland from Erie on Saturday, May 30 and, among other items, had in their possession a Glock firearm, a hammer, lighter fluid, and spray paint. Hardworking members of our office, along with members of the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, assisted by the US Secret Service and Westlake Police, obtained probable cause to search the cellphones of Althof and Poland, wherein additional evidence was developed.
In short, Althof and Poland were not from here, they arrived with weapons and the ingredients for incendiary devices, the inserted themselves into a Constitutionally protected demonstration in order to advance their own violent purposes, and they were ultimately found in the midst of unprecedented rioting and looting in the streets of Cleveland. So let me get out in front of any questions as to whether there were out of state agitators who hijacked last weekend’s peaceful protests for their own purposes. The answer is undoubtedly yes, as seen with respect to today’s arrests
Althof and Poland represent the first two federal arrests stemming from last weekends riots. And they were, by any definition, riots that disrupted the end of a lawful and peaceful assembly of well-meaning citizens. We are working on numerous additional investigations associated with those riots, pursuing a number of potential federal charges involving a series of individuals who are responsible for the destruction of our downtown.
The men and women of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the FBI, and the ATF are part of the Department of Justice. And what we do through our work, in this district of 6 million residents and across the country, is hold people accountable for their actions.
We are doing just that with our investigations related to the widespread looting of Cleveland’s downtown. We are also doing that in other areas of our district, including Toledo. Last weekend, if you burnt a car, broke into a store, or beat somebody up, then we are going to find you and hold you accountable with federal charges as appropriate, or if not, by assisting our county prosecutor partners with state charges.
And our obligation to demand accountability does not stop with those who rioted and looted. We are still engaged in a consent decree with the Cleveland Division of Police. Accountability is a huge part of that process, and we intend to engage productively, as we always do, with the city on the events of last weekend. You will get no disagreement from anyone here on stage - if there was behavior amongst police officers that departed from our very high standards, or establishes a violation of law, then you better believe that they will be held accountable as well.
The voices of the protestors and demonstrators last Saturday, and in several marches this week, echoes not only in our ears, but in our hearts. I hear you, we all hear you, and I believe that we are all seeking the same thing - accountability, justice, and future days and nights free from fear, anxiety, and victimization. The people up here are all committed to ensuring that you continue to have the ability to do exactly what the Founders intended: to peaceably assemble, to seek redress of grievances, to petition the government. We all swore to uphold the Constitution, which means that we swore to uphold your right to do so. And we will ensure that when you speak, you will be heard.”
Two Pennsylvania men arrested and charged for traveling to Cleveland to commit acts of violenceRead the Press Release
Justin E. Herdman, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced today that Brandon Michael Althof Long, age 23, and Devon Bryce Poland, age 22, both of Erie, Pennsylvania were arrested today without incident by law enforcement. Agents from the Cleveland Division of FBI arrested both Long and Poland in Erie, Pennsylvania at approximately 6:00 AM.
Long and Poland were charged via criminal complaint today in a federal court in the Northern District of Ohio on charges of engaging and conspiring to engage in interstate travel with a firearm with the intent to use fire to participate in civil unrest and riot, use of fire to commit a felony, and rioting.
“At the Justice Department, we hold people accountable for their actions,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “Mr. Long and Mr. Poland were not from Cleveland. They arrived with weapons and the ingredients for an incendiary device and purposefully inserted themselves into a constitutionally protected protest, with the design to exploit it for their own purposes. We will hold these two accountable for their actions and anyone else who may have violated the law. I believe that we are all seeking the same thing -- accountability, justice, and future days and nights that are free from fear, anxiety and victimization.”
“These two individuals traveled to Cleveland with the sole intent of corrupting what was supposed to be a peaceful protest," said FBI SAC Eric B. Smith "A gun, numerous rounds of ammunition, fire gel, and a hammer are not items consistent with a protest. These are the tools used by criminals to incite and participate in mayhem. The FBI will continue to work with our state and local partners and protect our citizen’s right to peacefully protest. But we will not let people that engage in violence and destruction go unchecked. These two will have their day in court and as will many others that are responsible for the violent destruction of our city last Saturday."
“Everyone has a constitutional right to freedom of speech, to protest, to bring grievance, to express their concerns to government,” said Cleveland Mayor Frank G. Jackson. “Everyone has a right to peacefully demonstrate and protest, but once there is violence against people or property then we need to take action to protect the safety and well-being of our community and citizens. I want to thank our law enforcement partners for their assistance as we look to address the underlying things that have caused the demonstrations in our city.”
According to the criminal complaint filed in this matter, at approximately 11:55 PM on May 30, 2020, the defendants were spotted by Cleveland Police in a vehicle entering an alleyway at the intersection of East 8th St. and Huron Ave. in downtown Cleveland, Ohio.
Cleveland Police observed a male leave the alleyway and approach their police vehicle. The male was on the streets, in public, during civil unrest, in violation of a mandatory curfew put into place by the public order of the Mayor of the City of Cleveland, which went into effect at 8:00 PM.
Cleveland police approached the male and asked him if he owned the vehicle present in the alleyway. Police observed that the vehicle had a Pennsylvania license plate. Police asked the male to confirm that it was his vehicle and that his identity was Brandon Michael Althof Long. Long confirmed both of these facts. Police detained Long for violation of the curfew order. Cleveland police believed the vehicle to have been involved in criminal activities earlier in the day. Long also confirmed that the vehicle was occupied by another male, Devon Bryce Poland.
Both Long and Poland were searched as well as their vehicle. Found inside the vehicle was a pistol, 17 rounds of ammunition, a hammer, a BB gun resembling a pistol, a red plastic bottle of liquid fire starter, two Apple iPhones, and a bottle of liquor believed to have been looted from a store earlier in the day and other objects.
On May 31st, The FBI executed a search warrant on the iPhones found in the defendant’s vehicle and reviewed messages between Long and Poland that contain statements that demonstrate an intent by Long and Poland to travel from Pennsylvania to Cleveland, Ohio on May 30, 2020, to participate in, promote, encourage, and aid and abet the criminal riots.
In these messages, the defendants discussed specially discuss choosing to travel to Cleveland over Pittsburgh and to bring supplies to make a Molotov cocktail, an incendiary device.
Long and Poland will have their initial appearance this morning at 9:00 AM in U.S. Magistrate Judge Richard Lanzillo’s courtroom.
This case is being investigated by the Cleveland Division of the FBI and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Duncan Brown and Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Riedl.
A charge 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.
Department of Justice awards $2.3 million to help Northern Ohio public safety agencies address Coronavirus costsRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice announced today that it has awarded approximately $2.3 million in funding to public safety agencies throughout Northern Ohio to help respond to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. This funding is available through the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding Program (CESF), which allows for eligible state, local and tribal governments to support a broad range of activities to prevent, prepare for, and respond to the coronavirus.
“The Justice Department has acted swiftly to help our law enforcement partners throughout Northern Ohio address public safety issues during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “This funding will help pay for costs associated with the pandemic such as overtime, medical personal protective equipment, hiring, training and other expenses.”
In the Northern District of Ohio, communities receiving funding via the CESF include:
- City of Cleveland - $1,719,898
- City of Akron - $403,225
- City of Youngstown - $139,227
- Trumbull county - $58,008
- Lorain county - $58,008
For more information about the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, please visit https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-18553. For more information about the Office of Justice Programs, please visit https://www.ojp.gov/
Akron man sentenced to 8 years for possession with intent to distribute more than 800 grams of methamphetamineRead the Press Release
Justin E. Herdman, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced today that Jason D. Bivins, age 47, of Akron, was sentenced this week to a term of 97 months imprisonment after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
According to the indictment filed in this matter, on July 13, 2019, Bivins admitted to possession with intent to distribute approximately 892 grams of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Akron Police Department and the Akron Office of the FBI and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Damoun Delaviz and Henry F. DeBaggis, II.
Toledo man sentenced to 20 years for role in drug trafficking conspiracyRead the Press Release
Justin E. Herdman, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced today that Jayvon Wynne, age 25, of Toledo, has been sentenced to a term of 240 months imprisonment after pleading guilty to federal charges including drug conspiracy, possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
“Today’s two-decade sentence reflects the severe consequences of trafficking drugs in our neighborhoods,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “This 20-year sentence sends a simple message - we will not let people like Jayvon Wynne and his associates profit off of the pain and suffering they cause from their illegal activities.”
“This individual is responsible for bringing danger and violence to our neighborhoods, and for this, he will spend significant time behind bars,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Eric Smith. “The FBI will continue collaborative efforts to rid our communities of armed drug dealing criminals.”
“The 20-year sentence of Jayvon Wynne should continue to send a message to those in our community who wish to break the law," said Toledo Police Chief George Kral. "That message being, that we will not rest until you are off of our streets. Wynne was the third defendant who was involved in a felonious assault where TPD officers were the targets. I appreciate and value the relationships TPD has with of federal partners, and will tirelessly work to keep Toledo safe.”
According to the indictment filed in this matter, from 2014 to 2017, Wynne and nine other defendants worked together and conspired to distribute large amounts of heroin and fentanyl in the Toledo area. Wynne admitted to playing an aggravating role in the conspiracy and exercised a degree of control over the activities of the other defendants. Wynne admitted to initiating a strategy of providing free half grams of heroin to customers on Sundays who had purchased narcotics from the group throughout the week. On July 25, 2017, Wynne possessed more than five grams of heroin and a Glock 9 mm pistol, which he used in furtherance of drug trafficking.
Wynne is currently serving 18 years in state prison for two convictions of felonious assault, one of which carries a firearm specification. His federal sentence will run concurrently.
Previously sentenced in this matter are:
- Chad Burkholder, age 37, of Toledo, sentenced to 70 months imprisonment on one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and distribution of controlled substances.
- Ryin Douglas-Reed, age 30, of Toledo, sentenced to 100 months imprisonment on one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and distribution of controlled substances.
- Laurie Lehman, age 51, of Toledo, sentenced to 65 months imprisonment on one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and distribution of controlled.
- Julie Murdock, age 49, of Toledo, was sentenced to 30 months imprisonment on one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and distribution of controlled.
- Russell Watson, age 36, of Toledo, sentenced to 68 months imprisonment on one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and distribution of controlled and one count of possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance.
Terrance Allen, 28; Nathaniel Barringer, 25; Megan Champion, 42, and Donte Walker, 32, all of Toledo have previously pled guilty for their roles in this conspiracy and are scheduled to be sentenced in September 2020.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Toledo Police Department, the Toledo Metro Drug Task Force and Northwest Ohio Violent Crime Task Force. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alissa M. Sterling and Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew D. Simko.
Three men indicted in the Northern District on charges of child pornographyRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio announced today that a federal grand jury indicted three men in the Northern District this week on child pornography charges. These are separate cases and are not related.
Matthew Barlow, age 38, of Akron was indicted on two counts of transportation of visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, one count of sexual exploitation of children, and one count of possession of child pornography. According to the criminal complaint filed in this case, from February 2016 through April 2020, Barlow used an email account to receive and possess approximately 1,483 images of child pornography, which contained visual depictions of real minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Furthermore, the affidavit states that some of the images may have depicted a minor that had previously lived with Barlow. Barlow is a registered sex offender in the State of Ohio.
The case was investigated by SA Benjamin Shaw, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Cleveland Office. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Carol M. Skutnik.
Andrew Allen Meek, age 48, of Leetonia was charged on a two-count indictment with receipt and distribution of visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, and possession of child pornography. According to the complaint filed in the matter, on February 25, 2020, federal agents executed a search warrant at the defendant’s address in Leetonia and seized various digital items. During an investigation of these items, numerous depictions of child pornography were discovered.
The case was investigated by the Youngstown office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation, and the Mahoning Valley Violent Crimes Task Force. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael A. Sullivan.
David M. Schade, age 33, of Cleveland was charged on a three-count indictment with sexual exploitation of a minor, receiving visual depictions of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct, and possession of child pornography.
According to the criminal complaint filed in the matter, from March through April 2020, the defendant used the social media platform Snapchat to coerce a minor into engaging in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing and transmitting child pornography. During a federal search warrant of the defendant’s residence, investigators discovered numerous devices containing images of child pornography.
The case was investigated by Investigator David Frattare of the Ohio Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the Department of Homeland Investigations, Cleveland Office. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Carol M. Skutnik.
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.
Toledo man indicted for distribution of child pornography and exploitation of a minorRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio announced today that a federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment charging Thomas Daniel Johnson, age 34, of Toledo with sexual exploitation of a minor and receipt and distribution of child pornography.
According to the criminal complaint filed in the matter, the defendant was believed to have been engaged in the distribution of online child pornography and was attempting to facilitate sexual encounters with a minor who occasionally stayed at his residence. On November 22, 2019, federal investigators and members of the Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Taskforce executed a search warrant at the defendant’s residence. During the search, law enforcement seized several electronic devices that were later discovered to contain large amounts of child pornography.
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 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 was conducted by the FBI and the Toledo Police Department, as part of a state-federal task force on child exploitation. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tracey B. Tangeman.
North Royalton businessman charged with failure to pay over taxes collected from employees and embezzling from employee health planRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio announced today that John George Medas, 67, of North Royalton, was indicted on 25 counts of failing to pay over taxes from employees and one count of embezzling from his employees’ health plan.
Medas owned and operated various manufacturing businesses and served as President of Guarantee Product Specialties, Inc., Fulton Manufacturing Industries, LLC, and FMI Products, LLC.
According to the indictment, Medas withheld payroll tax from employees but failed to pay these taxes to the IRS. Medas failed to pay over $760,725 from April 30, 2014, to January 31, 2019. Medas also withheld $3,807 in pre-tax health contributions and embezzled the funds between July 29, 2016, and September 16, 2016.
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 Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations and the U.S. Department of Labor. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian McDonough.
North Carolina man arrested in Wood County indicted for sexual exploitation of a minor and possession of child pornographyRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio announced today that a federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment charging Raymond Thomas Jordan, age 39, of North Carolina with sexual exploitation of a minor and receipt or distribution of child pornography.
According to the criminal complaint filed in this matter, on January 15, 2020, an Ohio State Highway Patrol Trooper conducted a traffic stop on a semi-truck pulling a trailer on Interstate 80 in Wood County. The defendant was observed driving the vehicle and next to him was a minor who appeared very young. Both the defendant and the minor provided a false date of birth to the Trooper. It was later learned that the minor was under the age of 18 and a runaway from the State of California. Due to this fact, a decision was made to transport both the defendant and the minor to the OSHP Bowling Green Post for further investigation.
According to the criminal complaint, the defendant admitted to possession of child pornography. During a search of the defendant’s vehicle, 21 electronic devices were seized. An investigation into the defendant’s personal cell phone and electronic devices discovered numerous files containing child pornography, including images of the minor found in the defendant’s vehicle.
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 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 was conducted by the Ohio State Highway Patrol and the U.S. Secret Service. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tracey B. Tangeman.
Cleveland man indicted for attempted plot to kidnap law enforcementRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio announced today that a federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment charging Christian Stanley Ferguson, age 20, of Cleveland, Ohio with attempted kidnapping. Ferguson was arrested on May 8, 2020, for an attempted plot to ambush and kidnap law enforcement officers responding to a false distress call.
“Christian Ferguson was actively planning to ambush, kidnap, and even kill law enforcement officers in order to carry out his plot of a violent uprising," said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. "We must demonstrate that these types of threats to law enforcement or to commit such heinous acts of violence in our community will not be tolerated.”
“The primary mission for law enforcement officers and special agents is to protect the public,” said FBI Cleveland Special Agent in Charge Eric B. Smith. “Christian Ferguson's primary mission was to kill as many law enforcement personnel as he could, an unfathomable concept. Thanks to the public for advising the FBI of the hateful and violent feelings Ferguson held for law enforcement. This information led to the swift disruption of Ferguson's plans and his reckoning with the criminal justice system. Law enforcement reminds the public: see something, say something!”
“We were happy to assist the FBI with this case, especially due to the seriousness of the threats,” said Cuyahoga Falls Police Chief Jack Davis. “The Cuyahoga Falls Police Department members have always enjoyed a great working relationship with the local agents, and this was yet another opportunity for local and federal law enforcement to work together.”
"The National Park Service is deeply appreciative of the work of the FBI and United States Attorney on this case,” said CVNP Chief Ranger Bruce Gagnon. “This indictment is good news for the men and women of law enforcement across the region."
According to the criminal complaint filed in this matter, over the course of several weeks, Ferguson engaged in violent and extremist postings made on cross-platform social media communication applications. In these postings, Ferguson discussed his desire to call police to report a false crime was in progress to prompt a response by law enforcement.
Specifically, he expressed an interest in a response by federal law enforcement because he believed they had better quality firearms and body armor to steal. He made statements about tactical options for killing multiple targets and the disposal of their bodies. He reaffirmed his plan to ambush law enforcement, kill them, rob them of their weapons, and start an uprising.
As a result of online conversations in a chatroom controlled by Ferguson, he met on several occasions with individuals to further discuss Ferguson’s plan in order to see it to fruition. Ferguson then engaged in practice drills with an AR-15 rifle and, on one occasion, conducted reconnaissance in a dry run. He ultimately facilitated a hoax distress call within the boundaries of the National Park to gauge response time by Park Rangers. Ferguson believed four federal officers arrived and indicated that if that many officers respond to the actual event, they would likely have to kill them all.
Ferguson was arrested, without incident, on May 8th and is currently in federal custody.
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 records, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
This case was investigated by the Cuyahoga Valley National Park Rangers, Cuyahoga Falls Police Department, City of Cuyahoga Falls Prosecutor’s Office, and the Cleveland Division of the FBI and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Duncan Brown and Daniel Riedl.
Akron man indicted for possession with intent to distribute THC vape cartridges and illegal fireman possessionRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio announced today that a federal grand jury in Cleveland returned a three-count indictment charging Justin Michl, age 23, of Akron with intent to distribute Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), possession of firearms in furtherance of a federal drug trafficking offense and money laundering.
According to the criminal complaint filed in this matter, On July 12, 2019, federal agents executed a search warrant at the defendant’s residence in Akron and recovered over 3,500 THC vape cartridges. These cartridges contained a liquid that, according to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), may contain extraordinarily high THC levels ranging from 40% to 80%. This form of marijuana can be up to four times stronger in THC content than high-grade marijuana, which normally measures around 20% THC levels.
In addition to the THC cartridges, agents recovered four firearms, ammunition, and $85,627 in United States currency. Agents also discovered that Michl purchased an all-terrain vehicle with drug trafficking proceeds in February of 2019.
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 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 was conducted by the FDA – Office of Criminal Investigations in conjunction with the Ohio Attorney General’s Organized Crime Commission Major Crimes Task Force which consists of the Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Department, Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Howell.
Toledo couple indicted for fraudulent medical care schemeRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in Toledo, Ohio returned a four-count indictment today charging Sherry-Ann Jenkins, age 55, and Dr. Oliver H. Jenkins, age 57, both formerly of Ottawa Hills, Ohio, on one count each of conspiracy, mail fraud, wire fraud, and health care fraud in connection with their development and operation of the Toledo Clinic Cognitive Center from approximately 2013 through 2016.
According to the indictment filed for this case, from November 2013 to March 2016, Dr. Sherry-Ann Jenkins and Dr. Oliver Jenkins operated a business known as the Toledo Clinic Cognitive Center to diagnose and treat patients with cognitive disorders, particularly those suspected of suffering from dementia and Alzheimer ’s disease. The Center would later become a formal part of the Toledo Clinic. Dr. Oliver Jenkins was to serve as the Cognitive Center’s Medical Director, and Dr. Sherry-Ann Jenkins would serve as the Center’s Director, responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations. Dr. Sherry-Ann Jenkins had no clinical education, training, or certification. Defendant Sherry-Ann Jenkins had no medical background, affiliation, or licenses to provide medical care of any type.
Immediately following the opening of the Cognitive Center in 2014, Dr. Sherry-Ann Jenkins began performing as a fully qualified and licensed physician or psychologist. She began assessing, diagnosing, and treating patients for perceived cognitive disorders. She would often order PET scans, which she was unqualified to do, for her patients, and then used the scan results to diagnose a patient with a cognitive disorder. She would then bill these patients for her time as a physician using Dr. Oliver Jenkins National Provider Identifier (NPI) number. Dr. Oliver Jenkins never saw these patients for cognitive care.
The defendants never disclosed that Dr. Sherry-Ann Jenkins was neither trained nor licensed to provide any type of medical care or that Dr. Oliver Jenkins, who was licensed to provide medical care, was rarely present.
Dr. Sherry-Ann Jenkins billed patients and federal health care benefits programs, Medicare and Medicaid, for services for which she was not eligible to bill, were unnecessary, or never performed, and made it appear that Dr. Oliver Jenkins was the rendering provider.
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 Federal Bureau of Investigation in Toledo, Ohio, the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General in Cleveland, Ohio, the Ohio Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, and the Ohio State Medical Board. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Gene Crawford and Brian McDonough.
Toledo duo sentenced for witness tampering in trial of former pastorRead the Press Release
Alisa Haynes, age 45, and Alexis Fortune, age 26, of Toledo, were sentenced today after pleading guilty to one count each of witness tampering days before the trial of former Toledo pastor and convicted felon, Anthony Haynes. Alisa Haynes was sentenced to 24 months in prison, and Alexis Fortune was sentenced to 48 months in prison. Alisa Haynes is the wife of Anthony Haynes, and Alexis Fortune is his step-daughter.
According to the plea agreement filed for the case, while Anthony Haynes was under federal indictment for sex trafficking of children and child pornography, both defendants visited a victim in the case at her apartment in order to force her to recant statements made to law enforcement. The defendants coerced the victim into leaving two voicemails on Alisa Haynes’s cell phone, stating that she was never trafficked or victimized by Anthony Haynes. Fortune and Haynes intended to share these voicemails with the attorney for Anthony Haynes to be used in the upcoming trial.
The victim reported these incidents to law enforcement and later went on to testify against Anthony Haynes. Haynes was sentenced to life in prison in June of 2019.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northwest Ohio Violent Crimes against Children Task Force and the Ohio Attorney General’s Bureau of Criminal Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ashley A. Futrell and Michael J. Freeman.
Former Cleveland Clinic Employee and Chinese “Thousand Talents” Participant Arrested for Wire FraudRead the Press Release
UPDATE
The government dismissed all charges alleged in the indictment described in the press release below.
Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers, U.S. Attorney Justin E. Herdman of the Northern District of Ohio, and FBI Cleveland Special Agent in Charge Eric B. Smith announced a former Cleveland Clinic employee was arrested yesterday without incident by law enforcement and had his initial court appearance today.
Dr. Qing Wang, a former Cleveland Clinic Foundation (CCF) employee, is charged with false claims and wire fraud related to more than $3.6 million in grant funding that Dr. Wang and his research group received from the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
According to the criminal complaint, Dr. Wang knowingly failed to disclose to NIH that he had an affiliation with and held the position of Dean of the College of Life Sciences and Technology at the Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST) and received grant funds from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (CNSF) for some of the same scientific research funded by the NIH grant. As a result, Dr. Wang’s false representations and promises led NIH to approve and fund grants to Dr. Wang and his research group at CCF.
It is also alleged that Dr. Wang participated in the Thousand Talents Program, a program established by the Chinese government to recruit individuals with access to or knowledge of foreign technology and intellectual property. As a result of his admission into the TTP, China provided $3 million in research support to enhance the facilities and operations at HUST. Dr. Wang received free travel and lodging for his trips to China, to include a three-bedroom apartment on campus for his personal use. This also occurred at the time Dr. Wang was receiving NIH grant funds yet failed to disclose this affiliation to the NIH.
This case was investigated by the Cleveland Division of the FBI and the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General and is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office – Northern District of Ohio.
A charge 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.
Operation Relentless Pursuit initiative in Cleveland to receive $10 million in awards to support efforts to combat violent crimeRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio announced that the Justice Department’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) and the Office of Justice Programs’ Bureau of Justice Assistance have awarded more than $61 million in grant funding to support the Attorney General’s Operation Relentless Pursuit (ORP) initiative. Of that $61 million, Cleveland area law enforcement will receive approximately $10 million in awards.
Launched on Dec. 18, 2019, ORP aims to intensify federal law enforcement resources into seven American cities with violent crime levels several times the national average - Albuquerque, Baltimore, Cleveland, Detroit, Kansas City, Memphis, and Milwaukee.
The award breakdown for Cleveland area law enforcement is as follows:
- Cleveland Division of Police– $7,968,944 for funding 30 position.
- Ohio State Highway Patrol & Ohio Investigative Unit – $1,281,658 for funding 5 positions.
- Ohio Division of Adult Parole Authority – $752,014 for funding 4 positions.
These awards will allow for the hiring of additional law enforcement officers to combat violent crime through the Operation Relentless Pursuit initiative.
“While violent crime is down across the country as a whole, some communities remain caught in the grips of violent actors,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “That’s why I launched Operation Relentless Pursuit last December – an initiative to combat violent crime in seven cities where it remains stubbornly high. Today’s grant awards are critical to our mission. We cannot succeed in eradicating crime without resources – the most vital of which are the brave men and women who serve and protect our communities each day. These funds will boost the forces that need them most.”
“This funding from the Department of Justice is an important commitment in our continued fight against violent crime in Cleveland’s neighborhoods,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “These awards will help hire more police officers, highway patrol, adult parole officers, and investigators to help combat violent crime on the streets of our city. Operation Relentless Pursuit will enable us to continue building partnerships between multiple law enforcement divisions in order to better serve the public and bring dangerous, violent criminals to justice.”
The COPS Office, through its COPS Hiring Program (CHP), awarded a total of $51 million to be used to hire 214 sworn law enforcement officers for state and local law enforcement task forces. The recipients of the funding will deploy existing veteran officers to task force duties and use the CHP funding to hire new recruits to backfill those positions, as practical. Officers deployed to
Operation Relentless Pursuit task forces as a result of CHP funding must be sworn, career law enforcement officers of the awarded agency, and their work on the task force must benefit their jurisdiction. In addition, they are required to work with their respective U.S. Attorney’s Office (USAO) and relevant federal agencies to investigate and prosecute suspects involved in gangs, drug trafficking, and other violent crime– related issues.
“Successful strategies to target and reduce violent crime are extremely resource intensive,” said COPS Office Director Phil Keith. “There is no greater resource than additional men and women on the front lines of relentless fight against gangs, drug traffickers and those that mean harm to our nation’s communities. The funding announced today is greatly needed for the Operation Relentless Pursuit jurisdictions and the COPS Office is honored to dedicate resources for this effort.”
For more information on the COPS Hiring Program ORP grants, please visit: https://cops.usdoj.gov/pdf/2020AwardDocs/chp/FY20_Relentless_Pursuit_Fact_Sheet.pdf
The Office of Justice Programs’ Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) is making $10 million available to support Operation Relentless Pursuit. BJA funds will support efforts such as the hiring of additional prosecutors, overtime expenses for task force members, multi-agency investigations, mobile data terminals and modern technological platforms, and development of strategic plans to address gaps in combating violent crime.
“The responsibility for fighting crime and violence belongs to agencies at every level of government, and winning that fight turns on our ability to deploy our collective resources wisely and effectively,” said Office of Justice Programs Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “We are eager to make these funds available so that our federal, state and local partners can continue the vital and noble work of protecting America’s most dangerous communities.”
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.
Ohio’s top federal and state law enforcement officials commemorate Police WeekRead the Press Release
In honor of National Police Week, Ohio’s top federal and state law enforcement officials are asking the public to set aside some time this week to recognize or thank a law enforcement officer for their service. National Police Week is observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
Click here to view the video clip of Governor Mike DeWine, U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman, U.S. Attorney David DeVillers and Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
“Police Week is a time to honor and remember those who have given the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, but it is also a time to express appreciation to those who put their lives on the line for our community’s peace and security,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “This week, I’m asking everyone in Northern Ohio to take some time to thank a law enforcement officer and to express your gratitude for their service to our community.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019. Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT). The online event can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
U.S. Attorney asks public to report predatory housing practices amid COVID-19 pandemicRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman sent a letter to Northern Ohio housing advocacy groups asking anyone who has witnessed or experienced sexual harassment by a landlord, property manager, maintenance worker, or anyone with control over housing to report that conduct to the Department of Justice.
“As a result of the COVID-19 public health crisis, many in our communities have found themselves out of work, furloughed, or otherwise in dire financial straits,” said U.S. Attorney Herdman in his letter. “This has led many to seek abatements or suspensions of their rent or to seek other accommodations during this time. While many landlords and housing providers have positively responded with understanding, others have seen an opportunity to exploit the financially vulnerable through demands for sexual favors and other acts of unwelcome sexual misconduct. Please know that the U.S. Attorney’s Office remains ready to investigate complaints of sexual harassment in housing and to deploy all available enforcement tools against anyone who engages in this behavior.”
According to a recent memo from Attorney General William Barr, there have been reports of landlords who have responded to requests to defer rent payments with demands for sexual favors and other acts of unwelcome sexual conduct. Such behavior is illegal under the Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination in housing on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, familial status, national origin and disability. Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination prohibited by the Act.
The Attorney General has directed U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country to investigate reports of housing-related sexual harassment resulting from the current COVID-19 pandemic. The Attorney’s General’s directive reaffirms the commitment that the Department of Justice made when it launched the Sexual Harassment Initiative in October 2017.
The Justice Department’s Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative is an effort to combat sexual harassment in housing led by the Civil Rights Division, in coordination with U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country. The goal of the Initiative is to address sexual harassment by landlords, property managers, maintenance workers, loan officers or other people who have control over housing.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio will work closely with state and local partners to identify incidents of sexual harassment in housing.
The Department encourages anyone who has experienced sexual harassment in housing, or knows someone who has, to contact the Civil Rights Division by calling (844) 380-6178 or emailing [email protected].
Individuals who believe they may have been victims of discrimination may also contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio at 216-622-3932 or in Toledo at 1-833-938-1375. You may also contact us via email at [email protected].
U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio at 216-622-3932 or via email at [email protected].
Individuals may also file a complaint alleging harassment or discrimination in housing with the Department of Housing and Urban Development through HUD’s website or by calling (800) 669-9777.
Read a copy of the U.S. Attorney’s letter here.
Akron couple sentenced for role in drug trafficking conspiracyRead the Press Release
Donte L. Gibson, age 41, and Audrey J. Gibson, age 36, of Akron were sentenced today for their roles in a conspiracy to bring large amounts of fentanyl and carfentanil into the United States from China and then sell the drugs in Akron and Lorain, as well as firearms and money laundering violations. Donte Gibson was sentenced to 300 months in prison with five years of supervised release, and Audrey Gibson was sentenced to 130 months in prison with 3 years of supervised release.
Donte and Audrey Gibson were the last of nine codefendants sentenced in this matter. All nine defendants were indicted on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute more than 200 grams of carfentanil.
“These two defendants were the leaders of a drug trafficking ring that used illegal weapons and brought large amounts of fentanyl and carfentanil into our neighborhoods, endangering the lives of so many in our community,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “Today’s sentencing reaffirms our commitment to keeping dangerous drugs and weapons off our streets.”
“This case demonstrates the lengths drug dealers will go to obtain deadly drugs to feed the addiction of their customers,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Eric B. Smith. “This group flaunted their lucrative drug trafficking organization proceeds by purchasing homes, cars and other items in an attempt to hide their cash. The FBI will continue working with our law enforcement partners to help rid our communities of the individuals that bring poison to our streets.”
"These defendants not only fueled the Opioid drug problem in Northern Ohio, but they supported addiction in several parts of the country,” said Bryant Jackson, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office. “Criminals and criminal organizations use money laundering as a way to inject their illicit proceeds into our local economies. The laundering of illegal drug profits is as important and essential to drug traffickers as the very distribution of their illegal drugs. Without these ill-gotten gains, the traffickers could not finance their organizations. Today's sentencings are a direct result of the excellent partnership between the IRS, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force.”
“Fentanyl and carfentanil continue to be the deadliest illegal drugs that we are up against in the law enforcement community,” said HSI Special Agent in Charge Vance Callender. “HSI has uniquely built a network of domestic and international law enforcement partnerships to bring consequences to criminal enterprises that operate on a global scale to profit from distributing this lethal poison in our local communities.”
Between May 2016 and February 2018, Mr. and Mrs. Gibson purchased fentanyl and carfentanil from China over the internet and had the drugs shipped to various locations in the Akron-Canton area through the U.S. Postal Service. The Gibsons then directed others to open post office boxes throughout the area, and used co-conspirators to pick-up the packages. The Gibsons then distributed the drugs to others for sale in Akron and Lorain.
Previously sentenced on this matter were:
- Lori E. Martin, age 59, of Barberton was sentenced on January 28, 2019 on one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering to two years of probation.
- Dontaysha S. Gibson, age 23, of Akron was sentenced on January 16, 2019 on one count each of conspiracy to possess and distribute fentanyl and carfentanil and money laundering to 15 months in prison.
- Derrick A. Adams II, age 24, of Akron was sentenced on January 24, 2019 on one count each of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute fentanyl and carfentanil and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime to 120 months in prison.
- Lisa A, Richardson, age, 56 of Akron was sentenced on February 28, 2019 on one count each of conspiracy to possess and distribute fentanyl and carfentanil and conspiracy to commit money laundering to 51 months in prison.
- Ajarae C. Hisle, age 29, of Lorain was sentenced on February 19, 2019 on one count of conspiracy to possess and distribute fentanyl and carfentanil to one month in prison and seven months of home confinement.
- Jamar Jackson, age 30, of Lorain was sentenced on February 1, 2019 on one count of conspiracy to possess and distribute fentanyl and carfentanil to 57 months in prison.
- Garret R. Frantz, age 22, of North Canton was sentenced on January 28, 2019 on one count of conspiracy to possess and distribute fentanyl and carfentanil to one day in prison and eight months of home confinement.
Prosecutors were able to secure forfeiture of more than $250,000 in assets, two firearms, and ammunition seized as part of the investigation, as well as a home in Akron.
This case was investigated by the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force -- which is comprised of agents and officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Internal Revenue Service and the Akron Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark S. Bennett and Danielle Asher.
For more background on this case, click here.
Northern Ohio Commemorates National Crime Victims’ Rights WeekRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman joins the Department of Justice and communities nationwide in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, celebrating victims’ rights, protections and services throughout the week. This year’s observance takes place April 19-25 and features the theme, “Seek Justice| Ensure Victims' Rights | Inspire Hope.”
“Every year, millions of Americans suffer the shock and trauma of criminal victimization, affecting their well-being and sense of security and dignity,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “To these victims, we affirm our unwavering commitment to supporting them in their hour of need. We also commend the thousands of victim advocates and public safety professionals who labor tirelessly to secure victims’ rights and support survivors.”
“It is important that we take the time this week to recognize survivors of crime and the rights of victims during National Crime Victims’ Rights Week,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “Anyone who has been victimized by crime deserves justice. Our office continues to work non-stop, every day, to fight on the behalf of victims and prosecute those who would do harm.”
“While we have made tremendous progress driving down crime and violence across the country, far too many Americans continue to suffer the pain and loss of criminal victimization,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General of the Office of Justice Programs. “This week, we stand by these survivors and their families, and we pledge our ongoing support to the countless men and women who serve them with such extraordinary skill and compassion.”
During National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, victim advocacy organizations, community groups and state, local and tribal agencies traditionally host rallies, candlelight vigils, and other events to raise awareness of victims’ rights and services. This year, many communities are organizing virtual gatherings and online public awareness campaigns.
Some 3.3 million Americans age 12 and older were victims of violent crime in 2018, according to the National Crime Victimization Survey. The Office for Victims of Crime (OVC), part of the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs, supports more than 7,000 local victim assistance programs and victim compensation programs in every state and U.S. territory.
Funds for these programs come from the Crime Victims Fund, which is made up of federal criminal fines, penalties and bond forfeitures.
This year’s commemoration began yesterday, 25 years to the day when a truck bomb exploded in front of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, taking the lives of 168 people, including 19 children, as well as injuring hundreds of others. The mass murder remains the worst act of domestic terrorism in our nation’s history and led to the establishment of the Antiterrorism Emergency Reserve, which is administered by OVC, and has been used to provide direct services to hundreds of victims of mass violence and terrorism.
Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first Victims’ Rights Week in 1981, putting crime victims' rights, needs, and concerns in a prominent spot on the American agenda. He also established the President's Task Force on Victims of Crime, which laid the groundwork for a national network of services and legal safeguards for crime victims. President Trump and his administration have implemented historic levels of support for victim assistance and victim compensation.
This year, the annual National Crime Victims’ Service Awards Ceremony will be postponed until a time when award recipients may be honored in person. During the ceremony, OVC will present awards recognizing individuals and organizations from across the nation for their outstanding service on behalf of crime victims. The awardees will be selected from public nominations in 11 categories, including federal service, special courage, public policy, and victim services. Visit www.ovc.gov/gallery to learn more about past recipients.
“Crime victims deserve to know that they have the encouragement and support of the American people,” said OVC Director Jessica E. Hart. “I hope that citizens throughout the nation will take the opportunity this week to remember all victims of crime and their heroic stories of survival. I encourage everyone to also find meaningful ways to express their appreciation to the many committed and compassionate service providers across the country who work tirelessly supporting these survivors.”
For more information on how to create public campaigns to raise awareness about crime victims’ rights online and at events throughout the year, please visit: https://ovc.ojp.gov/.
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman and Homeland Security Investigations remind parents to be vigilant of online activity during National Child Abuse Prevention MonthRead the Press Release
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month and U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman of the Northern District of Ohio and Vance Callender, Special Agent in Charge for Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Detroit, are reminding parents to be vigilant of their children’s online activities.
“The work our office and partners do to protect children and prevent abuse never stops, even during a national emergency,” said U.S. Attorney Herdman. “We are all committed to finding and prosecuting anyone who would exploit or endanger the children in our community. Parents can help us in this fight by taking an active role in knowing who their children talk to and what they do online.”
“Child predators continue to target young people even during this public health crisis,” said Special Agent in Charge Vance Callender. “We want everyone to know that while some aspects of regular life have been temporarily paused, HSI is designed to easily adapt to ensure its aggressive ability to protect children.”
“Ongoing investigations against child predators have not slowed down in the slightest,” said Ben Shaw, HSI Cleveland special agent. “Last week HSI arrested Matthew Barlow, a known sex offender, for possession and receipt of numerous images of child pornography. As the arrest of Mr. Barlow demonstrates, HSI investigations continue unaffected through this national crisis.”
U.S. Attorney Herdman and HSI offered the following tips to help protect your children online.
- Review and approve games and apps before they are downloaded.
- Make sure privacy settings are set to the strictest level possible for online gaming systems and electronic devices.
- Monitor your children’s use of the internet; keep electronic devices in an open, common room of the house.
- Check your children’s profiles and what they post online.
- Explain to your children that images posted online will be permanently on the internet.
- Make sure children know that anyone who asks a child to engage in sexually explicit activity online should be reported to a parent, guardian, or other trusted adult, as well as law enforcement.
To report suspicious activity or instances of child sexual exploitation, contact your local law enforcement agency. Tips can be submitted online at www.ice.gov/tipline, by phone at 866-DHS-2-ICE or by contacting your local HSI office. Reports can also be filed with NCMEC at 1-800-THE-LOST or online at www.cybertipline.org.
Akron man charged with possession and receipt of child pornographyRead the Press Release
Matthew Barlow, age 38, of Akron was arrested this week on a federal complaint charging him with possession/access with intent to view child pornography and receipt of child pornography.
According to the affidavit in support of the complaint, from February 2016 through March 2020, Barlow used an email account to receive and possess approximately 1,483 images of child pornography which contained visual depictions of real minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Furthermore, the affidavit states that some of the images may have depicted a minor that had previously lived with Barlow.
Barlow is a registered sex offender and has been previously convicted of “Pandering Sexual Matter Involving Minor” in 2016 and “Illegal Use of Minor in Nude Material or Performance” in 2018.
A complaint 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 investigation is being conducted by the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations and the Ohio Internet Crimes Against Children (“ICAC”) Task Force. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Carol M. Skutnik.