Northern District of Ohio
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Youngstown man indicted for failing to register as sex offenderRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury returned a one-count indictment charging Todd J. Kniseley, aka Todd J. Kniceley, 27, of Youngstown, with failing to register and update a registration as a sex offender as required by law, said U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon.
The indictment alleges that beginning at least as early as October 22, 2015 until in or about October 5, 2016, Kniseley traveled in interstate commerce and knowingly failed to register and update a registration pursuant to the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jason M. Katz following an investigation by the United States Marshal 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.
West Virginia man indicted for inducing underage girl to engage in illicit conductRead the Press Release
Michael A. Wilt, 56, fo Buckhannon, West Virginia, was charged with enticement and travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct, said U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon.
Wilt used a compuer and cellular phone from August 8 through September 15, 2016, to attempt to persuade, induce, entice and coerce a 14-year-old girl, to engage in illegal sexual activity with him. The indictment also charges on or about September 15, 2016, Wilt knowingly traveled from West Virginia to Ohio, for the purpose of engaging in illicit sexual conduct, as defined in Title 18, United States Code, Section 2423(f), with a 14 year‑old girl.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant's role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael A. Sullivan following an investigation by the Ohio Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Warren man sentenced to a year in prison for mailing white powder to former employerRead the Press Release
A Warren man was sentenced to one year and one day of incareceration for mailing an envelope containing white powder to his former workplace, 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.
Anthony J. Natale, 38, previously pleaded guilty to with one count of conveying false information related to the use of a weapon of mass destruction.
Natale mailed an envelope containing white powder via the United States Postal Service to American Business Center, at 7677 South Avenue, Youngstown, on November 10, 2014. This was done with the intent to convey false and misleading information related to the use of a weapon of mass destruction, according to court documents.
Natale formerly worked at American Business Center. He was terminated on Oct. 6, 2014, according to court documents.
He was ordered to pay $9,834.13 to the victim company, and $14,361.90 to the first responders. He will also serve three years of probation and pay a $100 special assessment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Seabury Gould, and was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Mahoning County Sheriff'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.
Streetsboro man faces drug and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
A Streetsboro man was indicted in federal court of drug and firearms violations, said Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Theodore Elenniss, 39, of Streetsboro, was indicted on one count of maintaining a drug premises and one count of being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition.
Elenniss maintained a place on State Route 303 in Streetsboro, for the purpose of manufacturing, distributing, and using controlled substances, those are: marijuana, amphetamine salts, Xanax, and Alprazolam. On Sept. 28, 2016, Elenniss possessed firearms, those are: a Remington, model 788 rifle; an AMT “Back Up”, .380 caliber pistol; a Mossberg, 12 gauge shotgun; a Savage Mark II, .22 caliber rifle; a Noble Company, model 235, .22 caliber rifle, and ammunition. He had those firearms despite having been previously convicted of a felony in the Portage County Court of Common Pleas in 2005, according to the indictment.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David M. Toepfer following an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Portage County Drug Task Force.
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.
Five people sentenced to prison for defrauding investors out of $17 millionRead the Press Release
Five people were sentenced to prison for their roles in a conspiracy to defraud about 70 investors out of approximately $17 million, law enforcement officials said.
Kenneth Grant, of Copley, was sentenced to 92 months in prison.
Thomas Abdallah, of Brunswick, was sentenced to 82 months in prison.
Jerry Cicolani, formerly of Richfield, was sentenced to 57 months in prison.
Jeffrey Gainer, of Copley, was sentenced to 52 months in prison.
Mark George, of Independence, was sentenced to 21 months in prison.
Kelly Hood, formerly of Richfield, was sentenced to one year of home confinement followed by probation.
Collectively, the defendants were also ordered to repay more than $17 million in restitution.
All six previously pleaded guilty to charges related to the case.
“These defendants swindled people out of millions of dollars so they could live extravagant lifestyles,” U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon said. “This was flat-out fraud. The defendants knew fully that they were stealing from the investors.”
“These defendants callously preyed on the desires of many to make wise investments for a secure future and duped them out of their life savings,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony. “Fraudsters such as these remain a top priority of the FBI.”
“When you knowingly mix deceit and trickery into the financial well-being of individuals, you create a recipe for devastation that could last a lifetime,” said Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation.” said Kathy A. Enstrom, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office. “Combining the financial investigative expertise of the IRS with the skills and resources of the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office makes a formidable team for combating major, greed-driven crimes.”
Abdallah and Kenneth Grant owned and operated KGTA Petroleum, Ltd. They and others marketed KGTA as a company that earned profits from buying and selling crude oil and refined fuel products. They represented to investors that they had relationships with third-party purchasers and investor funds would be used to purchase fuel products at a discount and then resold at substantial profit, according to court documents.
KGTA issued investment agreements and promissory notes which offered guaranteed monthly payments up to five percent per month or annual payments of approximately 60 percent per year, according to the information. The defendants never filed documentation about KGTA with the Securities and Exchange Commission, according to court documents.
Together, they obtained approximately $31 million from about 70 investors between 2010 and 2014 through false and fraudulent pretenses. They knew KGTA did not have agreements in place to sell oil and fuel. Instead, the defendants used investor money for personal expenditures and luxury items including a Mercedes Benz, a boat and mortgage payments on high-end residential property, according to court documents.
The defendants defrauded the investors out of approximately $17 million as a result of the conspiracy.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark S. Bennett and M. Kendra Klump following an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Internal Revenue Service—Criminal Investigations.
Chicago men indicted for credit card fraudRead the Press Release
Markeith L. Milton, 24, and Dominic L. Hudson, both of Chicago, was indicted for using other people's credit card numbers to obtain property, said U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after reviewing factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
The investigating agency in this case is the United States Secret Service in Toledo. The case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Freeman.
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.
Dustin and Rowland designated as District Election Officers for November electionRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon announced that Assistant United States Attorneys Ava Dustin and Ann Rowland will lead the efforts of her office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 8, 2016, general elections.
Rowland has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer in the eastern division for the Northern District of Ohio while Dustin will serve as the election officer in the western division. In that capacity, they are responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of complaints of election fraud and voting rights abuses in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.
“Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted without it being stolen because of fraud,” Rendon said. “The Department of Justice will act promptly and aggressively to protect the integrity of the election process.”
The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring election fraud and discrimination at the polls, and combating these violations whenever and wherever they occur. The Department’s long-standing Election Day Program furthers these goals, and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the integrity of the election process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible election fraud and voting rights violations while the polls are open on election day.
Federal law protects against such crimes as intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters and provides that they can vote free from acts that intimidate or harass them. For example, actions of persons designed to interrupt or intimidate voters at polling places by questioning or challenging them, or by photographing or videotaping them, under the pretext that these are actions to uncover illegal voting may violate federal voting rights law. Further, federal law protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice.
The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of election fraud or voting rights abuses on November 8, 2016, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, Dustin and Rowland will be on duty in this District while the polls are open.
Rowland can be reached at 216-622-3847 while Dustin can be reached at 419-241-0767.
In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The FBI field office can be reached by the public at 216-522-1400.
Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division’s Voting Section in Washington, DC by phone at 1-800-253-3931 or (202) 307-2767, by fax at (202) 307-3961, by email to [email protected] or by complaint form at http://www.justice.gov/crt/complaint/votintake/index.php.
Rendon said: “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the cooperation of the American electorate. It is imperative that those who have specific information about discrimination or election fraud make that information available immediately to my Office, the FBI, or the Civil Rights Division.”
Euclid man charged with distributing heroinRead the Press Release
A Euclid man was indicted in federal court for distributing heroin, said U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon.
Mario Mattox, 38, had more than 123 grams of heroin on Sept. 13, according to the indictment
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Margaret Sweeney following an investigation by the Euclid Police Department.
If convicted, the defendants’ sentences will be determined by the court after a review of the federal sentencing guidelines and factors unique to the case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record (if any), the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation.
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 firearms chargesRead the Press Release
A Cleveland man was indicted for being a felon in possession of two firearms and ammunition, said Carole S. Rendon, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Lenelle Gray, 36, possessed an Imbel, .45 caliber pistol, a Mauser .32 caliber pistol, and ammunition on Sept. 8, after having been previously convicted of three felony drug trafficking offenses in the U.S. District Court, Northern District of Ohio, in 2005, 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.
Chinese nationals sent to prison for two years for stealing $1.5 million from GoodyearRead the Press Release
Two Chinese nationals were each sentenced to more than two years in prison for defrauding Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company out of $1.5 million, said U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon and Stephen D. Anthony, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI's Cleveland office.
Xin Franco Fan and Rex Xu Yu both pleaded guilty earlier this year to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and honest services wire fraud. Both were sentenced to 27 months in prison and ordered to pay $1.5 million in restitution.
Fan and Yu will be deported upon their release.
Both men were employees of Goodyear Orient Company (Private) Limited, or GOCPL, a subsidiary of Goodyear, located in Singapore and with offices in China. GOCPL manages all of the natural rubber purchasing, delivery, financing and quality certifications for Goodyear’s global operations. Goodyear, through GOCPL, spends approximately $1 billion annually to acquire natural rubber for its operations. Fan was Yu’s manager, according to court documents.
Fan, Yu and others incorporated or caused to be incorporated overseas shell companies in which they held a financial interest. Fan, Yu and others caused Goodyear to purchase natural rubber from these shell companies. They also required Goodyear suppliers to use loading companies in which they had a financial interest. This took place between 2013 and 2016, according to court documents
“These two defendants deserve their prison sentences after stealing $1.5 million,” Rendon said. “Goodyear is to be commended for promptly reaching out to law enforcement when they uncovered this scheme. Because of the company’s quick action, these men were brought to justice.”
“The FBI is responsible for protecting the public’s interest in American companies by aggressively pursuing and bringing to justice those who unjustly profit from American ingenuity by stealing secrets,” said Stephen D. Anthony, Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Northern District of Ohio.
As a condition of their employment, Fan and Yu were obligated to act in the best interests of Goodyear when purchasing natural rubber. In 2015, Goodyear received an anonymous tip that Fan and Yu were receiving kickback payments in connection with GOCPL’s raw materials purchases. With the cooperation of Goodyear executives, an investigation into the matter led to Fan and Yu being arrested earlier this year and criminal charges being filed in federal court.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rebecca Lutzko, Henry F. DeBaggis and James Morford following an investigation by the FBI.
Brothers indicted for selling heroin and fentanyl; sales continued after overdose deathRead the Press Release
Two brothers were indicted for conspiring to bring large amounts of heroin and fentanyl to Northeast Ohio from Connecticut, said U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon and Stephen D. Anthony, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Cleveland Office.
The six-count indictment charges Mizraim Vega, 27, of South Euclid, and Abimelec Vega, 25, of Cleveland, with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin, acetylfentanyl and fentanyl. It charges them with additional substantive counts of distribution of heroin, fentanyl and acetylfentanyl in August and September.
According to court documents, Abimelec Vega identified himself as a member of the Latin Kings gang and could obtain large shipments of heroin and fentanyl from another Latin King member.
According to court documents, the Vegas sold 80 grams of heroin for $8,000 on Aug. 26. Mizraim Vega said: “The one thing I’ll tell is to make sure to cut it (dilute the heroin). That stuff…you can’t send it to the street like that, it’s too strong. That stuff could kill someone, bro!”
On Sept. 3, Abimelec Vega informed a source that he was changing phones because someone had died from heroin or fentanyl he had sold, according to court documents.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Margaret Sweeney following an investigation by the FBI.
If convicted, the defendants’ sentences will be determined by the court after a review of the federal sentencing guidelines and factors unique to the case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record (if any), the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Akron men indicted for distributing fentanylRead the Press Release
Two Akron men were indicted on charges of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, said U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon.
Indicted are Brian L. Williams, 54, and Terrance L. Ford, 50
Akron Police Department Narcotics Unit Detectives along with Drug Enforcement Administration Task Force Officers executed a state search warrant at Williams and Ford’s residence in Akron on July 27, 2016 and recovered over 100 grams of a substance containing fentanyl along with several fentanyl patches, according to court documents.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Aaron P. Howell following an investigation by the Akron Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
If convicted, the defendants’ sentences will be determined by the court after a review of the federal sentencing guidelines and factors unique to the case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record (if any), the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Akron man indicted for selling fentanyl that caused fatal overdoseRead the Press Release
An Akron man was indicted in federal court for selling fentanyl that caused a fatal overdose earlier this year, law enforcement officials said.
Steven D. Daniels, 31, was indicted on one count each of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and distribution of fentanyl. The latter carries a sentencing enhancement because Daniels allegedly sold fentanyl that caused the fatal overdose of a person identified in the indictment as T.B. That took place on April 2 in Akron, according to the indictment.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Henry F. DeBaggis following an investigation by the Akron Police Department and Drug Enforcement Administration.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after a review of the federal sentencing guidelines and factors unique to the case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record (if any), the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation.
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.
Twenty people indicted in conspiracy that brought large amounts of heroin, cocaine and fentanyl to Northeast OhioRead the Press Release
Twenty people were indicted for their roles in a conspiracy that brought large amounts of fentanyl, heroin and cocaine into Greater Cleveland from Chicago and Yonkers, New York, law enforcement officials said.
Some of these conspirators had significant links to the Sinaloa cartel. As part of the investigation, law enforcement seized 29 kilograms of cocaine, six kilograms of heroin and one kilogram of fentanyl, as well as $400,000 and several firearms.
Named in the 51-count indictment are: Ismael Jacinto Acosta, 37, of Cleveland Heights; Alfonso Rodrigo, 36, of Warrensville Heights; David Urrabazo-Maldonado, Jr., 29, of Madera, Calif; Tennille Bryant, 36, of Yonkers, N.Y.; James Carver, 36, of Yonkers, N.Y.; Van Herron, 34, of Cleveland; Jose Hernandez, 55, of Chicago; Octavio Rodrigo, 60, of Maple Heights; Juan Carlos Solis, 26, of Chicago; Mario Amador-Ramirez, 52, of Cleveland; Roland Francisco Rivera-Erazo, 32, of Honduras; Maurice Walker, 31, of Cleveland; Manuel Maldonado, 37, of Lyndhurst; Reinaldo Hernandez, 27, of Cleveland; Cesar Zambrano-Espinal, 27, of Cleveland; Kelvin Zambrano, 27, of Cleveland; Jonathan Stepp, 32, of Cleveland; Ryan Miller, 33, of Cleveland; Nancy Vargas, 33, of Tolleson, Ariz. and Margaret Fernandez, 35, of Warrensville Heights.
The defendants conspired together from 2010 through 2016 to obtain fentanyl, heroin, cocaine and marijuana from suppliers in Chicago and Yonkers, N.Y. and then sell the drugs in Northeast Ohio.
Acosta obtained heroin from suppliers in Chicago. Jose Hernandez supplied vehicles with after-market trap compartments to transport hidden drugs and drug proceeds, according to the indictment.
Zambrano-Espinal used a home on West 130th Street in Cleveland to store and distribute the drugs and drug money. He supplied heroin and cocaine to others, including Stepp, Miller and Reinaldo Hernandez, who in turn sold the drugs in Northeast Ohio, according to the indictment.
The Rodrigos used a house on Maple Heights Boulevard in Maple Heights to store and distribute drugs and drug money. Maurice Walker, at the direction of Alfonso Rodgrigo, sold drugs and had access to stash houses, according to the indictment.
Jose Hernandez used a commercial bus line to attempt to transport two kilograms of heroin from Chicago to Cleveland, while Bryant transported one kilogram of fentanyl from Yonkers to Cleveland via commercial bus line. Bryant and Carver, working with the Rodrigos and Urrabazo-Maldonado, then transported the kilogram of fentanyl to the Maple Heights Boulevard home, according to the indictment.
Rodrigo and Margaret Fernandez is named in three counts for allegedly using the proceeds of drug sales to purchase several homes through the Cuyahoga County forfeited land sale.
“This organization is responsible for bringing nearly 100 pounds of heroin, cocaine and fentanyl into Northeast Ohio,” U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon said. “Sadly, the death toll continues to mount from this epidemic. Daily we mourn as parents bury their children and children bury their parents. In response, we will continue to aggressively target drug traffickers, while working just as aggressively to reduce the demand for drugs and to provide treatment for those already addicted.”
DEA Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. Plancon said: “Attacking the opiate and heroin abuse epidemic in Ohio and across the United States is a top priority for DEA. The indictments announced today reflect the complete disruption of a significant drug trafficking organization, responsible for the distribution of kilogram quantities of heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine in Ohio. In an environment where overdose deaths have become daily news, halting this group’s ability to distribute these very lethal drugs into our community is a victory for all citizens of northern Ohio. The efforts and cooperation of the Ohio State Highway Patrol in this investigation were vital, and deserve recognition.”
“The harm inflicted by these drugs is matched only by the profit potential for those who sell them. Today’s indictment is the culmination of a lengthy effort in which IRS-CI worked with its law enforcement partners to disrupt the flow of money -- the lifeblood that allows these organizations to proliferate,” said Kathy A. Enstrom, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office. “This is an important victory for the citizens of Northern Ohio. These individuals not only fueled the drug problem in Northern Ohio, but they supported addiction in several parts of the country.”
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert F. Corts and Marisa Darden following an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Ohio State Highway Patrol and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations.
If convicted, the defendants’ sentences will be determined by the court after a review of the federal sentencing guidelines and factors unique to the case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record (if any), the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation.
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.
Former Cleveland Housing Network official sentenced to prison for taking bribes and steering contractsRead the Press Release
A former Cleveland Housing Network official was sentenced to 30 months in prison for taking bribes and steering contracts, law enforcement officials said.
James Todt, 49, of Brecksville was sentenced to 30 months in prison by U.S. District Benita Y. Pearson. He previously pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit bribery and two counts of theft concerning programs receiving federal funds.
Todt worked at the Cleveland Housing Network between 2005 and 2014, where his duties included supervising inspectors and project managers, as well as awarding CHN contracts on various projects for the non-profit community development organization. Lizandro Orellana, 56, of Cleveland, owned and operated Modern Construction Group LLC. Chris Peterson, 42, of Macedonia, owned and operated Top Notch Construction, according to court documents.
Todt corruptly solicited and accepted things of value from Orellana and Peterson between 2009 and 2014. Orellana paid $8,222 to Todt’s personal credit account at a local business in exchange for CHN work awarded to Modern Construction. Peterson paid Todt up to $10,000 in cash in exchange for CHN work that Todt awarded to Top Notch, according to court documents.
On numerous occasions, Todt provided Orellana with CHN’s internal cost projections for various projects, which were used to evaluate a contractor’s bid.
Orellana paid another person to do $3,650 worth of electrical work at Todt’s home in November 2012. In October 2013, Todt asked Orellana for assistance building a deck and installing windows at his home. Orellana provided a crew of six Modern employees to construct the deck, and directed employees to install seven windows. The labor cost related to the deck and windows was valued at approximately $8,736, according to court documents.
In 2012, Peterson repaired the roof of a home in Seven Hills owned by one of Todt’s relatives, and performed repairs on a rental property owned by Todt in Brecksville, according to court documents.
Todt also submitted false invoices and caused two checks totaling $15,280 to be deposited into his personal account, according to court documents.
Additionally, Orellana had a lead abatement contractor license issued by the Ohio Department of Health, which allowed Modern Construction to bid on lead-based paint abatement projects for CHN homes. These projects often required Modern to gut a portion or all of a home’s interior, including the removal of doors, windows, walls, moldings and sometimes porches. Orellana understood the work was to be done by workers licensed to perform lead-based paint abatement and comply with federal and state standards, according to court documents.
Modern Construction was contracted to conduct lead-based paint abatement on several CHN properties between 2010 and 2012. Orellana, due to his workload and to save time, directed employees to gut homes containing lead-based paint. Items and components covered in lead-based paint were removed without following abatement procedures. The employees directed to gut the homes were not licensed to perform lead-based paint abatement, which Orellana knew, according to court documents.
Orellana, Peterson and Modern Construction have pleaded guilty to their roles in the case and are scheduled to be sentenced Thursday.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert J. Patton and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad Beeson. It comes following an investigation by the FBI, HUD-OIG, U.S. EPA, Ohio EPA, Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation, Ohio Department of Health – Environmental Compliance Program and the Cleveland Division of Police.
Two felons from Warren indicted for stealing 30 firearms from gun storeRead the Press Release
Two felons from Warren were indicted for stealing 30 firearms, as well as related charges, said Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Laval Jackson, 43, and Tyrone Thomas, 42, were indicted on charges of stealing firearms, being in possession of stolen firearms and being felons illegally in possession of firearms.
Kristi Coxson, 33, also of Warren, was indicted on one count of possession of stolen firearms.
According to the indictment, Jackson and Thomas On or March 29 stole from J & D Firearms, located in Warren, the following firearms:
- Ruger, model SR1911, .45 caliber pistol, serial number 672-39025;
- Glock, model 17, 9mm pistol, serial number BBDR194;
- Stag Arms, 5.56mm rifle, serial number 330360;
- JLD Enterprises, model PTR91, .308 caliber rifle, serial number B0074;
- Vulcan Arms, model V15, .223 caliber rifle, serial number P006848;
- Bersa, model Thunder 9, 9mm pistol, serial number F87740;
- Glock, model 23, .40 caliber pistol, serial number AANN915;
- Bersa, model Thunder 40, .40 caliber pistol, serial number F37068;
- Bersa, model Thunder 45, .45 caliber pistol, serial number F87203;
- Springfield, model XDS, 9mm pistol, serial number S3841064;
- Squires Bingham, model 1911, .45 caliber pistol, serial number RIA1749616;
- Taurus, model PT917, 9mm pistol, serial number TDO68413;
- Sarsilmaz, 9mm pistol, serial number T1102-14G00678;
- Bersa, model Thunder 380, .380 caliber pistol, serial number 716090;
- Smith and Wesson, model M&P 40, .40 caliber pistol, serial number HSJ5404;
- Grand Power SRO, 9mm pistol, serial number GBA0938;
- Bersa, model BP9CC, 9mm pistol, serial number E28908;
- Glock, model 19, 9mm pistol, serial number BBEF141;
- FNH, model FNS9, 9mm pistol, serial number CSU0013415;
- Ruger, model GP100, .357 caliber revolver, serial number 177-90494;
- Springfield, 9mm pistol, serial number GM970936;
- Springfield, model XDM, 9mm pistol, serial number MG420979;
- Ruger, model Police Service Six, .357 caliber revolver, serial number 153-28202;
- Ruger, model SR45, .45 caliber pistol, serial number 380-66127;
- Smith and Wesson, model M&P 9, 9mm pistol, serial number HKK9077;
- Glock, model 23, .40 caliber pistol, serial number BAEC028;
- Browning, model Hi Power, 9mm pistol, serial number 419584;
- MKE, model Kirikkale, .380 caliber pistol, serial number 7340746;
- Taurus, model PT1911, .38 caliber pistol, serial number LBX04929; and
- Smith and Wesson, model M&P 9, 9mm pistol, serial number HUS1418
The indictment alleges that on March 29, 2016, Jackson, Thomas and Coxson knowingly possessed the above listed stolen firearms.
Jackson is charged with being a felon in possession of the above stolen firearms after he was previously convicted of failure to comply with the order or signal of a police officer in the Trumbull County Court of Common Pleas in 1996.
Thomas is charged with being a felon in possession of the above stolen firearms after he was previously convicted of aggravated assault in 1995 and of robbery in 2001, both in the Trumbull County Court of Common Pleas.
“These are people forbidden by law from having firearms who went out and stole them,” Rendon said. “They will hold them accountable for their actions and we will continue to do all we can to keep firearms from illegally getting to our neighborhoods.”
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, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Warren Police Department. The matter is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David M. Toepfer.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Three Ohio men indicted for conspiring to transport explosives that could be used to crack safesRead the Press Release
Three Ohio men were indicted for conspiring to transport explosives that could be used to crack safes, 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.
Indicted are: Frank Michael Susany, Jr., 52, of Boardman, Ohio; Robert Thomas Courtney, Jr., 44, of North Jackson; and James Patrick Quinn, 51, of Youngstown.
They are charged with with receipt and transportation of explosive materials, conspiracy and operation of an apparatus to interfere with the transmission of communications and signals.
Susany, Courtney and Quinn, from February through April 2013, conspired to receive and transport explosive materials that could be used to crack safes at jewelry stores and coin shops, according to the indictment.
It was part of the conspiracy that Susany, Quinn and Courtney would break into jewelry stores and coin stores to steal valuable items; that the money obtained by selling the stolen items would be used to buy explosive materials; and that once they obtained the explosive materials, they would use the materials to crack safes at other jewelry stores and coin shops, according to the indictment.
On April 19, 2013, Susany possessed and used a device that jammed cellular telephone communications and store alarm systems connected to cellular back-ups to disable a coin store’s alarm system, according to the indictment.
If convicted, the defendants’ sentences will be determined by the court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The 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.
Cleveland man faces fentanyl, heroin, firearms chargesRead the Press Release
A Cleveland man was indicted in federal court for possessing with intent to distribute heroin, fentanyl and cocaine, as well as illegally operating a drug house and having a firearm, said Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Kristopher L. Courtney, 39, was named in the five-count indictment.
Courtney possessed fentanyl, heroin and cocaine on Sept. 2, with the purpose of the distributing the drugs. He also possessed a Mossberg 20-gauge shotgun despite numerous felony convictions which prohibited from having a firearm. He also controlled 2973 East 130th Street in Cleveland for the purpose of distributing heroin, fentanyl and 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.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Vasile Katsaros following an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Twelve people indicted for their roles in Cleveland cocaine conspiracyRead the Press Release
A 30-count indictment was unsealed today, charging a dozen people with conspiring to distribute cocaine throughout Greater Cleveland, 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.
Indicted are: Darrien Smith, 43, of South Euclid; Brandon McKinnie, aka Fat B, 31, of University Heights; Joseph Martin, aka Joe Caddy, 31, of Cleveland; Tristan Ingram, 28, of Parma; Robert Serina, aka Bobby Champagne, 36, of Cleveland; Wesley Ely, 39, of Parma; Christine Hoenie, aka Cali Miles, 34, of Cleveland; Ben May, 23, of Noblesville, Ind.; Luis Cabrera, 27, of Cleveland; Francisco Sanchez, 34, of Brook Park; Kenneth Paden, aka Chop, 38, of Cleveland; and Clifton Coleman, 55, of South Euclid.
Smith obtained large amounts of cocaine and sold it to McKinnie, who in turn sold it to Martin, who sold the cocaine to Ingram. Ely, Cabrera, Sanchez and Paden purchased cocaine from Ingram for distribution. Hoenie arranged cocaine sales for Serina, according to the indictment.
The conspiracy took place between 2013 and 2014, according to the indictment.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Margaret Sweeney and Michelle Baeppler following an investigation by the Northern Ohio Law Enforcement Task Force.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after reviewing factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Defendants are entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Cleveland man sentenced to 14 years in prison for trafficking three teen girlsRead the Press Release
A Cleveland man was sentenced to 14 years in prison for trafficking three teenaged girls, 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.
Ronnie Pratt, 22, trafficked three underage girls. He did this by taking photos of his girls and posting the photos on www.backpage.com. Pratt handled all text communications with potential customers and transported the girls to “dates.” He usually kept about half the money they were paid for commercial sex acts, according to court documents.
One of the girls was 13 when she began working for Pratt. He had a gun that he used to intimidate at least one of the girls, according to court documents.
The conduct took place between July and November 2015.
“This defendant made his living taking advantage of runaways,” Rendon said. “He pushed girls as young as 13 into events that will take them a lifetime to overcome. His sentence, at the highest end of the applicable sentencing guidelines range, appropriately reflects the incredible damage he has done and the just punishment for his crimes.”
"While Mr. Pratt will serve 14 years for his crimes, his young victims will be affected for a lifetime," Anthony said. "Law enforcement will continue to assist victims of human trafficking in obtaining the support they need and ensuring individuals like Pratt are brought to justice."
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bridget M. Brennan and Carmen Henderson following an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
U.S. Attorney's Heroin and Opioid Task Force recognized with Attorney General's AwardRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Heroin and Opioid Task Force will be honored later this year with the Attorney General’s Award, the highest honor given by the Justice Department.
The Task Force will receive the Attorney General’s Award for Outstanding Contributions to Community Partnerships for Public Safety. This award recognizes outstanding achievement in the development and support of community partnerships designed to address public safety within a community. The award recognizes the significant contributions of citizens and organizations that have assisted the Department in the accomplishment of these programs.
The U.S. Attorney’s Heroin and Opioid Task Force was established in 2013 to address the region’s expanding epidemic. The group brings together a diverse group of stakeholders, including law enforcement, the medical community, people in recovery, treatment professionals, judges, public health professionals, educators and others. It focuses on solutions from four perspectives: law enforcement; education and prevention; healthcare policy; and treatment.
Successes to which members of the group have contributed include: working to make Narcan more readily available; presentations to tens of thousands of parents, students and other members of the community at hundreds of town hall meetings and schools; increased training for doctors and other medical professionals about the dangers of opioids; the creation of a heroin-involved death investigation team that treats overdoses as crime scenes, with the goal of filing enhanced criminal charges for dealers when appropriate; and working to increase the availability of drug treatment, among others.
“It is easy to become discouraged about the wave of death and pain that opioids and heroin bring to our community,” said U.S. Attorney Carole Rendon, who chairs the Task Force. “But I know the incredible efforts of all the members of this team make a difference on a daily basis. This approach has become a national model and I know, through hard work, dedication and persistence, we will eventually overcome this threat.”
This comprehensive approach has served as a model and is being replicated by several U.S. Attorney’s Offices around the country.
Members of the Task Force include the Cleveland Clinic, the Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Department, MetroHealth Medical Center, Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court, the Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office, the Ohio Attorney General, Orca House, WKYC Channel 3, the Cleveland Division of Police, the DEA, the FBI, the Ohio State Medical Board, the Ohio State Pharmacy Board, the Cuyahoga County Board of Health, the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner, University Hospitals, the ADAMHS Board and others.
While scores of people have made significant contributions to this effort, the number of people who can be individually honored is capped at 15. Those people are:
- Philip Angelo, Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Department
- Vincent Caraffi, Cuyahoga County Board of Health
- Todd DeKatch, Supervisory Special Agent, Federal Bureau of Investigation
- Dr. Thomas Gilson, Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner
- Gary Gingell, Commander, Cleveland Division of Police
- Dr. Jason Jerry, Cleveland Clinic
- Aaron Marks, member of the recovery community
- Keith Martin, Resident Agent in Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration
- Judge David Matia, Cuyahoga County Court of Common Pleas
- Dr. Joan Papp, MetroHealth Medical Center
- Joseph M. Pinjuh, U.S. Attorney’s Office
- Hugh Shannon, Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s Office
- Judge Joan Synenberg, Cuyahoga County Court of Common Pleas
- Craig A. Tame, U.S. Attorney’s Office
- Mike Tobin, U.S. Attorney’s Office
The Attorney General’s Award Ceremony will be held on Thursday, November 10, 2016, at 1:30 p.m. at DAR Constitution Hall, 1776 D Street, NW, Washington, DC, 20006.
Mexican national indicted for heroin and cocaine traffickingRead the Press Release
A Mexican national was charged with possessing more than six pounds of heroin and two pounds of cocaine, said Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Claudia Cazarez-Quintero, 37, was charged with one count each of possession with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine. Quintero possessed three kilograms of heroin and one kilogram of cocaine on Aug. 17, 2016, according to the indictment.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant's role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Duncan Brown following an investigation by the Northern Ohio Law Enforcement Task Force and the Westlake 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.
Ruffing Montessori School to change policies for students with disabilities under settlement with Justice DepartmentRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice announced today that Ruffing Montessori School, in Rocky River, has entered into an agreement to make significant changes in its policies for students with disabilities, U.S Attorney Carole Rendon said.
The school has also agreed to pay $45,000 in compensation to three families whose children were disenrolled from Ruffing, and a civil penalty of $3,000.
The agreement, which must still be approved by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio, resolves allegations by the United States that Ruffing failed to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act when it disenrolled a child with autism, and two other students. The United States alleged that Ruffing did not attempt to make reasonable modifications to its program for these children before deciding that they could not continue as students at the school.
Under the agreement, Ruffing’s staff will be trained on how to educate children with disabilities within the Montessori philosophy. The school will also revise its non-discrimination policies to cover children with disabilities, and for a three-year period will report to the Department of Justice on how it handles applications from students with disabilities. The school will also report on how it responds to requests for modifications from children with disabilities, and on any students with disabilities who leave the school.
“This settlement protects the rights of students with disabilities to access the educational opportunities offered by private schools, including Montessori schools,” Rendon said. “This settlement is an important reminder that the ADA’s obligations extend to private schools and their treatment of students with disabilities. Under the ADA, private schools must ensure that they are not screening out students on the basis of disability or making decisions based on stereotypes about students with disabilities.”
Fostoria man charged with embezzling $42,000 from labor unionRead the Press Release
A criminal information was filed charging Aaron M. Contreras, 34, of Fostoria, with embezzlement of union funds.
Contreras, while working as financial secretary of a labor union, illegally embezzled approximately $42,700 from the union during 2015. He prepared a false financial report to conceal the embezzlement. Including ATM fees, the loss to the union was $43,293, 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 investigating agency in this case is the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Labor-Management Standards, in Cleveland. The case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Tracey B. Tangeman.
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.
Medina man indicted for stealing $275,000 from employer, using money to pay for vehicles, country club membershipRead the Press Release
A Medina man was named in a 22-count indictment, charged with stealing approximately $275,000 from his employer and using the money to pay for a country club membership, vehicles and purchases at Victoria’s Secret and GNC, law enforcement officials said.
Brian K. Stepp, 50, was charged with multiple counts of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, making false statements and other charges. Rachel M. Penn, 41, of Wellington, was also indicted on charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud.
“These defendants used this company’s coffers like their own personal bank, stealing from their employer to provide for a lavish lifestyle,” U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon said.
“These two conspired in a variety of fraudulent financial schemes to steal money for car and country club membership purchases and exorbitant retail purchases,” said Stephen D. Anthony, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Cleveland office. “The FBI will continue to root out financial fraudsters and hold them accountable for their criminal actions.”
Stepp and Penn worked together at Variety Contractors, Inc., a company based in Medina County that provided general contracting services for large public and commercial retail construction projects in Ohio and other states.
Stepp joined the company as vice president and eventually was promoted to acting president, although the company owner retained ultimate decision-making authority. Penn worked in the company’s accounting department. Her duties included reviewing expense claims submitted by employees and issuing reimbursement checks, according to the indictment.
Stepp and Penn conspired together between February 2014 and May 2015 to defraud Variety Contractors.
Stepp incorporated S&S Kelsey LN, a shell company that did not engage in any actual business. He submitted a variety of fake invoices from S&S and other vendors to Variety Contractors of goods and services that were not provided. Stepp and Penn caused Variety Contractors to make payments on those fraudulent invoices, according to the indictment.
For example, in September 2014, a check request for $31,500 was made for payment to G.C.I. for “Deposit for Exterior Metal Panels”. Three days later, Penn issued a check in the same amount made payable to Ganley, which Penn knew that Stepp used to partially pay for a 2015 Chevy Silverado pickup truck that he purchased in his wife’s name, according to the indictment.
Stepp also fraudulently used a company credit card to pay for personal expenses, such as membership and related fees at Weymouth Country Club, payments made to purchase vehicles to himself and his family, local hotel charges, legal fees, and charges at stores including Victoria’s Secret and GNC, according to the indictment.
The loss to Variety Contractors was approximately $275,000, according to the indictment.
Stepp also made numerous false statements in attempting to get several loans, according to the indictment.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rebecca Lutzko following an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after reviewing factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
An indictment is 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.
Former president of Steelworkers Union Local 5000 charged with stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars from labor unionRead the Press Release
A 29-count federal indictment was unsealed charging the former president of the Steelworkers Local 5000 with stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars from the labor union.
David R. Sager, 58, of Gibsonburg, was indicted on nine counts of embezzlement or theft from a labor union, 18 counts of mail fraud, one count of obstruction of justice and one count of making false statements to law enforcement.
“This defendant betrayed the union membership he promised to represent,” said U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon.
Local 5000 is based in Middelburg Heights and a subordinate organization of the United Steelworkers union. It represented approximately 100 employees working for private companies in and around the Great Lakes. Sager served as president from 1999 through April 2016, according to the indictment.
Local 5000 went on strike in 2009 after failing to reach a contract agreement with a company identified in the indictment as Company 2. The company proposed eliminating the position of contract coordinator, which Sager held. The union membership did not vote on the strike. Local 5000 took steps to establish a Strike Fund – designed to provide financial relief to striking members, based on their need – with Sager and two other union officials as the signatories on the bank account, according to the indictment.
In order to claim Strike Fund benefits, members had to submit a voucher and a copy of a bill. That voucher was then reviewed by a committee on which Sager served. Once approved, the voucher and documentation was forwarded to the Strike Fund signatories for approval. If approved, a union official identified in the indictment as Labor Official 2 issued checks as payment on the vouchers, according to the indictment.
Sager submitted more than $185,000 in vouchers to receive Strike Fund benefits for his family’s expenses between 2010 and 2012. He and his wife had nearly $160,000 in income during the same time period. While collecting Strike Fund benefits, Sager made and caused to be made numerous retail purchases of non-necessity items, such as dining out at several restaurants and the purchase of Carrie Underwood concert tickets, according to the indictment.
The strike ended in 2012. A year later, Company 2 reinstated Sager as a wheelsman and assigned him to work aboard a vessel. He received personal leave and then did not return to work on the vessel. Company 2 terminated his employment, according to the indictment.
On May 16, 2013, an employee of Company 5 wrote an email to some employees which noted, “We are on the verge of losing Local 5000 if we can’t come up with an arrangement an I am afraid (another union) will pick up the pieces and become the sole course of crew manpower on the lakes,” according to the union.
On July 11, 2013, Companies 4 and 5 and Local 5000 signed a joint employment trust agreement, which they renewed a year later. Company 3 refused to participate in the agreement and told Sager and others that it violated the Taft-Hartley Act, according to the indictment.
On May 28, 2014, an employee of Company 3 sent an email to employees stating: “You will notice that [Local 5000 is] coming back at us for the Joint Employment Trust [aka Sager’s pay],” according to the indictment.
In 2013, Companies 4 and 5 paid approximately $77,000 to Local 5000 through the trust agreement, and Sager received approximately $56,061 payable from Local 5000 checks. In 2014, Companies 4 and 5 paid approximately $57,750 to Local 5000 through the trust agreement, and Sager received approximately $73,418 payable from Local 5000 checks. In 2015, Companies 4 and 5 paid approximately $77,000 to Local 5000 through the trust agreement, and Sager received approximately $74,003 payable from Local 5000 checks, according to the indictment.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon following an investigation by the U.S. Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Labor Management Standards and the Internal Revenue Service.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after reviewing factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Defendants are entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Community forums on Cleveland Police use of force policies to be held this monthRead the Press Release
The City of Cleveland, Cleveland Division of Police, the Department of Justice, the Monitoring Team, and the Cleveland Police Commission have now come to the point in the police reform process where it is time for community feedback on the CPD’s revised Use of Force policies. We are collectively hosting two community roundtables, one on the East Side and one on the West Side, each covering the same content. You are invited to attend one of the roundtables:
Eastside Roundtable RSVP
Westside Roundtable RSVP
5:30- 8:30pm, Thursday, September 15th
5:30-8:30pm, Tuesday, September 20th
Jerry Sue Thornton Center
Urban Community School
2500 East 22nd Street
4909 Lorain Avenue
Cleveland, OH 44115
Cleveland, OH 44102
If you are interested in attending a community roundtable, please use the RSVP links above or send an RSVP to the Monitoring Team at [email protected]. The roundtables will include an overview of the Use of Force policy, with an opportunity for small group discussions for community members to inform the policies.
You are invited to read the policies by going to the Monitoring Team’s website. You may also engage in the process by using our online community feedback form to submit any thoughts on the policies by visiting the Monitoring Team’s website.
We hope you strongly consider being part of this important conversation about how we can work together to create a use of force policies consistent with the goals and interests of the Cleveland community.
This outreach is a part of our ongoing effort to engage the Cleveland community in the police reform process. Earlier this year, we sought community input on the Cleveland Division of Police body-worn camera policy, the mission statement, and several other key policies. We want to thank everyone who participated for their engagement with and contributions to the discussion surrounding police reform under the federal Consent Decree in Cleveland.
We look forward to hearing your thoughts on the Use of Force Policy and seeing you at one of the community roundtables.
Cleveland man indicted for selling heroinRead the Press Release
A Cleveland man was indicted for selling heroin, 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.
Timothy Smith, 49, was indicted on one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin. He had more than 67 grams of heroin on December 15, 2015, according to the indictment.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Marisa Darden following an investigation by the FBI.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after reviewing factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
An indictment is 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 more than 10 years in prison for firearms violationRead the Press Release
A Youngstown man sentenced to more than 10 years in prison for firearms violations, said Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Brian K. Bellard, 43, was arrested on Oct. 16, 2015 after Youngstown police responded to a call about an armed man arguing with people outside the Eastside Civic Center. Police found Bellard with a Smith and Wesson, model SD40VE, .40 caliber pistol, and ammunition, according to court documents.
Bellard forbidden from possessing firearms because of previous felony convictions dating back to 1992. Those convictions included felonious assault and domestic violence, according to court documents.
He pleaded guilty last year to being a felon in possession of a firearm. He was sentenced to 125 months in federal prison.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason M. Katz following an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Youngstown Police Department.
Indictment filed on bank robberies in Youngstown and BoardmanRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment charging Rickie Gonzalez, 51, of Campbell, and Michael Zarlingo, 55, of Struthers, with bank robbery.
Count 1 of the indictment alleges that on or about April 18, 2016, Rickie Gonzalez robbed a Huntington Bank in Boardman.
Count 2 of the indictment alleges that on or about April 28, 2016, Michael Zarlingo and Gonzalez robbed a PNC Bank in Youngstown.
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, the FBI Violent Crimes Task Force, the Youngstown Police Department, the Boardman Police Department and the Hubbard Police Department. The matter is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jason M. Katz.
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 charged with robbing Parma bankRead the Press Release
A grand jury returned a one-count indictment charging Richard Joseph Beris, 22, and Alexander Nathaniel Penn, 41, both of Cleveland, with one count of aiding and abetting bank robbery, said Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
The indictment alleges that Beris and Penn robbed the Citizens Bank, located at 5775 Chevrolet Boulevard in Parma, a federally insured financial institution, on August 4, 2016.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after review of factors unique to his case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Seabury Gould, and was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Parma 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 and fentanylRead the Press Release
A four-count indictment was filed in federal court charging a Cleveland man with distributing heroin and fentanyl, said Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Gino Martin, 27, possessed with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl and also distributed heroin and fentanyl. The conduct took place between June and August, according to the indictment.
Prosecutors are also seeking to forfeit nearly $7,800 seized during the investigation.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Margaret Sweeney following an investigation by the Northern Ohio Law Enforcement Task Force and the Euclid Police Department.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after reviewing factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
An indictment is 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 charged with selling heroin that resulted in fatal overdose, as well as firearm and other drug violationsRead the Press Release
A Youngstown man was charged in a with 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, 37, is named in the six-count indictment. The charges include distribution of heroin, cocaine and crack cocaine. The indictment also allegeds that on May 14, 2016 in Youngstown, a person fatally overdosed on heroin sold by Bunkley.
Bunkley is also charged with possessing a Walther, model P22, .22 pistol, an FIE, model Tital, .25 pistol and ammunition on May 18, despite numerous prior felony convictions, including assault, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug crime and being a felon in possession of a firearms, according to the indictment.
Bunkley is also charged with possessing the above-mentioned firearms and ammunition in furtherance of the aforementioned drug trafficking crimes, according to the indictment.
“This defendant has a long history of crime, which has now expanded to include selling drugs that resulted in the death of another person,” Rendon said.
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 Mahoning Valley Law Enforcement Task Force, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The matter is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David M. Toepfer.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Rutgers Organics Corp. agrees to $18 million cleanup and $500,000 restoration of injured natual resources at Nease Superfund site near SalemRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), U.S. Department of Interior and the state of Ohio announced today that Rutgers Organics Corporation (Rutgers) has agreed to complete the cleanup of the Nease Chemical Superfund Site (site) near Salem, Ohio, estimated to cost $18.75 million. The agreement is memorialized in a consent decree lodged in federal court today in Youngstown, Ohio. Under the consent decree, Rutgers also agrees to restore injured natural resources at the site and nearby areas, at a cost of approximately $500,000. Further, Rutgers will reimburse federal and state agencies their past response and assessment costs of about $1 million.
“Today’s consent decree is a significant milestone in our efforts to make the environment cleaner and safer for the citizens of Salem and to protect and restore our valuable natural resources in that region” said Assistant Attorney General John C. Cruden for the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “I want to thank our state partners, as well as recognize the cooperation of defendant Rutgers, for joining us on a path forward to clean up the contaminated Nease Site while preserving undeveloped land and protecting local drinking water sources.”
"This agreement will undo the damage done in the past while preserving creeks and the watershed for future generations," U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon said.
“This settlement will protect human health and the environment in northeast Ohio by reducing the risk of exposure to potentially harmful chemicals,” U.S. EPA Acting Regional Administrator Robert Kaplan said. “EPA looks forward to working with our federal and state partners to clean up the site and restore the Little Beaver Creek watershed.”
“The US Fish and Wildlife Service is looking forward to continuing the cleanup and restoration of injured natural resources at the Nease Chemical Site,” said Service Deputy Midwest Regional Director Charlie Wooley. “This settlement enables the Service and other trustees to work together to restore lost resources and protect valuable habitat in the Little Beaver Creek watershed.”
In a complaint filed today simultaneously with the lodging of the consent decree, the federal and state agencies allege that, between 1961 and 1973, portions of the site were owned and operated by a chemical manufacturing plant known as the Nease Chemical Company (Nease Chemical). Nease Chemical produced specialty products including pesticides such as Mirex, a probable human carcinogen no longer produced in the United States. Hazardous substances derived from these specialty products were detected in the soil, ground water, sediments and flood plains/wetlands in the area, as well as in the fish in the nearby main surface water body, the Middle Fork Little Beaver Creek. Rutgers acquired the assets of Nease Chemical, which ceased operations in 1973. Since 1988, Rutgers has cooperated with EPA to investigate and clean up the site.
Under the consent decree, Rutgers will complete EPA’s Operable Unit 2 remedy at the site by, among other things, capping soil and treating the ponds and ground water. Rutgers will also complete EPA’s Operable Unit 3 remedy at the Site, by, among other things, removing contaminated sediment and floodplain soil and replacing with clean material. The total cleanup, including long term operations and maintenance, is estimated to cost $18.75 million.
The contamination released from the chemical plant over time has injured natural resources in and around the site, including the underlying groundwater aquifers which have become unusable as a source of potable water. As part of the settlement, Rutgers will remove a low-head dam, known as the Lisbon Dam on the Middle Fork Little Beaver Creek, and restore adjacent streamside habitat. Those projects, estimated to cost up to $150,000, are expected to help establish a free-flowing stream with a healthy and diverse fish population.
Rutgers will also fund a $366,000 trust to conserve a variety of lands in the Little Beaver Creek watershed, especially lands that are subject to pressures from new development in the area, to help provide valuable habitat. The trust will also seek to conserve property to protect local drinking water source areas from further contamination.
Further, Rutgers will reimburse the federal and state agencies for their past response and assessment costs, totaling approximately $1 million, and agrees to fund all future oversight and assessment costs.
“This settlement will help protect the environment and Ohio families,” Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine said. “It requires the cleanup of a long-contaminated site and the restoration and preservation of natural resources.”
“About 280-acres of habitat were contaminated by hazardous substances injuring surface and ground waters at the former Nease Chemical site,” according to Ohio EPA Director Craig W. Butler. “Healthy streams and waterways are critical to Ohio’s citizens and our economy. This consent decree is a welcome step forward after many years of work to bring the area stream habitats back to healthy, functioning waterways and protecting drinking water resources into the future.“
Today’s settlement, lodged with the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio, is subject to a 30-day public comment period following notification in the Federal Register and final approval by the court. To view the consent decree or to submit a comment, visit the department’s website: www.justice.gov/enrd/Consent_Decrees.html.
For more information about the Nease Site: https://cumulis.epa.gov/supercpad/cursites/csitinfo.cfm?id=0504619]
Lucas County man accused of embezzlementRead the Press Release
A three-count criminal information was filed charging a Waterville man with embezzling hundreds of thousands of dollas from Construction Contractors Employer Group LLC, said Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
William H. Cook, III, 66, was charged with one count each of conspiracy, wire fraud and mail fraud.
Cook was president of AlphaCare Services Inc., which handled day-to-day operation of Construction Contractors Employer Group LLC. CCEG was formed in 2001 to collect, process and pay employment expenses of its members, such as payroll and worker’s compensation premiums. CCEG’s members were general contractors from Northwest Ohio, according to the information.
Instead of using the members’ money to pay designated expenses, Cook used much of it for his personal benefit. He did this by transferring CCEG funds into AlphaCare Services accounts and then writing checks payable to himself and others. He then used those funds for personal gain, according to the information.
For example, between September 2011 and June 2012, Cook caused wire transfers from CCEG’s account to AlphaCare’s account in excess of $200,000, 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 investigating agency in this case is the Federal Bureau of Investigation, in Sandusky, Ohio. The case 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.
Youngstown man sentenced to 21 years in prison for sexually abusing minorRead the Press Release
A Youngstown man was sentenced to more than 21 years in prison for traveling across state lines to engage in illegal sexual activity, law enforcement officials said.
David Guevara, Sr., 35, was sentenced to 262 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Christopher Boyko.
Guevara met a 15-year old girl in July 2015 and began a sexual relationship with her. Initially, Guevara would have sex with the minor in a tent under a Youngstown bridge. On July 31, 2015, Guevara purchased travel arrangements to move them to Philadelphia. During their trip and once they arrived in Philadelphia, Guevara Sr. continued to engage in sexual intercourse with the minor, according to court documents.
Guevara was originally interviewed by local law enforcement on December 14, 2015. He admitted to engaging in a sexual relationship with the minor and traveling with her to Philadelphia, even though he knew that she was just 15 years old. Guevara also stated that it was his intent to have a child with the minor and to move her and the baby to Mexico, according to court documents.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Youngstown Resident Agency, the Mahoning County Sheriff’s Office, and the Youngstown Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Benedict S. Gullo.
Two Mexican nationals charged in federal court after seizure of 200 pounds of cocaineRead the Press Release
Two men from Mexico were charged in U.S. District Court after law enforcement personnel seized more than 200 pounds of cocaine in Cleveland.
Antonio Navarro-Gaytan and Alejandro Cota-Luna are scheduled to appear in federal court Wednesday afternoon. They have been charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine.
“Taking more than 200 pounds of cocaine off the streets helps make our community safer and stronger,” U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon said. “The DEA, Cleveland Police and all the law enforcement agencies that worked on this case did an outstanding job.”
DEA Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. Plancon said: “This is one of the largest cocaine seizures in Ohio in the past decade. Disrupting the flow of illegal drugs into our communities, and stopping the distribution of those drugs continues to be DEA and our partners’ top priority. A seizure of cocaine this large, should also serve as a reminder that cocaine is dangerous and deadly, and continues to be a major drug of abuse in our society.”
“The hard work and dedication of many officers and agents from multiple law enforcement agencies can be seen in the outcome of this thorough investigation,” said Cleveland Police Chief Calvin Williams. “This large-scale seizure means less drugs on our streets and makes our community safer. I am proud of the partnership that the Cleveland Division of Police shares with our law enforcement partners.”
“I am extremely proud of this task force, specifically the work of our assigned deputy,” said Cuyahoga County Sheriff Clifford Pinkney. “Large busts such as this underscore the importance of collaboration between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, and demonstrates the strong relationships we have in here Northeast Ohio.”
According to an affidavit filed today in federal court:
DEA agents received information on Sept. 2 that a semi tractor-trailer with California license plates was expected to come to the Cleveland area from the Baltimore area to deliver drugs or pick up money associated with drug dealing. They located the tractor in a fenced lot at a large commercial building at 17877 St. Clair Ave.
Investigators observed a Nissan sedan occupied by the defendants pull into the parking lot of the building. The defendants then appeared to work on the trailer and then take items from the trunk of the Nissan and put them in the trailer.
Navarro-Gaytan and Cota-Luna then went to a nearby gas station, then headed westbound on Interstate 90, where they were pulled over for speeding and eventually arrested. A subsequent search of the trailer 92 rectangular bricks, each containing approximately one kilogram of cocaine.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Duncan Brown following an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Cleveland Division of Police, Ohio State Highway Patrol, Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Department, Cleveland Heights Police Department, Ashtabula County Sheriff’s Office, Summit County Drug Unit, Lake County Narcotics Agency, Lorain County Drug Task Force and Homeland Security Investigations.
If convicted, the defendants’ sentences 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.
A charges 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.
Cleveland woman sentenced to three years in prison for filing fraudulent tax claimsRead the Press Release
A Cleveland woman sentenced to three years in prison for filing false income tax returns on behalf of friends and relatives and fraudulently claiming more than $131,000, said U.S. Attorney Carole Rendon and Kathy Enstrom, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office.
Monique Kirk, 39, held herself out as a tax preparer and offered to prepare returns from friends and relatives. Kirk used the personal information they provided to file false and fictitious returns, including false wage income and tax credit information, many for claimants who earned little or no money, according to court documents.
Kirk requested some of the refunds be paid by direct deposit into bank accounts in the name of third parties that she controlled. Kirk converted his money to her own personal use, according to court documents
Kirk filed 21 false tax returns between 2012 and 2014 in which she claimed approximately $131,871 in tax refunds to which neither she nor the claimants were entitled. She was ordered to pay $122,501 in restitution.
“IRS Criminal Investigation stands ready to investigate anyone who would put a taxpayer at risk for a quick profit and unjustly enrich themselves by preparing false claims for refunds,” Enstrom said.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney M. Kendra Klump following an investigation by the IRS-CI.
Parma man convicted of child sex traffickingRead the Press Release
A Parma man was convicted of sexually exploiting a 14-year-old girl, said U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon and Stephen D. Anthony, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Cleveland Office.
Richard Purnell, 54, was convicted by a jury of sex trafficking of children. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Dec 13.
“Those who prey on our children, whether selling them or buying them, will be prosecuted to the fullest extent the law allows,” Rendon said. “We are gratified Judge Adams ordered the defendant into custody so he can continue serving what we expect will be an appropriately lengthy prison sentence.”
“Purnell chose to repeatedly victimize a 14-year-old girl for his own sexual gratification without any regard for what is legally or morally acceptable," said Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony of the FBI Cleveland Division. "His actions are reprehensible and unacceptable. The FBI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to aggressively pursue and bring to justice those who engage in human trafficking.”
Purnell repeatedly engaged in commercial sex acts with the 14-year-old, whose images were posted on the website backpage.com by Ronnie Pratt, according to court documents and trial testimony.
Pratt has pleaded guilty to sex trafficking charges and is awaiting sentencing.
Purnell continued to engage in commercial sex acts with the girl even after she told him she was only 14 years old, according to trial testimony.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bridget M. Brennan and Linda Barr following an investigation by the FBI’s Child Exploitation Task Force. The Child Exploitation Task Force is comprised of the FBI, Adult Parole Authority, Cleveland Metro Housing Authority, Cleveland Police Department and Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Office. The Parma Police Department provided substantial assistance to the successful investigation.
Cleveland dentist sentenced to year in prison, ordered to pay $344,000 for healthcare fraudRead the Press Release
A Cleveland dentist was sentenced to a year in prison and ordered to pay nearly $344,000 in restitution for fraudulently billing Medicaid for more work that not authorized or never done, said Carole S. Rendon, law enforcement officials said.
Robert Rouzaud, 60, was previously found guilty of healthcare fraud.
He operated Five Points Dental Centre on East 152nd Street. Rouzaud submitted claims on behalf of Medicaid recipients for services that were not pre-authorized, as required, and/or not provided. This took place between 2009 and 2015, according to court documents.
For example, Rouzaud billed for an excessive number of fillings on the same teeth, when he had not done fillings, filed claims for fillings on teeth that had been previously extracted, and submitted claims for fillings on patients who had dentures, according to court documents.
Rouzaud submitted false claims totaling $407,982 for services he did not provide between 2009 and 2015. He was paid nearly $344,000 for these services, according to court documents.
“This dentist’s fraudulent actions were egregious, and he deserves to go to prison for stealing from taxpayers,” U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon said.
“Robert Rouzaud stole money from a federal health care program intended to assist the most vulnerable in our society, the disabled and the poor, and today he paid the price for those actions,” said Lamont Pugh III, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, Chicago Region. “HHS/OIG and our law enforcement partners will work tirelessly root out those providers who steal from the Medicaid program.”
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Collyer following an investigation by the FBI, the Department of Health and Human Services -- Office of Inspector General and the Ohio Attorney General's Office.
Painesville man indicted on child pornography chargesRead the Press Release
A Painesville man was indicted on child pornography charges, said Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Lauden A. Sullivan, 21, was charged with receiving, distributing, and possessing visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. From January 4, 2015, through on or about January 21, 2016, Sullivan knowingly received and distributed, by computer, numerous computer files, which contained visual depictions of real minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. It is further alleged that on or about January 22, 2016, Sullivan possessed a CM Storm Tower computer that contained child pornography, to include at least one image involving a prepubescent minor or a minor who had not attained 12 years of age, according to the indictment.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant's role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Benedict S. Gullo. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
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.
Four from Northeast Ohio indicted for trafficking heroin and fentanylRead the Press Release
Four people from Northeast Ohio were named in 23-count federal indictment, charged with conspiring the distribute more than a kilogram of heroin as well as fentanyl, law enforcement officials said.
Indicted are: Kevin Adkins, 41, of Maple Heights; Darrell Massingille, 36, of Cleveland; Tammy Parsons, 29, of North Ridgeville, and Jack Morgan, 50, of Cleveland.
The conspiracy took place between July 2015 and March 2016. Adkins supplied heroin to Massingille. He also relied on Massengille and Parsons to arrange meetings with other people to whom they could sell them heroin and fentanyl, according to the indictment.
Adkins also supplied heroin to Morgan, who in turn sold it to other people. Both Adkins and Morgan possessed firearms and ammunition in furtherance of the conspiracy, according to the indictment.
“We will continue to work to disrupt the supply of heroin and fentanyl coming into our community while also focusing on prevention, treatment and education in an effort to reduce demand for these deadly drugs,” said U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christian M. Stickan and Duncan Brown following an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the U.S. Marshals Service.
If convicted, the defendants’ sentences will be determined by the court after a review of the federal sentencing guidelines and factors unique to the case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record (if any), the defendant’s role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation.
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 man incarcerated for stealing $121,000 in veteran's benefitsRead the Press Release
A Toledo man was sentenced to five months incarceration and ordered to pay $121,156 in restitution for theft of government property, said Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Antonio Estrada, 66, took veterans pension benefits to which he was not entitled, according to court documents.
“Those who defraud the taxpayers and steal from fellow veterans will be held accountable,” said Gavin McClaren, United States Department of Veterans Affairs – Office of Inspector General, Resident Agent in Charge, Cleveland.
The investigating agency in this case is the Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General, Cleveland, Ohio. The case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Noah P. Hood.
Cleveland attorney sentenced to nearly four years in prison for money launderingRead the Press Release
A Cleveland attorney was sentenced to nearly four years in prison for accepting $20,000 in purported drug proceeds and agreeing to launder the money, said Carole Rendon, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Matthew J. King, 45, was convicted earlier this year of one count of attempted money laundering and two counts of money laundering following a weeklong jury trial. U.S. District Judge Donald C. Nugent sentenced King to 44 months in prison
King accepted $20,000 in cash purported to be the proceeds of the sale of narcotics. He then wrote two checks totaling $4,000 in early 2014, according to trial testimony and court documents.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michelle M. Baeppler and Margaret A. Sweeney 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, 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.
Akron men indicted in federal court for shooting woman in Cuyahoga Valley National ParkRead the Press Release
Two Akron men were charged in a federal indictment with attempted murder and related charges for shooting a woman in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, 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.
DeZay M. Ely, 27, and Raymond T. Moore III, 26, are both charged with attempted murder and using and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence. Ely is also charged with being a felon in possession of ammunition.
Ely and Moore attempted to kill a woman on July 3 by shooting her in the head, according to court documents.
Attempted murder carries a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison. The charge of using and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence carries a mandatory minimum consecutive term of 10 years in prison.
If convicted, a defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after a review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin Filiatraut and Kelly L. Galvin following an investigation by the FBI and Cuyahoga Valley National Park Police.
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 indicted on tax chargesRead the Press Release
A Millersburg man was charged in a seven-count indictment with crimes related to fraudulently claiming more than $1.1 million in tax refunds to which he was not entitled, said U.S. Attorney Carole Rendon and Kathy A. Enstrom, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office.
Dennis Dean Miller was indicted on 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.
"Mr. Miller unlawfully manipulated the tax code for his own personal gain, reaping hundreds of thousands of dollars in fraudulently procured tax refunds," Enstrom said. “Taxpayers thinking about engaging in tax defier conduct, such as filing IRS Forms 1099-OID, Original Issue Discount, to avoid their federal tax obligations should think twice.”
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Henry F. DeBaggis following an investigation by the IRS.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after a review of the federal sentencing guidelines and factors unique to the case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record (if any), the defendant’s role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation.
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 people indicted for conspiracy to traffic cocaine in East LiverpoolRead the Press Release
Seven people were named in a 79-count indictment for their roles in a conspiracy to traffic crack and powder cocaine in and around East Liverpool, said Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Indicted are: Brady Carmichael, 26, of Columbus; Bryan Carmichael, 27, of Columbus; Guy Dorsey, 54, of Wellsville; Katie Riley, 26; Jacqueline Riley, 30; Phyllis Chamberlain, 55, and Allana Baker, 30, all of East Liverpool.
It was part of the conspiracy that the Carmichaels and Katie Riley transported cocaine from the Columbus area to East Liverpool between June and July 2016. The Carmichaels and Riley would then convert the cocaine into crack cocaine for redistribution around the East Liverpool area, according to the indictment.
The Carmichaels and Katie Riley supplied crack cocaine to Baker, Chamberlain and Dorsey for redistribution around the East Liverpool area. The defendants used cellular telephones, code words and phrases to facilitate their drug trafficking activities, according to the indictment.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Columbiana County Drug Task Force. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David M. Toepfer.
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.
Elyria man indicted for selling fentanyl that caused fatal overdoseRead the Press Release
A nine-count federal indictment was filed charging an Elyria man with selling heroin and fentanyl, including a dose of fentanyl that caused the fatal overdose of a Lorain County man, law enforcement officials said.
David Andrew Hollis, 27, sold heroin or fentanyl several times between October 2015 and March 2016. He sold fentanyl on Feb. 21 to a man who fatally overdosed in Lorain County, according to the indictment.
“We will continue to hold drug dealers who sell heroin and fentanyl accountable for the deaths and misery they cause,” said U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon. “It will take aggressive enforcement, combined with prevention efforts and making treatment available to those who want help, to turn the tide on the opioid epidemic.”
"We are committed to aggressively pursue heroin and fentanyl traffickers and organizations that are creating the drug epidemic that our communities face every day," Lorain County Sheriff Phil R. Stammitti said.
The U.S. Attorney's Office has filed 15 indictments related to sales of heroin or fentanly that directly resulted in deaths since the beginning of last year.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Marisa Darden and Robert Corts following an investigation by the Lorain County Drug Task Force.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after a review of the federal sentencing guidelines and factors unique to the case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record (if any), the defendant’s role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation.
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.
Barberton man accused of failing to disclose involvement in war crimes, including Srebenica massacreRead the Press Release
A Barberton man was indicted for immigration fraud for failing to disclose his participation in the Srebenica massacre, said Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio and Marlon Miller, Special Agent in Charge of HSI’s Detroit office.
Oliver Dragic, 41, was named in the three-count indictment, charged with one count of possession of a fraudulently obtained green card, attempt to procure naturalization contrary to law and attempt to procure naturalization to which he was not entitled.
The indictment alleges Dragic failed to disclose his paramilitary police service for the Republika Srpska, a rogue state unrecognized by the international community that attempted to create an ethnically pure Serbian nation within the ethnically-mixed territory of the Yugoslav Republic of Bosnia-Herzegovina. Dragic completed police training in Serbia in 1994 and returned to Bosnia, where he voluntarily joined a special police unit that joined in Republika Srpska’s army during military operations, according to the indictment.
Dragic failed to disclose his participation in the Srebrenica genocide, where he and his paramilitary police unit performed actions in the surrounding wilderness to prevent victims from escaping the massacre in July 1995, according to the indictment.
Dragic applied for refugee status in the U.S. in May 1998, claiming he was a victim of the Bosnian war. He continued serving with the Republika Srpska police until November 1998. He made numerous false statements on his refugee application, according to the indictment.
“The United States stands as a beacon for those fleeing oppression and atrocities, not those who committed them,” Rendon said. “This defendant lied about his involvement in a horrific war crime and will be held accountable for those lies.”
“The investigation, prosecution, and ultimate removal of individuals like Dragic are paramount to the mission of Homeland Security Investigations and to the safety our communities,” Miller said. “The United States is not a safe haven for war criminals.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt Cronin is prosecuting the case following an investigation by HSI Special Agent Brett Bangas and Historian Michael MacQueen.
Members of the public who have information about foreign nationals suspected of engaging in human rights abuses or war crimes are urged to contact HSI by calling the toll-free tip line at 1-866-347-2423 or internationally at 001-1802-872-6199. They can also email [email protected].
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. 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 selling false identification documentsRead the Press Release
A Stark County man was indicted on charges that he knowingly transferred false identification documents, such as counterfeit Social Security cards and counterfeit state identification cards, knowing that said items were produced without lawful authority, said Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Domingo Ralios, 33, of Stark County, Ohio, was charged in a one-count indictment with knowingly transferring false identification documents, U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon said.
Ralios sold counterfeit Social Security cards and state identification cards to a confidential source for several hundred dollars each on at least two occassions this year. The counterfeit documents contained stolen names and Social Security account numbers, according to the indctment.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after reviewing factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
The investigating agency in this case is the United States Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Karrie Howard and Robert Kern.
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.