Northern District of Ohio
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Cleveland man indicted for robbing two Mansfield banksRead the Press Release
A Cleveland man was indicted for robbing two banks in Mansfield, said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja, FBI Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony and Mansfield Police Chief Kenneth Coontz.
Marty Taylor, 40, was indicted on two counts of bank robbery.
Taylor robbed the Richland Bank located at 50 Marion Avenue in Mansfield on Dec. 12, 2016. He also robbed the First Merit Bank located at 100 Park Avenue West in Mansfield on Jan. 17, 2017, according to the indictment.
If convicted, a defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal records, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Mansfield Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Mansfield Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States 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.
Cleveland man guilty of making illegal straw purchases at gun showRead the Press Release
A Cleveland man pleaded guilty to making illegal straw purchases of 24 firearms over two days at a gun show, said David A. Sierleja, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio and Trevor Velinor, ATF Special Agent in Charge for the Columbus Field Division.
Carlton H. Nunn, 36, is scheduled to be sentenced July 11.
Nunn purchased two dozen firearms from four dealers at an area gun show on Sept. 10 and 11, 2016. He knowingly and unlawfully made false and fictitious statements, intended to deceive dealers, that he was the actual buyer of said firearms when, in fact, he was not the actual buyer of said firearms, according to court documents and statements.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Megan R. Miller following an investigation by the ATF.
Akron man indicted for having methamphetamine and four firearmsRead the Press Release
An Akron man was indicted on federal drug and firearms charges, said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja.
Curtis Earl Tucker, Jr., aka Reginald T. Shannon, 36, was indicted on one count of possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition.
On March 9, 2017, Tucker possessed with the intent to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine and a Smith & Wesson SDVE, 9mm pistol, a Colt Trooper MK3, .357 magnum revolver, a Ruger, model P95, 9 mm pistol, and a Armi Tan Foglio .25 caliber pistol, and ammunition, despite a prior federal conviction for distribution of crack cocaine, 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 Drug Enforcement Administration and the Akron Police Department, Narcotics Unit. 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.
Toledo resident charged with theft of government fundsRead the Press Release
Marita Holland, 32, of Toledo, was charged via criminal information with theft of government funds, said David A. Sierleja, Acting U.S. Attorney.
Holland, in 2012, illegally received two checks from the U.S. Treasury totaling approximately $16,793, according to the information.
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 case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service and is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Gene Crawford.
An information 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.
Six indicted for shipping methamphetamine, heroin and cocaine from California to OhioRead the Press Release
Six people were indicted for their roles in a conspiracy to bring methamphetamine, heroin and cocaine to Ohio from California and then sell the drugs here and in West Virginia, Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja.
Named in the 19-count indictment are: Roya Tabatabai, 32, of Grafton; Omid Tabatabai, 36, of Los Angeles; Joshua Thacker, 36, of Elyria; Joseph Bratkovich, 41, of Wellington; Gabrielle Fry, 22, of California, and Nancy Rhode, 39, fo Maysel, W. Va.
Omid Tabatabai obtained multi-kilogram shipments of methamphetamine and cocaine from suppliers in Los Angeles. He and others would then mail weekly shipments of the drugs to his sister, Roya Tabatabai and others, according to the indictment.
Roya Tabatabai, in turn, distributed the methamphetamine to Thacker, Bratkovich, Rhodes and others in Ohio and West Virginia. She used her house at 36097 Capel Road in Grafton to store and distribute the methamphetamine and cocaine, according to the indictment.
Omid Tabatabai, Thacker and Bratkovich used firearms to protect their drug trafficking activities. The conspiracy took place between 2015 and this year, 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. Attorneys Vasile Katsaros and Phillip Tripi following an investigation by the DEA and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
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.
Bay Village man sentenced to more than six years in prison for $420,000 fraud involving concert ticketsRead the Press Release
A Bay Village man was sentenced to more than six years in prison for fraudulently buying concert and event tickets worth hundreds of thousands of dollars with stolen credit cards and then reselling them, law enforcement officials said.
Daniel Mercede, 29, pleaded guilty last year to charges of bank fraud, access devise fraud and operating an unlicensed money transmitting business. U.S. District Judge Sara Lioi sentenced Mercede to 79 months in prison and ordered him to pay $424,222 in restitution.
Mercede used stolen and fraudulently obtained credit card information from dozens of people to purchase tickets to concerts and events from ScoreBig, a California-based company that sells tickets, according to court documents.
He had the tickets sent to his or his parents’ homes in Chagrin Falls, where Mercede lived when he committed the crimes. He then resold the tickets – for events in Baltimore, Buffalo, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Seattle, St. Louis and Washington D.C. -- on StubHub, receiving the funds by check or through PayPal, according to court documents.
Mercede attempted to obtain more than $3 million in combined fraudulent proceeds between 2014 and last year, and obtained more than $424,222, according to court documents.
He used money for his own personal enrichment, including purchases of luxury cars, expensive jewelry and exotic vacations, according to court documents.
“Mr. Mercede was motivated solely by greed,” Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja said. “He has shown himself to be a serial scammer and identity thief who is a clear economic danger to the community. Prison is the proper place for him.”
“Mercede left a wake of financial damage with the numerous unlawful schemes he engaged in,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony. “The FBI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to ensure fraudsters serve their due time behind bars instead of on lavish vacations at the expense of others.”
"Daniel Mercede perpetrated a complex scheme involving identity theft and the illegal use of an unlicensed bitcoin exchange service that was driven by insatiable greed and a blatant disregard for the tremendous damage inflicted on innocent victims," said Frank S. Turner II, Acting Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office. "Be assured that IRS Criminal Investigation, together with our law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney's Office, will hold those who engage in similar behavior fully accountable."
“I would like to acknowledge the hard and diligent work of Detective Sergeant Andy Capwill,” said Chagrin Falls Police Chief Amber Dacek. “He really dug in to this case and gathered a good deal of the initial financial information that ultimately led to this prosecution. I am very pleased with the collaborative effort that went in to obtaining this conviction.”
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul Flannery and Matthew Kall following an investigation by the FBI, IRS, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Chagrin Falls Police and Westlake Police.
Berea man sentenced to 12 1/2 years in prison for selling heroin that resulted in fatal overdoseRead the Press Release
A Berea man was sentenced to 12 ½ years in prison for selling heroin that resulted in a fatal overdose last year, said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja.
U.S. District Judge Christopher A. Boyko sentenced Brandon Wagner to 150 months in prison.
Wagner, 43, was previously found guilty of distribution of heroin. Wagner sold heroin in March 2016 that resulted in the fatal overdose of a Lakewood man, according to court documents.
“Aggressive enforcement of the law will remain part of the solution to combating our state’s opioid epidemic,” Sierleja said. “The detectives who worked this case are to commended for their thorough investigation.”
“The crisis we have in our communities due to heroin and fentanyl is not a problem for just the addicted,” said Lakewood Police Chief Tim Malley. “The families and friends are just as intimately involved with the damage and sorrow this causes. The Lakewood Police Department will continue to investigate all of our overdose cases to hold those accountable that have participated in any way in ending someone’s life. Those selling the heroin know that fatal consequences are all too likely with what they are selling, all for a few dollars. The Lakewood Police Department will continue to work with the U.S. Department of Justice, the Cuyahoga County Prosecutors Office, and the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner to hold those accountable and take them off our streets for lengthy prison sentences.”
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Marisa Darden following an investigation by the Lakewood Police Department and the Northern Ohio Law Enforcement Task Force. The NOLETF is a task force comprised of investigators from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Cleveland Division of Police, Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority, Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service, Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Office, Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation and the police departments of Cleveland Heights, Euclid, Lakewood, the Regional Transit Authority, Westlake and Shaker Heights. The NOLETF is also one of the initial Ohio High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area initiatives, which supports and helps coordinate numerous Ohio drug task forces in their efforts to eliminate or reduce drug trafficking in Ohio.
Three indicted for shipping methamphetamine from California to AkronRead the Press Release
An Akron man and two from California were indicted for a methamphetamine conspiracy, said David A. Sierleja, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Jonathan Dowdell, 32, of Akron, Dwan Dowdell, 31, and Justin Jones, 26, both of San Bernardino, California were charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute approximately 900 grams of methamphetamine.
They were arrested by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service on Feb. 15 for shipping approximately 900 grams of methamphetamine from California to Akron, according to court documents.
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.
This case was investigated the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigation/ICE, Cleveland Police Department, Akron Police Department and Summit County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. States Attorney Teresa 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.
Seven from Cleveland indicted for stealing nearly $750,000 worth of cell phones from stores across 11 statesRead the Press Release
Seven people from Cleveland were indicted in federal court for a conspiracy in which they stole nearly $750,000 worth of cell phones and other electronics from shopping malls and kiosks in several states, law enforcement officials said.
Melvin Swinney, 21, Tyron Hicks, 30, Adolph Boyd III, 24, Jerome Goins, 21, Delante Hudson-Frost, 22, Dennis McKenzie, 20, and Padra Graves, 38, were indicted on charges of conspiring to transport stolen goods in interstate commerce. The indictment also charges 13 counts of transporting stolen goods in interstate commerce.
The seven co-defendants and others targeted shopping malls, kiosks, and retailers of cellular telephones and electronic devices. They broke into these stores or locked storage areas in Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, South Carolina and Ohio, including Summit Mall in Fairlawn and SouthPark Mall in Strongsville, according to the indictment,
The defendants stole the electronic devices, and returned to the Cleveland area to sell the stolen merchandise to individuals, gas stations and independent phone stores, according to the indictment.
The conspirators stole approximately $738,500 worth of cell phones and other electronic devices between April 24 and July 24, 2016, according to the indictment.
An eighth man, Darnell Foster, 20, also of Cleveland, was charged in a related case with one count of transporting stolen goods in interstate commerce.
“This group roamed the eastern half of the United States stealing phones and merchandise worth hundreds of thousands of dollars,” said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja. “Our partners at the FBI and Cleveland Police are to be commended for breaking up this sophisticated crime ring.”
“This gang-affiliated group traveled to numerous states to break into retail stores to steal hundreds of thousands of dollars in electronic devices,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony said. “Due to law enforcement's collaborative efforts, we are able to hold these criminals accountable for their unlawful acts.”
“The criminals named in this indictment have victimized multiple local businesses, causing significant damage and loss,” said Cleveland Police Chief Calvin Williams. “In addition, their crimes spread to multiple states and even overseas, showing what a damaging effect organized crime has on society. I am proud of the work done by the officers and agents in this case and grateful for the strong partnership the Cleveland Division of Police has with the Cleveland Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.”
Assistant United States Attorneys Megan R. Miller and Elliot D. Morrison are prosecuting the case following an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cleveland Division of Police.
If convicted, the court will determine the defendants’ sentences after a 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. 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.
Sandusky man indicted for trafficking cocaine and marijuanaRead the Press Release
A Sandusky man was indicted on charges of possession with intent to distribute cocaine and marijuana, said David A. Sierleja, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Deonte Graves, 34, had more than two kilograms of cocaine and more than a kilogram of marijuana, 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 Drug Enforcement Administration in Toledo. It is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael J. Freeman and Thomas P. Weldon.
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.
Orrville man indicted for selling fentanylRead the Press Release
An Orrville man was indicted on fentanyl trafficking charges, said David A. Sierleja, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Kenneth L. Johnson was indicted on one count of possession with the intent to distribute and distribution of fentanyl.
Johnson, originally from Chicago, sold two packages containing fentanyl to a person in Orrville, Ohio on Dec. 3, 2016, according to the indictment.
The matter is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron P. Howell following an investigation by the Orville Police Department, Medway Drug Enforcement Agents and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
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 each defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
If convicted, a defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendants’ prior criminal record, if any, the defendants’ roles in the offense and the characteristics of the violations.
East Cleveland man indicted for robbing two banks on West 25th StreetRead the Press Release
An East Cleveland man was indicted for robbing two banks on West 25th Street this year, said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja and FBI Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony.
Mark A. Lloyd, 31, robbed the Ohio Savings Bank on Jan. 30 of $918. Two weeks later he robbed the PNC bank of $4,238, according to the indictment.
Lloyd was arrested on Feb. 17 at Cleveland City Hall after a police officer working security there recognized Lloyd, particularly a tattoo of a gun underneath Lloyd’s right eye, according to court documents.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after reviewing factors unique to this case, including the defendants’ prior criminal record, the defendant's role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
This case was investigating by the FBI and the Cleveland Division of Police. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elliot D. Morrison and Megan Miller.
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.
Canton man indicted for trafficking crack cocaineRead the Press Release
A Canton man was indicted on crack cocaine trafficking charges, said David A. Sierleja, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Jamel A. Smith, 45, was indicted on five counts of possession with the intent to distribute and distribution of crack cocaine.
Smith sold crack cocaine on five separate occasions in the Canton area. In total, Smith sold approximately seventy grams of crack cocaine, according to the indictment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Aaron P. Howell following an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives 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 United States of America’s burden to prove each defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendants’ prior criminal record, if any, the defendants’ roles in the offense and the characteristics of the violations.
Bedford woman accused of embezzling $288,000 from her employerRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Catherine I. Wilson, 62, of Bedford, with bank fraud after she embezzled nearly $300,000 from her employer, said David A. Sierleja, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Wilson was employed at Koppel Advertising in Bedford from 1991 through 2014. From 2011 through September 30, 2014, Wilson embezzled funds from Koppel’s business bank accounts by using company funds to pay her personal bills and expenses, according to the indictment.
In order to conceal her fraudulent conduct, Wilson altered Koppel’s bank statements to remove records relating to her unauthorized transactions. The total loss associated with this conduct is approximately $288,235, 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 Matthew B. Kall following an investigation by the United States Secret Service.
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 on firearms and counterfeiting chargesRead the Press Release
An Akron man was indicted on firearms and counterfeiting charges, said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja.
Abraham Lewis Addison, 27, was indicted on five counts of uttering and dealing in counterfeit obligations or securities and one count of possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number.
Addison on Sept. 9, 2016 had had approximately $2,450 in counterfeit currency in the form of fake $50 and $20 bills. HE also had a Ruger 9mm semiautomatic pistol with an obliterated serial number, according to the indictment.
This case was investigated by the Summit County Sheriff’s Office, Akron Police Department, Ohio Highway Patrol, Bath Police Department and the United States Secret Service. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Teresa Riley.
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.
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.
Millersburg man sentenced to more than two years in prison for tax fraudRead the Press Release
A Millersburg man was sentenced to more than two years in prison for fraudulently claiming more than $1.1 million in tax refunds to which he was not entitled, said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja and Frank S. Turner II, Acting Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office.
Dennis Dean Miller, 62, was found guilty of six counts of false claims and one count of obstructing internal revenue laws.
Miller falsely reported that financial institutions had withheld large amounts of federal income tax on income that did not exist in reality. He falsely filed for tax refunds of $1,121,420 for tax years 2006 through 2011, according to the indictment.
Miller was sentenced to 26 months in prison by U.S. District Judge James Gwin. The judge also ordered Miller to pay $132,147 in restitution.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Henry F. DeBaggis following an investigation by the IRS.
Elyria man sentenced to 20 years in prison for drug and firearms crimesRead the Press Release
An Elyria man was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for drug and firearms crimes, law enforcement officials said.
Octavious Smith, 38, was previously found guilty of distribution of heroin and cocaine and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Smith sold heroin and cocaine on June 10, 2015. Two months later, he possessed a Desert Eagle 9 mm pistol and ammunition, despite prior felony convictions that made it illegal for him to have a firearm, according to court documents.
“This defendant has a history of selling drugs and illegally carrying a firearm,” Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja said. “He earned every day of this prison sentence.”
“This case is another outstanding example of what can be accomplished when local, state and federal agencies work together to protect our community,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony.
“This is another example of local and federal law enforcement working together to put a violent career criminal behind bars,” said Elyria Police Chief Duane Whitely. “Not only is the city of Elyria safer because of this, so is the entire Cleveland area. I want to thank the U.S Attorney’s Office for their continued assistance to the Elyria Police Department and the citizens of Elyria.”
This case is the latest in a series that represent a coordinated effort on behalf of the federal and state partners to hold accountable individuals who all have significant prior firearm and or drug charges and have continued to possess firearms and/or peddle drugs in Lorain County.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert Corts, Vasile Katsaros and Marisa T. Darden following an investigation by the FBI and Elyria Police Department.
Community engagement surrounding Cleveland Division of Police’s Community and Problem-Oriented Policing PlanRead the Press Release
Over the past year, the Cleveland Police Monitoring Team has sought community input on key policies of the Cleveland Division of Police (CDP) – including use-of-force, body-worn cameras, and its mission statement, among others. The Team thanks everyone who participated for engaging with and contributing to the discussion surrounding police reform under the federal consent decree in Cleveland.
Now the reform process is seeking community feedback on the CDP’s Community and Problem-Oriented Policing Plan.
Substantive community input is the first step in the development of a successful Community and Problem-Oriented policing Plan. CDP’s policies must directly respond to what the community expects. This stage of community engagement is an active effort to learn as much as possible about what Cleveland residents want the community policing plan to include.
The Cleveland Division of Police, City of Cleveland—including the District Policing Committees and the Community Relations Board, —the Cleveland Community Police Commission, the Department of Justice, and the Monitoring Team are all working together—in a joint collaborative effort—to solicit and receive input on these policies from the Cleveland community.
Cleveland residents are invited to learn more about community policing and share your views by going to the Monitoring Team’s website. (The materials also are available on the City’s website, the CDP’s website or the CPC’s website).
Residents can share your views and provide input in two ways:
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By taking a brief online questionnaire, which is available here as well as on each of the websites listed above;
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By attending a community roundtable. There will be two community roundtables. The roundtables will include an overview of the components of a Community and Problem-Oriented Policing Plan, with an opportunity for small group discussions. The first community roundtable is on Tuesday, March 21, from 5:30- 8:30pm at the Jerry Sue Thornton Center (2500 East 22nd St., Cleveland, OH 44115). The second community roundtable is on Wednesday, March 22, from 5:30-8:30pm at Urban Community School (4909 Lorain Ave, Cleveland, OH 44102).
Those interested in attending a roundtable can send an RSVP to the Monitoring Team at [email protected] or use the RSVP links above.
The Monitoring Team hopes that all who live and work in Cleveland strongly consider being part of this important conversation about how we can work together to create a Community and Problem-Oriented Policing Plan that reflects the goals and values of the entire Cleveland community.
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Toledo woman accused of embezzling $42,000 from bankRead the Press Release
A Toledo woman was indicted after embezzling more than $42,000, said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja.
Martina Monaco, 28, worked at Fifth Third Bank. She embezzled $42,393 from a bank customer’s account, which she used to pay her landlord, buy investment certificates of deposit that she quickly cashed out, and engaged in other fraudulent bank activity, 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 defendants’ prior criminal record, the defendant's role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
This case was investigating by U.S. Secret Service. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tracey 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.
Toledo man indicted for armed robbery of storeRead the Press Release
A Toledo man with a history of armed robberies was indicted in federal court for using a firearm to rob a store last month, Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja, FBI Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony and Toledo Police Chief George Kral said.
Eugene Coley, 49, was indicted on three counts: robbery in violation of the Hobbs Act, brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Coley robbed the Stop and Shop at 1719 Lagrange Street in Toledo on Feb. 1. He brandished a Sturm, Ruger 9 mm pistol during the robbery. Coley was forbidden from having a firearm because in 2002 he was convicted of two counts of aggravated robbery with a firearms specification, 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 defendants’ prior criminal record, the defendants’ role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
This case was investigating by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Toledo Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tracey 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.
Youngstown man sentenced to 30 years in prison for firearms and drug crimes, including selling heroin that resulted in a fatal overdoseRead the Press Release
A Youngstown man was sentenced to 30 years in prison for firearms and narcotics violations, including selling heroin that resulted in a fatal overdose, said Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Lebron Charles Bunkley, 38, was found guilty of last year of charges including distribution of heroin, cocaine and crack cocaine as well as being a felon in possession of a firearm.
On May 14, 2016 in Youngstown, a person fatally overdosed on heroin sold by Bunkley, according to court documents.
“This defendant has a long history with firearms and drugs, and sending him to prison for decades will make the community a safer place,” Rendon said.
“Drug abuse and gun violence are a type of cancer,” said Trevor Velinor, Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Columbus Field Division. “ATF is proud to work with our law enforcement partners at the FBI and the Mahoning Valley Law Enforcement Task Force to ensure that individuals who threaten the health of our community are held accountable and prevented from causing further harm.”
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Mahoning Valley Law Enforcement Task Force, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David M. Toepfer.
Twenty-two indicted for trafficking heroin and cocaine in ToledoRead the Press Release
Twenty-two people indicted for their roles in a conspiracy to traffic large amounts of heroin and cocaine in Toledo, law enforcement officials said.
Named in the 72-count indictment are: Gary R. Hill, Sr., 62, of Lathrup Village, Michigan; Tyrone Watson, 45, of Sylvania; Keith Cooke, 51, of Southfield, Michigan; Leroy L. Hooker, 47; Larry E. Stewart, 50; Andre Anderson, 47; Andre Arthur, 38; Anthony Ballard, 24; Ivan Ballard, 26; James Bragg, Sr., 43; Dominique Brown, 25; Keith Chisholm, 38; Vincent Cooke, 69;, Dennis Garrett, 26; Victor Hardison, 57; Dorian Hooker, 42; Robert Jackson, 41; Cedrick Smith, 25; Damond Smith, 26; Marcus Stephens, 37; Jerome Toyer, 46, and Demond Washington, 36, all of Toledo.
All 22 defendants are charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine. The indictment details large shipments of heroin, including a December 2, 2016 sale of nearly seven kilograms of cocaine and nearly four kilograms of heroin, according to the indictment.
The defendants worked together to bring kilogram-level amounts of heroin and cocaine from the Detroit area and sell the drugs in and around Toledo. This took place between from 2012 through this year, according to the indictment.
Hill, Leroy Hooker and Keith Cooke recruited friends and relatives in Toledo to distribute heroin and cocaine. Hill and others in Detroit and Toledo supplied Hooker and Keith Cooke with drugs. Stewart and Brown drove between Detroit and Toledo transporting drugs and money on behalf of Hill, Leroy Hooker and Keith Cooke, according to the indictment.
Some of the defendants used residences in Toledo to store and distribute the heroin and cocaine, including locations on Rockingham Street, Barrows Street, Ogden Avenue, West Delaware Avenue, Bryant Court and Nantucket Drive, as well as locations in Southfield, Lathrup and Detroit, Michigan, according to the indictment.
Several of the defendants are charged with distribution of heroin for sales that took place between 2012 and 2016. Leroy Hooker, Demond Washington and Chisholm face additional charges for having guns despite felony convictions that prohibit them from possessing firearms, according to the indictment.
“We will continue to seek long prison sentences for drug traffickers,” said Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio. “Aggressive enforcement, coupled with increased access to treatment for those who want help, changes in prescribing practices and more education are all required to combat the opioid epidemic that his devastated our state.”
“Unfortunately, heroin and cocaine continue to plague our communities,” FBI Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony said. “Law enforcement will hold these individuals, and any others, that bring illegal narcotics to our streets accountable in a court of law.”
“We are very happy with the results of this investigation,” said Toledo Police Chief George Kral. “Detecting, investigating, and charging these drug trafficking groups, and working diligently in keeping Toledo’s streets free of this poison is and will always be a priority of mine. These results also show the high level of cooperation and interaction we enjoy with our federal, local, and state law enforcement partners.”
If convicted, the defendants’ sentences will be determined by the court after reviewing factors unique to this case, including the defendants’ prior criminal record, if any, the defendants’ role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
This case was investigating by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Toledo Metro Drug Task Force, which is comprised of personnel from the Toledo Police Department, FBI, ATF, and Lucas County Sheriff's Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas P. Weldon and Alissa M. Sterling.
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.
Elyria man sentenced to seven years in prison for child pornographyRead the Press Release
David H. Six, 57, of Elyria, was sentenced to seven years in prison for possessing child pornography, said Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Images of child pornography were found on a PNY thumb drive in Six’s possession on August 27, 2015, according to court documents.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Carol M. Skutnik. The case was investigated by the Ohio Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, Cleveland Office.
Two Mexican citizens indicted for illegally entering the United StatesRead the Press Release
Two Mexican citizens were indicted for illegally reentering the United States, U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon said.
Belino Selgado-Cantu, 36, was deported to Mexico in 2013 and found in Cleveland, according to the indictment.
Baltazar Bautista-Hernandez, 37, was deported to Mexico in 2010, was found in Willard, Ohio, according to the indictment.
The cases are unrelated. Both are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Karrie D. Howard following investigations by U.S. Border Patrol, 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.
The IRS and U.S. Attorney's Office remind people that violating tax laws can have serious consequencesRead the Press Release
Several people have been found guilty and sentenced to prison for violating federal tax laws over the past few months, said Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, and Troy Stemen, Acting Special Agent in Charge of IRS-Criminal Investigation’s Cincinnati Field Office.
As the 2017 tax filing deadline approaches, these cases serve as reminders that there are civil and sometimes criminal penalties to filing erroneous tax returns.
“Tax day is not fun, but the vast majority of Americans who properly report and pay their fair share need to know that we will aggressively prosecute those who shirk or flaunt their obligations,” Rendon said.
“We are in the midst of this year’s income tax filing season, so it is important for people to have confidence that when they pay their taxes, their neighbors and co-workers are doing the same,” Stemen said. “The IRS Criminal Investigation, together with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, will investigate and prosecute those who violate our tax system. This joint announcement should serve as a warning to anyone who might consider evading their federal tax obligations, as we will hold accountable those who use deceit and fraud to line their pockets with money, especially when that money represents stolen federal taxes.”
Details on a few cases over the past year:
U.S. v. Farmer: Darryl Farmer, of Cleveland Heights, was sentenced to nearly six years in prison and ordered to pay $100,230 in restitution last month. Farmer held himself out as a neighborhood tax preparer who paid recruiters a “referral fee” to provide him identifications and personal identifiers of others. Farmer used this information to file false tax returns, including claiming tax credits for businesses that did not exist. He also opened multiple personal and business bank accounts, which he controlled, in the names of these various people in order to deposit the refunds from the tax returns he filed. Farmer falsely claimed more than $100,000 from the IRS between 2010 and 2012, according to court documents.
U.S. v. Lin et. al.: The owners of the Royal Buffet and Grill restaurant in Akron are awaiting sentencing after admitting they did not report the majority of cash receipts at the restaurant. Yuan Lin, of Fairlawn, and Rui Xu, Xin Hsu and Zhou Qiang Zou, all of Akron, conspired between 2002 and 2013 to defraud government by not reporting the majority of cash receipts on their taxes. Xu, Hsu, and Zou also conspired to harbor at least 10 undocumented workers, which included employing the undocumented workers at restaurant, where they worked for below minimum wage or only for tips. At one time, they housed as many as 14 undocumented workers inside a single-family residence on Annapolis Avenue, according to court documents. Lin issued a check to the IRS for $450,000 in partial payment of his restitution.
U.S. v. Vonderembse: Sandra Vonderembse, a psychiatrist from Oregon, Ohio, was sentenced last year to serve 18 months in prison and ordered to pay $565,128 in restitution. She failed to pay taxes and filed and false and fraudulent tax returns that included false statements regarding her income and the amount of tax due and owing. For three years, she falsely claimed to have no taxable income and to owe no taxes, despite earning more than $240,000 each year while working as a psychiatrist. In total, from 2005 through 2011, she attempted to evade more than $360,000 in income tax liabilities.
U.S. v. Klocker: Thomas Klocker, of Lakewood, was sentenced to a year in custody and ordered to pay nearly $1.8 million restitution and fines for taking improper write-offs and not reporting taxable income. Klocker was the sole shareholder and operator of All Metal Sales (AMS) in Westlake. He also operated TT Charter Leasing, which was in the business of chartering the luxury yacht “Tommy Time”. Klocker diverted corporate funds from AMS for his own use to benefit his personal lifestyle and avoid personal income liabilities between 2007 and 2010. For example, Klocker diverted funds from AMS to construct a waterfront residence in Lakewood and to maintain his 68’ Sunseeker yacht, as well as to pay for luxury travel and to make cash withdrawals. He reported substantial business losses arising from the operating costs and expenses arising from the personal use of the TT Charter Leasing yacht, according to court documents. He also misrepresented his personal expenses entered into AMS’ books and records by falsely describing them as legitimate business expenses. Klocker also provided false information to his tax-return preparers about expenses he described as business-related which were, in fact, personal in nature – including luxury travel with his family, according to court documents.
Ohio man indicted on methamphetamine and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
An Ohio man was indicted on methamphetamine and firearms charges, said U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon.
Matthew R. Golech, 37, was indicted one count of possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of using a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
Golech, on Jan. 15, had approximately a 50 grams of methamphetamines. He also had a Bersa Firestorm .22 caliber pistol which he used in furtherance of drug trafficking, according to the indictment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron P. Howell following an investigation by 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 United States of America’s burden to prove each defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
If convicted, a defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendants’ prior criminal record, if any, the defendants’ roles in the offense and the characteristics of the violations.
Cleveland man faces drug and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
A Cleveland man was indicted on federal firearms and drug charges, said Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Terrell Howard, 47, was indicted on four counts: being a felon in possession of two firearms and ammunition; possessing with the intent to distribute crack cocaine; possessing with the intent to distribute marijuana and maintaining a drug house.
Howard possessed with the intent to distribute crack cocaine base and marijuana on Oct. 19, 2016, according to the indictment.
He also a residence on West 9th Street in Cleveland for the purpose of distributing marijuana, according to the indictment.
Howard possessed a .45 caliber pistol, a .40 caliber pistol, and ammunition on Oct. 19, 2016, despite having multiple felony convictions, according to the indictment.
The Drug Enforcement Agency conducted the investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ranya Elzein.
If convicted, the court will determine Terrell Howard’s sentence after a review of factors unique to this case, including his prior criminal record, if any, his 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.
Akron felon indicted for having methamphetamine and a firearmRead the Press Release
An Akron man was indicted on federal drug and firearms charges, said U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon.
Robert E. Evans, 39, was indicted on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and one count of possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Evans, on Jan. 26, had approximately an ounce of methamphetamines in his home as well as a Colt .45 caliber pistol, despite felony convictions which prohibited him from possessing firearms, according to the indictment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron P. Howell following an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Akron Police Department’s Gun Violence Reduction Unit.
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 United States of America’s burden to prove each defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
If convicted, a defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendants’ prior criminal record, if any, the defendants’ roles in the offense and the characteristics of the violations.
Youngstown man pleads guilty to selling heroin that caused fatal overdoseRead the Press Release
A Youngstown man pleaded guilty to selling heroin that resulted in a fatal overdose, said Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, and Stephen D. Anthony, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Cleveland Office.
Shayne Mascarella, 23, is scheduled to be sentenced June 21. He distributed heroin that directly resulted in the July 19, 2015 death in Youngstown of a person identified in the court documents as L.Z.
“Heroin has caused an unprecedented wave of death, pain and destruction in Ohio,” U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon said. “No corner of the state is immune. Only though aggressive law enforcement -- combined with education and prevention efforts, changes in prescribing practices and making treatment available to those who want help -- can we turn the tide on the opioid epidemic.”
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jason M. Katz and David M. Toepfer. The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Mahoning Valley Violent Crimes Task Force and the Mahoning Valley Law Enforcement Task Force, which includes representatives from the Boardman Police Department, the Youngstown Police Department, the Mahoning County Sheriff's Office, the Ohio Adult Parole Authority, and others.
Toledo man indicted for sex trafficking and exploitation of a minorRead the Press Release
A Toledo man was indicted on charges of sex trafficking and sexual exploitation of a child after taking and advertising sexually explicit photos of a minor on the Internet and facilitating dozens of commercial sex acts, said U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon and FBI Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony.
Lawrence Jones, 29, met via social media a minor who had run away from home. Jones transported the girl to a home on Coventry Avenue in Toledo, where he took nude photographs of her and posted them online, offering commercial sex acts in the Toledo area in January, according to court documents.
The minor performed approximately 25 commercial sex acts, with all the money going to Jones. The minor told Jones several times that she was not yet 18 years old, according to court documents.
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.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Toledo office and the Northwest Ohio Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force. The case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alissa M. Sterling and Daniel R. Hurley.
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.
Toledo man charged with trafficking heroin and cocaineRead the Press Release
A 45-count indictment was unsealed charging a Toledo man with conspiring to traffic heroin and cocaine, said U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon and FBI Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony.
Cornelius Henry, 43, conspired with others from 2011 through 2016 to possess with intent to distribute large amounts of heroin and cocaine.
Henry also possessed at least two firearms despite multiple felony convictions that made it illegal for him to have a firearm. He used the residence at 2214 Airport Highway in Toledo to store and distribute the drugs, according to the indictment.
Prosecutors are seeking to forfeit two properties on Airport Highway, three firearms and ammunition, five automobiles, one motorcycle and $4,020 in cash seized as part of the investigation, as well as a money judgement of at least $182,000, 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.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Toledo office, the Internal Revenue Service and the Toledo Metro Drug Task Force. The case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Alissa M. Sterling and Michael J. Freeman.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Six indicted for drug conspiracy that resulted in the seizure of 17 kilograms of cocaine and $511,000Read the Press Release
Six people were indicted in federal court for their roles in a drug conspiracy that resulted in the seizure of 17 kilograms of cocaine and more than $500,000 in cash, law enforcement officials said.
Named in the seven-count indictment are: Marty V. McCaulley, 42, of Lyndhurst; Carl D. Penny, 50, of Oldsmar, Florida; Adolfo Maya Magadan, 58, of Glenn Heights, Texas; Renee Ballin Serna, 24, of Chicago; Omar S. Williams, 41, of South Euclid, and Paul V. Cramer, 44, of Willowick.
All six are charged with conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and distribution of cocaine. McCaulley and Williams are also charged with being felons in possession of firearms.
Magadan brought cocaine to Ohio and Serna sold it to McCaulley for further distribution. McCaulley met with Serna on Feb. 3 at the Courtyard by Marriott hotel in Willoughby Hills and give him $110,000 in cash. Magadan then gave six kilograms of cocaine to Serna, who gave the drugs to McCaulley. McCaulley then distributed a kilogram of cocaine to Cramer, according to the indictment
McCaulley and Serna then met with Penny at an apartment in Willoughby Hills. Penny had digital scales, plastic bags, rubber bands and $103,100 in cash.
Williams had nearly eight kilograms of cocaine and $210,041 in cash at a residence in South Euclid on Feb. 4, according to the indictment.
Prosecutors are seeking for forfeit $511,734 in cash, four firearms and a 2011 Jeep Wrangler seized during the investigation.
“The amount of cocaine, cash and guns taken off this group is remarkable,” U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon said. “It demonstrates they were serious drug traffickers, but law enforcement from across Northeast Ohio was able to work together to stop them.”
Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. Plancon said: “The seizure of 17 kilograms of cocaine and over half a million dollars from this group indicates that they were part of a large, multi-state conspiracy. Putting an end to their activities makes everyone in the region a little bit safer. The success of the investigation up to this point has been made possible thanks to the significant cooperation among all of our law enforcement partners.”
“The fact that several people from out of state are among those facing federal charges should send a strong message that Ohio is looking beyond the local drug dealers to identify suspects higher up in the supply chain,” said Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine. “These defendants allegedly worked together to distribute drugs throughout northeast Ohio, and I commend everyone involved in this effort who worked to intercept these narcotics.”
“Through the combined efforts, hard work and dedication of agents from the Medina County Drug Task Force, Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation and Cleveland DEA, what began as a 'community impact' investigation centered on Medina County evolved into an investigation of a much larger scale,” said Gary Hubbard, director of the Medina County Drug Task Force. “Each of the investigators involved worked countless hours to bring this investigation to a successful resolution. The impact on Medina County and all of northeastern Ohio will be significant.”
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Agency, the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the Medina County Drug Task Force and the Ohio State Highway Patrol with assistance from members of the Lake County Narcotics Agency, Cuyahoga Sheriff’s Office, Cleveland Heights Police Department, Cleveland Division of Police, Lorain County Drug Task Force, Ashtabula County Sheriff’s Office and Customs and Border Protection. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Henry F. DeBaggis.
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.
Marshall Belden, of Canton, indicted on child pornography chargesRead the Press Release
A Canton man was indicted on child pornography charges, said U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon and FBI Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony.
Marshall Belden, Jr., 69, was charged with receiving, distributing and possessing visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
Belden on Oct. 24, 2016 knowingly received and distributed numerous computer files which contained visual depictions of real minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, and which files had been shipped and transported in and affecting interstate and foreign commerce. On Jan. 26, 2017, Belden possessed a 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 U.S. Attorney Michael A. Sullivan following an investigation by the Canton office of 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.
Cleveland man indicted for selling heroin that resulted in two overdoses in WoosterRead the Press Release
A Cleveland man was indicted in federal court on charges that he sold heroin that caused at least two overdoses in Wooster, law enforcement officials said.
Demetrius L. Frizzell, 30, was indicted on six counts: two counts of distribution of heroin, one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin, one count of obstruction of justice and two counts of witness tampering. The heroin distribution charges come with a sentencing enhancement for selling heroin that caused serious bodily injury to individuals on or about Oct. 29 and Nov. 3, 2016.
If convicted on those counts, the sentences could carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 20 years 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 that resulted in an overdose, according to court documents.
Frizzell, while in custody, called overdose victims and instructed them to change their statements to police, according to court documents.
“Heroin has caused an unprecedented wave of death, pain and destruction in Ohio,” U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon said. “No corner of the state is immune. Only though aggressive law enforcement -- combined with education and prevention efforts, changes in prescribing practices and making treatment available to those who want help -- can we turn the tide on the opioid 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 United States Attorney Teresa Riley.
The investigation is ongoing.
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.
Younstown store owner sentenced to prison for $2.8 million in food stamp fraudRead the Press Release
A Youngstown convenience store owner was sentenced to nearly three years in prison for nearly $2.8 million in food stamp fraud, including paying cash for food stamps and accepting them for prohibited items, including alcohol and tobacco, said U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon and USDA-OIG Special Agent in Charge Anthony V. Mohatt.
George Rafidi, 62, was sentenced to 33 months in prison. That sentence will be served after he completes a 94-month prison sentenced for using a firearm to assault federal agents. Rafidi was convicted of that crime following a jury trial in which evidence showed he brandished a firearm to federal agents executing a search warrant at Rafidi’s home in Warren as part of the fraud investigation.
“This case sends a message that we will not tolerate the criminal abuse of a system designed to help the most vulnerable in our society meet their most basic needs,” Rendon said.
"SNAP is the largest program in the domestic hunger safety net, and retailers who prey on the poor by illegally purchasing SNAP benefits erode public trust in the program,” Mohatt said. “As we conduct investigations throughout the State of Ohio, we appreciate the support of our federal and state law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney's Office's long-term commitment to prosecuting SNAP fraud."
Rafidi operated the former Breaden Market since 2010. USDA began investigating the store after audits revealed the store redeemed more than 10 times as much in benefits for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program -- formerly known as food stamps -- as much larger stores in the area, according to court documents and testimony.
Agents learned Rafidi exchanged food stamps for cash and allowed food stamps to be used to purchase prohibited items such as alcohol and tobacco. On some occasions, agents observed people lined up outside the door to exchange food stamps for case, according to court documents and testimony.
Rafidi was also ordered to pay nearly $2.8 million in restitution and forfeited more than $23,000 in cash.
A store clerk and 29 food stamp recipients, who each received at least $5,000 in cash, were also prosecuted.
This case was being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys David M. Toepfer and Benedict S. Gullo following an investigation by the U.S. Department of Agriculture – Office of Inspector General.
Wisconsin man admits falsely claiming he was a Navy SEAL wounded in combatRead the Press Release
A Wisconsin man will be sentenced later this year after admitting to falsely claiming he was a Navy SEAL wounded four times in Vietnam, said Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Kenneth E. Jozwiak, 67, of Kenosha, Wisconsin, is scheduled to be sentenced May 18 after pleading guilty to unlawfully exhibiting a military discharge certificate, theft of government money, making false statements to federal agents, and attempting to obstruct an official proceeding.
“This defendant’s lies about his service are an affront to those who saw combat and those wounded fighting on behalf of our nation,” Rendon said. “This defendant did neither, and falsely inflated his service record in an effort to get additional benefits.”
“This case reflects the VA OIG’s commitment to vigorously pursue those individuals that falsify military service records and defraud the VA,” said Gavin McClaren, Resident Agent in Charge of the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General’s Cleveland office.
Jozwiak exhibited a military discharge certificate in 2014 that claimed, in part, that he was a highly decorated Vietnam War veteran, that he was a four-time recipient of the Purple Heart, and that he was a Navy SEAL -- all entries Jozwiak knew were totally false, according to court documents.
Additionally, Jozwiak defrauded the Department of Veterans Affairs of $2,289 through veteran’s entitlements he received between August and December 2014. In January 2015, Jozwiak made several false statements to federal agents about his fraudulent activities and his military service, and that he attempted to obstruct an official proceeding by tampering with a material witness, according to court documents.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Benedict S. Gullo. The case was investigated by the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General—Criminal Investigative Division.
Two Mahoning County men charged with importing anabolic steroids from ChinaRead the Press Release
Two men from Mahoning County were charged in federal court with illegally importing anabolic steroids from China, U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon said.
James A. Cleeland, 50, of Berlin Center, and Christopher M. Stanec, aka Michael Stanec, aka Mark Conner, 40, of Canfield, were charged in a one-count information with conspiracy to import and distribute steroids.
Cleeland and Conner conspired with other people to import and to possess with intent to distribute 298.3 grams or more of anabolic steroids. This took place in 2013, according to the information.
It was part of the conspiracy that Stanec and Cleeland imported anabolic steroids from sources located in China. It was further part of the conspiracy that Stanec agreed to receive the anabolic steroids from China and then provide them to Cleeland, according to the information.
If convicted, the defendants’ sentences will be determined by the court after review of factors unique to this case, including each defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violations. In all cases, the sentences 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 Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason M. Katz.
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.
Eight from Northeast Ohio indicted for conspiracy to distribute crack and powder cocaine on east side of ClevelandRead the Press Release
Eight people from Northeast Ohio were indicted for their roles in a conspiracy to distribute powder and crack cocaine on the East Side of Cleveland, said U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon and FBI Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony.
Named in the 23-count indictment are: Calvin Gore, 34; Ronald Park, 49; Ronnie Townsend, Jr., 41; Million Wheeler, 43; Derrick Rivers, 36; Freddie Love, 45; Terry Gardner, 29, and Laverne Rucker, 56. All the defendants are from Cleveland except Love, who lives in Euclid.
Gore obtained multiple-ounce quantities of cocaine from Parks and Wheeler. Gore then distributed the cocaine to dealers in Cleveland, including Townsend, Rivers, Love, Gardner and Rucker, according to the indictment.
Gore used the residence at 14329 Benwood Avenue in Cleveland to storing and distributing the cocaine, according to the indictment.
Prosecutors are seeking to forfeit $13,308 in cash seized during the investigation, as well as two firearms, ammunition and a 2006 Lexus.
If convicted, the defendants’ sentences will be determined by the Court after review of the factors unique to this case, including the defendants’ prior criminal records, their roles in the offense and the characteristics of the criminal conduct. 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. Attorneys Vasile C. Katsaros and Phillip J. Tripi following an investigation by the Northern Ohio Law Enforcement Task Force. The NOLETF is a task force comprised of investigators from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Cleveland Division of Police, Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority, Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service, Customs and Border Patrol, Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Office, Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation, Ohio Adult Parole Authority and the police departments of Euclid, Lakewood, the Regional Transit Authority, Westlake and Moreland Hills. The NOLETF is also one of the initial Ohio High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area initiatives, which supports and helps coordinate numerous Ohio drug task forces in their efforts to eliminate or reduce drug trafficking in Ohio.
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 the defendant guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Cleveland man pleads guilty to selling fatal dose of fentanylRead the Press Release
A Cleveland man pleaded guilty to distributing fentanyl that killed a woman, U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon said.
Robert J. Johnson, 27, pleaded guilty to two counts of distribution of fentanyl. The charges stem from sales of fentanyl that took place on Aug. 25 and 27, 2015. The Aug. 25 sale resulted in the death of a woman, according to court documents.
“Fentanyl abuse has caused on unprecedented wave of overdose deaths in our community,” Rendon said. “The only way we can stem this tide is with a comprehensive approach focused on prevention, treatment, prescribing practices and enforcement. And on the enforcement side, we will continue to aggressively prosecute those who continue to peddle this poison in our community.”
Johnson is scheduled to be sentenced June 1.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Vasile Katsaros and Matthew J. Cronin following an investigation by the Cleveland Division of Police, with assistance from the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Brunswick couple charged with conspiracy to obstruct justice, tax violationsRead the Press Release
A nine-count indictment was filed charging a Brunswick couple with failing to make payments to support the pension and benefits fund of its employees and then obstructing the subsequent investigation, said Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Eric Dentz and Rebecca Dentz, both 39, are charged with conspiracy to obstruct justice, tampering with evidence, making false statements to federal agents, and failure to file taxes.
The Dentzs are former owners of Dentz Painting Incorporated (DPI), a company engaged in a collective bargaining agreement with the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades. Through that agreement, DPI was obligated to hire union laborers and to pay over contributions to the union’s pension and benefits funds for the benefit of their employees, according to the indictment.
Audits conducted by the union found that DPI failed to pay over $148,000 in contributions to the union’s funds. Eric and Rebecca Dentz, and their company DPI, agreed in 2010 to make the delinquent contributions to the union’s funds. However, instead of honoring their commitment, they discontinued working through DPI and started a new company, Global Contracting Service (Global), according to the indictment.
Despite this name change, Eric and Rebecca Dentz were still bound by the terms of the CBA. As a result of their failure to make required payments to the union’s funds, agents and investigators with the Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General and the Employee Benefits Security Administration, began an investigation into Eric and Rebecca Dentz, DPI and Global. This investigation was later joined by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division.
Eric and Rebecca Dentz repeatedly obstructed the investigation. In particular, after agents attempted to serve subpoenas and obtain documents relevant to the investigation, Eric Dentz threatened them with physical violence. Additionally, Rebecca Dentz repeatedly lied to agents about her and Eric Dentz’s involvement with Global and the location of records responsive to the subpoena, according to the indictment.
During proceedings held before United States District Chief Judge Solomon Oliver, Jr., Eric and Rebecca Dentz continued to obstruct justice by lying about the status and condition of the records. Specifically, the Dentzs lied by stating that the records sought by the grand jury were destroyed in a flood and later supplied agents and the court with a fake cleaning invoice in an attempt to support their false claims. Further investigation revealed that the invoice had been fabricated at Eric and Rebecca Dentz’s request. The Dentzs also obstructed and delayed the investigation by falsely stating that third parties possessed the records sought by the grand jury when those individuals in fact had no such records, according to the indictment.
The indictment further alleges that Eric and Rebecca Dentz also repeatedly failed to file income tax returns with the IRS over several years.
“These defendants tried time and again to dodge their obligations to their employees,” Rendon said. “When confronted with this, they didn’t own up to their failures, but instead tried to obstruct the investigation.”
“As tax filing season is upon us, those Americans who file accurate, honest and timely returns can be assured that the government will hold accountable those who don't," said Troy Stemen, Acting Special Agent in Charge IRS-Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office.
If convicted, the defendants’ sentences will be determined by the Court after review of the factors unique to this case, including the defendants’ prior criminal records, their roles in the offense and the characteristics of the criminal conduct. 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 Om Kakani, following an investigation by the Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration, the Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division.
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 the defendant guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Eight with ties to Heartless Felons street gang charged for interstate robbery conspiracyRead the Press Release
Arrest warrants were issued for eight people on federal charges of interstate transportation of stolen property and conspiracy, said FBI Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony, Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, and Calvin Williams, Chief, Cleveland Division of Police.
Adolph Boyd III, 24, Tyron Hicks, 30, and Jerome Goins, 21, were taken into custody by FBI agents and detectives from the Cleveland Police Department’s Gang Impact Unit without incident early this morning.
Padra Graves, 35, Delante Hudson-Frost, 22, Dennis McKenzie, 20, and Darnell Foster, 20, were already incarcerated and were transferred into federal custody this morning.
Law enforcement is asking the public for information leading to the location of Melvin Swinney, 21.
All eight individuals are from the Cleveland area. However, Graves was incarcerated in Columbus and will be transported to the Cleveland area next week.
From April to July 2016, members of this conspiracy traveled to nine states on 18 occasions to steal cell phones and other electronic devices by breaking into retail stores and kiosks with pry bars either just prior to closing or after closing. These individuals would then return to Cleveland with the stolen property, according to a criminal complaint unsealed today.
- the stolen devices were in Cleveland, they would be sold to gas stations or phone stores and then sold either out-of-state or overseas. It is believed the loss and damages amount exceeds $500,000, according to the complaint.
These individuals will appear in Judge Greenberg’s court room this afternoon for their initial appearance.
Any questions regarding this news release can be directed to SA Vicki D Anderson at the Cleveland Office of the FBI, 216-522-1400 or [email protected].
Youngstown man indicted for heroin and firearms violationsRead the Press Release
A Youngstown man was indicted for selling heroin and illegally having firearms, said Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, and FBI Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony.
James K. Neail, 33, was charged in a five-count indictment with distribution of heroin and with being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition.
Neail sold heroin on multiple occasions in September 2016 in the Youngstown area, according to the indictment.
Neail possessed a Kel-Tec, model P3AT, .380 caliber pistol and ammunition in September 2015 and possessed a Rohm, model RG38S, .38 caliber revolver and ammunition in October 2015. He did so despite a 2012 federal conviction for conspiracy to commit unlawful conduct relating to RICO, 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 Mahoning Valley Law Enforcement Task Force. The matter is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys David M. Toepfer and Ranya Elzein.
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.
Washington man indicted for taking minor over state lines to engage in commercial sexRead the Press Release
A Washington man was charged with transporting a minor across state lines for the purpose of engaging in commercial sex, said U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon 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 the indictment.
This took place between September and October 14, 2016, according to the indictment.
If convicted, the sentence in this case will be determined by the court after consideration of the federal sentencing guidelines which depend upon a number of factors unique to each case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offenses and the unique 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. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan following an investigation 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, with assistance from the Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office.
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.
Garfield Heights men indicted for armed robbery of bank on Turney Road last yearRead the Press Release
Two Garfield Heights men were indicted on charges that they used a firearm to rob the Key Bank on Turney Road, said Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, and FBI Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony.
Levert A. Bates, 54, and Marc A. Montgomery, 50, were both indicted on one count of armed bank robbery and one count of using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
The men aided and abetted one another in robbing a Key Bank in Garfield Heights on November 30, 2016. robbers stole approximately $55,376 from the bank and brandished a firearm during the robbery, according to the indictment.
"The actions of these two individuals brought great fear to the bank employees and customers that day,” Anthony said. “With the community and media's support, law enforcement will continue to work tirelessly to identify individuals that choose to commit such violent actions and ensure they are held accountable. "
Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan R. Miller is prosecuting the case following an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Garfield Heights Police Department.
If convicted, the court will determine the defendants’ sentences after a 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. 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.
Cuyahoga Falls man charged with lying about domestic violence convictions in effort to get gunRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury indicted Andrew Crislip, 33, of Cuyahoga Falls, for being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition and with making a false statement to a licensed firearms dealer during the acquisition of a firearm, said Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Crislip possessed a .38 caliber Taurus revolver, model 85 Ultra-Lite, and ammunition on Sept. 9, 2016, after having been previously convicted of two misdemeanor crimes of domestic violence in Stow Municipal Court in August 2016. He also knowingly represented on a Federal Firearms Transaction Record on Sept. 3, 2016 that he has never been convicted in any court of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, when in fact, he has been convicted for such a crime, according to the indictment.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ranya Elzein.
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 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 pair charged with defrauding banks by using fake identitiesRead the Press Release
Two Cleveland residents were charged with defrauding banks out of at least $76,000 by using fake identities, said Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio
Delon Roberson, 25, and Shameka Roberson, 26, were charged with bank fraud and aggravated identity theft in connection with a scheme to defraud Key Bank by depositing closed-account checks into the bank accounts of various individuals recruited into the scheme, and later withdrawing funds under false pretenses, according to the indictment.
Delon Roberson used the social media site Facebook to recruit numerous local individuals to open accounts or turn over their bank ATM or debit cards and PINs. Delon Roberson and Shameka Roberson then caused the deposit of at least 138 fraudulent checks totaling more than $159,000 into the bank accounts of the recruited individuals. At least $76,000 was later withdrawn from the accounts through ATM transactions and debit card purchases between May 2015 and April 2016, according to the indictment.
Assistant United States Attorney Robert W. Kern is prosecuting this case, following an investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
If convicted, the court will determine the defendants’ sentence after a review of factors unique to this case, including the defendants’ prior criminal record, if any, the defendants’ 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 men indicted for trafficking three pounds of fentanylRead the Press Release
Two Cleveland man were indicted for trafficking more than three pounds of fentanyl, said U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon.
Edward Jewell (aka Rayshawn Williams), 29, and Muhammad Salett, 25, were each indicted on one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
The men had approximately 2991 grams of fentanyl in their possession on Jan. 13. The drugs were mailed from Las Vegas to a home on East 53rd Street in Cleveland, according to court documents.
If convicted, the sentence in this case will be determined by the court after consideration of the federal sentencing guidelines which depend upon a number of factors unique to each case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offenses and the unique 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. Attorney Justin Seabury Gould following an investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Cleveland Division of Police and the Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s 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.
Argentinian man charged with illegally entering the U.S.Read the Press Release
An Argentinian man was indicted for illegally entering the United States, said Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Pablo Guzobad-Mendoza, 45, was found to be in Ohio on July 9, 2016, after having been deported from the United States on a previous occasion. Guzobad-Mendoza had previously been convicted of illegal entry into the United States in federal court in Texas and burglary with assault or battery in Miami-Dade County, Florida, according to the indictment.
Guzobad-Mendoza is currently serving a term of imprisonment in an Ohio prison on unrelated charges.
The Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency conducted the investigation in conjunction with the Strongsville Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin R. Filiatraut.
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.
Stark County man charged with violating Clean Water Act for dumping wastewater in Tuscarawas River tributariesRead the Press Release
A grand jury returned a four-count indictment charging a North Lawrence man with violating the Clean Water Act by dumping wastewater into tributaries of the Tuscarawas River, said Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Adam D. Boylen, 45, was indicted on four counts of violating the Clean Water Act by making unpermitted discharges.
“This defendant willingly dumped wastewater into streams, fouling the water and killing aquatic life,” Rendon said. “He put his convenience ahead of the public’s welfare. We remain committed to protecting our environment, and this defendant will now be held accountable for his actions.”
“Protecting our water is critical, both for the health and safety of our citizens and our wildlife,” Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine said. “We will continue to assist in this case and others like it to protect Ohio.”
“Our environmental laws help keep illegal waste out of local waterways and protect clean water and public health,” said John Gauthier, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. EPA’s criminal enforcement program in Ohio. “The illegal discharge in this case killed a substantial number of fish and caused serious damage to critical wildlife habitat. Today’s indictment is the direct result of the strong working relationship that EPA has built with our law enforcement partners at the federal, state, and local levels.”
Boylen was a driver employed by an Ohio-based trucking company. Boylen’s job was to load wastewater generated from corporate facilities into a tanker truck and to drive the wastewater to a designated facility located in Pennsylvania for proper disposal. The wastewater contained surfactants capable of killing vegetation and fish, according to court documents.
Instead of delivering the wastewater to Pennsylvania, Boylen drove the tanker truck to remote locations in Tuscarawas County and central-eastern Ohio and emptied the wastewater containing surfactants into waters of the United States, according to court documents.
Boylen is charged with dumping the wastewater into two different tributaries of the Tuscarawas River, a wetland adjacent to the Tuscarawas River, and the Beach City Reservoir, on numerous occasions between April 18 and May 4, 2016.
White foam flowed down tributaries and streams as a result of Boylen’s actions. In one instance, the foam traveled four miles downstream from the location where the tanker truck was emptied. Vegetation was killed at all the locations. Approximately 709 fish were killed in one of the tributaries, and collectively, approximately 3,231 minnows, crayfish, frogs, and tadpoles were killed, according to court documents.
If convicted, the sentence in this case will be determined by the court after consideration of the federal sentencing guidelines which depend upon a number of factors unique to each case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offenses and the unique 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 Benedict S. Gullo and Brad J. Beeson. The case was investigated by the United States and Ohio Environmental Protection Agencies, the Ohio Attorney General’s Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the Stark County Sheriff’s Offices, the Tuscarawas County Sheriff’s Offices, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, and the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction.
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 faces 15 years in prison for administering group that shared images of toddlers being sexually abusedRead the Press Release
A Cleveland man who administered an online group that shared images and videos of toddlers being sexually assaulted pleaded guilty today, said U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon.
Brian Keeling, 34, faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison after admitting to charges of advertising, receiving, distributing and possessing visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
He is scheduled to be sentenced on May 26.
Keeling was the administrator of a group on Kik named “Toddlers” which included 50 members that shared images and videos of young children being raped and sexually assaulted, according to court documents.
A search of Keeling’s home at 3438 West 59th Street revealed he had more than 30 movie files and hundreds of images of toddlers being raped and sexually assaulted, according to court documents.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael A. Sullivan following an investigation by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations.