Eastern District of Oklahoma
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Seven Individuals Indicted in November Federal Grand JuryRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office announced today the results of the November 2017 Federal Grand Jury.
“The following named individuals have been charged with a federal crime or crimes by the return of an indictment by the Grand Jury. A grand jury Indictment does not constitute evidence of guilt. A grand jury Indictment is a method of bringing formal charges against the defendant. A defendant is presumed innocent of the charges and may not be found guilty unless evidence establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. United States Sentencing Guidelines may be considered, upon conviction, by the sentencing court. Federal prison sentences are non-parolable.”
RODNEY PHILLIP AIRD, age 50, of Seminole, Oklahoma
Possession With Intent To Distribute Methamphetamine
The Indictment alleges that on or about August 13, 2017, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, RODNEY PHILLIP AIRD, did knowingly and intentionally possess with the intent to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual), a Schedule II controlled substance, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B), punishable by no more than 40 years imprisonment, a fine up to $5,000,000.00 or both.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Seminole Nation Tribal Police, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Assistant United States Attorney John David Luton
KRISTI MICHELLE JUAREZ, age 32, of Sanger, Texas
Theft By Officers Or Employees Of An Indian Gaming Establishment
The Indictment alleges that on January 2, 2017, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, KRISTI MICHELLE JUAREZ, defendant herein, while an employee of the Chickasaw Nation WinStar World Casino and Resort, did embezzle, abstract, purloin, willfully misapply, and take and carry away in excess of $1,000.00 of moneys belonging to the Chickasaw Nation WinStar World Casino and Resort, an Indian gaming establishment operated by the Chickasaw Nation, pursuant to an ordinance or resolution approved by the National Indian Gaming Commission, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1168(b), punishable by up to 20 years imprisonment, a fine up to $1,000,000.00 or both.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
Assistant United States Attorney John David Luton
MANUEL EMILIO PAYANO, age 42, of Hazleton, Pennsylvania
ANGEL VEGA, age 43, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Possession With Intent To Distribute Cocaine
The Indictment alleges that on or about October 16, 2017, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendants, MANUEL EMILIO PAYANO and ANGEL VEGA, did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine a Schedule II controlled substance, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A) and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2, punishable by not less than 10 years imprisonment, a fine up to $10,000,000.00 or both.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris
JUSTIMIANO PEREZ DIAZ, age 42, of Stigler, Oklahoma
Enticement Of A Minor Using The Internet
The Indictment alleges that from in or about September 2017, the exact date being unknown to the Grand Jury, until on or about October 16, 2017, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, and elsewhere, the defendant, JUSTIMIANO PEREZ DIAZ, 42 years old, did use a facility and means of interstate commerce, the Internet, to attempt to knowingly persuade, induce, and entice an individual whom he believed was 13 years old, to engage in sexual activity for which a person can be criminally charged under Oklahoma State law, to wit: Title 21, Oklahoma Statute, Section 1123, Lewd or Indecent Proposals or Acts with a Child under 16, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2422(b), punishable by not less than 10 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00 or both.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Wagoner Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow
DARRELL LEE McLEMORE, age 55, of Porum, Oklahoma
Concealment Of A Material Fact
False Statement (Two Counts)The Indictment alleges that from in or about October 2012 and continuing through in or about October 2017, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the ,defendant DARRELL LEE McLEMORE, in a matter within the jurisdiction of Social Security Administration, having knowledge of the occurrence of an event affecting the right to receive or continue to receive Social Security Supplemental Security Income payments, concealed and failed to disclose such event with the intent to fraudulently secure payment when no payment was authorized. Specifically, defendant DARRELL LEE McLEMORE intentionally concealed that DARRELL LEE McLEMORE secured gainful employment and owned or acquired assets, which would disqualify him from eligibility for the payments, in order to receive and continue to receive Supplemental Security Income payments made by the Social Security Administration to him. By such action, defendant DARRELL LEE McLEMORE took approximately $48,075.00 in Social Security Supplemental Security Income payments to which he was not entitled, in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 1383a(a)(3), punishable by not more than 5 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00 or both.
The Indictment further alleges that on or about February 1, 2017, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, DARRELL LEE McLEMORE, did knowingly make or caused to be made any false statement or representation of a material fact to the Social Security Administration used to determine the right for any payment. Specifically, DARRELL LEE McLEMORE participated in a redetermination conference wherein DARRELL LEE McLEMORE stated that DARRELL LEE McLEMORE had not worked since the date of DARRELL LEE McLEMORE’s last eligibility determination, when, in fact, DARRELL LEE McLEMORE knew that he had been gainfully employed during the period, in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 1383a(a)(2). punishable by not more than 5 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00 or both.
The Indictment further alleges that on or about June 14, 2016, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, DARRELL LEE McLEMORE, did knowingly and willfully, make a materially false statement or representation, in a matter within the jurisdiction of the Social Security Administration of the United States, by submitting a Form SS-5 Application for a Social Security Card and stating to a Social Security Administration Service Representative that he had never applied for or been issued a Social Security Card, when, in fact, defendant, DARRELL LEE McLEMORE, knew that he had been assigned a Social Security Number and issued a Social Security Card on or about October 14, 1975, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001, punishable by not more than 5 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00 or both.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General.
Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace
TIFFANY RHEA SPEARS, age 30, of Thackerville, Oklahoma
Bank Theft, Embezzlement And Misapplication
False Entry In The Books Of A Federally Insured Bank (Four Counts)
Bank FraudThe Indictment alleges that from on or about January 6, 2017, until on or about June 5, 2017, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, defendant TIFFANY RHEA SPEARS, being an officer, director, agent, or employee of, or connected in a capacity with, Citizens Bank and Trust of Ardmore, Oklahoma, a bank whose deposits are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, with intent to injure and defraud the said Citizens Bank and Trust of Ardmore, Oklahoma, willfully misapplied, embezzled, abstracted, and purloined more than $1,000.00 of the moneys, funds, assets or securities entrusted to the custody or care of Citizens Bank and Trust of Ardmore, Oklahoma, in that the defendant made advances on certain customer loans and withdrew cash from the accounts of certain bank customers and misapplied, embezzled, abstracted and purloined the funds for her own use or benefit, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 656, punishable by not more than 30 years imprisonment, a fine up to $1,000,000.00 or both.
The Indictment further alleges that from on or about January 6, 2017, until on or about June 5, 2017, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, defendant TIFFANY RHEA SPEARS, with the intent to deceive an officer of Citizens Bank and Trust of Ardmore, Oklahoma, a bank whose deposits are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, knowingly made false entries in the books, reports, or statements of Citizens Bank and Trust of Ardmore, Oklahoma, as set forth in the table below, in that defendant created false transaction documents showing customers advancing monies on their loans and withdrawing cash from their accounts, when in truth and in fact, as the defendant well knew, the advances and withdrawals from customer accounts were by, and for the benefit of, the defendant, punishable by not more than 30 years imprisonment, a fine up to $1,000,000.00 or both.
The Indictment further alleges that from on or about January 6, 2017, until on or about June 5, 2017, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, defendant, TIFFANY RHEA SPEARS, devised, executed, and attempted to execute a scheme and artifice to obtain moneys, funds, credits, assets, securities, or other property under the custody or control of Citizens Bank and Trust of Ardmore, Oklahoma, a bank whose deposits are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, by means of materially false and fraudulent pretenses, representations, and promises.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Reserve Office of Inspector General.
Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace
McAlester Man Pleads Guilty to Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that KELLY RAY POTTER JR, age 41, of McAlester, Oklahoma pled guilty to DRUG CONSPIRACY, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, 841(a)(1), and 841(b)(1)(A), punishable by not less than 10 years imprisonment, and up to life imprisonment, and up to a $10,000,000.00 fine.
The Superseding Indictment alleged that beginning in or about July 2016 and continuing until on or about November 29, 2016, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the defendant, KELLY RAY POTTER JR., did knowingly and intentionally combine, conspire, confederate and agree together, and with others known and unknown to the Grand Jury, to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual).
The charges arose from a joint investigation entitled “Golden Pony” coordinated by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) of the Eastern District of Oklahoma. OCDETF is an initiative led and coordinated by the Office of the United States Attorney. The agencies involved in the investigation were the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
The Honorable Kimberly E. West, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Hammer represented the United States.
Three Longview, TX, Prison Gang Members Sentenced for Kidnapping, MurderRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester announced today that three members of a violent Texas prison gang have been sentenced for their roles in the kidnapping and homicide of one of their fellow gang members. Brian Thomas Green, 45, Kalvin Kyle McCown, 44, and Travis Lee Hill, 28, all of the Longview, Texas, area, have been sentenced to long, non-parolable, prison sentences for the part that each played in the kidnapping and killing of Kenneth Earl Ayres. Green was sentenced on October 26, 2017, to 25 years in prison and 5 years of supervised release. McCown was sentenced on Otober 25, 2017, to 20 years in prison and 5 years of supervised release. Hill was sentenced on September 20, 2017, to 15 years in prison and 5 years of supervised release. Each was ordered to pay a $100.00 assessment to the Court.
The victim and the defendants were members or affiliates of the Aryan Brotherhood of Texas, a gang known for vicious attacks on their own members when they violate the organization’s “Constitution.” In July 2011, Ayres violated the gang’s rules by stealing guns from a shed at McCown’s residence in Longview, Texas. Green, and a now deceased “prospect” who was earning his way into the gang, persuaded Ayres to come with them to McCown’s residence where Ayres was beaten and shot in the hand by Green, McCown, Hill and others. Using McCown’s pickup, Green and Hill transported Ayres to the McCurtain County community of Harris in southeast Oklahoma where he was shot and killed. Ayres' remains were discovered in September 2011 by farmers cutting hay. The skeletal remains were ultimately identified by the Oklahoma Office of the Chief Medical Examiner using a DNA profile generated in the lab at the University of North Texas. The DNA was matched to a sample of Ayres' DNA collected by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice during a term Ayres had served in a Texas prison.
The prosecution of the case was based upon a multi-year investigation that followed the discovery of Ayres’ remains. The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) led the investigation with the close support of the Carrollton Texas Police Department, the Longview Texas Police Department, and the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation. Other agencies participating in the investigation included: Texas Department of Public Safety, McCurtain County Sheriff’s Office, Panola County Texas Sheriff’s Office, United States Bureau of Prisons, and the Texas Rangers.
U.S. Attorney Kuester said, “A homicide that is not solved within weeks of its occurrence becomes increasingly complex and more difficult to investigate and prosecute. Despite the difficulties that arose in this case due to the lapse of time, HSI Agents and the state and local law enforcement agencies that assisted them were thorough and professional. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rob Wallace and Kristen Harrington diligently worked on this case to achieve justice for the victim and his family. I commend each one who played a role in this investigation and prosecution.”
"Gang-related crimes are especially egregious, and ABT is one of the more violent gangs, as this case clearly demonstrates," said Katrina W. Berger, special agent in charge of HSI Dallas. "Homeland Security Investigations has an active anti-gang program, and our special agents routinely work closely with our law enforcement partners to investigate gang-related crimes."
The Federal Grand Jury in Muskogee began hearing evidence in the case in September of 2014, and returned Indictments for Racketeering and Kidnapping charges against Green, McCown and Hill in January of 2016. McCown and Hill entered guilty pleas to the Kidnapping charge on January 6, 2017. Green entered a guilty plea to a charge of Use and Carry of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence on May 10, 2017.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. The defendants will remain in custody pending transportation to the designated federal facility at which the non-parolable sentence will be served.
Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace and Assistant United States Attorney Kristin Harrington represented the United States.
Okmulgee Man Sentenced to 97 Months for Possession of Material Involving Sexual Exploitation of MinorsRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that THOMPSON CHRISTOPHER KYLE MANDRELL, age 30, of Okmulgee, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 97 months imprisonment and 10 years of supervised release for POSSESSION OF CERTAIN MATERIAL INVOLVING THE SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF MINORS, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(4)(B) and 2252(b)(2).
The Indictment alleged that between on or about July 7, 2014, and on or about September 21, 2016, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, THOMPSON CHRISTOPHER KYLE MANDRELL, did knowingly possess, attempt to possess and access with intent to view matters which contained visual depictions, as that term is defined in Title 18, United States Code, Section 2256(5), the production of said visual depictions involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, as that term is defined in Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2256(2)(A)-(B), and said visual depictions were of such sexually explicit conduct and had been transported in interstate commerce by computer.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Okmulgee Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. U.S. Attorney Brian J. Kuester stated, “The horrific acts committed against children by those that produce child pornography is made profitable by those that purchase, possess, and share it. I commend the FBI and the Okmulgee Police Department for their investigation which allowed this office to successfully prosecute Mr. Mandrell.”
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. The defendant will remain in custody pending transportation to the designated federal facility at which the nonparoleable sentence will be served.
Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow represented the United States.
Okmulgee Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Firearm, AmmunitionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that MICHAEL LEON JOHNSON, age 64, of Okmulgee, Oklahoma pled guilty to FELON IN POSSESSION OF FIREARM & AMMUNITION, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1), 924(a)(2), and 924(e)(1), which carries a potential punishment of not less than 15 years imprisonment, and up to a $250,000.00 fine or both.
The Indictment alleged that from on or about June 30, 2017, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, MICHAEL LEON JOHNSON, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce, a firearm and ammunition which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Okmulgee Police Department, the Sallisaw Police Department, the Cherokee Marshals Service, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
Assistant United States Attorney Chris Wilson represented the United States.
Local, State, Tribal & Federal Agencies Offering Safe Disposal of Unwanted Prescription DrugsRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – On Saturday, October 28, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. three area law enforcement agencies will be partnering with the Drug Enforcement Administration to give the public its 14th opportunity in 7 years to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs. Pills or patches can be brought to disposal sites in Tahlequah and Talihina. (The DEA cannot accept liquids or needles or sharps, only pills or patches.) The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.
The local agencies and disposal locations set up specifically for October 28th in the Eastern District of Oklahoma are:
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Cherokee Nation Marshal Service, 22114 S Bald Hill Rd, Tahlequah
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Northeastern State University Police, 612 N. Grand Avenue, Tahlequah
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Choctaw Nation Tribal Police, One Choctaw Way, Talihina
Last April Americans turned in 450 tons (900,000 pounds) of prescription drugs at almost 5,500 sites operated by the DEA and more than 4,200 of its state and local law enforcement partners. Overall, in its 13 previous Take Back events, DEA and its partners have taken in over 8.1 million pounds—more than 4,050 tons—of pills.
The Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics (OBN), also a partner in the effort to reduce prescription drug abuse by offering safe disposal options, offers locations throughout the state. OBN’s website, found at www.ok.gov/obndd can assist you in finding a location near you.
Brian J. Kuester, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma said, “This service, offered by the DEA, OBN and local agencies is a valuable component of the joint efforts by state, local, tribal and federal agencies to reduce the abuse of prescription drugs. I urge everyone who has unneeded prescription medications to dispose of them, and applaud the efforts of these agencies to give a safe no-questions asked location for disposal.”
Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. In addition, Americans are now advised that their usual methods for disposing of unused medicines—flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash—both pose potential safety and health hazards.
For more information about the disposal of prescription drugs or about the October 28 Take Back Day event, go to the DEA Diversion website at www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_disposal/takeback/.
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Muskogee Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Firearm, Ammunition in Furtherance of Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that RIEN KEITH IRVING, age 21, of Muskogee, Oklahoma pled guilty to FELON IN POSSESSION OF FIREARM & AMMUNITION, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2), punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, and up to a $250,000.00 fine or both; and to POSSESSION OF A FIREARM IN FURTHERANCE OF A DRUG TRAFFICKING CRIME, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A), punishable by not less than 60 months consecutive to any other sentence imposed, and up to a $250,000.00 fine or both.
The Indictment alleged that from on or about December 9, 2016, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, RIEN KEITH IRVING, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce, a firearm and ammunition which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.
The Indictment further alleged that on or about December 9, 2016, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, RIEN KEITH IRVING, did knowingly possess a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime for which he may be prosecuted in a court of the United States.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Muskogee Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
Assistant United States Attorney John David Luton represented the United States.
Cherry Tree Man Pleads Guilty to Assault with Dangerous WeaponRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that LEEROY SOAP JR, age 39, of Cherry Tree, Oklahoma pled guilty to ASSAULT WITH A DANGEROUS WEAPON IN INDIAN COUNTRY, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 113(a)(3), 1151 and 1153, punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, and up to a $250,000.00 fine or both.
The Indictment alleged that on or about July 13, 2017, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, within Indian country, on an Indian allotment the Indian title to which had not been extinguished, and within the special maritime and territorial jurisdiction of the United States, the defendant, LEEROY SOAP JR., an Indian, did knowingly assault J.E. with a dangerous weapon with intent to do bodily harm.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service, the Adair County Sherriff’s Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
Assistant United States Attorney Chris Wilson represented the United States.
Ardmore Woman Pleads Guilty to Embezzlement and Theft from Tribal OrganizationRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that DENISE TAYLOR, age 55, of Ardmore, Oklahoma, pled guilty to EMBEZZLEMENT AND THEFT FROM INDIAN TRIBAL ORGANIZATION, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1163, punishable by not more than 5 years imprisonment, and up to a $250,000.00 fine or both.
The Indictment alleged that from on or about March 19, 2017, to on or about March 29, 2017, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, DENISE TAYLOR, did steal, embezzle and knowingly and willfully convert to her own use goods, assets, and other property, with a value in excess of $1,000.00, which had been entrusted to her custody and care as an employee of the Chickasaw Nation’s Ardmore Smoke Shop # 1, an Indian tribal organization.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
The Honorable Kimberly E. West, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow represented the United States.
Pocola Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that DUANE RAY BRYANT, age 31, of Pocola, Oklahoma, pled guilty to POSSESSION WITH INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE METHAMPHETAMINE, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) & 841(b)(1)(C), punishable by not more than 20 years imprisonment, and up to a $1,000,000.00 fine or both.
The Indictment alleged that on or about January 29, 2017, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, DUANE RAY BRYANT, did knowingly and intentionally possess with the intent to distribute a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Sallisaw Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
Assistant United States Attorney John David Luton represented the United States.
Clayton Man Sentenced to 18 Months for Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that IVAN ALEXANDER WILLIAMSON, age 26, of Clayton, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment, and 3 years of supervised release for FELON IN POSSESSION OF FIREARM, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).
The Indictment alleged that on or about February 9, 2017, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce, a firearm which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Clayton Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester said, “I am thankful that the Clayton Police Department and the ATF worked together on this case to bring Mr. Williamson to justice. Prosecuting felons for unlawfully possessing firearms is one of the many ways that the United States Attorney’s Office can work with federal, state and local agencies to protect the public that we all serve.”
The Honorable James H. Payne, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. The defendant will remain in custody pending transportation to the designated federal facility at which the nonparoleable sentence will be served.
Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace represented the United States.
Checotah Man Pleads Guilty to Failure to Register as Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that JENADIAH RAY BARNES, age 38, of Checotah, Oklahoma, pled guilty to FAILURE TO REGISTER AS SEX OFFENDER, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2250(a)(1), 2250(a)(2)(B) and 2250(a)(3), punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, and up to a $250,000.00 fine or both.
The Indictment alleged that from in or about February 2017, the exact date being unknown to the Grand Jury, until on or about August 1, 2017, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, and elsewhere, the defendant, JENADIAH RAY BARNES, a/k/a JENEDIAH RAY BARNES, a/k/a JEDEDIAH RAY BARNES, an individual required to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, after having received a felony conviction from the State of Tennessee in Wilson County on or about October 19, 1998, for the offense of Conspiracy to Commit Rape of a Child, resided in Indian Country, and knowingly failed to register and update his registration as required by the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Cherokee Nation Marshal’s Service, the McIntosh County Sherriff’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the U.S. Marshals Service.
The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
Assistant United States Attorney John David Luton represented the United States.
Department of Justice Awards over $18 Million to Oklahoma TribesRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice has awarded more than $18 million in grants to Oklahoma tribal governments to enhance public health and safety, announced R. Trent Shores, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Oklahoma; Mark A. Yancey, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma; and Brian J. Kuester, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
These grants are part of more than $100 million in grants to 125 American Indian tribes, Alaska Native villages, tribal consortia, and tribal designees, announced today by Associate Attorney General Rachel Brand. Many of these awards were made through the Department’s Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation (CTAS), a single application for tribal-specific grant programs. The Department developed CTAS through its Office of Community Oriented Policing Services, Office of Justice Programs and Office on Violence Against Women, and administered the first round of consolidated grants in September 2010.
CTAS grants are designed to enhance law enforcement practices, expand victim services, and sustain crime prevention and intervention efforts. Awards cover nine areas: public safety and community policing, justice systems planning, alcohol and substance abuse, corrections and correctional alternatives, children’s justice act partnerships, services for victims of crime, violence against women, juvenile justice, and tribal youth programs.
“Reducing violent gang and gun crimes in Indian Country is crucial to protecting citizens who live in and around tribal communities. The justice community must also look to help those with mental health and substance abuse issues to re-enter society as productive citizens. These Federal grant allocations will help to further those goals,” said U.S. Attorney Shores of the Northern District of Oklahoma.
The Oklahoma CTAS recipients are:
Cherokee Nation (total: $3,087,900)
Public Safety and Community Policing: $565,241
Comprehensive Tribal Justice Systems Strategic Planning: $74,995
Justice Systems and Alcohol and Substance Abuse: $749,993
Violence Against Women Tribal Governments Program: $898,100
Comprehensive Tribal Victim Assistance Program: $449,925
Tribal Youth Program: $349,646
Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma (total: $1,994,588)
Violence Against Women Tribal Governments Program: $897,851
Comprehensive Tribal Victim Assistance Program: $449,999
Juvenile Healing to Wellness Courts: $350,000
Tribal Youth Program: $296,738
Citizen Potawatomi Nation (total: $1,098,106)
Justice Systems and Alcohol and Substance Abuse: $749,593
Tribal Youth Program: $348,513
Comanche Nation (total: $749,348)
Justice Systems and Alcohol and Substance Abuse: $749,348
Delaware Tribe of Indians (total: $424,845)
Violence Against Women Tribal Governments Program: $424,845
Muscogee Creek Nation (total: $803,912)
Violence Against Women Tribal Governments Program: $803,912
Pawnee Nation (total: $700,000)
Violence Against Women Tribal Governments Program: $700,000
Ponca Tribe of Oklahoma (total: $1,800,000)
Corrections and Correctional Alternatives: $1,000,000
Comprehensive Tribal Victim Assistance Program: $450,000
Tribal Youth Program: $350,000
Quapaw Tribe of Oklahoma (total: $4,590,422)
Public Safety and Community Policing: $232,929
Justice Systems and Alcohol and Substance Abuse: $446,714
Corrections and Correctional Alternatives: $3,910,779
Seminole Nation of Oklahoma (total: $900,000)
Violence Against Women Tribal Governments Program: $900,000
Seneca Cayuga Nation (total: $825,000)
Violence Against Women Tribal Governments Program: $825,000
Wyandotte Nation (total: $200,189)
Public Safety and Community Policing: $200,189
In addition to CTAS grants, the Department awarded $889,975 to four Oklahoma tribes under the Adam Walsh Act Implementation grant program, part of the Office of Justice Program’s Office of Sex Offender Sentencing, Monitoring, Apprehending, Registering and Tracking. These grant awards enable states, the District of Columbia, territories, and tribal jurisdictions to develop and enhance programs that implement the requirements of the federal Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act. Funding supports staff, information-sharing technology, infrastructure development, law enforcement training, and stakeholder collaboration.
The Oklahoma recipients of Adam Walsh Act Implementation grants are:
Caddo Nation: $200,000
Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes: $400,000
Seneca Cayuga Nation: $198,181
United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians: $91,794
Finally, through the Office of Justice Programs, the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center will receive $1.5 million under the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention’s Fiscal Year 2017 Tribal Youth Program Training and Technical Assistance grant. This program provides culturally-sensitive, trauma-informed and developmentally-appropriate training, support, resources, information, and related technical assistance to help tribes meet the needs of their youth.
The Department of Justice’s national press releases on these and related grants are available at:
- www.justice.gov/tribal/awards, www.justice.gov/ovw/page/file/1000416 /download
- www.justice.gov/opa/press-release/file/1000981/download.
Tahlequah Man Sentenced to 120 Months for Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that SAMUEL NOLAN DOTY, age 47, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 120 months imprisonment to run consecutive to a 7 year state prison sentence out of Cherokee County, Oklahoma for being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm, and 10 years of supervised release for POSSESSION OF CERTAIN MATERIAL INVOLVING THE SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF MINORS, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(4)(B) and 2252(b)(2).
The Indictment alleged that between on or about April 17, 2014, and on or about August 24, 2016, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, did knowingly possess, attempt to possess and access with intent to view matters which contained visual depictions, as that term is defined in Title 18, United States Code, Section 2256(5), the production of said visual depictions involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, as that term is defined in Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2256(2)(A)-(B), and said visual depictions were of such sexually explicit conduct and had been transported in interstate commerce by computer.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, the United States Marshal’s Service, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. U.S. Attorney Brian J. Kuester said, “I commend the hard work of the county and federal law enforcement agencies that worked together. Without thorough investigations this agency would not have the ability to successfully prosecute cases.”
The Honorable James H. Payne, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. The defendant will remain in custody pending transportation to the designated federal facility at which the nonparoleable sentence will be served.
Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow represented the United States.
Department of Justice Awards over $18 Million to Oklahoma TribesRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice has awarded more than $18 million in grants to Oklahoma tribal governments to enhance public health and safety, announced Mark A. Yancey, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma; R. Trent Shores, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Oklahoma; and Brian J. Kuester, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
These grants are part of more than $100 million in grants to 125 American Indian tribes, Alaska Native villages, tribal consortia, and tribal designees, announced today by Associate Attorney General Rachel Brand. Many of these awards were made through the Department’s Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation (CTAS), a single application for tribal-specific grant programs. The Department developed CTAS through its Office of Community Oriented Policing Services, Office of Justice Programs and Office on Violence Against Women, and administered the first round of consolidated grants in September 2010.
CTAS grants are designed to enhance law enforcement practices, expand victim services, and sustain crime prevention and intervention efforts. Awards cover nine areas: public safety and community policing, justice systems planning, alcohol and substance abuse, corrections and correctional alternatives, children’s justice act partnerships, services for victims of crime, violence against women, juvenile justice, and tribal youth programs.
“Reducing violent gang and gun crimes in Indian Country is crucial to protecting citizens who live in and around tribal communities. The justice community must also look to help those with mental health and substance abuse issues to re-enter society as productive citizens. These Federal grant allocations will help to further those goals,” said U.S. Attorney Shores of the Northern District of Oklahoma. U.S. Attorney Kuester of the Eastern District of Oklahoma said, “I am pleased and excited about DOJ’s awards to the tribal governments in Oklahoma. These grants will fund programs that will assist victims of crimes, reduce crime against women, and enhance the resources available for tribal governments to combat violent crime, increase public awareness, and provide prevention programs for youth. The U.S. Attorney’s Office looks forward to assisting in any way possible as these programs are implemented.” U.S. Attorney Yancey of the Western District of Oklahoma said, “I join my fellow United States Attorneys in welcoming the federal law enforcement assistance to our Oklahoma tribes. I look forward to working with all tribes in the Western District to reduce crime and aid victims.”
The Oklahoma CTAS recipients are:
Cherokee Nation (total: $3,087,900)
Public Safety and Community Policing: $565,241
Comprehensive Tribal Justice Systems Strategic Planning: $74,995
Justice Systems and Alcohol and Substance Abuse: $749,993
Violence Against Women Tribal Governments Program: $898,100
Comprehensive Tribal Victim Assistance Program: $449,925
Tribal Youth Program: $349,646Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma (total: $1,994,588)
Violence Against Women Tribal Governments Program: $897,851
Comprehensive Tribal Victim Assistance Program: $449,999
Juvenile Healing to Wellness Courts: $350,000
Tribal Youth Program: $296,738Citizen Potawatomi Nation (total: $1,098,106)
Justice Systems and Alcohol and Substance Abuse: $749,593
Tribal Youth Program: $348,513Comanche Nation (total: $749,348)
Justice Systems and Alcohol and Substance Abuse: $749,348
Delaware Tribe of Indians (total: $424,845)
Violence Against Women Tribal Governments Program: $424,845
Muscogee Creek Nation (total: $803,912)
Violence Against Women Tribal Governments Program: $803,912
Pawnee Nation (total: $700,000)
Violence Against Women Tribal Governments Program: $700,000
Ponca Tribe of Oklahoma (total: $1,800,000)
Corrections and Correctional Alternatives: $1,000,000
Comprehensive Tribal Victim Assistance Program: $450,000
Tribal Youth Program: $350,000Quapaw Tribe of Oklahoma (total: $4,590,422)
Public Safety and Community Policing: $232,929
Justice Systems and Alcohol and Substance Abuse: $446,714
Corrections and Correctional Alternatives: $3,910,779Seminole Nation of Oklahoma (total: $900,000)
Violence Against Women Tribal Governments Program: $900,000
Seneca Cayuga Nation (total: $825,000)
Violence Against Women Tribal Governments Program: $825,000
Wyandotte Nation (total: $200,189)
Public Safety and Community Policing: $200,189
In addition to CTAS grants, the Department awarded $889,975 to four Oklahoma tribes under the Adam Walsh Act Implementation grant program, part of the Office of Justice Program’s Office of Sex Offender Sentencing, Monitoring, Apprehending, Registering and Tracking. These grant awards enable states, the District of Columbia, territories, and tribal jurisdictions to develop and enhance programs that implement the requirements of the federal Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act. Funding supports staff, information-sharing technology, infrastructure development, law enforcement training, and stakeholder collaboration.
The Oklahoma recipients of Adam Walsh Act Implementation grants are:
Caddo Nation: $200,000
Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes: $400,000
Seneca Cayuga Nation: $198,181
United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians: $91,794Finally, through the Office of Justice Programs, the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center will receive $1.5 million under the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention’s Fiscal Year 2017 Tribal Youth Program Training and Technical Assistance grant. This program provides culturally-sensitive, trauma-informed and developmentally-appropriate training, support, resources, information, and related technical assistance to help tribes meet the needs of their youth.
The Department of Justice’s national press releases on these and related grants are available at https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-awards-more-130-million-improve-public-safety-address-violence-against.
United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma Hosts Anti-Terrorism ConferenceRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester hosted approximately 150 law enforcement officers and agents from across Eastern Oklahoma today for the annual Anti-Terrorism Advisory Council meeting and training. The audience, comprised of law enforcement from a wide range of state, local, tribal, and federal agencies, heard powerful presentations from the prosecution team who tried the Emanuel A.M.E. Church shooting in Charleston, South Carolina.
Officers and agents heard from the lead FBI agent, the lead victim services coordinator, and the lead prosecutor in the case of United States v. Dylan Roof. The presentations covered law enforcement response, crime scene preservation and analysis, victim services and trial presentation of mass casualty events.
The Anti-Terrorism Advisory Councils, headed by the United States Attorney in each of 94 districts across the nation, are a bridge between state, local, tribal, and federal authorities and the FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Forces. They are designed to provide a mechanism for information sharing between law enforcement agencies regarding both domestic and international terror threats.
U. S. Attorney Kuester said of the training, "This presentation was an excellent opportunity for investigators, prosecutors, and victim services specialists to learn from the experiences of others in our respective fields. It also allowed this diverse group of law enforcement officers from different jurisdictions and geographic regions to discuss issues common to all of us. This gathering and others like it are invaluable for education and unifying the law enforcement community around the common goal of serving and protecting our communities."
The meeting and training were held at the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center in Muskogee, Oklahoma.
Porterville, California Woman Sentenced to 120 Months for Cocaine DistributionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that TINA MARIE ZAHR, age 49, of Porterville, California, was sentenced to 120 months imprisonment, and 5 years of supervised release for POSSESSION WITH INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE COCAINE, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A).
The Indictment alleged that on or about February 23, 2017, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, Chief U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. The defendant will remain in custody pending transportation to the designated federal facility at which the nonparoleable sentence will be served.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Hammer represented the United States.
Holdenville Man Sentenced to 36 Months Probation for Delay or Destruction of MailRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that MIKEL DWAYNE MEEK, age 48, of Holdenville, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 3 years probation for DELAY OR DESTRUCTION OF MAIL BY POSTAL EMPLOYEE, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1703.
The Indictment alleged that on or about November 22, 2016 in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the Defendant, a United States Postal Service employee, did willfully, knowingly and unlawfully secrete, destroy, detain and open a package entrusted to him and which came into his possession to be conveyed by mail, while performing his assigned duties as an employee of the United States Postal Service.
The charge arose from an investigation by the United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing.
Assistant United States Attorney John David Luton represented the United States.
Canadian, Oklahoma Woman Sentenced to 36 Months Probation for Embezzlement of MailRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that LEANDA JOANNE PRATHER, age 37, of Canadian, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 3 years probation for EMBEZZLEMENT OF MAIL BY POSTAL EMPLOYEE, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1709.
The Indictment alleged that between on or about August 2, 2016, to on or about December 20, 2016, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the Defendant, a United States Postal Service employee, did willfully, knowingly and unlawfully embezzle packages entrusted to her and which came into her possession to be conveyed by mail, located at the Eufaula Post Office, 131 W. Foley, Eufaula, Oklahoma, while performing her assigned duties as an employee of the United States Postal Service.
The charge arose from an investigation by the United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing.
Assistant United States Attorney John David Luton represented the United States.
Brian J. Kuester Sworn in as United States Attorney for the Eastern District of OklahomaRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – BRIAN J. KUESTER has taken the oath of office to become the United States Attorney for the EASTERN DISTRICT OF OKLAHOMA. Brian J. Kuester was nominated by President Donald Trump on July 19, 2017, and confirmed by the U.S. Senate on September 14, 2017. He took the oath of office today from Chief United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the Honorable Ronald A. White.
“The challenges faced by federal, state, and local law enforcement officials have never been tougher. I am honored and excited to have the opportunity to work through these challenging times with the dedicated professionals in the United States Attorney’s Office as we work alongside the agencies in the Eastern District of Oklahoma that work to protect the public and uphold the United States Constitution,” Kuester said.
As U.S. Attorney, Brian J. Kuester is the top-ranking federal law enforcement official in the Eastern District of Oklahoma. The district serves 26 counties from Adair to McCurtain County on the East and Wagoner to Love County on the West. He oversees a staff of 35 employees, including 13 attorneys and 22 non-attorney support personnel. The office is responsible for prosecuting federal crimes in the district, including crimes related to terrorism, public corruption, child exploitation, firearms, and narcotics. The office also defends the United States in civil cases and collects debts owed to the United States.
Brian J. Kuester served as the District Attorney for Oklahoma’s 27th Prosecutorial District immediately preceding his appointment as United States Attorney. He was elected in November 2010 and re-elected in 2014. District 27 is comprised of Adair, Cherokee, Sequoyah, and Wagoner Counties and has a staff of 50. Prior to becoming DA, Kuester worked as staff counsel for Allstate Insurance Company from 2008 to 2010. From 2003 to 2008, Kuester was an Assistant District Attorney for the Tulsa County District Attorney. While there, he prosecuted a broad variety of cases including murder, robbery, burglary, drug trafficking, and child abuse. He also served as the Director of Crimes Against Children in 2007 and 2008. From 2000 to 2003, he was an associate attorney for Robinett Osmond, a Tulsa civil litigation firm. He received his law degree from the University of Tulsa College of Law in 2000. He has been a member of the Oklahoma Bar Association since September 2000 and is admitted to practice in the Federal Districts for the Eastern and Northern Districts of Oklahoma.
Prior to attending law school, Kuester, a native of Missouri, was a police officer, serving the Fulton and Springfield, Missouri Police Departments for nearly seven years combined. He received a B.S. in Criminal Justice Administration in 1990 from Central Missouri State University. Kuester resides in Wagoner County with Laura, his wife of 22 years, and three children.
Muskogee Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that BLAKE ALAN MILLER, age 34, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, pled guilty to POSSESSION WITH INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE METHAMPHETAMINE, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B), punishable by not less than 5 years and not more than 40 years imprisonment, and up to a $5,000,000.00 fine or both.
The Indictment alleged that on or about March 7, 2017, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, BLAKE ALAN MILLER, did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute in excess of 50 grams of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Muskogee Police Department, the United States Marshals Service, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
The Honorable Kimberly E. West, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
Assistant United States Attorney John David Luton represented the United States.
Henryetta Woman Pleads Guilty to Credit Union Theft, Embezzlement, and MisapplicationRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that CAROL LYNN BEEN, age 59, of Henryetta, Oklahoma, pled guilty to CREDIT UNION THEFT, EMBEZZLEMENT AND MISAPPLICATION, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 657, punishable by not more than 30 years imprisonment, and up to a $1,000,000.00 fine or both.
The Indictment alleged that from in or about 2014, the exact date unknown to the Grand Jury, until on or about June 18, 2017, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, defendant CAROL LYNN BEEN, being an officer, director, agent, or employee of, or connected in a capacity with, OSU-IT Federal Credit Union of Okmulgee, Oklahoma, a credit union whose deposits are insured by the National Credit Union Administration, with intent to injure and defraud the said OSU-IT Federal Credit Union of Okmulgee, Oklahoma, willfully misapplied, embezzled, abstracted, and purloined more than $1,000.00 of the moneys, funds, assets or securities entrusted to the custody or care of OSU-IT Federal Credit Union of Okmulgee, Oklahoma, in that the defendant withdrew cash from the vault of the credit union and misapplied, embezzled, abstracted and purloined the funds.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The Honorable Kimberly E. West, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
Acting United States Attorney Douglas A. Horn represented the United States.
Muskogee Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that MATTHEW DYLAN ERNST, age 24, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, pled guilty to DISTRIBUTION OF METHAMPHETAMINE, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A), punishable by not less than 10 years imprisonment, and up to a $10,000,000.00 fine or both.
The Indictment alleged that on or about November 4, 2016, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the Defendant, MATTHEW DYLAN ERNST, did knowingly and intentionally distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual), a Schedule II controlled substance.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration.
The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
Assistant United States Attorney Kristin Harrington represented the United States.
Baxter Springs, Kansas Man Pleads Guilty to Destruction of Government PropertyRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that ROBERT MONROE WILSON III, age 48, of Baxter Springs, Kansas, pled guilty to DESTRUCTION OF GOVERNMENT PROPERTY, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1363 and 7(3), punishable by not more than 5 years imprisonment.
The Indictment alleged that on or about the July 22, 2017, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, ROBERT MONROE WILSON III, at a place within the special maritime and territorial jurisdiction of the United States, namely the United States District Courthouse for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, willfully and maliciously did destroy and injure the gate and fence at the United States District Courthouse for the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Muskogee Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The Honorable Kimberly E. West, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
Assistant United States Attorney Kristin Harrington represented the United States.
Operation "Golden Pony": Five Individuals Indicted for Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that KELLY RAY POTTER JR., age 41, of McAlester, Oklahoma; RACHEL MARIE WHITE, age 38, of El Reno, Oklahoma; HEIDI SANCHEZ, age 31, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; ANTONIA SANCHEZ age 52, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and LASHEA DANNETTE HARRIS age 32, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, were each indicted for DRUG CONSPIRACY, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B) and 841(b)(1)(C), punishable by not less than 5 years, and not more than 40 years imprisonment (methamphetamine), and up to 20 years imprisonment (heroin), and up to a $5,000,000.00 fine or both.
The Indictment alleged that beginning in or about July 2016 and continuing until on or about November 29, 2016, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the defendants, KELLY RAY POTTER JR., RACHEL MARIE WHITE, HEIDI SANCHEZ, ANTONIA SANCHEZ, and LASHEA DANNETTE HARRIS, did knowingly and intentionally combine, conspire, confederate and agree together, and with others known and unknown to the Grand Jury, to commit offenses against the United States in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 846, as follows: to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, and to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance.
The charges arose from a joint investigation entitled “Golden Pony” coordinated by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) of the Eastern District of Oklahoma. OCDETF is an initiative led and coordinated by the Office of the United States Attorney. The agencies involved in the investigation were, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
The Honorable Kimberly E. West, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the arraignment of POTTER on August 22, 2017 and HEIDI SANCHEZ & ANTONIA SANCHEZ on August 21, 2017.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Hammer represented the United States.
Okmulgee Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Material Involving Sexual Exploitation of MinorsRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that JOHN CARL BERRYHILL, age 53, of Okmulgee, Oklahoma, pled guilty to POSSESSION OF CERTAIN MATERIAL INVOLVING THE SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF MINORS, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(4)(B) and 2252(b)(2), punishable by a minimum of 10 years to 20 years imprisonment, and up to a $250,000.00 fine or both.
The Superseding Indictment alleged that from between on or about January 8, 2014 to on or about February 2, 2017, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, JOHN CARL BERRYHILL, did knowingly possess, attempt to possess and access with intent to view, matters which contained visual depictions, as that term is defined in Title 18, United States Code, Section 2256(5), which said visual depictions involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, as that term is defined in Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2256(2)(A)-(B), and said visual depictions were of such sexually explicit conduct and had been transported in interstate commerce by computer.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The Honorable Kimberly E. West, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow represented the United States.
Stilwell Man Pleads Guilty to Sexual Abuse of A Minor in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that STEVEN DON WALLIS, age 30, of Stilwell, Oklahoma, pled guilty to SEXUAL ABUSE OF A MINOR OR WARD IN INDIAN COUNTRY, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1153 and 2243(a), punishable by up to 15 years imprisonment, and up to a $250,000.00 fine or both.
The Indictment alleged that from in or about January 2017 to on or about April 5, 2017, in Indian Country, within the special maritime and territorial jurisdiction of the United States, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, STEVEN DON WALLIS, an Indian, did knowingly engage in and attempt to engage in sexual acts with a female child who had attained the age of 12 years but had not attained the age of 16 years and who was at least four years younger than the defendant.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Adair County Sheriff’s Office, the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow represented the United States.
McAlester Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that MICHAEL KEITH BEALL, age 61, of McAlester, Oklahoma, pled guilty to POSSESSION WITH INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE METHAMPHETAMINE, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C), punishable by not more than 20 years imprisonment, and up to a $1,000,000.00 fine or both.
The Indictment alleged that on or about April 17, 2017, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, MICHAEL KEITH BEALL, did knowingly and intentionally possess with the intent to distribute a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Pittsburg County Sheriff’s Office, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol.
The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States.
Hitchita Man Pleads Guilty to Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that JIMMIE JOHN LIKOWSKI, age 48, of Hitchita, Oklahoma, pled guilty to FELON IN POSSESSION OF FIREARM AND AMMUNITION, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2), punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, and up to a $250,000.00 fine or both.
The Indictment alleged that on or about May 21, 2017, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, JIMMIE JOHN LIKOWSKI, a/k/a Jimmy John Likowski, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Okmulgee County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
Assistant United States Attorney John David Luton represented the United States.
Atoka Couple Sentenced to 3 Months, $67,000 Restitution for Theft of Government FundsRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that MICHAEL FERRARIE EUBANKS, age 58, of Atoka, Oklahoma, and HYDIE ROYLENE EUBANKS, age 59, of Atoka, Oklahoma were sentenced to 3 months imprisonment, and 3 years of supervised release respectively, for THEFT OF GOVERNMENT FUNDS, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 641 and 2; CONCEALMENT OF A MATERIAL FACT, in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 408(a)(4) and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2, and FALSE STATEMENT, in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 408(a)(2) and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2. They were also ordered to pay $67,633.00 to the Social Security Administration.
Evidence at trial proved that from in or about September 2010, and continuing through March 10, 2016, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, defendants, MICHAEL FERRARIE EUBANKS and HYDIE ROYLENE EUBANKS, did knowingly and willfully embezzle, steal, and convert to their own use, money and things of value from the Social Security Administration (“SSA”), a department or agency of the United States, which money had been paid to the defendants as Social Security disability payments for the benefit of MICHAEL FERRARIE EUBANKS to which the defendants knew MICHAEL FERRARIE EUBANKS was not entitled, and having a value in excess of $1,000.00.
Evidence at trial further proved that from on or about September 2010, and continuing through March 10, 2016, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, defendants MICHAEL FERRARIE EUBANKS and HYDIE ROYLENE EUBANKS, in a matter within the jurisdiction of Social Security Administration, having knowledge of the occurrence of an event affecting the right to receive or continue to receive Social Security Disability Income payments, concealed and failed to disclose such event with the intent to fraudulently secure payment when no payment was authorized. Specifically, defendants MICHAEL FERRARIE EUBANKS and HYDIE ROYLENE EUBANKS intentionally concealed that MICHAEL FERRARIE EUBANKS secured gainful employment in order to receive and continue to receive Disability Income payments made by the Social Security Administration to them. By such action, defendants MICHAEL FERRARIE EUBANKS and HYDIE ROYLENE EUBANKS took approximately $67,633.00 in Social Security Disability Income payments to which they were not entitled.
Evidence at trial further proved that on or about November 30, 2015, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, defendants MICHAEL FERRARIE EUBANKS and HYDIE ROYLENE EUBANKS, did knowingly make or cause to be made any false statement or representation of a material fact to the Social Security Administration in any application for any payment or for a disability determination. Specifically, MICHAEL FERRARIE EUBANKS and HYDIE ROYLENE EUBANKS jointly completed a Continuing Disability Review Report wherein MICHAEL FERRARIE EUBANKS and HYDIE ROYLENE EUBANKS stated that MICHAEL FERRARIE EUBANKS had not worked since the date of MICHAEL FERRARIE EUBANKS last medical disability determination.
The verdict obtained was the result of an investigation by the Social Security Administration’s Office of Inspector General.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. The defendants will report to a federal facility at which the nonparoleable sentences will be served.
Assistant United States Attorney Melody Nelson and Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace represented the United States.
Wagoner Man Sentenced to 21 Months for Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that AARON EMIL WEEDEN, age 37, of Wagoner, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 21 months imprisonment, and 3 years supervised release for FELON IN POSSESSION OF FIREARM, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).
The Indictment alleged that on or about November 13, 2016, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the Defendant, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce, a firearm which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Wagoner Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. The defendant will remain in custody pending transportation to the designated federal facility at which the nonparoleable sentence will be served.
Assistant United States Attorney Kristin Harrington represented the United States.
Sallisaw Woman Sentenced to 70 Months for Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that AMBER LUANA SMALL, age 25, of Sallisaw, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 70 months imprisonment, and 4 years of supervised release for POSSESSION WITH INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE METHAMPHETAMINE, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B), and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2.
The Indictment alleged that on or about August 30, 2016, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
The charge arose from an investigation by the District 27 Drug Task Force and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. The defendant will remain in custody pending transportation to the designated federal facility at which the nonparoleable sentence will be served.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Hammer represented the United States.
Coweta Man Sentenced to 14 Months, $52,000 Restitution for Wire FraudRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that JESSE KENT COX, age 35, of Coweta, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 14 months imprisonment, and 3 years of supervised release for WIRE FRAUD, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343. He was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $52,250.00.
The Indictment alleged that from on or about January 1, 2016, and continuing until on or about March 28, 2016, the defendant, JESSE KENT COX, devised and intended to devise a scheme to defraud, and to obtain money and property by means of materially false and fraudulent pretenses, representations and promises.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. The defendant will remain in custody pending transportation to the designated federal facility at which the nonparoleable sentence will be served.
Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace represented the United States.
Broken Arrow Man Pleads Guilty to Witness TamperingRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that STEPHEN LESTER GREER, age 57, of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma was arraigned and plead guilty to the charge in the indictment returned by the Grand Jury on August 16, 2017.
Defendant, STEPHEN LESTER GREER, was charged with TAMPERING WITH A WITNESS, VICTIM, OR INFORMANT, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1512.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Veterans Affairs – Office of Inspector General.
Acting United States Attorney Douglas A. Horn stated “Dr. Greer was a staff psychiatrist at the VA Hospital in Muskogee, Oklahoma. His job was to treat and protect our veterans who visited that facility for medical care. Instead, Dr. Greer violated his oath as a doctor by having inappropriate sexual contact with a female veteran that he was treating. When VA hospital administrators discovered the impropriety, Greer attempted to cover-up his actions by coaching the female veteran to lie to federal law enforcement officers. Special agents of the Veterans Affairs – Office of Inspector General conducted a thorough investigation and worked extensively and professionally with the victim to bring Dr. Greer to justice.”
The Honorable Kimberly E. West, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. The defendant was released on a $10,000.00 unsecured bond.
The statutory range of punishment for Tampering with a Witness, Victim or Informant is up to 20 years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.
Acting United States Attorney Douglas Horn and Assistant United States Attorney Kristin Harrington represented the United States.
Fort Smith, Arkansas Man Pleads Guilty to Interstate Transportation of Stolen PropertyRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that THOMAS CHARLES BARDRICK, age 20, of Fort Smith, Arkansas, pled guilty to INTERSTATE TRANSPORTATION OF STOLEN PROPERTY, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2314 and 2, punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, and up to a $250,000.00 fine or both.
The Indictment alleged that on or about April 15, 2015, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, THOMAS CHARLES BARDRICK, did unlawfully transport in interstate commerce stolen goods, wares and merchandise, that is, six (6) zero turn mowers, of the value of $5,000.00 or more knowing the same to have been stolen.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Sallisaw Police Department, the Sequoyah County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation.
The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States.
Tulsa Man Sentenced to Time Served, $83,000 Restitution for Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that STEVEN WILLIAM DELIA, age 62, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, was sentenced to imprisonment, time served, 3 years supervised release, and ordered to pay $83,769.27 in restitution to the Oklahoma Health Care Authority for HEALTH CARE FRAUD, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1347.
The defendant was found guilty of Health Care Fraud by a federal trial jury on September 29, 2016. The Indictment alleged that beginning on February 1, 2010 and continuing through November 9, 2010, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere the defendant, knowingly and willfully, with the intent to defraud, devised and executed a scheme to defraud the Oklahoma Medicaid program by causing the filing of false claims and receiving Medicaid payments for medical services not rendered by a qualified medical professional.
The Information further alleged that on or about the February 1, 2010 and continuing through November 9, 2010 in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, knowingly and willfully executed and attempted to execute the above-described scheme and artifice to defraud money and property owned by and under the custody and control of the Oklahoma Health Care Authority, a health benefit program as defined in Title 18, United States Code, Section 24(b), in connection with the payment for health care benefits, items and services.
In preparation for deployment to Afghanistan with the U.S. Army Reserves, the defendant pre-signed approximately 9,000 blank prescriptions for his unsupervised physician's assistant and nursing staff to disseminate Schedule II narcotics during his absence from the Delia Medical Clinic in Sallisaw, Oklahoma. A percentage of those office visits and prescriptions were billed to Medicaid, causing the filing of false claims and receiving Medicaid payments for medical services not rendered by a qualified medical professional.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Defense Criminal Investigative Service and the Department of Health and Human Services - Office of Inspector General. The Honorable James H. Payne, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the sentencing. Assistant United States Attorney Melody Nelson represented the United States.
Five Individuals Indicted in August 2017 Federal Grand JuryRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office announced today the results of the August 2017 Federal Grand Jury.
“The following named individuals have been charged with a federal crime or crimes by the return of an indictment by the Grand Jury. A grand jury Indictment does not constitute evidence of guilt. A grand jury Indictment is a method of bringing formal charges against the defendant. A defendant is presumed innocent of the charges and may not be found guilty unless evidence establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. United States Sentencing Guidelines may be considered, upon conviction, by the sentencing court. Federal prison sentences are non-parolable.”
CAROL LYNN BEEN, age 59, of Henryetta, Oklahoma
Credit Union Theft, Embezzlement, And MisapplicationThe Indictment alleges that from in or about 2014, the exact date unknown to the Grand Jury, until on or about June 18, 2017, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, defendant CAROL LYNN BEEN, being an officer, director, agent, or employee of, or connected in a capacity with, OSU-IT Federal Credit Union of Okmulgee, Oklahoma, a credit union whose deposits are insured by the National Credit Union Administration, with intent to injure and defraud the said OSU-IT Federal Credit Union of Okmulgee, Oklahoma, willfully misapplied, embezzled, abstracted, and purloined more than $1,000.00 of the moneys, funds, assets or securities entrusted to the custody or care of OSU-IT Federal Credit Union of Okmulgee, Oklahoma, in that the defendant withdrew cash from the vault of the credit union and misapplied, embezzled, abstracted and purloined the funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 657, punishable by no more than 30 years imprisonment, a fine up to $1,000,000.00 or both.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Acting United States Attorney Douglas A. Horn
ROBERT MONROE WILSON III, age 48, of Baxter Springs, Kansas
Destruction Of Government PropertyThe Indictment alleges that on or about the July 22, 2017, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, ROBERT MONROE WILSON III, at a place within the special maritime and territorial jurisdiction of the United States, namely the United States District Courthouse for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, willfully and maliciously did destroy and injure the gate and fence at the United States District Courthouse for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1363 and 7(3), punishable by no more than 5 years imprisonment.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Muskogee Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Assistant United States Attorney Kristin Harrington
BLAKE ALAN MILLER, age 34, of Muskogee, Oklahoma
Possession With Intent To Distribute Methamphetamine
Possession Of A Firearm In Furtherance Of A Drug Trafficking Crime
Felon In Possession Of A Firearm
Possession Of Unregistered Firearm (Sawed-Off Shotgun)The Indictment alleges that on or about March 7, 2017, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, BLAKE ALAN MILLER, did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute in excess of 50 grams of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B), punishable by not less than 5 years imprisonment, a fine up to $5,000,000.00 or both.
The Indictment further alleges that on or about March 7, 2017, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, BLAKE ALAN MILLER, did knowingly possess a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime for which he may be prosecuted in a court of the United States, that is, Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine as alleged in Count One, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A) and 924(c)(1)(B), punishable by not less than 5 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00 or both.
The Indictment further alleges that on or about March 7, 2017, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, BLAKE ALAN MILLER, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce, a firearm which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2), punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00 or both.
The Indictment further alleges that on or about March 7, 2017, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, BLAKE ALAN MILLER, did knowingly possess a shotgun having a barrel less than 18 inches in length, which is a firearm, as defined in Title 26, United States Code, Section 5845, not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record, in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Sections 5861(d), 5841, 5845(a) and 5871, punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00 or both.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Muskogee Police Department, the United States Marshal’s Service, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris
DENISE TAYLOR, age 55, of Ardmore, Oklahoma
Embezzlement And Theft From Indian Tribal OrganizationThe Indictment alleges that from on or about March 19, 2017, to on or about March 29, 2017, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, DENISE TAYLOR, did steal, embezzle and knowingly and willfully convert to her own use moneys, funds and assets, with a value in excess of $1,000.00, which had been entrusted to her custody and care as an employee of the Chickasaw Nation’s Ardmore Smoke Shop # 1, an Indian tribal organization, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1163, punishable by no more than 5 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00 or both.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow
JOHN CARL BERRYHILL, age 53, of Okmulgee, Oklahoma
Possession Of Certain Material Involving Sexual Exploitation Of Minors
Attempted Distribution Of Certain Material Involving Sexual Exploitation Of MinorsThe Superseding Indictment alleges that between on or about January 8, 2014 to on or about February 2, 2017, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, JOHN CARL BERRYHILL, did knowingly possess, attempt to possess and access with intent to view, matters which contained visual depictions, as that term is defined in Title 18, United States Code, Section 2256(5), which said visual depictions involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, as that term is defined in Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2256(2)(A)-(B), and said visual depictions were of such sexually explicit conduct and had been transported in interstate commerce by computer, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(4)(B) and 2252(b)(2), punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00 or both.
The Superseding Indictment further alleges that between on or about September 14, 2015, and on or about October 8, 2015, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, JOHN CARL BERRYHILL, did knowingly attempt to distribute, by a means or facility of interstate commerce, matters which contained visual depictions, as that term is defined in Title 18, United States Code, Section 2256(5), which said visual depictions involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, as that term is defined in Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2256(2)(A)-(B), and said visual depictions were of such sexually explicit conduct and had been transported in interstate commerce, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(2) and 2252(b)(1), punishable by not less than 5 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00 or both.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow
Durant Man Pleads Guilty to Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that GRAHAM ALLEN HELMS, age 29, of Durant, Oklahoma, pled guilty to two counts of BANK ROBBERY, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2113(a), punishable by not more than 20 years imprisonment, and up to a $250,000.00 fine or both.
The Indictment alleged that on or about July 24, 2017, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, by force, violence and intimidation did take from the person and presence of another, money belonging to and in the care, custody, control, management and possession of IBC Bank, located in Ardmore, Oklahoma, a bank whose deposits were then insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
The Indictment further alleged that on or about August 1, 2017, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, by force, violence and intimidation did take from the person and presence of another, money belonging to and in the care, custody, control, management and possession of Shamrock Bank, located in Coalgate, Oklahoma, a bank whose deposits were then insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Ardmore Police Department, the Coal County Sherriff’s Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The Honorable Kimberly E. West, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
Assistant United States Attorney Chris Wilson represented the United States.
Tahlequah Man Pleads Guilty to Sexual Exploitation of Children, Possession of MaterialRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that BILLY HERSHELL SMITH II, age 48, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, pled guilty to SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF CHILDREN, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2251(a), punishable by up to 30 years imprisonment, and up to a $250,000.00 fine or both; and to POSSESSION OF CERTAIN MATERIAL INVOLVING THE SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF MINORS, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(4)(B) and 2252(b)(2), punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment, and up to a $250,000.00 fine or both.
The Indictment alleged that, from between a date uncertain in 2014 to on or about August 15, 2016, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the defendant, BILLY HERSHELL SMITH II, employed, used, persuaded, induced, enticed, and coerced V.C., a person under the age of eighteen years, to engage in sexually explicit conduct, as that term is defined in Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2256(2)(A)-(B), for the purpose of producing any visual depiction of such conduct, and the defendant, BILLY HERSHELL SMITH II knew and had reason to know such visual depiction would be transported in interstate commerce, and any such visual depiction was produced using materials that have been mailed, shipped, and transported in interstate and foreign commerce, and any such visual depiction had actually been transported in interstate commerce.
The Indictment further alleged that from on or about July 23, 2015, to on or about August 15, 2016, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the defendant, BILLY HERSHELL SMITH II, did knowingly possess, attempt to possess and access with intent to view matters which contained visual depictions, as that term is defined in Title 18, United States Code, Section 2256(5), the production of said visual depictions involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, as that term is defined in Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2256(2)(A)-(B), and said visual depictions were of such sexually explicit conduct and had been transported in interstate commerce by computer.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The Honorable Kimberly E. West, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow represented the United States.
Stilwell Man Pleads Guilty to Failure to Register as Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that JOSHUA WADE CARTER, age 42, of Stilwell, Oklahoma, pled guilty to FAILURE TO REGISTER AS SEX OFFENDER, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2250(a)(1), 2250(a)(2)(B) and 2250(a)(3), punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, and up to a $250,000.00 fine or both.
The Indictment alleged that from in or about November 2016, the exact date being unknown to the Grand Jury, until on or about April 19, 2017, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, and elsewhere, the defendant, an individual required to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, after having received a felony conviction from the State of Texas in Tarrant County on or about February 21, 2002, for the offense of Sexual Assault of a Child under 17, resided in Indian Country, and knowingly failed to register and update his registration as required by the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Adair County Sherriff’s Office and the United States Marshals Service.
The Honorable Kimberly E. West, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow represented the United States.
Durant Man Pleads Guilty to Destruction of MailRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that SHAWN JUSTIN FISCHER, age 36, of Durant, Oklahoma, pled guilty to DELAY OR DESTRUCTION OF MAIL BY POSTAL EMPLOYEE, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1703, punishable by not more than 5 years imprisonment, and up to a $250,000.00 fine or both.
The Indictment alleged that on or about April 20, 2017, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the Defendant, a United States Postal Service employee, did willfully, knowingly and unlawfully open a package entrusted to him and which came into his possession to be conveyed by mail while performing his assigned duties as an employee of the United States Postal Service.
The charge arose from an investigation by the United States Postal Services’ Office of Inspector General.
The Honorable Kimberly E. West, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
Assistant United States Attorney John David Luton represented the United States.
Del City Man Sentenced to 96 Months for Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that BOBBY LEE RUPPEL JR, age 34, of Del City, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 96 months imprisonment, and 3 years of supervised release, for FELON IN POSSESSION OF FIREARM, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).
The Indictment alleged that on or about November 1, 2016, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the Defendant, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce, a firearm which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Henryetta Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The Honorable James H. Payne, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. The defendant will remain in custody pending transportation to the designated federal facility at which the nonparoleable sentence will be served.
Assistant United States Attorney Kristin Harrington represented the United States.
Broken Arrow Man Pleads Guilty to Firearm, Ammunition PossessionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that JASON NATHANIEL DAUGHERTY, age 31, of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, pled guilty to FELON IN POSSESSION OF FIREARM AND AMMUNITION, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2), punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, and up to a $250,000.00 fine or both.
The Indictment alleged that on or about, December 4, 2016, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce a firearm and ammunition which have been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Broken Arrow Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
The Honorable Kimberly E. West, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
Assistant United States Attorney Kristin Harrington represented the United States.
Burneyville Man Sentenced to 24 Months for Firearm Possession (Destructive Device)Read the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that JACOB RHETT HOLLAND, age 24, of Burneyville, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 24 months imprisonment, and 3 years of supervised release for POSSESSION OF UNREGISTERED FIREARM (DESTRUCTIVE DEVICE), in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Sections 5861(d), 5841 and 5871.
The Indictment alleged that on or about December 25, 2016, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, did knowingly possess a destructive device, which is a firearm, as defined in Title 26, United States Code, Section 5845, not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Love County Sherriff’s Office, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
The Honorable James H. Payne, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. The defendant will remain in custody pending transportation to the designated federal facility at which the nonparoleable sentence will be served.
Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States.
Four Individuals Indicted in July 2017 Federal Grand JuryRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office announced today the results of the July 2017 Federal Grand Jury.
The following named individuals have been charged with a federal crime or crimes by the return of an indictment by the Grand Jury. A grand jury Indictment does not constitute evidence of guilt. A grand jury Indictment is a method of bringing formal charges against the defendant. A defendant is presumed innocent of the charges and may not be found guilty unless evidence establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. United States Sentencing Guidelines may be considered, upon conviction, by the sentencing court. Federal prison sentences are non-parolable.
DECKLYN STARR, age 54, of Fort Smith, Arkansas
a/k/a IRA WOFFORD
Stalking (2 counts)
Interstate Communication Of ThreatThe Indictment alleges that from in or about April 2017 and continuing through June 8, 2017, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, and elsewhere, the defendant, DECKLYN STARR, a/k/a Ira Wofford, with the intent to kill, injure, harass and intimidate, used an electronic communication service, an electronic communication system of interstate commerce, and any other facility of interstate commerce, to engage in a course of conduct that placed S.E., a person known to the Grand Jury, in reasonable fear of death or serious bodily injury, and caused, and attempted to cause, and would be reasonably expected to cause, substantial emotional distress, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2261A(2)(A), 2261A(2)(B) and 2261(b)(5), punishable by no more than 5 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00 or both for each count.
The Indictment further alleges that on or about June 8, 2017, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the defendant, DECKLYN STARR, a/k/a Ira Wofford, knowingly and willfully did transmit in interstate and foreign commerce from the State of New Mexico to the State of Oklahoma a communication via a telecommunications device, to a person known to the Grand Jury, and the communication contained a threat to injure a person known to the Grand Jury, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 875(c), punishable by no more than 5 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00 or both.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow.
JAMES MICHAEL WEST, age 64, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma
Concealment Of A Material Fact
False StatementThe Indictment alleges that on or about July 14, 2005, and continuing through December 31, 2016, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, defendant JAMES MICHAEL WEST, in a matter within the jurisdiction of Social Security Administration, having knowledge of the occurrence of an event affecting the right to receive or continue to receive Social Security Disability Income payments, concealed and failed to disclose such event with the intent to fraudulently secure payment when no payment was authorized. Specifically, defendant JAMES MICHAEL WEST intentionally concealed that JAMES MICHAEL WEST secured gainful employment in order to receive and continue to receive Disability Income payments made by the Social Security Administration to him.
By such action, defendant JAMES MICHAEL WEST took approximately $266,982.00 in Social Security Disability Income payments to which he was not entitled, in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 408(a)(4), punishable by no more than 5 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00 or both. The Indictment further alleges that on or about May 3, 2016, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma defendant JAMES MICHAEL WEST, did knowingly make or caused to be made any false statement or representation of a material fact to the Social Security Administration in any application for any payment or for a disability determination, in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 408(a)(2), punishable by no more than 5 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00 or both.
The charges arose from an investigation by the United States Social Security Administrations’ Office of Inspector General.
Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace.
TYLER WAYNE JONES, age 24, of Vian, Oklahoma
THOMAS CHARLES BARDRICK, age 20, of Fort Smith, Arkansas
Interstate Transportation Of Stolen PropertyThe Indictment alleges that on or about April 15, 2015, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendants, TYLER WAYNE JONES and THOMAS CHARLES BARDRICK, did unlawfully transport in interstate commerce stolen goods, wares and merchandise, that is, six (6) zero turn mowers, of the value of $5,000.00 or more knowing the same to have been stolen, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2314 and 2, punishable by no more than 10 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00 or both.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Sallisaw Police Department, the Sequoyah County Sherriff’s Office, and the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation.
Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris
Park Hill Man Sentenced to 37 Months for Methamphetamine Distribution, Unregistered FirearmRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that JEFFREY SCOTT HOFFMAN, age 47, of Park Hill, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 37 months imprisonment, and 3 years of supervised release for POSSESSION WITH INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE METHAMPHETAMINE, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C); and for POSSESSION OF UNREGISTERED FIREARM (SAWED-OFF SHOTGUN), in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Sections 5861(d), 5841, 5845(a) and 5871.
The Indictment alleged that on or about November 5, 2016, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
The Indictment further alleged that on or about November 5, 2016, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, did knowingly possess a shotgun having a barrel less than 18 inches in length, which is a firearm, as defined in Title 26, United States Code, Section 5845, not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Hulbert Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. The defendant will remain in custody pending transportation to the designated federal facility at which the nonparoleable sentence will be served.
Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States.
Okmulgee Man Sentenced to 110 Months for Possession of Firearm, AmmunitionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that STEVE EARL PERRY JR, age 27, of Okmulgee, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 110 months imprisonment, and 3 years of supervised release for FELON IN POSSESSION OF FIREARM & AMMUNITION, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1), 924(a)(2) and 924(e).
The Indictment alleged that on or about November 14, 2016, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce a firearm which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.
The charge arose from an investigation by the District 25 District Attorney’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. The defendant will remain in custody pending transportation to the designated federal facility at which the nonparoleable sentence will be served.
Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States.
Dallas, Texas Man Sentenced to 117 Months for Firearm Possession in Furtherance of Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that CHAD ANTHONY COX, age 27, of Dallas, Texas, was sentenced to 117 months imprisonment, and 3 years of supervised release for FELON IN POSSESSION OF FIREARM, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2); and for POSSESSION OF A FIREARM IN FURTHERANCE OF A DRUG TRAFFICKING CRIME, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A).
The Indictment alleged that on or about October 6, 2016, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the Defendant, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce, a firearm which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.
The Indictment further alleged that on or about October 6, 2016, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the Defendant, did knowingly possess a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime for which he may be prosecuted in a court of the United States.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Chickasaw Nation Tribal Police, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. The defendant will remain in custody pending transportation to the designated federal facility at which the nonparoleable sentence will be served.
Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States.
Wagoner Man Sentenced to 190 Months for Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that BRANDON J. GRIMLAND, age 42, of Wagoner, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 190 months imprisonment, and 6 years of supervised release for POSSESSION WITH INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE METHAMPHETAMINE, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C).
The Indictment alleged that on or about October 15, 2016, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. The defendant will remain in custody pending transportation to the designated federal facility at which the nonparoleable sentence will be served.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.
Gans Man Sentenced to 87 Months for Methamphetamine Distribution, Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that JAMES WESLEY JACOBS, age 38, of Gans, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 87 months imprisonment, and 3 years of supervised release for POSSESSION WITH INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE METHAMPHETAMINE, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B), and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2; and for FELON IN POSSESSION OF FIREARM, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2), as to each count to run concurrently.
The Indictment alleged that on or about August 30, 2016, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
The Indictment further alleged that on or about August 30, 2016, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce, firearms which had been shipped and transported in interstate and foreign commerce.
The charges arose from an investigation by the District 27 Drug Task Force and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. The defendant will remain in custody pending transportation to the designated federal facility at which the nonparoleable sentence will be served.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Hammer represented the United States.