Eastern District of Oklahoma

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that JOANNA MARY HARJO, age 63, of Konawa, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 5 years of probation, to be supervised by the United States Probation Office, and ordered to pay restitution to the United States Social Security Administration in the amount of $45,736.08 for THEFT OF GOVERNMENT FUNDS, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 641.

The Information alleged that on or about September 2008, and continuing to, on or about March 2015, in the  Eastern District of Oklahoma the Defendant, JOANNA MARY HARJO, concealed the true nature of her living arrangements and marital status from the United States Social Security Administration so that she could receive more Social Security Supplemental Security Income benefits than what she would have been eligible to receive, and thus, converted money belonging to the United States Social Security Administration to her own use or gain knowing it was not hers and intending to deprive the United States Social Security Administration of the use and benefit of this money.

The charge arose from an investigation by the United States Social Security Administration.

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.

Assistant United States Attorney Kristin Harrington represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that ROBERT LEROY CRAWLEY, age 37, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 120 months imprisonment for FELON IN POSSESSION OF FIREARM, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1), 924(a)(2) and 924(e)(1).

The Indictment alleged that on or about October 20, 2015, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, ROBERT LEROY CRAWLEY, 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 charges arose from an investigation by the Hugo Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

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 the custody of the United States Marshals Service 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.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that RICHARD DALE HENRY, age 62, of Broken Bow, Oklahoma, was found guilty, by a federal jury, of FELON IN POSSESSION OF FIREARM, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1), 924(a)(2) and 924(e)(1). The jury trial began with testimony on Monday, November 14, 2016 and concluded on the same day with the guilty verdict. The statutory range of punishment is no more than 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00 or both; however, should the Court determine the defendant, who has prior convictions for Murder First Degree, Murder Second Degree and Sales of Controlled Dangerous Substances, is an Armed Career Criminal offender, the range of punishment is not less than 15 years imprisonment, up to life, a fine of up to $250,000.00 or both.

Evidence at trial proved that from on or about December 23, 2013, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, RICHARD DALE HENRY, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce, an AK-47 style firearm, which had been shipped and transported in interstate or foreign commerce.  Henry sold the rifle, along with a nylon case and 5 high capacity magazines, to Jo’s Pawn in Broken Bow, Oklahoma.

The verdict obtained was the result of an investigation by the McCurtain County Sheriff’s Office, 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 trial and ordered the completion of a presentence report.  Sentencing will be scheduled following its completion. The defendant will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - On November 10, 2016, Attorney General Loretta E. Lynch recognized 376 department employees for their distinguished public service at the 64th Annual Attorney General’s Awards Ceremony.  Forty-seven other individuals outside of the department were also honored for their work.  This annual ceremony recognizes individuals for their outstanding service and dedication to carrying out the missions of the Department of Justice.

“The Attorney General’s Awards provide us with a rare opportunity to honor the efforts of outstanding department employees and our invaluable partners across the federal government and at the state and local levels,” said Attorney General Lynch.  “Their work has made our nation – and our world – stronger, safer and more just, and I am proud of and inspired by each and every one of them.”

In particular, the Attorney General’s Award for Exceptional Service in Indian Country recognizes extraordinary efforts by department employees who demonstrate the department’s commitment to fighting crime in Indian Country.  This year’s award is presented to, from the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section, Trial Attorney J. Michael Sheckels; from the Criminal Division’s Appellate Section, Trial Attorney Richard A. Friedman; from the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Eastern District of Oklahoma, Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward Snow; from the FBI’s Oklahoma City Field Office, Supervisory Special Agent John W. Fitzer and Special Agent Joshua W. Martin; from the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, Special Agent John Jones; and from the Seminole Nation Lighthorse Police, Chief Kent Dowell.

On March 3, 2004, David Magnan entered a house on an Indian allotment in rural Seminole County, Oklahoma, and with premeditation shot three Native American occupants to death as they lay in their beds.  Originally convicted in state court under the misapprehension of the status of the land where the house was located, that conviction was set aside in 2013 after the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals determined that the Indian title to the land had not been extinguished.  Working at great disadvantage given the passage of time, this team worked tirelessly to locate the witnesses and evidence necessary to secure a conviction at trial on all three murder counts, keep a dangerous killer off the streets and obtain justice for the victims’ families.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that NATHAN ROWDEN GREEN, age 28, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, pled guilty to DRUG CONSPIRACY, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B), punishable by not less than 5 years or more than 40 years imprisonment, and up to a $5,000,000.00 fine or both.

The Information alleged that or about December 14, 2015, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, did willfully and knowingly combine, conspire, confederate and agree together, and with other persons known and unknown, 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.

The charges arose from a joint investigation by the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, the Tahlequah Police Department, the Muskogee Police Department, the Oklahoma Department of Corrections, the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The investigation was 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 Honorable Kimberly E. West, 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. The defendant will remain in custody pending a sentencing hearing.

Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office announced today the results of the November 2016 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.”

NAAMAN JOE MCCOY, age 27, of Pocasset, Oklahoma

Theft in Indian Country

On or about September 13, 2016, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, within Indian country, as defined in 18 U.S.C. § 1151, the defendant, an Indian, did take and carry away, with the intent to steal and purloin, the personal property of a non-Indian, with a value exceeding $1,000.00. The charge is in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 661 and 1152, 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 Choctaw Tribal Police, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Special Assistant United States Attorney Shelly Harrison

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that LATISHA DAWN ARNOLD, age 37, of Sapulpa, 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 or more than Life imprisonment, up to a $10,000,000.00 fine or both.

The Second Superseding Indictment filed in July, 2016, alleged that beginning in or about the end of 2013 and continuing until on or about January 27, 2016, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, did willfully and knowingly combine, conspire, confederate and agree together, and with other persons known and unknown, to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of Methamphetamine, a Schedule II Controlled Substance.

The charges arose from a joint investigation by the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, the Tahlequah Police Department, the Muskogee Police Department, the Oklahoma Department of Corrections, the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Drug Enforcement Administration.  The investigation was 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 Honorable Kimberly E. West, 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. The defendant will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending transportation to the designated federal facility to serve this nonparoleable sentence.

Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that JIMMY DON MCCOY, JR., age 25, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 13 months imprisonment for STEALING FIREARMS FROM A FEDERAL FIREARMS LICENSED DEALER, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 924(m) and 2.

The Indictment alleged that on or about August 29, 2015, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, MCCOY did knowingly steal firearms from Gems Gun & Pawn, a federal licensed firearms dealer, all of which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce either before or after being stolen.

The charges arose from an investigation by the Sallisaw Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms.

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 the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending transportation to the designated federal facility at which he will serve his nonparoleable sentence.

Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Hammer represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that GREGORY McINTYRE, age 19, of Sallisaw, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 13 months imprisonment for STEALING FIREARMS FROM A FEDERAL FIREARMS LICENSED DEALER, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 924(m) and 2.

The Indictment alleged that from on or about August 29, 2015, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, McINTYRE did knowingly steal from Gems Gun & Pawn, a federal licensed firearms dealer, all of which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce either before or after being stolen.

The charges arose from an investigation by the Sallisaw Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms.

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 the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending transportation to the designated federal facility at which he will serve his nonparoleable sentence.

Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Hammer represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced today that BOB GENE HALL, a/k/a Robert Glen Hensley, age 35, of Cushing, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 265 months imprisonment for DRUG CONSPIRACY, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A).

The Indictment alleged that beginning in or about February 2015, the exact date being unknown to the Grand Jury, and continuing until on or about September 1, 2015, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the defendant did knowingly and intentionally combine, conspire, confederate and agree with others, both 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 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II Controlled Substance.

The charges arose from an investigation by the McAlester Police Department, District 18 District Attorney’s Drug Task Force, Seminole Nation Lighthorse Police, Oklahoma Highway Patrol, Seminole County Sheriff’s Office, Seminole Police Department, Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, United States Marshal Service 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 the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending transportation to the designated federal facility at which he will serve his nonparoleable sentence.

Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - United States Attorney Mark F. Green announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Gregory Dean Burris will lead the efforts of his Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 8, 2016, general elections. AUSA Burris has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of complaints of election fraud and voting rights abuses in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.

United States Attorney Green said, “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted without it being stolen because of fraud. The Department of Justice will act promptly and aggressively to protect the integrity of the election process.”

The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring election fraud and discrimination at the polls, and combating these violations whenever and wherever they occur. The Department’s long-standing Election Day Program furthers these goals, and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the integrity of the election process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible election fraud and voting rights violations while the polls are open on election day.

Federal law protects against such crimes as intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters and provides that they can vote free from acts that intimidate or harass them. For example, actions of persons designed to interrupt or intimidate voters at polling places by questioning or challenging them, or by photographing or videotaping them, under the pretext that these are actions to uncover illegal voting may violate federal voting rights law. Further, federal law protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice.

The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of election fraud or voting rights abuses on November 8, 2016, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, United States Attorney Green stated that AUSA/DEO Burris will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. He can be reached by the public at the following telephone number: (918) 684-5100.

In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at (918) 687-7500.

Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division’s Voting Section in Washington, DC by phone at 1-800-253-3931 or (202) 307-2767, by fax at (202) 307-3961, by email to [email protected] or by complaint form at http://www.justice.gov/crt/complaint/votintake/index.php.

United States Attorney Green said, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the cooperation of the American electorate. It is imperative that those who have specific information about discrimination or election fraud make that information available immediately to my Office, the FBI, or the Civil Rights Division.”

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced today that BUDDY LYNN VISSER, age 56, of Okmulgee, Oklahoma, pled guilty to FELON IN POSSESSION OF FIREARM, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1), 924(a)(2) and 924(e)(1), punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine or both; and POSSESSION OF UNREGISTERED FIREARM (MACHINEGUN), in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Sections 5861(d), 5841 and 5871, punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, up to a $10,000 fine or both.

The Indictment alleged that on or about July 10, 2016, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, VISSER, 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 August 17, 2016, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, VISSER did knowingly possess a machinegun, to wit: One (1) Seekins Precision, Model SP15; .223 caliber rifle, 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.

Charges arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the guilty plea and ordered the completion of a presentence report. Sentencing will be scheduled following its completion. The defendant will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced today that JIMMY DEWAYNE WHEAT, age 39, of Fort Gibson, Oklahoma, pled guilty to EMBEZZLEMENT AND THEFT IN INDIAN COUNTRY, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 661 and 1152, punishable by up to 1 year imprisonment, and up to a $100,000 fine.

The Information alleged that on or about December 7, 2015, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, within Indian Country, the defendant, JIMMY DEWAYNE WHEAT, a non-Indian, did take and carry away, with the intent to steal and purloin, an air compressor, a hammer, a roofing hammer, bottle jacks, ten screwdrivers, two nail bars and gloves, with a value less than $1000.00, which were the personal property of a Native American Indian.

Charges arose from an investigation by the Creek Nation Lighthorse Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the guilty plea and ordered the completion of a presentence report. Sentencing will be scheduled following its completion.

Special Assistant United States Attorney Shelly Harrison represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced today that DAVID EDWARD AINSWORTH, age 53, of Atoka, Oklahoma, pled guilty to DISTRIBUTION OF METHAMPHETAMINE, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B), punishable by not more than 40 years imprisonment, up to a $5,000,000.00 fine or both; and FELON IN POSSESSION OF FIREARM, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2), punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000.00 fine or both.

On or about May 27, 2015, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, DAVID EDWARD AINSWORTH, did knowingly and intentionally distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine (Actual), a Schedule II controlled substance.

The indictment further alleged that on or about May 27, 2015, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, DAVID EDWARD AINSWORTH, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce, a firearm, One (1) Savage Model 94 Series M, 20 gauge weapon made from a shotgun, which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.

Charges arose from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration.

The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the guilty plea and ordered the completion of a presentence report. Sentencing will be scheduled following its completion.   The defendant will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Hammer represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that CHRISTOPHER JORDAN LEE FOREMAN, age 22, of Vian, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 57 months of imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for POSSESSION OF STOLEN FIREARMS, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(j) and 2, punishable by not more than 10 years of imprisonment, up to a $250,000.00 fine or both.

The Indictment alleged that from on or about August 29, 2015, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, FOREMAN did knowingly possess stolen firearms, all of which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce either before or after being stolen.

The charges arose from an investigation by the Sallisaw Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms.

The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. FOREMAN will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending transportation to the designated federal facility at which he will serve his nonparolable sentence.

Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Hammer represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced today that ADRIAN VINCENT CROSS, age 52, and LONETTA NICHOLE CROSS, age 44, both of Poteau, Oklahoma, and LADAUGHNA JEAN DUXBURY, age 54, of Shady Point, Oklahoma, pled guilty to CONSPIRACY TO STEAL, POSSESS AND UTTER STOLEN UNITED STATES POSTAL MONEY ORDERS, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, punishable by not more than 5 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine or both.

The Indictment alleged that on or about December 24, 2015, and continuing thereafter until on or about January 13, 2016, DUXBURY, along with Co-Conspirators CROSS and CROSS in the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, knowingly and willfully agreed and conspired against the United States to steal, possess and utter and pass United States Postal Service Money Order Forms.

Charges arose from an investigation by the Pocola Police Department, Shady Point Police Department, Leflore County Sheriff’s Office, and the United States Postal Service.

The Honorable Kimberly E. West, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the guilty pleas and ordered the completion of presentencing reports. Sentencings will be scheduled following their completions.

Assistant United States Attorney Kristin Harrington represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that DUSTY ALLEN DRYWATER, age 33, of Stilwell, 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 or more than Life imprisonment, up to a $10,000,000.00 fine or both and FELON IN POSSESSION OF FIREARM, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1), 924(a)(2) and 2, punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000.00 fine or both.

The Superseding Indictment filed in March, 2016, alleged that beginning in or about the end of 2013 and continuing until on or about January 27, 2016, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, did willfully and knowingly combine, conspire, confederate and agree together, and with other persons known and unknown, to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of Methamphetamine, a Schedule II Controlled Substance.

The Investigation revealed that Cody McClendon, an Indian Brotherhood (IBH) gang member, who at the time was an inmate with the Oklahoma Department of Corrections in McAlester, Oklahoma was utilizing a contraband cellular phone that he kept hidden on his person and inside his prison cell to facilitate the sale and distribution of methamphetamine. McClendon was doing this by using the cellular phone to communicate with co-conspirators via audio phone calls, text messages, and by communicating on the social media website Facebook.  DRYWATER was a methamphetamine distributor as well as a drug and money courier for the organization.

The charges arose from a joint investigation by the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, the Tahlequah Police Department, the Muskogee Police Department, the Oklahoma Department of Corrections, the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Drug Enforcement Administration.  The investigation was 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 Honorable Kimberly E. West, 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.  The defendant will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced today that DERRICK DEJUAN WOOTEN, age 24, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 120 months of imprisonment, followed by 36 months 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 17, 2015, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, DERRICK DEJUAN WOOTEN, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce, a firearm.  WOOTEN was convicted by a federal jury in March, 2016.

The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing.

The charges are a result of an investigation by the Muskogee Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Eastern District Violent Crimes Task Force.  WOOTEN was remanded into the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending transportation to the designated federal facility at which he will serve his nonparolable sentence.

Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that JADE LaRAE OBREGON, age 38, of Sallisaw, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 1 year and 1 day of imprisonment for THEFT OF FEDERAL PROGRAM FUNDS, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1341. OBREGON was also ordered to pay $574,385.94 in restitution.

The Indictment alleged that on or about January 1, 2012, and continuing through December 31, 2013, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, JADE LaRAE OBREGON, defendant herein, being an agent of Sequoyah Memorial Hospital, said organization receiving in the one year period beginning January 1, 2012, benefits in excess of $10,000 from federal health care programs, embezzled, stole, obtained by fraud, and knowingly converted to the use of a person not the rightful owner, property worth at least $5,000 and owned by such organization, that is diabetic test strips.

The Honorable James H. Payne, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing.

The charges are a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. OBREGON was ordered to report to the Bureau of Prisons on January 15, 2017.

Assistant United States Attorney Melody Nelson represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced today that JESSE KENT COX, age 34, of Coweta, Oklahoma, pled guilty to WIRE FRAUD, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343, punishable by not more than 20 years of imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine or both.

The Indictment alleged that 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 persons to obtain money and property by means of materially false and fraudulent pretenses, representations and promises.

Charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the guilty plea and ordered the completion of a presentence report. Sentencing will be scheduled following its completion.

Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that STEVEN WILLIAM DELIA, age 61, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, was found guilty of HEALTH CARE FRAUD by a federal jury on Thursday, September 29,2016.  The jury also found that the defendant should forfeit $83,769.27 in assets as part of any sentence imposed.

The defendant was indicted in June, 2016 and charged with HEALTH CARE FRAUD, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1347.

The Indictment alleged that on or about the February 1, 2010, and continuing through November 9, 2010, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, STEVEN WILLIAM DELIA, 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.

The trial began with testimony on September 26, 2016 and concluded with closing arguments and jury deliberations on Thursday, September 29, 2016.

Testimony at the trial established that DELIA 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.

Additional evidence proved that during the time charged in the Indictment, DELIA, in preparation for deployment to Afghanistan, pre-signed approximately 9000 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 charges are a result of 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 trial and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.  The defendant was released on bond pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorney’s Melody Nelson represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced today that WILLIAM HENRY CRAIG, age 26, of Wagoner, Oklahoma, pled guilty to three counts: POSSESSION OF AN UNREGISTERED DESTRUCTIVE DEVICE and POSSESSION OF AN UNREGISTERED FIREARM, both in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Sections 5861(d), 5841 and 5871, punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, up to a $10,000 fine or both and POSSESSION OF FIREARM WITH AN OBLITERATED SERIAL NUMBER, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(k) and 924(a)(1)(B), punishable by not more than 5 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine or both.

The Indictment alleged that on or about April 5, 2016, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, WILLIAM HENRY CRAIG, did knowingly possess a destructive device, known as a cricket 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.

It further alleged that on or about April 5, 2016, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did knowingly possess a CGC (Companhia Brasileira de Cartuchos), Model 151, 20 gauge shotgun, with a barrel of less than 18 inches in length and an overall length of less than 26 inches, not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration Transfer Record and the manufacturer’s serial number had been removed, altered and obliterated.

Charges arose from an investigation by the Wagoner Police Department, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the guilty plea and ordered the completion of a presentence report. Sentencing will be scheduled following its completion.  The defendant will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service, pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorney Kristin Harrington represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced today that MARK BRANDON WEEKS, age 41, of Van Buren, Arkansas, was sentenced to 15 months of imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release for POSSESSION OF A COUNTERFEIT OBLIGATION, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 472 and 2.  The defendant was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $300.

The charges are a result of an investigation by the Muskogee Police Department, the Sallisaw Police Department and the United States Secret Service. The defendant was indicted in January, 2016 and pled guilty in April, 2016.

The Indictment alleged that on or about August 10, 2015, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, MARK BRANDON WEEKS, did with intent to defraud, possess counterfeit obligations of the United States, that is: Seventy (70) counterfeit $100 Federal Reserve Notes, which he knew to be falsely made, forged and counterfeited.

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 Timothy Hammer represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced today that JACOB AUSTIN DUNCAN, age 26, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, pled guilty to POSSESSION OF UNREGISTERED FIREARM (DESTRUCTIVE DEVICE), in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Sections 5861(d), 5841 and 5871, punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, up to a $10,000 fine or both.

The Indictment alleged that on or about June 12, 2016, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, JACOB AUSTIN DUNCAN, 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.

Charges arose from an investigation by the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, the Oklahoma High Patrol, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the guilty plea and ordered the completion of a presentence report. Sentencing will be scheduled following its completion. The defendant will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced today that TIMOTHY RAY CANNON, age 39, of Muskogee, 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, up to a $250,000 fine or both.

The Indictment alleged that on or about September, 2014, until on or about April 13, 2016, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, and elsewhere, the defendant, TIMOTHY RAY CANNON, an individual required to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, after having received felony convictions from the State of California, in Kerns County, on or about July 20, 2000, for Sex with a Minor, and on or about December 10, 2010, for the offense of Sexual Battery: Touch for Sexual Arousal, traveled in interstate commerce and knowingly failed to register and update his registration as required by the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.

Charges arose from an investigation by the Muskogee Police Department and the United States Marshals Service.

The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the guilty plea and ordered the completion of a presentence report. Sentencing will be scheduled following its completion.

Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced today that CHARLES DWANE BROWN, age 43, of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, pled guilty to FELON IN POSSESSION OF FIREARM, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2)., punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine or both.

The Indictment alleged that on or about May 6, 2016, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, CHARLES DWANE BROWN a/k/a Charles Dewayne Brown, a/k/a Charles Duane Brown, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce, a firearm.

Charges arose from an investigation by the McCurtain County Sheriff’s Office, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the guilty plea and ordered the completion of a presentence report. Sentencing will be scheduled following its completion.

Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that DUSTIN RAY BAILEY, age 36, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, pled guilty 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 5 years of imprisonment or more than Life, up to a $250,000.00 fine or both.

The Indictment alleged that on or about June 27, 2016, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did knowingly possess a firearm, which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce, in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

The charges arose from an investigation by the Sallisaw Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration.

The Honorable Kimberly E. West, 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.  Sentencing will be scheduled upon its completion.  The defendant will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service, pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that ISSAC YEBOAH, age 30, of Grand Prairie, Texas, pled guilty to BANK FRAUD, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1344(2) and 2 and UNLAWFUL TRANSFER, POSSESSION OR USE OF A MEANS OF IDENTIFICATION, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1028(a)(7) and 2.

The Indictment alleged that on or about March 18, 2016, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did knowingly obtain moneys and funds owned by and under the custody and control of CreditONE, a financial institution as defined by Title 18, United States Code, Section 20, whose deposits were insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, by means of false pretenses and representations, by using an unauthorized credit card.  It further alleges that on the same date the defendant did knowingly possess in or affecting interstate or foreign commerce, without lawful authority, a means of identification of another person, knowing that the means of identification belonged to another actual person, with the intent to commit, or to aid or abet or in connection with, Bank Fraud.

The charges arose from an investigation by the Murray County Sheriff’s Office, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the United States Secret Service.

The Honorable Kimberly E. West, 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.  Sentencing will be scheduled upon its completion.  The defendant will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal Service, pending sentencing.

The statutory range of punishment for Bank Fraud is not more than 30 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00 or both and for Unlawful Transfer, Possession or Use of a Means of Identification is not more than 5 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00 or both on count 2.

Assistant United States Attorney Melody Nelson represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that  ABDOLMAJID MOVAGHAR, age 40, of Grand Prairie, Texas, was found guilty by a federal judge for USE OF TELEPHONE TO MAKE BOMB THREAT, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 844(e).  The trial began with testimony on Wednesday, September 21, 2016 and concluded the same day with the guilty verdict.

Evidence at trial proved that on or about March 10, 2016, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, ABDOLMAJID MOVAGHAR, did, through use of a telephone, make a threat to kill, injure and intimidate any individual and to damage and destroy a building, vehicle, or other real or personal property, by means of fire and explosive, in and affecting interstate commerce.

The investigation revealed that MOVAGHAR, a Naturalized American Citizen, called the Chickasaw Nation Police Department on several occasions, yelling and threatening to “blow them up” if he did not get his car back.  The car was impounded after MOVAGHAR was arrested the previous month.

The verdict obtained was the result of an investigation by the Chickasaw Nation Lighthorse Police Department and the Bureau of Indian Affairs.

The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the trial and ordered the completion of a presentence report.  Sentencing will be scheduled following its completion.  The defendant was remanded into the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.

The statutory range of punishment is up to 10 years of imprisonment, up to $250,000.00 or both.

Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that, TIMOTHY DEWAYNE TAYLOR, age 24, of Caney, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 2 years of probation for POSSESSION OF METHAMPHETAMINE, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 844(a).

The Indictment alleged that from on or about December 14, 2015, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did knowingly and intentionally possess methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.  The defendant pled guilty in May, 2016.

The charges arose from an investigation by the McAlester Army Ammunition Plant Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

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.

Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Hammer represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced today that ASHLEY NOEL STEELE, age 30, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, pled guilty to DRUG CONSPIRACY, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, 841(a)(1), and 841(b)(1)(B).

The charges arose from a joint investigation entitled “Home of the Brave” 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 McAlester Police Department, the Tahlequah Police Department, the Muskogee Police Department, the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Department, Districts 13, 18, 25 and 27 District Attorney’s Drug Task Forces and Violent Crime Task Forces, the Muskogee County District Attorney’s Office, the Seminole Nation Lighthorse Police Department, the Oklahoma Department of Corrections, the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the McAlester and Tulsa Offices of the Drug Enforcement Administration.

The Information alleged that on or about December 12, 2015, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, ASHLEY NOEL STEELE, did knowingly and intentionally conspire, confederate and agree with others known and unknown 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.

The Honorable Kimberly E. West, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the guilty plea and ordered the completion of a presentence report.  Sentencing will be scheduled following its completion.  The defendant will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.

The statutory range of punishment is not less than 5 years or more than 40 years imprisonment, up to a $5,000,000 fine or both.

Assistant United States Attorney Christopher Wilson represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that THOMAS ZACHARY PETERS, age 32, of Lansing, Michigan, 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) and 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 from in or about November 2015, the exact date being unknown to the Grand Jury, until on or about June 1, 2016, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, and elsewhere, the defendant, THOMAS ZACHARY PETERS, 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 Michigan, in Eaton County, on or about April 7, 2005, for the offense of Criminal Sexual Conduct-2nd Degree, traveled in interstate and foreign commerce and knowingly failed to register and update his registration as required by the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.

It further alleged that from in or about November 2015 until on or about June 1, 2016, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, THOMAS ZACHARY PETERS, 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 commerce.

The charges arose from an investigation by the Michigan Department of Corrections, the Pittsburg County Sheriff’s Office, and the Unites States Marshal Service.

The statutory range of punishment for each count is not more than 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000 or both.

The Honorable Kimberly E. West, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the guilty plea and ordered the completion of a presentence report.  Sentencing will be scheduled following its completion.  The defendant will remain in the custody of the Unites States Marshal Service pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that STACY BORLEY BORTEY, age 26, of Houston, Texas, pled guilty to BANK FRAUD, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1344(2) and 2 and UNLAWFUL TRANSFER, POSSESSION OR USE OF A MEANS OF IDENTIFICATION, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1028(a)(7) and 2.

The Indictment alleged that on or about March 18, 2016, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did knowingly obtain moneys and funds owned by and under the custody and control of CreditONE, a financial institution as defined by Title 18, United States Code, Section 20, whose deposits were insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, by means of false pretenses and representations, by using a unauthorized credit card.  It further alleges that on the same date the defendant did knowingly possess in or affecting interstate or foreign commerce, without lawful authority, a means of identification of another person, knowing that the means of identification belonged to another actual person, with the intent to commit, or to aid or abet or in connection with, Bank Fraud.

The charges arose from an investigation by the Murray County Sheriff’s Office and the United States Secret Service.

The Honorable Kimberly E. West, 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.  Sentencing will be scheduled upon its completion.  The defendant will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal Service, pending sentencing.

The statutory range of punishment for Bank Fraud is not more than 30 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00 or both and for Unlawful Transfer, Possession or Use of a Means of Identification is not more than 5 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00 or both on count 2.

Assistant United States Attorney Christopher Wilson represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced today that JACKIE LEON PARKER, JR., age 42, of Beggs, Oklahoma, pled guilty to FELON IN POSSESSION OF FIREARM, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1).

The charges arose from an investigation by the Checotah Police Department, the Okmulgee Police Department, the Okmulgee District Attorney’s Office, the Okmulgee County Sheriff’s Office, the Muskogee County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms.  The defendant was indicted in July, 2016.

The Indictment alleged that on or about May 23, 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 Honorable Kimberly E. West, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the guilty plea and ordered the completion of a presentence report.  Sentencing will be scheduled following its completion.  The defendant will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.

The statutory range of punishment is not more than 10 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine or both.

Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced today that TERESA CHAGOLLA, age 54, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, pled guilty to DRUG CONSPIRACY, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, 841(a)(1), and 841(b)(1)(C) and a DRUG FORFEITURE.

The charges arose from a joint investigation entitled “Home of the Brave” 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 McAlester Police Department, the Tahlequah Police Department, the Muskogee Police Department, the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Department, Districts 13, 18, 25 and 27 District Attorney’s Drug Task Forces and Violent Crime Task Forces, the Muskogee County District Attorney’s Office, the Seminole Nation Lighthorse Police Department, the Oklahoma Department of Corrections, the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the McAlester and Tulsa Offices of the Drug Enforcement Administration.

The Information alleged that beginning in or about the end of 2013 and continuing until on or about January 27, 2016, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, TERESA CHAGOLLA, did knowingly and intentionally conspire, confederate and agree with others known and unknown 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 a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.

The Honorable Kimberly E. West, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the guilty plea and ordered the completion of a presentence report.  Sentencing will be scheduled following its completion.  The defendant will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.

The statutory range of punishment is not more than 20 years imprisonment, up to a $1,000,000 fine or both.

Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced today that GARY WAYNE WILDER, age 36, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, pled guilty to DRUG CONSPIRACY, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, 841(a)(1), and 841(b)(1)(C) and a DRUG FORFEITURE.

The charges arose from a joint investigation entitled “Home of the Brave” 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 McAlester Police Department, the Tahlequah Police Department, the Muskogee Police Department, the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Department, Districts 13, 18, 25 and 27 District Attorney’s Drug Task Forces and Violent Crime Task Forces, the Muskogee County District Attorney’s Office, the Seminole Nation Lighthorse Police Department, the Oklahoma Department of Corrections, the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the McAlester and Tulsa Offices of the Drug Enforcement Administration.

The Information alleged that on or about October, 2015, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, GARY WAYNE WILDER, did knowingly and intentionally conspire, confederate and agree with others known and unknown 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.

The Honorable Kimberly E. West, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the guilty plea and ordered the completion of a presentence report.  Sentencing will be scheduled following its completion.  The defendant will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.

The statutory range of punishment is not less than 5 years or more than 40 years imprisonment, up to a $10,000,000 fine or both.

Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced today that DILLAN JAMES PARKER, age 24, of Beggs, Oklahoma, pled guilty to STEALING FIREARMS FROM A FEDERAL FIREARMS LICENSED DEALER, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 924(m) and 2.

The charge arose from an investigation by the Checotah Police Department, the Okmulgee Police Department, the Okmulgee District Attorney’s Office, the Okmulgee County Sheriff’s Office, the Muskogee County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms.  The defendant was indicted in July, 2016.

The Indictment alleged that on or about May 12, 2016, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, DILLAN JAMES PARKER did knowingly steal from Richy’s Gun & Pawn, a federal licensed firearms dealer, firearms.

The Honorable Kimberly E. West, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the guilty plea and ordered the completion of a presentence report.  Sentencing will be scheduled following its completion.  The defendant will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.

The statutory range of punishment is not more than 10 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine or both.

Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that FELICIA ANN BREEDLOVE, age 45, of Eufaula, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 2 years of probation and a $500.00 fine for OPERATING A MOTOR VEHICLE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL, a Misdemeanor, in violation of Title 47, Section 11-902(A)(1) of the Oklahoma Statutes, and Title 18, United States Code, Sections 7(3) and 13.

The Information alleged that on or about October 16, 2015, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma the defendant, FELICIA ANN BREEDLOVE, at the McAlester Army Ammunition Plant, at or near the Main Gate on C-Tree Road, on land acquired for the use of the United States and under the exclusive jurisdiction thereof, did drive and operate a silver 2006 Nissan Altima motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, as evidenced by a properly administered breath test which measured a .13 breath alcohol content.

The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing.

The charges are a result of an investigation by the Department of the Army Civilian Police.

Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Hammer represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced today that CHARLES BLAIR SMALLWOOD, age 24, of Durant, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 6 months of home detention and 4 years of probation for THEFT BY OFFICERS OR EMPLOYEES OF GAMING ESTABLISHMENT ON INDIAN LANDS, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2250(a)(1), 2250(a)(2)(B) and 2250(a)(3).

The charge arose from an investigation by the Choctaw Nation Tribal Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  The defendant was indicted in March, 2016 and pled guilty in April, 2016.

The Indictment alleged that from in or about December 2014, to on or about August 17, 2015, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, while an employee of the Choctaw Nation Casino and Resort, in Indian Country, did embezzle, abstract, purloin, willfully misapply, and take and carry away with intent to steal any moneys, funds, assets, or other property in excess of $1,000.00 belonging to the Choctaw Nation Casino and Resort, an Indian gaming establishment operated by the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma pursuant to an ordinance or resolution approved by the National Indian Gaming Commission.

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.

Assistant United States Attorney Kristin Harrington represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office announced today the results of the September 2016 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.”

JULIUS FERRELL BLACK, age 29, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma

Felon In Possession Of Firearm
Possession Of Firearm With An Obliterated Serial Number

The Indictment alleges that on or about June 29, 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, with an obliterated serial number, which had been shipped and transported in interstate or foreign commerce. 

The charges arose from an investigation by the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms.  The charges are in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2), punishable by no more than 10 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00 or both and Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(k) and 924(a)(1)(B), punishable by not more than 5 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000.00 fine or both.

Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Hammer

BUDDY LYNN VISSER, age 56, of Okmulgee, Oklahoma

Felon In Possession Of Firearm
Felon In Possession Of Firearm And Ammunition
Possession Of Unregistered Firearm (Machine Gun)
Possession Of Unregistered Firearm (Short-Barreled Rifle)
Possession Of Unregistered Firearm (Silencer)
Possession Of Firearm (Silencer) Which Is Not Identified By Serial Number

The Indictment alleges that on or about July 10, 2016, July 25, 2016 and August 17, 2016, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, and elsewhere, the defendant, an individual having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce firearms and ammunition, which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.  It further alleges that on or about August 17, 2016, the defendant did knowingly possess a machine gun, a rifle, having a barrel less than 16 inches in length and 7 silencers, 2 of which were without serial numbers, all classified as firearms, that were not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. 

The charges arose from an investigation by the Highland, Illinois Police Department, the United States Postal Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms.  The charges are in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2), punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000.00 fine or both; Title 26, United States Code, Sections 5861(d), 5841 and 5871, punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, up to a $10,000.00 fine or both and Title 26, United States Code, Sections 5842(b), 5861(i) and 5871, punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, up to a $10,000.00 fine or both.

Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that  NICKOLLE DENISE DIXON, age 24, of Fort Smith Arkansas, was found guilty, by a federal jury, for EMBEZZLEMENT AND THEFT FROM INDIAN TRIBAL ORGANIZATIONS, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1163.  The jury trial began with testimony on Tuesday, August 30, 2016 and concluded the same day with the guilty verdict.

Evidence at trial proved that from in or about January 2013 to on or about January 5, 2014, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, NIKOLLE DENISE DIXON, did steal, embezzle and knowingly and willfully convert to her own use monies in excess of $1,000.00 which had been entrusted to her custody and care as an employee of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, an Indian tribal organization.

The investigation revealed that DIXON, an employee of the Choctaw Travel Plaza, was voiding out sales from customers who had paid for and left with their purchases and would then take the money for her own use. 

The verdict obtained was the result of an investigation by the Choctaw Nation Tribal Police and 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 trial and ordered the completion of a presentence report.  Sentencing will be scheduled following its completion.

The statutory range of punishment is no more than 5 years imprisonment, up to $250,000.00 or both.

Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that, MARK ALAN FRENCH, age 48, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 30 months incarceration and 3 years of supervised release for being a PROHIBITED PERSON IN POSSESSION OF FIREARM, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(9) and 924(a)(2).

The Indictment alleged that from on or about January 2, 2016, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, having been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce, firearms which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.

The charges arose from an investigation by the Stilwell Police Department, the Adair County Sheriff’s Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms.

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 the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending transportation to the designated federal facility at which he will serve his nonparoleable sentence.

Assistant United States Attorney Chris Wilson represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that DEAUNDRE DEANGELO CHATMAN, age 30, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 60 months imprisonment, followed by 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 charge is a result of an investigation by the Muskogee Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Violent Crime Task Force. The defendant was indicted in February, 2016.

The Indictment alleged that on or about November 13, 2015, 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 and ammunition, which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.

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 the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending transportation to the designated federal facility at which he will serve his nonparoleable sentence.

Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that EDWARD ROBERT SALDANA II, age 30, of Muldrow, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 46 months for FELON IN POSSESSION OF FIREARM, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2) and POSSESSION WITH INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE METHAMPHETAMINE AND OXYCODONE, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C).

SALDANA was sentenced to 60 months for POSSESSION OF FIREARM IN FURTHERANCE OF A DRUG TRAFFICKING CRIME, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A).  The sentences were ordered to run consecutive for a total of 106 months in the custody of the Bureau of Prisons.  The Court also imposed a term of 3 years of supervised release.

The charges arose from an investigation by the Sallisaw Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration.  The defendant was indicted in February, 2016 and pled guilty in March, 2016.

The Indictment alleged that on or about December 10, 2015, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, knowingly and intentionally possessed with intent to distribute a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine and a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of oxycodone, Schedule II controlled substances.

It further alleged that on the same date, 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 did so in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

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 the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending transportation to the designated federal facility at which he will serve his nonparoleable sentence.

Assistant United States Attorney Chris Wilson represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that GEORGE WILLIAM RUSSELL, age 39, of Leon, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 40 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release for DISTRIBUTION OF METHAMPHETAMINE, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C).

A Criminal Complaint filed in October, 2015, alleged that on or about May 29, 2015, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, GEORGE WILLIAM RUSSELL did knowingly and intentionally commit the crime of Distribution of a Controlled Substance.  The defendant was Indicted in November, 2015 and pled guilty in December, 2015.

The charge arose from a joint investigation by the Ardmore Police Department, Carter County Sheriff’s Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

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 the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending transportation to the designated federal facility at which he will serve his nonparolable sentence.

First Assistant United States Attorney Doug Horn represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that CRAIG DUANE GREENLEE, age 33, of Eufaula, Oklahoma pled guilty to an Information charging him with WIRE FRAUD, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343, punishable by not more than 20 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000.00 fine or both and a CRIMINAL FORFEITURE ALLEGATION.

The Information alleged beginning in or about 2012 and continuing through April 2016, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant knowingly, and with the intent to defraud, devised and executed a scheme to defraud an individual by falsely representing that the individual could obtain a farm tractor and trailer by paying GREENLEE for the towing fees to remove the farm tractor and trailer from a ditch.  GREENLEE did so by using a personal handheld device to transmit communications through text messages and emails.

GREENLEE continued to use wire communications to defraud multiple victims of over $500,000.00.

The charges are a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

First Assistant United States Attorney Doug Horn represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced today that KEEVIN MICHAEL RAY WALKER, age 29, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, pled guilty to FELON IN POSSESSION OF FIREARM, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).

The charge arose from an investigation by the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service, Muskogee Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  The defendant was indicted in June, 2016.

The Indictment alleged that on or about January 16, 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 Honorable Steven P. Shreder, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the guilty plea and ordered the completion of a presentence report.  Sentencing will be scheduled following its completion.  The defendant will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.

The statutory range of punishment is not more than 10 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine or both.

Assistant United States Attorney Kristin Harrington represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced today that TITUS OMBINA ABOGE, age 32, of Ada, Oklahoma, pled guilty to MISREPRESENTATION OF UNITED STATES CITIZENSHIP, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 911.

The charge arose from an investigation by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations.  The defendant was indicted in June, 2016.

The Indictment alleged that on or about December 12, 2012, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, TITUS OMBIMA ABOGE, a citizen of the Republic of Kenya, and an alien in the United States, did falsely and wilfully represent himself to be a citizen of the United States in a Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Employment Eligibility Verification Form I-9.

The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the guilty plea and ordered the completion of a presentence report.  Sentencing will be scheduled following its completion.

The statutory range of punishment is not more than 3 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine or both.

Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Hammer represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that JOANNA MARY HARJO, age 62, of Konawa, Oklahoma, pled guilty to an Information charging her with THEFT OF GOVERNMENT FUNDS, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 641.

The charges arose from an investigation by the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General.

The Information alleged that from in or about September 2008, to in or about March 2015, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the defendant did willfully and knowingly steal, purloin, and knowingly convert to her use, or the use of another, Supplemental Security Income benefits administered by the Social Security Administration, of a value greater than $1,000.00.

The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the defendant’s guilty plea, and ordered the completion of a presentence report.  Sentencing will be scheduled upon its completion.

The statutory range of punishment is not more than 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00 or both.

Assistant United States Attorney Kristin Harrington represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that, WILLIAM CONLEY BOAZ II, age 27, of Allen, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 3 years of supervised release for ASSAULT IN INDIAN COUNTRY (MISDEMEANOR), in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1152 and 113(a)(4).

The Information alleges that on or about February 18, 2016, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, while present within Indian Country in the special maritime and territorial jurisdiction of the United States, the Defendant, WILLIAM CONLEY BOAZ II, a non-Indian, did commit an assault against an Indian, who was a spouse or intimate partner, by striking said person on the face.

The charges arose from an investigation by the Chickasaw Nation Lighthorse Police and the Bureau of Indian Affairs.  The defendant pled guilty in July, 2016.

The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. 

First Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow represented the United States.