Northern District of Ohio
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Cleveland man likely faces 17 years in prison for selling heroin that caused three overdoses in WoosterRead the Press Release
A Cleveland man will likely be sentenced to 17 years in prison after pleading guilty to selling heroin that caused three overdoses in Wooster, law enforcement officials said.
Demetrius L. Frizzell, 30, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute heroin and one count of attempted witness tampering.
He is scheduled to be sentenced Nov. 29. The plea agreement calls for a recommended sentence of 204 months in prison.
Wooster police learned about a heroin overdose victim who on Nov. 3 was brought to an emergency room unresponsive and appeared to be deceased. He was revived after emergency-room staff administered 12 doses of Narcan. Investigators traced the sale of heroin to Frizzell, according to court documents.
Frizzell also sold heroin on Oct. 29 and Nov. 2 that resulted in overdoses. All three people who overdosed were revived with Narcan, according to court documents.
Frizzell made a call from jail to an unknown male and instructed him to go to the home of one of the people who overdosed called and get him “in line,” according to court documents.
“Heroin has caused devastation throughout Ohio and no corner of the state is immune,” said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja. “Aggressive enforcement, combined with increased treatment, prevention and education, is our best chance to turn around this epidemic.”
DEA Special Agent in Charge Timothy Plancon stated: “Overdoses and overdose deaths related to heroin have become an epidemic across the country and Ohio has been hit particularly hard by this problem. Identifying and bringing to justice those individuals that distribute illegal drugs that result in an overdose, is one of DEA’s top priorities.”
MEDWAY Director Donald Hall said: “The MEDWAY Drug Enforcement Agency will continue to collaborate and work closely with our federal partners to hold people accountable for their actions who are involved in trafficking drugs in our communities.”
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the MEDWAY Drug Enforcement Agency, the Wooster Police Department and the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Teresa Riley and Justin Seabury Gould.
Two men indicted for credit card fraud and identity theft after traffic stop in BrecksvilleRead the Press Release
Two foreign nationals arrested in Brecksville after a traffic stop were indicted in federal court for having more than 370 stolen credit card account numbers and related information, said David A. Sierleja, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
A federal grand jury returned a three-count indictment charging Yasmany Luis Cabello-Morell, 29, a citizen of Cuba, and Honorio Mendoza-Herrara, 21, a citizen of Mexico, with possession of 15 or more counterfeit or unauthorized credit cards, possession of credit card-making equipment and aggravated identity theft.
Brecksville police stopped the vehicle driven by Cabello-Morell for speeding on I-77 on July 3. A search of the vehicle revealed five MasterCard gift cards that had been re-encoded with stolen credit card account information, as well as a laptop computer, a card reader/writer/encoder and two credit-card skimmer devices, according to court documents.
A subsequent search of the laptop computer revealed approximately 370 stolen credit card account numbers and related information, including the account holders’ names, according to court documents.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert W. Kern and Megan R. Miller are prosecuting the case following an investigation by United States Secret Service and the Brecksville Police Department.
If convicted, the defendants’ sentences will be determined by the court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendants’ prior criminal records, if any, the defendants’ roles 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.
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.
Two charged with illegally reentering the U.S.Read the Press Release
Two Mexican nationals were charged with illegally reentering the United States, Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja said.
Jose Ramon Hernandez-Lopez, 33, who was last deported to Mexico on October 24, 2014, was found in Cuyahoga County this year, according to the indictment.
Juan Moreno-Amendariz, 38, was found in Ohio on July 18 after twice being deported from the U.S., according to a criminal information.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
The Lopez case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Karrie D. Howard following an investigation by the Cleveland Police Department and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Department of Homeland Security.
The Amendariz case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Gene Crawford following an investigation by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Department of Homeland Security.
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.
Men indicted for robbing banks in Summit County this summerRead the Press Release
Two men were indicted for allegedly robbing banks in Summit County this summer, said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja and FBI Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony.
A federal grand jury returned a three-count indictment charging Jacob K. Onusic, 23, of Barberton, and Devonne Jacobs, 23, of Akron, with bank robbery.
Onusic, robbed the PNC Bank in Tallmadge, Ohio on June 23, according to the indictment.
Onusic robbed the Fifth Third Bank in Fairlawn on June 28, according to the indictment.
Onusic and Jacobs robbed the Fifth Third Bank in Stow on July 8, according to the indictment.
If convicted, the defendants’ sentences 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 violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Tallmadge Police Dept., the Fairlawn Police Dept., the Stow Police Dept., and the Akron Police Depart. The matter is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S Attorney David M. Toepfer.
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.
Cleveland men indicted for firearms crimesRead the Press Release
Two Cleveland men were indicted on federal firearms charges, said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja.
Kwoquan Scott, 28, had a Charter Arms AR-7 .22-caliber rifle on June 23, despite prior convictions for involuntary manslaughter, aggravated robbery, robbery with a firearms specification and multiple convictions for robbery between 2007 and 2014, according to the indictment.
Davonte Carter, 26, had a Smith & Wesson .40-caliber pistol and ammunition on June 28, despite prior convictions for robbery and having a weapon under disability, according to the indictment.
These cases are unrelated. They are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelly L. Galvin following an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Cleveland Division of Police.
If convicted, the defendants’ sentences 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 violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
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.
Cleveland man charge for having images of sexual exploitation of childrenRead the Press Release
Aa grand jury returned a one-count indictment charging Matthew Taylor Hadlock, 19, of Cleveland, with receiving and distributing visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct and possessing child pornography, said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant's role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian McDonough following an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations Cleveland.
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.
Ashtabula man indicted for having heroin, methamphetamine and a firearmRead the Press Release
An Ashtabula man was indicted for distributing heroin and methamphetamine and having a firearm, said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja.
A federal grand jury returned a four-count indictment charging Michael H. Sheffey, 52, with distribution of narcotics, possession with the intent to distribute narcotics and with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
Sheffey distributed methamphetamine and heroin on several occasions in April 2017, according to the indictment.
Sheffey possessed an FEG, Model PA63, 9mm pistol, and ammunition on April 12, despite prior convictions in 1983 and 1984 for robbery and in 1992 for aggravated robbery in the Ashtabula County Court of Common Pleas, according to the indictment.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Trumbull-Ashtabula Group and the Ashtabula Police Department. The matter is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David M. Toepfer.
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.
Akron man indicted for having carfentanil and a firearmRead the Press Release
An Akron man was indicted for having carfentanil and a firearm, said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja.
Tedre L. Davis, 26, was indicted on one count each of being a felon in possession of a firearm and possession of carfentanil with the intent to distribute.
Davis was found on May 30 to have nearly two grams of carfentanil as well as a Kel-Tec .22-caliber pistol and ammunition, despite prior convictions for carrying a concealed weapon and drug conveyance onto government property, according to the indictment.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violations. 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 prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark S. Bennett following an investigation by the Akron Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
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.
Canadian man charged with production of child pornography after meeting teen at Rocky River parkRead the Press Release
A Canadian man arrested at a park in Rocky River was charged in federal court with production of child pornography.
Joseph B. Haggerty, 49, was scheduled to be in court Monday afternoon.
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents in Austin, Texas, received a tip that Haggerty had been soliciting nude images from children. Haggerty was scheduled to fly to Cleveland from Toronto on Thursday. HSI agents in Cleveland followed him upon his arrival in Ohio to Linden Park in Rocky River, where he met a minor female, according to a criminal affidavit.
Haggerty had a reservation at the Days Inn on Lake Avenue in Lakewood. He was carrying a bag with clothing, 12 condoms, a stuffed animal and a package of baby pacifiers, according to the affidavit.
The minor he met in Rocky River told agents she met Haggerty on Kik in December 2016 and they subsequently communicated via Skype. She said the calls would last hours and Haggerty would direct her to strip naked and engage in sexually explicit conduct, according to the affidavit.
The girl told her relatives she was going on a camping trip for the weekend but actually planned to go the Lakewood hotel with Haggerty, according to the affidavit.
HSI agents contacted the Royal Canadian Mounted Police’s Internet Child Exploitation Unit, which executed search warrants at Haggerty’s home. They found nude images of the Ohio minor, contact information for the child in Texas, as well as evidence of an estimated five other potential victims.
“This defendant victimized at least one child and possibly many more,” Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja said. “This case is another stark reminder to parents that they need to know who their children are communicating with on social media and in real life.”
“Through our partnerships with state, local, federal and international law enforcement agencies, HSI will continue to vigorously investigate child exploitation cases like this one to ensure that special agents continue to serve as a powerful barrier between predators and children," said Steve Francis, Special Agent in Charge of HSI’s Detroit Office, which includes Ohio.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violations. 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 HSI’s Cleveland and Austin offices, with assistance from the Rocky River Police Department and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian McDonough.
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.
Washington man sentenced to eight years in prison for traveling across the country with teen to engage her in commercial sexRead the Press Release
A Washington man was sentenced to eight years in prison for transporting a minor across state lines for the purpose of engaging in commercial sex, said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja and FBI Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony.
Tyrell L. Moss, 33, knowingly transported a child identified as T.C. for the purpose of engaging in prostitution. Moss transported T.C. from Washington state to Beachwood by way of California, Idaho, Utah, Colorado and Illinois, with the intent that T.C. would engage in commercial sex acts, according to court documents.
This took place between September and October 14, 2016, according to court documents.
The case was investigated as part of Operation Cross Country by the FBI’s Child Exploitation Task Force, which includes members of the FBI, Cleveland Division of Police, Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Department, Adult Parole Authority and Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority Police. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan, with assistance from the Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office.
Former letter carrier from Cleveland Heights sentenced to prison for trafficking cocaineRead the Press Release
A Cleveland Heights woman was sentenced to more than two years in prison for trafficking cocaine.
Rayvonna Taylor, 28, worked as a U.S. Postal Service mail carrier in Cleveland. Between August 2015 and May 2016, she facilitated the delivery of approximately 20 parcels containing cocaine.
Taylor was assigned to various routes on days when the narcotics parcels were delivered. She provided addresses on her route that parcels could be addressed to, then diverting those parcels to a drug dealer in exchange for money, according to court documents.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Vasile Katsaros following an investigation.
Twenty-one people indicted in federal court for trafficking heroin in Youngstown and RavennaRead the Press Release
Twenty-one people were indicted in federal court for their roles trafficking heroin and other drugs in the Youngstown and Ravenna areas, law enforcement officials said.
Arrests were executed this morning for people named in three separate indictments.
A 79-count indictment charges 12 people with drug trafficking and related crimes for a conspiracy beginning at least as early as August 2015 and continuing through June 8, 2016.
Indicted are: Aaron L. Rogers, 47; Cametrius K. Adams, 40; Darry K. Woods, 40; Mack F. Hill, 25; James L. Jackson, 41; Deondea K. Hill, 23; Qeevys D. Clinkscale; Trina Hill, 43; Brian K. Hunter, 44; John J. Montero, 39; Terrell L. Leonard, 38, and Cornell L. Kennedy, 33. All the defendants are from Youngstown but Clinkscale, who is from Cleveland.
Those defendants conspired to possess with the intent to distribute and to distribute heroin, cocaine and crack cocaine, used cellular telephones to facilitate their drug trafficking activities, maintained a drug premises and some were felons in possession of firearms and ammunition.
Woods supplied heroin to Jackson for distribution in the Youngstown area while Rogers supplied Jackson with heroin and cocaine. Jackson, in turn, supplied drugs to Montero and the Hills. Jackson also supplied heroin to Clinkscale, Hunter, Leonard, Adams and the Hills, according to the indictment.
Trina Hill maintained a premises on Ravenwood Avenue in Youngstown, for the purposes of distributing and storing drugs. Rogers, Jackson, Montero and Trina Hill possessed firearms and U.S. currency as part of the conspiracy, according to the indictment.
Jackson, Montero, Rogers and Hunter are charged with being felons in possession of firearms and ammunition.
In a related case, seven people were charged in a 35-count indictment with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin. The conspiracy took place in 2015 and was focused on heroin distribution in Youngstown.
Indicted are: Richard L. Jones, 50, of Ravenna; Willie J. Beacham, 69, of Youngstown; Terrell L. Leonard, 38, of Youngstown; Ronald C. Gilbert, 40, of Youngstown; Shajehan Haywood, 45, of Youngstown; Ricky C. Jordan, 33, of North Lima, and Shane S. Blair, 38, of Sebring.
Jones supplied heroin to Haywood and Leonard, who then sold the drugs to Blair, Beacham, Gilbert, and Jordan for distribution in the Youngstown area, according to the indictment.
In another related case, a 20-count indictment was filed charging three people with distributing heroin in the Ravenna area.
Indicted are: Antonio D. Liddell, 37, of Ravenna; Daryl Keith Jones, 50, of Ravenna, and Brook Brooks, 36, of Twinsburg.
Jones and Brooks travelled to Michigan to obtain heroin and then, along with Liddell, sell it around Ravenna. This took place from as early as November 2015 through January 2016, according to the indictment.
“Today more than 20 people who bring heroin to our neighborhoods were taken off the street,” said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja. “Ohio has been devastated by heroin and opioids over the past few years. This is an example of law enforcement working together to lock up dangerous people supplying the drugs.”
“These individuals brought heroin, cocaine and violence to our community,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony. “This multi-agency, multi-state roundup is another example of the collaborative efforts engaged in by local and federal law enforcement agencies in an effort to rid our streets of drugs and the dangerous individuals that supply them.
“These charges and the arrest of 22 people in Youngstown and Ravenna demonstrate that the drug epidemic is as significant in Northeast Ohio as anywhere in the United States,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Timothy Plancon. “Investigating and bringing to justice the individuals that are contributing to Ohio’s opioid epidemic, and its related violence and societal costs, is DEA’s and our partner’s top priority.”
Captain Larry Limbert of the Portage County Sheriff's Office/Portage County Drug Task Force said: “Without a cooperative effort between local and federal agencies we would not have been as successful in shutting down this large-scale narcotics organization.”
“ATF remains committed to removing violent offenders from our community,” said Trevor Velinor, Special Agent in Charge for ATF 'a Columbus Field Division. “We look forward to continuing to work with our partners at all levels to make our citizens safer.”
If convicted, the defendants’ sentences 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 violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
The joint investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Mahoning Valley Law Enforcement Task Force, the Portage County Drug Task Force and the Youngstown Police Department, with the assistance of the Mahoning County Prosecutor’s Office. The cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David M. Toepfer.
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.
Lima woman indicted for having large amount of carfentanilRead the Press Release
A Lima woman was indicted for having a large amount of carfentanil, said David A. Sierleja, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Nancy Garza, 32, was indicted on one count of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.
Garza had more than 52 grams of carfentanil on July 20, according to the indictment.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after reviewing 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 investigating agencies in this case are the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Lima Police Department in conjunction with the West Central Ohio Crime Task Force in Lima. The case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas P. Weldon
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Former Summit County councilwoman sentenced to five years in prison for taking bribesRead the Press Release
A former Summit County councilwoman was sentenced to five years in prison for taking bribes in exchange for trying to influence court proceedings and investigations, said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja and FBI Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony.
Tamela Lee, 58, of Akron, was convicted by a jury earlier this year on all six counts: conspiracy to commit honest services mail and wire fraud, honest services mail fraud, Hobbs Act conspiracy, violating the Hobbs Act, obstruction of justice and making false statements to law enforcement.
“This is a public official who used her office to collect cash, cigarettes, home repairs and other things that average citizens have to pay for,” Sierleja said. “She violated the public’s trust and is now being held accountable for her actions.”
"Tamela Lee, a community councilwoman elected by the citizens she was supposed to lawfully represent, was motivated by her own self- interests and greed,” Anthony said. “The FBI is pleased Ms. Lee is being held accountable for these criminal actions. The FBI will continue to root out public corruption, whether it is elected officials that violate their oath and the law or citizens that bribe them to do so.”
Lee solicited and accepted things from Omar Abdelqader, including money, loans, campaign contributions, home improvements, home maintenance and consumer goods. These were provided directly by Omar Abdelqader, or through Bi-Rite and totaled more than $6,500, according to court documents and testimony.
In return, Lee performed and promised to perform official acts for Omar Abdelqader and other businesses in Akron for which he served as a conduit to Lee. These actions included helping Omar Abdelqader and his designees navigate government bureaucracy, achieve favorable outcomes in judicial and administrative proceedings and obtain streamlined access to information, according to court documents and testimony.
Omar Abdelqader was affiliated with several convenience stores and other businesses in the Akron area, including the Bi-Rite on Diagnonal Road. Abdelrahman Abdelqader is his brother and Samir Abdelqader is his nephew, according to court documents.
On June 8, 2014, Omar and Samir Abdelqader discussed Samir obtaining a bond regarding criminal charges he was facing. About 40 minutes later, Omar and Lee discussed the councilwoman emailing or calling the judge. On June 12, Lee called Judge 2’s chambers several times. The next day Lee asked Omar for money, and he directed her to the Bi-Rite to collect the money, according to court documents and testimony.
On June 14, 2014, Lee sent a text message to Omar informing him that the judge and bailiff returned her call. She then sent a text message to Omar stating: “I am going to bed, I am angry and frustrated and broke…bye,” according to according to court documents and testimony.
Later that day, Omar instructed Lee to send her daughter to the Bi-Rite to pick up cash. Three days later, Lee spoke to Judge 2 and told the judge she was related to Samir Abdelqader, according to court documents and testimony.
In July 2014, Lee and Omar spoke repeatedly about fundraising for her campaign. Omar told Person 9 that he had collected $800 in donations for Lee. Omar explained the Lee provided service. “In other words, I am keeping her because we need her, man,” Omar told Person 9, who responded: “She is better than an attorney to us!” according to court documents and testimony.
Omar Abdelqader, of North Canton, Abdelrahman Abdelqader, of Canton, and Samir Abdelqader, of Fairlawn, have pleaded guilty to crimes related to this case.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Linda Barr and Elliot Morrison following an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Akron Police Department.
Ohio Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Soliciting Murder of U.S. Military MembersRead the Press Release
Terrence J. McNeil, 24, of Akron, Ohio, was sentenced today to 20 years in prison for soliciting the murder of members of the U.S. military. McNeil pleaded guilty earlier this year to five counts of solicitation to commit a crime of violence and five counts of making threatening interstate communications.
Acting Assistant Attorney General for National Security Dana J. Boente, Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja and Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony of the FBI’s Cleveland Division made the announcement.
“With this sentence, McNeil is being held accountable for disseminating ISIS’s violent rhetoric, circulating U.S. military personnel information and explicitly calling for the killing of American service members in their homes and communities,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Boente. “The National Security Division will continue to investigate and prosecute those who use social media to threaten acts of violence against our military members and their families, on behalf of terrorist organizations.”
“This defendant was dedicated to attacking members of the military here in the United States,” Acting U.S. Attorney Sierleja said. “This kind of fanaticism is dangerous and will be aggressively prosecuted.”
“It is reassuring knowing that Terrence McNeil will spend a significant amount of time behind bars for the crimes he committed. The FBI will continue to aggressively defend First Amendment rights, however in this case, McNeil went far beyond free speech by reposting names and addresses of 100 U.S. service members, all with the intent to have them killed,” said Special Agent in Charge Anthony. “The FBI will remain vigilant in our efforts to stop those who wish to support these despicable acts.”
According to documents filed in the case:
McNeil professed his support on social media on numerous occasions for the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham, a designated foreign terrorist organization. On or about Sept. 24, 2015, using a Tumblr account, McNeil reblogged a file with the banner “Islamic State Hacking Division,” followed by “Target: United States Military” and “Leak: Addresses of 100 U.S. Military Personnel.”
The file type is a .gif file, which allows multiple still images to be looped in one file, with a timed delay between each image. The text of the first file reads “O Brothers in America, know that the jihad against the crusaders is not limited to the lands of the Khilafah, it is a world-wide jihad and their war is not just a war against the Islamic State, it is a war against Islam…Know that it is wajib (translated to “necessary”) for you to kill these kuffar! and now we have made it easy for you by giving you addresses, all you need to do is take the final step, so what are you waiting for? Kill them in their own lands, behead them in their own homes, stab them to death as they walk their streets thinking that they are safe…”
The file then loops several dozen photographs, purportedly of U.S. military personnel, along with their respective name, address and military branch. The final image looped is a picture of a handgun and a knife with text that reads “…and kill them wherever you find them…”
The defendant posted multiple other kill lists in late 2015, all of which repeated the same refrain, calling on others to seek out and murder U.S. servicemen and women.
McNeil also researched the price online of firearms for sale and possessed detailed bomb-making instructions, according to court documents.
The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force in Cleveland investigated this case. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christos Georgalis and Michelle Baeppler of the Northern District of Ohio, with assistance from Trial Attorney Jennifer Levy of the Counterterrorism Section of the Justice Department’s National Security Division.
ISIS supporter from Akron sentenced to 20 years in prison for soliciting murder of U.S. service membersRead the Press Release
An Akron man was sentenced to 20 years in prison for soliciting the murder of members of the U.S. military.
Terrence J. McNeil, 24, pleaded guilty earlier this year to five counts of solicitation to commit a crime of violence and five counts of making threatening interstate communications.
The sentencing was announced by Acting Assistant Attorney General for National Security Dana J. Boente, Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja and Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony of the FBI’s Cleveland Division.
"With this sentence, McNeil is being held accountable for disseminating ISIS's violent rhetoric, circulating U.S. military personnel information and explicitly calling for the killing of American service members in their homes and communities," said Acting Assistant Attorney General Boente. "The National Security Division will continue to investigate and prosecute those who use social media to threaten acts of violence against our military members and their families, on behalf of terrorist organizations."
“This defendant was dedicated to attacking members of the military here in the United States,” Acting U.S. Attorney Sierleja said. “This kind of fanaticism is dangerous and will be aggressively prosecuted.”
“It is reassuring knowing that Terrence McNeil will spend a significant amount of time behind bars for the crimes he committed. The FBI will continue to aggressively defend First Amendment rights, however in this case, McNeil went far beyond free speech by reposting names and addresses of 100 U.S. service members, all with the intent to have them killed,” said Special Agent in Charge Anthony. “The FBI will remain vigilant in our efforts to stop those who wish to support these despicable acts.”
According to documents filed in the case:
McNeil professed his support on social media on numerous occasions for the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham, a designated foreign terrorist organization.
On or about Sept. 24, 2015, using a Tumblr account, McNeil reblogged a file with the banner “Islamic State Hacking Division,” followed by “Target: United States Military” and “Leak: Addresses of 100 U.S. Military Personnel.”
The file type is a .gif file, which allows multiple still images to be looped in one file, with a timed delay between each image. The text of the first file reads “O Brothers in America, know that the jihad against the crusaders is not limited to the lands of the Khilafah, it is a world-wide jihad and their war is not just a war against the Islamic State, it is a war against Islam…Know that it is wajib (translated to “necessary”) for you to kill these kuffar! and now we have made it easy for you by giving you addresses, all you need to do is take the final step, so what are you waiting for? Kill them in their own lands, behead them in their own homes, stab them to death as they walk their streets thinking that they are safe…”
The file then loops several dozen photographs, purportedly of U.S. military personnel, along with their respective name, address and military branch.
The final image looped is a picture of a handgun and a knife with text that reads “…and kill them wherever you find them…”
The defendant posted multiple other kill lists in late 2015, all of which repeated the same refrain, calling on others to seek out and murder U.S. servicemen and women.
McNeil also researched the price online of firearms for sale and possessed detailed bomb-making instructions, according to court documents.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris N. Georgalis and Michelle M. Baeppler, with assistance from Trial Attorney Jennifer Levy of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section, following an investigation by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force in Cleveland.
Couple who operated Akron restaurant sentenced to prison for harboring and hiring undocumented workers, not paying taxesRead the Press Release
Two people who operated an Akron restaurant were sentenced to prison for harboring and hiring undocumented workers, law enforcement officials said.
Zhou Qiang Zou, was sentenced to 18 months in prison, to be followed by deportation. Xin Hsu was sentenced to nine months incarceration followed by nine months of house arrest. They are married and live in Akron. Both are 35 years old.
They were among the operators of the Royal Buffet and Grill restaurant in the Chapel Hill area of Akron. Hsu, Zou and others conspired to harbor and harbored at least 10 undocumented workers for the purpose of commercial advantage and private financial gain. The conspiracy included employing the undocumented workers at the Royal Buffet and Grill, where they worked for below minimum wage or only for tips, according to court documents.
Hsu, Zou and others also failed to report and pay taxes on cash receipts for nearly a decade, resulting in a tax loss of at least $1.5 million.
The defendants also housed the undocumented workers at one of their residences on Annapolis Avenue in Akron and transported them to and from the Royal Buffet and Grill as part of the conspiracy. Hsu, Zou and others housed as many as 14 undocumented workers at one time inside a single-family house, according to court documents.
“These defendants violated immigration and tax laws, taking advantage of their workers and the taxpayers,” said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja.
“Employers have a legal responsibility to hire and maintain an authorized workforce. Those who circumvent our immigration system will be held accountable,” said Steve Francis, Acting Special Agent in Charge of HSI’s Detroit office.
“Individuals who corruptly violate the law to further their business interests and intentionally evade paying their fair share of taxes undermine public confidence in our tax system and unfairly disadvantage businesses that play by the rules,” said Ryan L. Korner, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office. “As these defendants have discovered, operating outside the law and failing to pay taxes have severe consequences."
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Teresa Riley and Robert J. Patton following an investigation by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations.
Akron men indicted for passing counterfeit cashRead the Press Release
Three Akron men were indicted for trying to pass counterfeit currency at the Summit Mall, said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja.
Narlon Portis, Jr., 22, Rubin Smith, 21, and Christopher Cutlip, 21, were charged in the four-count indictment with making, possessing, uttering and dealing in counterfeit obligations or securities.
Portis, Smith and Cutlip passed and attempted to pass counterfeit U.S. currency at Summit Mall in Fairlawn on June 14, 2017. Mall security contacted the Fairlawn Police Department after one of the businesses reported the trio passed counterfeit $10 bills. Fairlawn Police located the suspects outside of the mall, found a large number of counterfeit bills and were arrested, according to court documents.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Secret Service and the Fairlawn Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Teresa L. Riley.
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.
Tuscarawas County man indicted for child pornography crimesRead the Press Release
Elmer S. McMasters, 28, of Uhrichsville, was charged with receiving, distributing and possessing visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, said David A. Sierleja, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
McMasters knowingly received and distributed numerous computer files which contained visual depictions of real minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. This took place between October 2016 through March 2017. On April 18, 2017, McMasters possessed a cellular phone which contained child pornography, according to the indictment.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant's role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael A. Sullivan following an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Canton Police Department.
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.
Parma man sentenced to 17 ½ years in prison for sexually exploiting teen girlRead the Press Release
A Parma man was sentenced to 17 1/2 years in prison for sexually exploiting a 14-year-old girl, said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja and Stephen D. Anthony, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Cleveland Office.
A jury last year convicted Richard Purnell, 56, of sex trafficking of children.
“This is a child rapist who deserves every day of this prison sentence,” Sierleja said. “This case is further proof that human trafficking happens all around us. We will go after customers as well as people who profit from human trafficking.”
“Purnell chose to repeatedly victimize a 14-year-old girl for his own sexual gratification without any regard for what is legally or morally acceptable," said Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony of the FBI Cleveland Division. "His actions are reprehensible and unacceptable. The FBI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to aggressively pursue and bring to justice those who engage in human trafficking.”
Purnell repeatedly engaged in commercial sex acts with the 14-year-old, whose images were posted on the website backpage.com by Ronnie Pratt. He continued to engage in commercial sex acts with the girl even after she told him she was only 14 years old, according to trial testimony.
Pratt is serving 14 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to sex trafficking charges.
The Purnell case is the first time a customer has been prosecuted federal in a human trafficking case in the Northern District of Ohio.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bridget M. Brennan and Linda Barr following an investigation by the FBI’s Child Exploitation Task Force. The Child Exploitation Task Force is comprised of the FBI, Adult Parole Authority, Cleveland Metro Housing Authority, Cleveland Police Department and Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Office. The Parma Police Department provided substantial assistance to the investigation.
Highland Heights man faces likely sentence of 12 years in prison for selling fentanyl that killed Cleveland teenRead the Press Release
A Highland Heights man pleaded guilty to selling furanyl fentanyl that resulted in the fatal overdose of a Cleveland teen, said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja and Cleveland Police Chief Calvin Williams.
Alec J. Steinberger, 22, is scheduled to be sentenced Oct 31. Under the terms of his plea agreement, he faces a likely sentence of 12 years in prison.
Steinberger pleaded guilty to distribution of a controlled substance the resulted in death, possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, attempted possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute and use of a communication facility in furtherance of a drug offense.
“We continue to go after drug dealers who sell opioids that kill our children, friends and neighbors,” Sierleja said. “Aggressive prosecution, combined with increased treatment, prevention and changes in prescribing practices are key to turning the tide on the heroin and opioid epidemic.”
“Investigators of the Heroin Death Investigation Team are trained to investigate heroin overdose cases and link the victims back to the dealers,” said Cleveland Division of Police Chief Calvin D. Williams. “It is through the combined efforts of law enforcement, at the local, state and federal levels, and prosecutors of the U.S. Attorney’s Office that these indictments are secured and convictions are won. It is the hope that these examples will deter others from continuing this deadly cycle.”
Beginning on Jan. 30, 2016, Steinberger received Alprazolam (also known as Xanax) and furanyl fentanyl for distribution. Furanyl fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid. These drugs came to Steinberger through the mail, according to the indictment.
On Feb. 23, 2016, Steinberger texted an associated: “I just got a pack bro.” He then informed several people that he had drugs for sale, including a man identified in the indictment only as L.H.
Steinberger texted L.H. repeatedly the next day. Messages included: “bro I did it last night any my pupils got so small they disappeared and then I was nodding for 18 hrs,” “Bro this is uncut from the road” and “this is uncut from china,” according to the indictment.
Steinberger then repeatedly texted L.H. if he knew anyone that could cut or dilute the drugs and repackage it for sale. Steinberger texted: “We gonna chill tmr” “and go to the hood and give samples” and “try and find out how to cut and re rock,” according to the indictment.
Shortly after midnight on Feb. 25, Steinberger texted L.H.: “Find me customers and tell them you’re the plug and I’ll get it to you and then sell it and cut u in a tiny bit and throw u a free (Klonopin) and dope,” according to the indictment.
On Feb. 25, L.H. fatally overdosed on furanyl fentanyl he bought from Steinberger, according to the indictment.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew J. Cronin following an investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and Cleveland Division of Police.
Akron man indicted for firearms crimeRead the Press Release
An Akron man was indicted on federal firearms charges.
Quincey T. Smith, 26, was indicted on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
The indictment alleges that on or about June 28, 2017, Smith did knowingly possess in and affecting interstate and foreign commerce, a 9mm pistol, along with ammunition.
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, Firearms and Explosives, and the Akron Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Linda H. Barr.
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.
Youngstown man indicted for failing to register as sex offenderRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury returned a one-count indictment charging Keith Wilson, 36, of Youngstown, with failing to register as a sex offender, said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja and U.S. Marshal Peter Elliott.
The indictment alleges that on or about July 11, 2017, Wilson, a person required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, traveled in interstate commerce and did knowingly fail to register, or update a registration.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the United States Marshal Service. The matter is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David M. Toepfer.
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.
Two Ohio men indicted on firearms chargesRead the Press Release
Two Ohio men were indicted on federal firearms charges, said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja.
Indicted are Ronald A. Stevens, 44, of Youngstown, and Christopher Ray Damron, 33, of Sherrodsville.
Both are charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Their case are unrelated.
Damron on March 22, 2017, possessed a Colt, model Mustang Pocketlite, .380 pistol, and ammunition, despite prior convictions in Summit County for rape and attempted intimidation of a witness, according to the indictment.
Stevens possessed Rohm, model RG38, .38 revolver, and ammunition on April 8, 2017, despite a prior felony conviction for attempted felonious assault, according to the indictment.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
Both cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David M. Toepfer following investigations by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The Youngstown Police Department also investigated the Stevens cases while the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office also investigated the Damron case.
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.
Ravenna man charged with armed bank robbery and brandishing a firearmRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment charging Cameron Cleveland, 39, of Ravenna, with armed bank robbery and brandishing a firearm during the robbery, said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja and FBI Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony.
Cameron Cleveland used force, intimidation and a firearm to rob the Huntington Bank in Ravenna on July 10, 2017. On that same day, Cleveland knowingly used and brandished a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, according to the indictment.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Ravenna Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David M. Toepfer.
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.
Marion man sentenced to more than 18 years in prison for armed bank robberiesRead the Press Release
A Marion man was sentenced to more than 18 years in prison for robbing two banks in Marion last summer.
A jury convicted Ronald R. Myles, Jr., 35, earlier this year of robbing two Commercial Savings Bank branches in June 2016. U.S. District Judge Jack Zouhary sentenced Myles to 222 months in prison.
Myles wore a ski mask, pointed a firearm at bank employees and threatened them during the robberies, according to trial testimony and court documents.
Myles served eight years in state prison for two previous robberies, according to court documents.
Marion County Sheriff Tim Bailey said: "I am grateful for the efforts of my office, the Marion City Police Department, the FBI, the citizens who provided information to assist with the investigation, and also the U.S. Attorney's Office. Ultimatley the cooperation of all of these agencies and individuals assisted with the arrest and conviction of Mr. Myles who is no longer a threat to our community or others on behalf of everyones efforts."
“Any time we can take a dangerous criminal out of our community is a positive step in making Marion a better place to live,” Marion Police Chief William Collins said. “Law enforcement from the city, county and on a federal level work well together on major crimes as is evidenced in this case.”
“This prison sentence removes a dangerous person from the streets of Marion,” Acting U.S. Attorney David Sierleja said. “The FBI and Marion Police Department demonstrated once again that they work together to make our communities safer.”
“Ronald R. Myles, Jr. put the life of a bank teller and customer in jeopardy when he used a deadly weapon during the commission of the bank robberies,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony. “It is defendants like Mr. Myles that the FBI and our local partners will not tolerate and who will be held accountable for such violent acts.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office and the Marion Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tracey Ballard Tangeman and Thomas P. Weldon.
Chinese national living in Massachusetts arrested and charged with distributing opioids that were shipped from China to the U.S. and ultimately to OhioRead the Press Release
A Chinese national living in Massachusetts was arrested and charged with distributing opioids and other drugs that were shipped from China to the United States and ultimately to Ohio, law enforcement officials said.
Bin Wang, 42, operated Cambridge Chemicals, Wonda Science, and other companies from a warehouse in Woburn, Massachusetts.
Law enforcement began investigating shipments of carfentanil, fentanyl and other opioids in August 2016, after a series of fatal overdoses in Northeast Ohio, according to a criminal complaint filed in the case.
That investigation led them to several Chinese web sites, which they learned were selling kilogram amounts of fentanyl and fentanyl analogues, which were shipped via private carriers such as FedEx. One of the web sites was used to purchase acetylfentanyl that caused the overdose deaths of two Summit County residents in 2015, according to the affidavit.
Beginning in November 2016, undercover agents began ordering opioids and other drugs from a man in China identified at “Gordon Jin.” The agents wired money to China using Western Union or MoneyGram. Investigators learned Jin sent the drugs Wang in Massachusetts, who in turn mailed the drugs domestically, including to locations in Northeast Ohio, according to the affidavit.
The affidavit details numerous sales and shipments of drugs from China to Massachusetts to Ohio from November 2016 through this month.
“Increasingly, the opioids that are killing our friends and neighbors are being sent here from China,” said Acting U.S. Attorney David Sierleja. “Shutting down this pipeline will help in our efforts to turn the tide on the opioid epidemic. We will focus on prevention, education, and aggressive law enforcement, both here and around the world.”
DEA Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. Plancon said: “The importation of opioids and other synthetic drugs from China has played a significant role in America’s current drug use epidemic. Over 60,000 people a year die from drug overdoses in this country, and halting all methods of drug trafficking, including by way of the Internet is a top priority of the DEA. This investigation makes clear that geographic and technological hurdles will not stop DEA and our partners from bringing to justice those responsible for the illegal distribution of drugs in the U.S.”
“As opioids and other dangerous drugs continue to plague our communities in Ohio, a unified law enforcement community is the only way to stem the tide of this dangerous and deadly epidemic,” said Steve Francis, special agent in charge HSI Detroit, which covers Michigan and Ohio. “In order to have a significant impact, these organizations must be attacked from the street-level dealer to the wholesale distributor.”
“This investigation is a great example of a collaborative effort of federal agencies and a local drug task force working together to identify and track down people and organizations that are responsible for the ever-increasing shipments of very powerful synthetic opiates into Ohio,” said Don Hall, director of the MEDWAY Drug Enforcement Agency.
The investigation is ongoing.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew J. Cronin following an investigation by the DEA, Homeland Security Investigations and the Medway Drug Enforcement Agency, a drug task force serving Wayne County.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
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.
Canton man sentenced to 10 years in prison for child pornography crimesRead the Press Release
A Canton man was sentenced to more than 10 years in prison for child pornography crimes, said Acting U.S. Attorney David Sierleja and Stephen D. Anthony, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Cleveland Office.
Matthew Ungashick, 40, was sentenced to 121 months in prison. He knowingly received and distributed numerous computer files which contained visual depictions of real minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct in July 2016. He also possessed a two external computer hard drives and numerous computer disks, each of which contained child pornography, according to court documents.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael A. Sullivan following an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Canton Police Department.
Three men indicted for illegally reentering the U.S.Read the Press Release
Three men were indicted for illegally reentering the United States, said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja.
Jacinto Guzaro-Brito, 31, was last deported to Guatemala on December 4, 2013. He was recently found in Tuscarawas County, according to the indictment.
Fredy Said Maradiaga-Zambrano, 28, was last deported to Honduras on May 30, 2014. He was recently found in Ashland County, according to the indictment.
Juan Carlos Alvarez-Jocobo, aka Juan Carlos Alvarez, aka Juan C. Alvarez, 30, was last deported to Mexico on October 19, 2012. He was recently found in Mahoning County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Karrie D. Howard is prosecuting the Brito and Zambrano cases following an investigation by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Department of Homeland Security and the New Philadelphia Police Department (Brito) and the Ashland Police Department (Zambrano).
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad J. Beeson is prosecuting the Jocobo case following an investigation by the Campbell Police Department and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Department of Homeland Security.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
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.
Seven men from Cuyahoga County indicted for firearms offensesRead the Press Release
Seven men from Cuyahoga County were indicted on federal firearms charges, said Acting U.S. Attorney David Sierleja and Trevor Velinor, ATF Special Agent in Charge for the Columbus Field Division.
Indicted are: Deonte Tate, 33; Michael Simpson, 38; Rondell Harris, 28; Isaac Hobbs, 34; Michael D. Gaines, 38; Russell G. Jackson, 32, and Andre Hatcher, 24. All the men live in Cleveland but Gaines, who lives in Maple Heights.
“This group of defendants included armed robbers, drug traffickers and a rapist, all of whom continued to carry guns and ammo the way other people carry a lunch box or briefcase,” Sierleja said. “We will keep working to take violent predators off the streets.”
“ATF is committed to combating gun violence throughout our country,” Velinor said. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners at the federal, state, and local level to make our communities safer.”
Tate had a .45-caliber pistol and ammunition on April 25, despite having prior felony convictions, including aggravated robbery with a firearm specification and felonious assault, drug trafficking and having weapons under disability, according to the indictment.
Simpson had a .38-caliber revolver on June 15, despite prior felony convictions for robbery, abduction, felonious assault and having weapons under disability, according to the indictment.
Harris had a 9 mm pistol on June 2 despite prior felony convictions for gross sexual imposition, having weapons under disability and possession of a deadly weapon while under detention, according to the indictment.
Hobbs had a .22-caliber long rifle on June 5 despite prior felony convictions including aggravated robbery with a firearms specification, attempted felonious assault and assault on a peace officer, according to the indictment.
Gaines had a 9 mm pistol and ammunition on June 14 despite prior felony convictions for rape, drug trafficking and assault on a peace officer, according to the indictment.
Jackson had a sawed-off shotgun, a .40-caliber pistol and ammunition on June 9 despite prior felony convictions for drug trafficking, according to the indictment.
Hatcher had a 9 mm pistol and ammunition on June 5 despite prior felony convictions for robbery with a firearms specification and felonious assault, according to the indictment.
These cases were investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the police departments of Cleveland, Solon and the Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after reviewing 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.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Defendants are entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Mentor man indicted for having images of children being sexually exploitedRead the Press Release
A grand jury returned a one-count indictment charging Kenneth Ray Evans, 51, of Mentor, with receiving visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, said David A. Sierleja, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant's role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian McDonough following an investigation by the Mentor Police Department and the FBI.
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.
Cleveland man indicted on child pornography chargesRead the Press Release
A Cleveland man was indicted on child pornography charges, said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja.
Richard Nunez, 34, was charged with receiving, distributing and possessing visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
Nunez knowingly received and distributed numerous computer files which contained visual depictions of real minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. This took place between Dec. 17, 2016, through May 26, 2017. On June 22, 2017, Nunez also possessed a laptop computer and an external hard drive, each of which contained child pornography, according to the indictment.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant's role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael A. Sullivan following an investigation by the Ohio Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the Cleveland office of the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations.
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.
Cleveland man indicted for carjackingRead the Press Release
A Cleveland man was charged with carjacking, said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja.
Shairon L. Motley-Lipscomb, 21, used violence on May 14 to take a 2008 Buick Enclave, according to the indictment.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant's role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Karrie D. Howard following an investigation by the Cleveland Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms.
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.
Cleveland man charged for failing to register as sex offenderRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury returned a one-count indictment charging Vernon L. Morris, 55, of Cleveland, with failure to register as a sex offender, said David A. Sierleja, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
The indictment charges that beginning on or about July 18, 2014, to on or about July 6, 2017, Morris failed to register, or update a registration, as a sex offender as required under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, after having traveled in interstate commerce.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the United States Marshals Service. The matter is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad J. Beeson.
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.
Canton man indicted on child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
A Canton man was indicted on child pornography charges, said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja.
Larry P. Smith, 65, was charged with receiving, distributing and possessing visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
Smith knowingly received and distributed numerous computer files which contained visual depictions of real minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. This took place between Oct. 7 and 10, 2013, according to the indictment.
The indictment also charges that on or about November 20, 2013, Smith possessed several laptop computers, an Apple computer and several external hard drives, each of which contained child pornography.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant's role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Carol M. Skutnik following an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Canton Police Department.
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.
Akron men indicted for trafficking crystal methamphetamineRead the Press Release
Two Akron men were indicted for trafficking crystal methamphetamine, said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja.
Gary G. Hite, Jr., 48, and Ugunda Giovanni Sanders, 44, were both charged with one count each of h possession of approximately 500 grams of crystal methamphetamine and conspiracy to possess and distribute approximately 500 grams of crystal methamphetamine.
Hite and Sanders were arrested on June 28, 2017, after being stopped by the Ohio State Highway Patrol in Summit County. A canine alerted on the vehicle during the traffic stop. More than 500 grams of crystal methamphetamine were located in several pieces of luggage in the trunk, according to the indictment.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
The matter is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Teresa L. Riley following an investigation by the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
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.
Jury convicts owner of Sandusky company for fraud related to Castalia FarmsRead the Press Release
The owner of a Sandusky company was convicted on multiple counts for his fraudulent conduct related to Castalia Farms, said Acting U.S. Attorney David Sierleja and Stephen D. Anthony, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Cleveland office.
Scott C. Wagner, 53, of Perkins Township, was convicted of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and multiple counts of wire fraud, mail fraud, concealment of money laundering and of use of criminally derived property.
According to trial testimony and documents filed in the case:
Castalia Farms was a hospitality facility owned by Owens-Illinois, Inc. and used by the company as a recreational facility since the 1930s. O-I closed the facility in 2012 and later sold the property.
The manager of Castalia Farms had an occasional need for industrial equipment and was a regular customer of Wagner and his company, Construction Equipment & Supply (CES), a Sandusky business that rented and sold industrial machinery and equipment for commercial use.
Wagner controlled the day-to-day operations of CES and submitted false invoices to manager Michael Conrad that were then passed on to O-I for equipment rentals that never occurred, purchases of construction supplies and other goods that never occurred, purchases of construction supplies that were far in excess of what was actually delivered, and other fraudulent billings.
For example, O-I was billed more than $350,000 for 532 days of renting a piece of equipment used to grind trees and other vegetation, when in reality the grinder was not at Castalia Farms for nearly all the time it was billed to O-I as a rental, according to court documents.
In October 2010, Conrad submitted to O-I a fraudulent invoice for $47,925 worth of landscaping work, purportedly done at Castalia Farms. The work was actually done at Wagner’s personal residence. O-I paid the invoice in December 2010, according to court documents.
In a different scheme, Kyklos Bearing International, LLC of Sandusky, paid false invoices Wagner submitted with the assistance of a Kyklos Bearing International employee. The invoices were false because they sought payment for goods that were never delivered by CES, according to court documents.
Conrad previously pleaded guilty to crimes related to his role in the conspiracy.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Gene Crawford and Adam Hollingsworth following an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation and the Erie County Sheriff’s Office.
Ohio man indicted for receiving and distributing images of children being sexually exploitedRead the Press Release
Keith Bollinger, 45, of McClure, was indicted for receipt and distribution of child pornography, said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja.
Bollinger received and distributed images of child sexual exploitation between January and June 2017, according to the indictment.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after reviewing 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 investigating agency in this case is the United States Secret Service. The case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tracey Ballard Tangeman.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Defendants are entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Mexican men indicted for reentering the U.S.Read the Press Release
Two Mexican men have been indicted for illegally re-entering the country, said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja.
Jose Martin Bautista-Mondragon, 46, was found to be in Ohio after being deported in 2014 and 2016, according to the indictment.
Oman Mendiola was found in Ohio after being deported in 2011, according to the indictment.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after reviewing 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 investigating agency in these cases is the Immigration and Customs Enforcement of the Department of Homeland Security. The cases are being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tracey Ballard Tangeman and Noah Hood.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Defendants are entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Akron man sentenced to 16 years in prison for selling fentanyl that resulted in fatal overdoseRead the Press Release
An Akron man was sentenced to 16 years in prison for selling fentanyl that caused a fatal overdose, law enforcement officials said.
Steven D. Daniels, 32, previously pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of fentanyl that resulted in death.
Daniels sold fentanyl that caused the 2016 fatal overdose of a person identified as T.B. in Akron, according to court documents.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Henry F. DeBaggis following an investigation by the Akron Police Department and Drug Enforcement Administration
Cleveland man sentenced to 2 1/2 years in prison for trafficking firearms bought at Medina gun showRead the Press Release
A Cleveland man was sentenced to 30 months in prison for illegally trafficking two dozen firearms purchased over a weekend at a gun show in Medina County, said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja and Trevor Velinor, ATF Special Agent in Charge for the Columbus Field Division.
Carlton H. Nunn, 36, pleaded guilty earlier this year to one count of making false and fictitious statements regarding the sale of firearms.
Nunn purchased 24 9 mm pistols from four dealers at the Medina Gun Show on Sept. 10 and 11, 2016. He attended the gun show with two people, identified as S.B. and J.B., who appeared to select the firearms and provided the cash to purchase the guns, according to court documents.
Nunn told at least one firearms dealer that he instructed a concealed carry class and the firearms were for use in his class. In reality, Nunn left pistols in the trunk of J.B. and S.B.’s car. Nunn knew J.B. for 30 years and knew he had been to prison, according to court documents.
One of the pistols Nunn purchased has been recovered at a crime scene in Canada. Nunn also admitted making illegal purchases of firearms at the Summit County Gun Show, according to court documents.
“This defendant put two dozen firearms out into our streets, and at least one has already been used in a crime,” Sierleja said. “People must obey the law or suffer the consequences.”
“ATF is committed to combating gun violence in our communities, including the individuals who provide firearms to people who are prohibited from having them,” Velinor said. “We will continue to work to make our communities safer by investigating and bringing to prosecution the individuals who enable violent criminals.”
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S Attorney Megan R. Miller following an investigation by the ATF.
Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Provide Material Support to Terrorists and Soliciting the Murder of a Federal JudgeRead the Press Release
Yahya Farooq Mohammad, 39, pleaded guilty today to one count of conspiracy to provide and conceal material support or resources to terrorists and one count of solicitation to commit a crime of violence.
Acting Assistant Attorney General for National Security Dana J. Boente, Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja for the Northern District of Ohio, Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony of the FBI’s Cleveland Field Division, and U.S. Marshal Peter J. Elliott of the Northern District of Ohio made the announcement. The U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Eastern District of Michigan supervised the prosecution of the solicitation to commit a crime of violence charge.
“The defendant conspired to provide and did provide material support to Anwar Al-Awlaki in response to his calls to support violent jihad,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Boente. “The National Security Division’s highest priority is counterterrorism and we will continue to pursue justice against those who seek to provide material support to terrorists.”
“This defendant conspired to attack our service members abroad as well as a judge in Toledo,” Acting U.S. Attorney Sierleja said. “He threatened the hallmarks of our democracy. He is a dangerous criminal who deserves a long prison sentence.”
“Conspiring to have a judge killed is not the way to avoid being prosecuted – now Mohammad will be held accountable for additional serious federal charges,” said Special Agent in Charge Anthony. “The FBI will continue to work with our partners to ensure the safety of those that uphold the rule of law. “
“Protecting the federal judiciary is our highest priority,” said U.S. Marshal Elliott. “This is an example where we were able to work with our law enforcement partners to protect a judge and bring charges against a dangerous individual.”
Mohammad is an Indian citizen who was an engineering student at Ohio State University between 2002 and 2004. He married a U.S. citizen in 2008. He and three other defendants – his brother, Ibrahim Mohammad, Asif Ahmed Salim, and Sultane Room Salim – were indicted by a federal grand jury in September 2015. The case against the remaining three defendants is pending. They have pleaded not guilty.
Mohammad admitted to conspiring with his co-defendants to travel to Yemen to provide thousands of dollars, equipment, and other assistance to Anwar Al-Awlaki, in an effort to support violent jihad against U.S. military personnel in Iraq, Afghanistan and throughout the world. Al-Awlaki was later designated as a global terrorist in 2010 and identified as a “key leader” of al-Qa’ida in the Arabian Peninsula, according to court documents.
On July 22, 2009, Mohammad travelled with two associates to Yemen to meet Awlaki and deliver the $22,000 that they had raised. Although they were unable to meet Awlaki in person, Mohammad and his associates did ensure that Awlaki received the money through a courier.
In addition to pleading guilty to conspiring to provide and conceal material support to terrorists, Mohammad also admitted to soliciting an undercover FBI employee (UCE), posing as a “hitman,” to kidnap and murder U.S. District Judge Jack Zouhary. In or about April 2016 – while the terrorism case was pending and assigned to Judge Zouhary – Mohammad told another inmate in the Lucas County Corrections Center in Toledo, Ohio that he wanted Zouhary kidnapped and murdered and that he was willing to pay $15,000 to have this carried out. The inmate provided Mohammad with the contact information for the UCE and stated that the UCE would need a $1,000 down payment before the murder could occur. The inmate also provided Mohammad with an agreed upon code to use when discussing the planned murder over the jail telephone.
On or about April 26, 2016, Mohammad called the UCE from the Lucas County Corrections Center. Using the agreed-upon code, Mohammad told the UCE he wanted to have Judge Zouhary killed. Mohammad agreed to provide the $1,000 down payment. When asked when he wanted the murder committed, Mohammad stated, “The sooner would be good, you know.” Over the ensuing days, Mohammad arranged to have a family member provide the $1,000 in cash to the UCE. On May 5, 2016, that family member met with the UCE and provided the UCE with $1,000 in cash. Mohammad later informed the inmate that the rest of the money for the murder was coming, according to court documents.
Under the terms of his plea agreement, Mohammad is expected to be sentenced to 27 ½ years in federal prison. Mohammad will be deported from the U.S. upon completion of his sentence, under the terms of his plea agreement.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Freeman, Matthew Shepherd and Christos N. Georgalis of the Northern District of Ohio, and Trial Attorneys Gregory Gonzalez and David Smith of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section, following an investigation by the FBI.
Former Ohio man pleads guilty to providing money to Anwar al-Awlaki and soliciting the murder of a federal judgeRead the Press Release
Yahya Farooq Mohammad, 39, pleaded guilty today to one count of conspiracy to provide and conceal material support or resources to terrorists and one count of solicitation to commit a crime of violence.
Acting Assistant Attorney General for National Security Dana J. Boente, Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja for the Northern District of Ohio, Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony of the FBI’s Cleveland Field Division, and U.S. Marshal Peter J. Elliott of the Northern District of Ohio made the announcement. The U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Eastern District of Michigan supervised the prosecution of the solicitation to commit a crime of violence charge.
“The defendant conspired to provide and did provide material support to Anwar Al-Awlaki in response to his calls to support violent jihad,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Boente. “The National Security Division’s highest priority is counterterrorism and we will continue to pursue justice against those who seek to provide material support to terrorists.”
“This defendant conspired to attack our service members abroad as well as a judge in Toledo,” Acting U.S. Attorney Sierleja said. “He threatened the hallmarks of our democracy. He is a dangerous criminal who deserves a long prison sentence.”
“Conspiring to have a judge killed is not the way to avoid being prosecuted – now Mohammad will be held accountable for additional serious federal charges,” said Special Agent in Charge Anthony. “The FBI will continue to work with our partners to ensure the safety of those that uphold the rule of law. “
“Protecting the federal judiciary is our highest priority,” said U.S. Marshal Elliott. “This is an example where we were able to work with our law enforcement partners to protect a judge and bring charges against a dangerous individual.”
Mohammad is an Indian citizen who was an engineering student at Ohio State University between 2002 and 2004. He married a U.S. citizen in 2008. He and three other defendants – his brother, Ibrahim Mohammad, Asif Ahmed Salim, and Sultane Room Salim – were indicted by a federal grand jury in September 2015. The case against the remaining three defendants is pending. They have pleaded not guilty.
Mohammad admitted to conspiring with his co-defendants to travel to Yemen to provide thousands of dollars, equipment, and other assistance to Anwar Al-Awlaki, in an effort to support violent jihad against U.S. military personnel in Iraq, Afghanistan and throughout the world. Al-Awlaki was later designated as a global terrorist in 2010 and identified as a “key leader” of al-Qa’ida in the Arabian Peninsula, according to court documents.
On July 22, 2009, Mohammad travelled with two associates to Yemen to meet Awlaki and deliver the $22,000 that they had raised. Although they were unable to meet Awlaki in person, Mohammad and his associates did ensure that Awlaki received the money through a courier.
In addition to pleading guilty to conspiring to provide and conceal material support to terrorists, Mohammad also admitted to soliciting an undercover FBI employee (UCE), posing as a “hitman,” to kidnap and murder U.S. District Judge Jack Zouhary. In or about April 2016 – while the terrorism case was pending and assigned to Judge Zouhary – Mohammad told another inmate in the Lucas County Corrections Center in Toledo, Ohio that he wanted Zouhary kidnapped and murdered and that he was willing to pay $15,000 to have this carried out. The inmate provided Mohammad with the contact information for the UCE and stated that the UCE would need a $1,000 down payment before the murder could occur. The inmate also provided Mohammad with an agreed upon code to use when discussing the planned murder over the jail telephone.
On or about April 26, 2016, Mohammad called the UCE from the Lucas County Corrections Center. Using the agreed-upon code, Mohammad told the UCE he wanted to have Judge Zouhary killed. Mohammad agreed to provide the $1,000 down payment. When asked when he wanted the murder committed, Mohammad stated, “The sooner would be good, you know.” Over the ensuing days, Mohammad arranged to have a family member provide the $1,000 in cash to the UCE. On May 5, 2016, that family member met with the UCE and provided the UCE with $1,000 in cash. Mohammad later informed the inmate that the rest of the money for the murder was coming, according to court documents.
Under the terms of his plea agreement, Mohammad is expected to be sentenced to 27 ½ years in federal prison. Mohammad will be deported from the U.S. upon completion of his sentence, under the terms of his plea agreement.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Freeman, Matthew Shepherd and Christos N. Georgalis of the Northern District of Ohio, and Trial Attorneys Gregory Gonzalez and David Smith of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section, following an investigation by the FBI.
Warren man indicted for stealing government fundsRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury indicted Dean Nikolaides, 63, of Warren, for theft of government funds, said David A. Sierleja, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Nikolaides fraudulently received approximately $82,000 in benefits over 14 years from the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation to which he knew he was not entitled. The PBGC is a federal agency that protects the retirement incomes of American workers in private-sector defined benefit pension plans, according to the indictment.
The PBGC Office of the Inspector General conducted the investigation. The Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General and the United States Postal Inspection Service aided in the investigation. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Lisa J. Sanniti is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, the court will determine the defendant’s sentence after a review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum. In most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
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.
Cleveland man sentenced to nearly five years in prison for violating Clean Air Act, illegally dumping garbageRead the Press Release
A Cleveland man was sentenced to nearly five years in prison and ordered to pay $7.8 million in restitution for violating the Clean Air Act by failing to remove asbestos prior to demolishing a former factory in Cleveland, Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja said.
Christopher Gattarello, 53, and Robert A. Shaw, Sr., 77, of Ypsilanti, Michigan also defrauded a Louisiana company out of $1.1 million. Shaw was sentenced to a year in prison.
U.S. District Judge Donald C. Nugent sentenced Gattarello to 57 months in prison. He ordered restitution of $5.9 million to the city of Cleveland to clean the site, nearly $800,000 to the U.S. EPA for work already done on the site, and $1.1 million to the defrauded Louisiana company.
“Mr. Gattarello created a garbage dump in a residential neighborhood near a school, which remains an environmental hazard,” Sierleja said. “He has caused irreparable harm and deserves this punishment.”
“The defendants in this case put unsuspecting workers at great risk and threatened the health and safety of the community when they failed to follow proper procedures for removing asbestos,” said Scot Adair, Acting Special Agent in Charge of EPA’s criminal enforcement program in Ohio. “This case demonstrates that EPA and its law enforcement partners will prosecute those who willingly break environmental laws in an attempt to cut costs.”
“Our goal is to protect Ohio’s families, and we work hard to ensure that people who commit crimes are held accountable for their actions,” Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine said. “Collaboration among agencies, which occurred in this case, is so important.”
“Let these sentencings stand as a warning to those who victimize the public that whether you are the main perpetrator of a fraud, or merely assist in its facilitation, the law will hold all guilty parties accountable,” said Ryan L. Korner, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office. “The successful prosecution of these individuals is a direct result of the excellent partnership that federal, state and kocal law enforcement has in combating violations of federal law."
According to court documents and testimony:
Gattarello owned and controlled several garbage-hauling businesses in Cleveland, including Reach Out Disposal, All Points Rubbish Disposal and Axelrod Rubbish Recycling. Shaw worked for Gattarello at those companies, while William Jackson operated a Cleveland building demolition company.
Gattarello leased the former National Acme facility on East 131st Street in Cleveland in 2011. The 570,000 square-foot facility was built in 1917 and was used for manufacturing for nearly a century. It is located near many homes and a school. Gattarello represented that paper and cardboard waste would be recycled at the facility. Removing asbestos from the facility would cost an estimated $1.5 million.
Gattarello directed paper and cardboard waste, as well as municipal garbage, be delivered to the facility for recycling. Over the next several months, more garbage, paper and cardboard were delivered than could be handled, and Gattarello had the waste moved inside. By 2012, most of the facility was filled with garbage.
Gattarello entered into a contract to purchase the facility in May 2012. He intended to demolish the facility and sell any metal removed as scrap.
In July 2012, Jackson submitted a notice of demolition with Cleveland stating there was no asbestos in the National Acme facility. About 10 days later, the city rejected Jackson’s notice and stated demolition could not begin until proper notice was submitted and approved. About 10 days after that, on July 21, 2012, Jackson began demolition at Gattarello’s direction.
Asbestos fibers were released into the environment during demolition. Debris accumulated outside the facility and asbestos in the piles were exposed to the wind and elements.
Jackson had pleaded guilty to related charges and is awaiting sentencing
Gattarello and Shaw also admitted to defrauding AIM Business Capital LLC. The Lousiana company specializes in “factoring” – a practice in which AIM purchases accounts receivable, such as invoices billed to customers for goods and services. Businesses that factored their receivables with AIM received immediate cash. AIM purchased the receivables at a percentage discount of the invoice. AIM made a profit by collecting the full amount of the invoice from the business’s customers.
Shaw entered into contracts with AIM for the purchase of receivables from Reach Out and Axelrod in 2011 and 2012. Gattarello directed the creation of false and fraudulent invoices for the companies and directed that they be submitted to AIM. In some cases, Gattarello and Shaw directed other employees to create false letters attesting to the validity of the invoices, which Shaw forwarded to AIM. The loss to AIM was $1.1 million.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brad Beeson and Chelsea Rice following an investigation by the U.S. and Ohio Environmental Protection Agencies, the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service.
Ohio Insurance Salesman Sentenced to Prison for Failure to File Income Tax Returns and Failure to Pay TaxesRead the Press Release
An insurance salesman and former resident of Parma, Ohio was sentenced to 37 months in prison today following his conviction in December 2016 for failing to file income tax returns and failing to pay taxes, announced Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja for the Northern District of Ohio.
According to documents and information provided to the court, John Christopher Raschella, 57, of Estero, Florida, failed to pay more than $1 million in income taxes, interest and penalties that he owed to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for 1995, 1996, and 1998 through 2012. During those years, Raschella sold insurance, and earned additional income working for other insurance salesmen.
Between 1989 and 2012, Raschella failed to timely file income tax returns with the IRS. For several years, Raschella filed delinquent returns, reporting that he owed taxes, but failed to make the required payments. For other years, the IRS assessed Raschella’s taxes and sent him letters notifying him of the amount he owed, but Raschella still did not pay.
Raschella used a series of nominee entities to prevent the IRS from collecting his unpaid taxes. For example, formed two companies, Resource One, Corporation and Legacy Foundation International and deposited his insurance commissions into bank accounts that he opened in their names. He assigned his insurance commissions to Resource One and as a result, the company reported to the IRS that the income had been paid to the company instead of to individually. The insurance company revoked the assignment after learning that had concealed from a county government agency the fact that Resource One was his company. Raschella also caused a phony levy release to be sent to the insurance company that purported to be issued by the IRS. In response, the insurance company substantially reduced the amount of ’s insurance commissions that it paid over to the IRS in response to the levy.
In addition to the term of imprisonment, Raschella was ordered to serve one year of supervised release and to pay restitution to the IRS in the amount of $573,157.13.
“For more than two decades, John Raschella tried to thwart the IRS’s ability to assess and collect the taxes he owed,” said Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Goldberg. “Everyone has a legal obligation to pay their fair share and today’s sentence makes clear that those who willfully violate this duty face significant consequences including prosecution and jail.”
“Failing to file or pay taxes due are abuses of the federal tax system that affect us all,” said Chief Don Fort of IRS Criminal Investigation (CI). “Today’s sentencing reaffirms that if you participate in these types of abusive tax schemes, you may go to jail. The American tax system is designed to provide vital government services to our people. It is not a pick-and-choose yearly decision as to whether you will obey the law and pay your owed taxes. IRS-CI and the Department of Justice will remain vigilant in ferreting out such schemes that cheat both the federal government and honest taxpayers.”
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Goldberg and Acting U.S. Attorney Sierleja thanked special agents of IRS-CI, who conducted the investigation, and Trial Attorneys Melissa S. Siskind and Jeffrey A. McLellan of the Tax Division, who prosecuted the case. They also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert J. Patton of the Northern District of Ohio, who provided substantial assistance in this prosecution.
Additional information about the Tax Division’s enforcement efforts can be found on the division’s website.
North Olmsted man charged with selling misbranded drugsRead the Press Release
A North Olmsted man was charged in federal court with selling misbranded drugs, Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja said.
Khaled Farouk Elgayar, 50, received drugs that purported to treat erectile dysfunction and enhance sexual performance in men, including “African Superman,” “Hard Ten Days,” “Herb Viagra,” “libigrow,” “S.W.A.G” and “Triple PowerZEN,” according to the criminal information.
These products contained an undeclared drug ingredient, sildenafil, which is the active ingredient in FDA-approved prescription drugs used to treat erectile dysfunction. The labels of the products Elgayar sold failed to include the name and quantity of the drug ingredient, according to the information.
Undeclared drugs such as sildenafil may have serious potential side effects or may be harmful to consumers with certain pathological conditions. Additionally, undeclared drugs may interact dangerously with other prescription or non-prescription drugs the unwitting consumer might be taking. The labels for the products the defendant provided failed to adequately warn consumers of these contingencies, according to the information.
Elgayar received misbranded drugs and delivered or proffered delivery of those misbranded drugs between January and October 2016, according to the information.
“Disguising prescription drugs as harmless over-the-counter products can lead to serious consequences for unsuspecting buyers with dangerous underlying health conditions. It could also lead to dangerous interactions when combined with other drugs they may be taking,” said Special Agent in Charge Mark S. McCormack, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations, Metro Washington Field Office. “Our office will continue to pursue and bring to justice those who would endanger the public’s health in order to make a quick profit.”
If convicted, the court will determine defendant’s sentence 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 violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
The matter is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Megan R. Miller and Michael L. Collyer following an investigation by the Food and Drug Administration.
An information 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.
Former Parma insurance salesman sentenced to more than three years in prison for tax fraudRead the Press Release
A former Parma insurance salesman was sentenced to more than three years in prison for failing to file income tax returns and failing to pay taxes, announced Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja for the Northern District of Ohio.
According to documents and information provided to the court, John Christopher Raschella, 57, now of Estero, Florida, failed to pay more than $1 million in income taxes, interest and penalties that he owed to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for 1995, 1996, and 1998 through 2012. During those years, Raschella sold insurance, and earned additional income working for other insurance salesmen.
Between 1989 and 2012, Raschella failed to timely file income tax returns with the IRS. For several years, Raschella filed delinquent returns, reporting that he owed taxes, but failed to make the required payments. For other years, the IRS assessed Raschella’s taxes and sent him letters notifying him of the amount he owed, but Raschella still did not pay.
Raschella used a series of nominee entities to prevent the IRS from collecting his unpaid taxes. For example, Raschella formed two companies, Resource One, Corporation and Legacy Foundation International and deposited his insurance commissions into bank accounts that he opened in their names. He assigned his insurance commissions to Resource One and as a result, the company reported to the IRS that the income had been paid to the company instead of to Raschella individually. The insurance company revoked the assignment after learning that Raschella had concealed from a county government agency the fact that Resource One was his company. Raschella also caused a phony levy release to be sent to the insurance company that purported to be issued by the IRS. In response, the insurance company substantially reduced the amount of Raschella’s insurance commissions that it paid over to the IRS in response to the levy.
In addition to the term of imprisonment, Raschella was ordered to serve one year of supervised release and to pay restitution to the IRS in the amount of $573,157.13.
“For more than two decades, John Raschella tried to thwart the IRS’s ability to assess and collect the taxes he owed,” said Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Goldberg. “Everyone has a legal obligation to pay their fair share and today’s sentence makes clear that those who willfully violate this duty face significant consequences including prosecution and jail.”
“Failing to file or pay taxes due are abuses of the federal tax system that affect us all,” said Chief Don Fort of IRS Criminal Investigation (CI). “Today’s sentencing reaffirms that if you participate in these types of abusive tax schemes, you may go to jail. The American tax system is designed to provide vital government services to our people. It is not a pick-and-choose yearly decision as to whether you will obey the law and pay your owed taxes. IRS-CI and the Department of Justice will remain vigilant in ferreting out such schemes that cheat both the federal government and honest taxpayers.”
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Goldberg and Acting U.S. Attorney Sierleja thanked special agents of IRS-CI, who conducted the investigation, and Trial Attorneys Melissa S. Siskind and Jeffrey A. McLellan of the Tax Division, who prosecuted the case. They also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert J. Patton of the Northern District of Ohio, who provided substantial assistance in this prosecution.
Additional information about the Tax Division’s enforcement efforts can be found on the division’s website.
Bloomfield man indicted for selling drugs that resulted in fatal overdose of Ashtabula County motherRead the Press Release
A Bloomfield man was indicted in federal court for selling drugs that resulted in the death of an Ashtabula County woman last year, said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja.
Shawn Ray Smith, 29, was named in a seven-count indictment. The charges include distribution of fentanyl, heroin, cocaine and methamphetamine that resulted in the death of an Ashtabula County woman on Feb. 5, 2016.
The woman's mother told investigators that she was awakened by her grandchildren crying, saying, “Mommy won’t get up.” The woman's mother checked on her daughter and found her unresponsive, according to an affidavit filed in the case.
Additional counts include distribution of heroin and fentanyl, distribution of cocaine, distribution of heroin and distribution of methamphetamine. He was also charged with being a felon in possession of firearms.
Smith possessed three firearms, as well as ammunition, despite prior felony convictions that prohibited him from having firearms, including convictions for burglary (Ashtabula County) and aggravated drug trafficking (Geauga County), according to the indictment.
“This is another heartbreaking example of the devastating impact drugs are having on our community,” Sierleja said. “We will continue to seek long prison sentences for those who profit from other people’s misery.”
The charge related to the death of Knight carries a potential sentencing enhancement that would result in a mandatory sentence of at least 20 years in prison if convicted. If so, the the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Justin Seabury Gould and Marisa T. Darden following an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Ashtabula County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
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.
Rocky River man charged with money launderingRead the Press Release
A Rocky River man was charged with laundering more than $100,000 from investors and using at least some of it for personal expenses, said David A. Sierleja, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Mark Dulik, 31, was charged via criminal information with four counts of money laundering.
Dulik owned and operated Rework, Inc., based in Rocky River, which allegedly provided cloud-based software services. Dulik convinced several individuals to invest in Rework by convincing them that it was a legitimate, on-going business – when in fact Dulik converted the investors’ funds for his own personal use to pay for his lavish lifestyle, according to the information.
Investigators determined that Dulik used new investors’ money to pay dividends/interest payments back to older investors, representing to the earlier investors that the money represented profits from the company, when in fact it operated more like a Ponzi scheme, according to court documents.
Dulik took approximately $101,500 of investors’ money from Rework’s business account that he either used for his own use or falsely representing the funds were returns on earlier investments derived from profits of Rework.
If convicted, the court will determine defendant’s sentence 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 violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
The matter is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark S. Bennett following an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigation.
An information 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.