Eastern District of Oklahoma
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Broken Arrow Woman Sentenced to 60 Months Probation, 8 Months Home Arrest, $45,000 Restitution for Bank EmbezzlementRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that CAROL ANNE DYE, age 55, of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 5 years probation with 8 months of house arrest for Bank Theft, Embezzlement and Misapplication, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 656. The Defendant was also ordered to pay $45,464.60 in restitution.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Broken Arrow Police Department and the United States Secret Service. The defendant was indicted in January, 2015 and pled guilty in February, 2015.
The Indictment alleged that from in or about 2011, until on or about August 22, 2014, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, defendant, CAROL ANNE DYE, being an officer, director, agent, or employee of, or connected in a capacity with, The First National Bank of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, a bank whose deposits are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, with intent to injure and defraud the said The First National Bank of Broken Arrow, 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 The First National Bank of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, in that the defendant withdrew cash from the vault and teller drawers of the said bank and misapplied, embezzled, abstracted and purloined the funds for her own use or benefit.
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 Rob Wallace represented the United States.
McAlester Man, Oklahoma City Woman Plead Guilty to Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that DAVID DEAN CAGLE, age 33, of McAlester, Oklahoma and JESSICA SUZANNE FELIX, age 33, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, pled guilty to Drug Conspiracy, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, 841(a)(l) and 841(b)(1)(A).
The charge is a result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and 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 United States Attorney’s Office. The defendant was indicted in April, 2015.
The Indictment alleged that beginning in or about July 2014, the exact date being unknown to the Grand Jury, and continuing until on or about the date of the Indictment, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the defendants did knowingly and intentionally conspire, confederate and agree together and with others, known and unknown to the Grand Jury, to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) and 500 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 pleas and ordered presentence reports to be completed. The defendants will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.
The statutory range of punishment for CAGLE and FELIX is not less than 10 years imprisonment, followed by 5 years of supervised release.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.
Wayne Woman 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 today that JENNIFER LIND PALMER, a/k/a Jennifer L. Barnes and a/k/a Jennifer L. Dunn, age 34, of Wayne, Oklahoma, pled guilty to Destruction of Government Property, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1363 and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2.
The charges arose from an investigation by the National Park Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. The defendant was indicted in April, 2015.
The Indictment alleges that from on or about July 15, 2012 to on or about July 20, 2012 in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did willfully injure, and attempt to injure property of the United States and of any department or agency thereof to wit: destruction and attempted destruction of Park Fee machines owned by the National Park Service, said destruction and attempted destruction exceeded the sum of $1,000.00.
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 statutory range of punishment is not more than 10 years imprisonment and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow represented the United States.
Second Oklahoma City Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that JONATHAN MIRANDA, age 19, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, pled guilty to Drug Conspiracy, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, 841(a)(l) and 841(b)(1)(A).
The charge is a result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration. The defendant was indicted in April, 2015.
The Indictment alleged that beginning in or about July 2014, the exact date being unknown to the Grand Jury, and continuing until on or about the date of the Indictment, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the defendant, did knowingly and intentionally conspire, confederate and agree together and with others, known and unknown to the Grand Jury, to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) and 500 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 a presentence report to be completed. The defendant will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.
Oklahoma City Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that GILBERT ESPINOZA a/k/a "Snow", age 32, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, pled guilty to Drug Conspiracy, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, 841(a)(l) and 841(b)(1)(A).
The charge is a result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration. The defendant was indicted in April, 2015.
The Indictment alleged that beginning in or about July 2014, the exact date being unknown to the Grand Jury, and continuing until on or about the date of the Indictment, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the defendant, did knowingly and intentionally conspire, confederate and agree together and with others, known and unknown to the Grand Jury, to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) and 500 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 a presentence report to be completed. The defendant will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.
Holdenville Man Pleads Guilty to Communicating A Bomb Threat to Hughes County CourthouseRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that CALEB TRENT HODGINS, age 20, of Holdenville, Oklahoma, pled guilty to an Information charging him with USE OF TELEPHONE TO COMMUNICATE BOMB THREAT, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 844(e) and 2.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Hughes County Sheriff’s Department.
The Information alleged that on or about May 21, 2014, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, through use of a telephone, maliciously conveyed false information knowing the same to be false concerning an attempt and alleged attempt being made to unlawfully damage and destroy a building, to-wit: the Hughes County Courthouse in Holdenville, Oklahoma, by means of an explosive, in and affecting interstate commerce.
The Honorable Kimberly E. West, 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 defendant will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.
The statutory range of punishment is up to 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00 or both.
Assistant United States Attorney Chris Wilson represented the United States.
Idabel Man Found Guilty of Murder During Perpetration of Child Abuse of Two Year OldRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that DAKOTA LANE WILLISTON, age 20, of Idabel, Oklahoma was convicted by a federal jury for the charge of Murder in the First Degree in Indian Country Committed During the Perpetration of Child Abuse, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1111, 1151 and 1153, punishable by imprisonment for life and/or up to $250,000.00 fine.
After seven days of trial, the jury deliberated approximately three and one-half hours and found beyond a reasonable doubt that on about July 23, 2013, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Indian country, DAKOTA LANE WILLISTON, an Indian, did unlawfully kill Payton Cockrell, a 2 year old female human being, during the perpetration of child abuse, as defined by Title 18, United States Code, Section 1111(c)(3), against Payton Cockrell.
The charges are a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, the McCurtain County Sheriff’s Office and the Choctaw Nation Tribal Police.
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. The defendant was remanded into the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorneys Dean Burris and Linda Epperley represented the United States.
Nine Individuals Indicted in June 2015 Federal Grand JuryRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office announced today the results of the June 2015 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.”
CRYSTAL DEANN AIRINGTON, age 40, of Durant, Oklahoma
THEFT BY OFFICERS OR EMPLOYEES OF GAMING ESTABLISHMENT ON INDIAN LANDS
The Indictment alleges that from in or about January, 2012 to on or about December 15, 2012, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, CRYSTAL DEANN AIRINGTON, defendant herein, while an employee of the Choctaw Nation 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 Choctaw Nation Casino and Resort, an Indian gaming establishment operated by the Choctaw Nation in Indian Country, pursuant to an ordinance or resolution approved by the National Indian Gaming Commission.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Choctaw Nation Tribal Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The charge is in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1168(b) and 2, punishable by not more than 20 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000.00 fine or both.
Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow
JIMMY LEWIS PERKINS, age 50, of Idabel, Oklahoma
FAILURE TO REGISTER AS SEX OFFENDER
The Indictment alleges that from a date uncertain in or about 2013, the exact date being unknown to the Grand Jury, until on or about March 12, 2015, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, and elsewhere, JIMMY LEWIS PERKINS, defendant herein, 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 Oklahoma, in McCurtain County, on or about September 8, 2004, for the offense of Lewd Molestation, 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.
The charge arose from an investigation by the United States Marshal Service. The charge is 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 $250,000.00 fine or both.
Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow
STANLEY RAY MIXON, age 39, of Haworth, Oklahoma
USE OF TELEPHONE TO MAKE BOMB THREAT
The Indictment alleges that on or about April 2, 2015, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the Defendant, STANLEY RAY MIXON, through use of a telephone willfully made a threat to unlawfully damage and destroy a building, to-wit: the United States Post Office in Idabel, Oklahoma, by means of an explosive, in and affecting interstate commerce.
The charge arose from an investigation by the McCurtain County Sheriff’s Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The charge is in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 844(e), punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000.00 fine or both.
Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace.
STEVEN KYLE DUDLEY, age 21, of Calera, Oklahoma
THEFT BY OFFICERS OR EMPLOYEES OF GAMING ESTABLISHMENT ON INDIAN LANDS
The Indictment alleges that on or about July 8, 2013 until July 21, 2013, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, STEVEN KYLE DUDLEY, defendant herein, while an employee of the Choctaw Nation 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 Choctaw Nation Casino and Resort, an Indian gaming establishment operated by the Choctaw Nation in Indian Country, pursuant to an ordinance or resolution approved by the National Indian Gaming Commission.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Choctaw Nation Tribal Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The charge is in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1168(b) and 2, punishable by not more than 20 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00 or both.
Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow
CHELBI GEORGE, age 42, of Tulsa, Oklahoma
POSSESSION OF A COUNTERFEIT OBLIGATION
The Indictment alleges that on or about May 5, 2015, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the Defendant, CHELBI GEORGE, did with intent to defraud, possess counterfeit obligations of the United States. The charge arose from an investigation by the Muskogee Police Department and the United States Secret Service.
The charges are in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 472, punishable by not more than 20 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000.00 fine or both.
Assistant United States Attorney Melody Nelson
KEVIN BERNARD GREEN, age 35, of Muskogee, Oklahoma
ANDREANA LYNN HILL, age 37, of Muskogee, Oklahoma
ELIJAH ALFRED MAYES, JR., age 35, of Muskogee, Oklahoma
JAZZ ELLINGTON PIERCE, age 27, of Muskogee, Oklahoma
DRUG CONSPIRACY
USE OF A COMMUNICATION DEVICE IN FURTHERANCE OF DRUG TRAFFICKING
DRUG FORFEITUREThe Indictment alleges that beginning in or about 2005, the exact date being unknown to the Grand Jury, and continuing until on or about May 8, 2015, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the defendants did knowingly and intentionally conspire, confederate and agree with each other, and with others known and unknown to the Grand Jury, to possess with intent to distribute Schedule II controlled substances and did knowingly and intentionally, and unlawfully used a communication facility, that is: telephones (cellular or otherwise), in committing, causing and facilitating acts constituting felonies under Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841 and 846, in that the defendants used the telephones to discuss various matters concerning conspiracy, distribution of cocaine and cocaine base and possession with intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base, a Schedule II controlled substance. A Drug Forfeiture charge is also included in the Indictment.
The charges are a result of an investigation by the Muskogee Police Department and the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics. The charges are in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 846, punishable by not less than 10 years imprisonment; Title 21, United States Code, Section 843(b), punishable by not more than 4 years imprisonment and Title 21, United States Code, Section 853.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson.
Gore Woman Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud, $146,000 Loss to Bacone CollegeRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that TAMMY JEAN McDANIELS, age 56, of Gore, Oklahoma, pled guilty to an Information charging her with WIRE FRAUD, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Muskogee Police Department.
The Information alleged that from on or about October 1, 2012 to on or about December 19, 2014, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, McDANIELS, the former Director of Human Resources at Bacone College, devised and intended to devise a scheme to defraud Bacone College, and to obtain money and property by means of materially false and fraudulent pretenses, representations and promises. The scheme involved McDANIELS fraudulently reactivating former employees and contractors on the payroll records and causing false payments to be made to her bank accounts. As a result of McDANIELS’ actions, Bacone College sustained a loss of approximately $146,000.00.
The Honorable Kimberly E. West, 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 completion of that report. The defendant was released on bond pending sentencing.
The statutory range of punishment is up to 20 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00 or both.
Assistant United States Attorney Chris Wilson represented the United States.
Muskogee Woman Pleads Guilty to Making False StatementRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that DENISE WOODARD, age 59, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, pled guilty to an Information charging her with MAKING A FALSE STATEMENT, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001(a)(2).
The charge arose from an investigation by the Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General.
The Information alleged that on or about February 1, 2012, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did knowingly make and cause to be made a materially false, fictitious, and fraudulent statement and representation in a matter within the jurisdiction of the Department of Veteran Affairs, an agency of the United States, in that on a Department of Veteran Affairs form known as "Improved Pension Eligibility Verification Report" DENISE WOODARD stated she was receiving no income, when in truth and fact, as defendant well knew, she was receiving pension benefits from another source.
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 defendant remains on bond pending sentencing.
The statutory range of punishment is up to 5 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00 or both.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.
Manteca CA Man Pleads Guilty to Marijuana DistributionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that ROBERT EDWARD LEE, age 41, of Manteca, California, pled guilty to POSSESSION WITH INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE MARIJUANA, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(D) and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2, punishable by not more than 5 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00 or both.
The Indictment alleged that on or about November 20, 2014, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did knowingly and intentionally possess with the intent to distribute less than 50 kilograms of marijuana, a Schedule I controlled substance. Co-defendant NICOLAS TRINIDAD CARMONA, age 29, of Martinez, CA pled guilty May 22, 2015 to the same charge.
The charges are a result from an investigation by the U. S. Customs and Border Protection Aviation Enforcement Agency and the Drug Enforcement Agency.
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 report. Sentencing will be scheduled after its completion.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.
Former Executive Director of Choctaw Nation Sentenced to 144 Months, $577,000 Restitution for Theft, Money Laundering and Tax FraudRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that JASON BRENT MERIDA, age 40, of Ft. Towson, Oklahoma, and former Executive Director of Construction for the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma was sentenced on June 1, 2015 to a total of 144 months in the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) for the following crimes:
Count One: Conspiracy to Commit Theft or Bribery of Programs Receiving Federal Funds; Sentence – 60 months in BOP, 2 years supervised release (SR), $100 Special Assessment (SA)
Count Two: Theft by an Employee or Officer of a Tribal Government Receiving Federal Funds; Sentence – 120 months in BOP, 2 years SR, $100 SA
Count Three: Theft by an Employee or Officer of a Tribal Government Receiving Federal Funds; Sentence – 120 months in BOP, 2 years SR, $100 SA
Count Five: Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering; Sentence – 24 months in BOP to run consecutively to Counts One, Two and Three, 2 years SR, $100 SA
Count Six: Tax Fraud; Sentence – 36 months in BOP, 1 year SR, $100 SA
Count Seven: Tax Fraud; Sentence – 36 months in BOP, 1 year SR, $100 SA
Merida was ordered to pay $545,000 in restitution to the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and $32,149 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service. Merida was ordered to report to the Federal Bureau of Prisons no later than noon on July 13, 2015.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The defendant was indicted in February, 2014. The jury trial began with testimony on October 29, 2014 and concluded with closing arguments and jury deliberations on Thursday, November 20, 2014 with guilty verdicts.
The investigation of corruption at the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma began in 2010. The primary allegations of this investigation focused on the payment of bribes from steel contractor, Builders Steel Corporation, to officials at the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and executives of Flintco, LLC. Flintco, LLC had been hired by the Choctaw Nation to oversee the construction of the Durant Casino and other major construction projects from 2008 through 2010.
Testimony at the trial established that Merida, the former Executive Director of Construction for the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, conspired to corruptly demand, solicit and receive cash, trips, a Cadillac Escalade, plumbing fixtures, cattle guards, and other things of value in excess of the $5,000 from subcontractors performing work on Choctaw Nation construction projects. The testimony also revealed Merida, in concert with others, submitted and approved false invoices from subcontractors allowing him to steal, embezzle and fraudulently convert in excess of $500,000 in funds from the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma which were used to purchase items for Merida and others. The items included firearms, hunting equipment, hunting trips and furniture. Merida also willfully failed to report the proceeds of the fraud on his federal income taxes in 2009 and 2010.
Merida represents the eighth person to date to be convicted as part of this investigation and prosecution. Other defendants previously convicted and sentenced include:
1. Brent Alan Parsons – Brent Parsons, a former executive with Builders Steel Corporation was sentenced to 60 months in the Federal Bureau of Prisons on January 22, 2015. Brent Parsons was further ordered to pay $3,977,200.00 in restitution to the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma.
2. Lauri Ann Parsons – Lauri Parsons, the former owner of Builders Steel Corporation was sentenced to 48 months in the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Lauri Parsons was further ordered to pay $3,535,498.24 in restitution to the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma.
3. James Winfield Stewart – Stewart, a former executive with Scott Rice, LLC, Builders Steel Corporation and current owner of L& M Furniture was sentenced to 21 months in the Federal Bureau of Prisons on January 21, 2015. Stewart was further ordered to pay $345,000.00 in restitution to the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma.
4. Cordell Alan Bugg – Bugg, a former executive with Flintco, LLC was sentenced to 3 years probation with 8 months home detention on January 23, 2015.
5. Robert DeWayne Gifford – Gifford, a former executive with Flintco, LLC was sentenced to 48 months in the Federal Bureau of Prisons on April 9, 2015. Gifford was further ordered to pay $345,000.00 in restitution to the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma.
6. Jerry Mark Eshenroder – Eshenroder, a former executive with Flintco, LLC, was sentenced to 3 years probation on January 23, 2015.
7. Mark Allen Franklin – Franklin, a former executive with the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma was sentenced to 3 years probation on February 3, 2015.
The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, Mark Green, stated “The convictions of Mr. Merida and the other seven defendants are the result of a long and complicated investigation by a team of agents from the FBI and IRS. The investigation consumed hundreds of man hours and the agent’s dedication to the investigation was paramount in the successful prosecution of these individuals. The convictions and resulting sentences send a clear message to businessmen and tribal officials seeking to illegally profit at the expense of tribal members that their greed should not and will not be tolerated. My thanks go out to the investigators, the attorneys and staff who have made this prosecution successful!”
R. Damon Rowe, Special Agent-in-Charge for the IRS, stated “IRS Criminal Investigation stands by its commitment to ensure justice is brought to those who unlawfully abuse their positions of trust. The message in today’s sentencing remains clear: IRS will pursue and prosecute, to the fullest extent of the law, individuals who use corruption and coercion for personal gain. The victims in this case are not only the Citizens of the Choctaw Nation, but also the American Taxpayers who pay their fair share of taxes.”
James Finch, Special Agent-in-Charge for the FBI, stated “The FBI is committed to bringing to justice those entrusted to conduct government business, tribal or otherwise, who compromise that trust for their own personal gain. These sentences confirm there are consequences for individuals who misuse their position or seek to gain an unfair advantage with tribal government.”
The Honorable James H. Payne, Chief District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing.
First Assistant United States Attorney Doug Horn and Criminal Chief Chris Wilson represented the United States.
Checotah Man Sentenced to 281 Months, $1.4 Million for Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that MICHAEL A. METZKER, a/k/a Lurch, age 37, of Checotah, Oklahoma was sentenced to 281 months imprisonment, followed by 5 years of supervised release for Conspiracy To Possess With Intent To Distribute And Distribute Five Hundred (500) Grams Or More Of Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, 8411(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A). A money judgment totaling $1,400,000.00 was also assessed.
METZKER was indicted in June 2014, along with MICHAEL W. METZKER, a/k/a Chic, age 59, of Checotah, Oklahoma, LACEY RENEE PARK, age 29, of Checotah, Oklahoma, DEREK PARK, age 31, of Checotah, Oklahoma, MARGARET CASEY, age 45, of Checotah, Oklahoma, SHAWNA VANZANT, age 33, of Henryetta, Oklahoma, JACKIE DALE BRUMLEY, age 44, of Noble, Oklahoma, CORNELL TYLEIZ HARVEY, age 29, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, SCOTT WESLEY DUNCAN, age 38, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, SUNNY ANN MARTINEK, age 38, of Norman, Oklahoma and STEVEN D. CARR, age 43, formerly of Checotah, Oklahoma. All have previously pled guilty and are awaiting sentencing.
The Indictment alleged that from in or about April 2003 to on or about April 15, 2014, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the defendants, knowingly conspired to possess with the 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.
Michael A. Metzker, a member of the Universal Aryan Brotherhood (UAB), was incarcerated in the Oklahoma Department of Corrections from December 24, 2009, until January 8, 2014. Beginning in or before April 2013, up to an including January 8, 2014, Michael A. Metzker utilized cellular telephones, illegally smuggled into the prison, to coordinate the acquisition and distribution of methamphetamine in Eastern Oklahoma. Upon release from incarceration up to and including April 14, 2014, Michael A. Metzker and his co-conspirators continued to acquire and distribute methamphetamine within Eastern Oklahoma.
The charges arose from a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Indian Affairs, McAlester Police Department, the Muskogee Police Department, the Checotah Police Department, the Eufaula Police Department, the Stigler Police Department, Districts 18, 23, and 25 District Attorney’s Drug Task Force, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the Okmulgee County Sheriff’s Office, the McIntosh County Sheriff’s Office, the Pittsburg County Sheriff’s Office, the Oklahoma Department of Corrections, United States Department of Homeland Security, and the United States Marshal Service. 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 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 prison at which he will serve his nonparolable sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.
Tulsa Woman Sentenced to 36 Months Probation, $5,200 Restitution for Embezzlement and Theft from Indian Tribal OrganizationRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that LaDONNA JANE BURNS, age 44, Tulsa, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 3 years of probation for Embezzlement and Theft From An Indian Tribal Organization. Burns was also ordered to pay $5258.40 in restitution to the victim.
The charges are a result from an investigation by the Creek Nation Lighthorse Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The defendant was indicted in November 2014 and pled guilty in December 2014.
The Indictment alleged that from on or about April 1, 2013, until on or about September 17, 2013, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, being an employee of the Checotah Muscogee Indian Community, an Indian Tribal Organization, did embezzle, steal, willfully misapply and willfully and knowingly convert to her own use more than $1,000.00 of the moneys, funds and credits belonging to the said Indian Tribal Organization.
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 Rob Wallace represented the United States.
Tucson AZ Man Sentenced to 87 Months for Methamphetamine and Marijuana DistributionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that ISMAEL COBIAN MENDOZA, age 42, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced to 87 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Marijuana.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The defendant was indicted in November, 2014 and pled guilty in January, 2015.
The Indictment alleged that on or about November 3, 2014, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute five hundred (500) grams or more of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance and less than fifty (50) kilograms of marijuana, a Schedule I controlled substance.
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 prison at which he will serve his nonparolable sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow represented the United States.
Muldrow Man Sentenced to 180 Months for Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that TERRY WAYNE HYATT, age 34, of Muldrow, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 180 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release for Felon in Possession of a Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(e)(l).
The charge arose from an investigation by the Muldrow Police Department. The defendant was indicted in November, 2014 and pled guilty in December, 2014.
The Indictment alleged that on or about February 13, 2014, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, TERRY WAYNE HYATT, 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 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 prison at which he will serve his nonparolable sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Melody Nelson represented the United States.
Muskogee Man Pleads Guilty to Robbery ConspiracyRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that MATTHEW EUGENE TRIPLETT, age 44, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, pled guilty to CONSPIRACY TO INTERFERE WITH COMMERCE BY ROBBERY, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1951.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Muskogee Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Violent Crime Task Force.
The Indictment alleged that from on or about January 15, 2014, through on or about January 22, 2014, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, MATTHEW EUGENE TRIPLETT, conspired with others, known and unknown to the grand jury, to commit robbery, which unlawfully obstructed, delayed, and affected 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.
The statutory range of punishment is not more than 20 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000.00 fine or both.
Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace represented the United States.
Tahlequah Woman Sentenced to 60 Months for RacketeeringRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that AMANDA DAWN COOKSON, age 27, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma was sentenced to 60 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release for Interstate Travel or Transportation in Aid of Racketeering Enterprises, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1952(a)(3).
The charge is a result of an investigation by the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and 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 defendant was indicted in July, 2014 and pled guilty to an Information in November, 2014.
The Information alleged that beginning on or about August, 2012, the defendant, traveled in interstate commerce from the State of Oklahoma to Ft. Smith, Arkansas, and purchased Oxycodone from Walgreens Pharmacy with a false prescription with the intent to promote, manage, establish, carry on and facilitate the promotion, management, establishment and carrying on of an unlawful activity, that is, a business enterprise involving narcotics or controlled substances in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, 841(a)(1), and 841(b)(1)(C), and thereafter performed or attempted to perform an act to promote, manage, establish and carry on, and to facilitate the promotion, management, establishment and carrying on, of such unlawful activity.
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 she will serve her nonparolable sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.
Tahlequah Man Sentenced to 60 Months for Possession of Stolen FirearmRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that RAYMOND WAYNE HOOD, age 22, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma was sentenced to 60 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release for Possession of a Stolen Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(j).
The charge is a result of an investigation by the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives. The defendant was indicted in September, 2014 and pled guilty to an Information in December, 2014.
The Information alleged that on or about November 26, 2012, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did knowingly possess and sell a stolen firearm, which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce, knowing and having reasonable cause to believe the firearm was stolen.
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 nonparolable sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.
Tahlequah Man Sentenced to 60 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 NICHOLAS SCOTT AVERY, a/k/a Nicholas Scott, age 24, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma was sentenced to 60 months imprisonment, followed by 5 years of supervised release for Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking Offense, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A) and 2.
The charge is a result of an investigation by the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives. The defendant was indicted in September, 2014 and pled guilty in November, 2014.
The Indictment alleged that on or about March 19, 2013, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, NICHOLAS SCOTT A VERY, a/k/a Nicholas Scott, 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, Distribution of Oxycodone.
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 nonparolable sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.
Muskogee Man Sentenced to 35 Months for Cocaine DistributionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that RALPH TYRONE CARUTHERS, age 49, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 35 months imprisonment, followed by 2 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)(C).
Charges arose from an investigation by the Muskogee Police Department and the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics. The defendant was indicted in August, 2014 and pled guilty in January, 2015.
The Information alleged that on or about July 8, 2014, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, RALPH TYRONE CARUTHERS, did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine, a Schedule II Controlled Substance.
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 prison at which he will serve his nonparolable sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.
Muskogee Man Sentenced to 120 Months for Possession of Firearm with Obliterated Serial NumberRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that STEVEN ALEX HUGHART, age 38, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 120 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release for being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1) and Possession of a Firearm with a Removed, Obliterated, or Altered Serial Number, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(k) and 924(a)(1)(B).
The charges arose from an investigation by the Muskogee Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The defendant was indicted in September, 2014 and pled guilty in January, 2015.
The Indictment alleges that on or about February 13, 2014, 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, one .380 Jimenez Arms handgun, bearing an obliterated serial number, 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 Marshal Service pending transportation to the designated federal prison at which he will serve his nonparolable sentence.
First Assistant United States Attorney Doug Horn represented the United States.
Eufaula Woman Sentenced to 36 Months Probation, $22,600 Restitution for Obstruction of JusticeRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that LINDA LUE ADAMS, a/k/a LINDA CORLEY, a/k/a LINDA MARTIN, age 68, of Eufaula, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 3 years of probation for Obstruction of Justice, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1512(c)(2). ADAMS was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $22,687.80.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General. The defendant pled guilty in January, 2015.
The Information alleges that on or about the 12th day of December, the defendant, did corruptly attempt to obstruct, influence, and impede an official proceeding, to wit: an impending grand jury investigation of social security fraud in which the defendant and others were benefiting from social security disability payments to which they were not entitled, by making materially false statements regarding the involvement of other persons in the fraud for the purpose of preventing the prosecution of those other persons.
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 Rob Wallace represented the United States.
Sallisaw Man Pleads Guilty to Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that CLINTON JAMES JONES, age 34, of Sallisaw, Oklahoma, pled guilty to FELON IN POSSESSION OF FIREARM AND AMMUNITION, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1), punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00 or both.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Sallisaw Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
The Indictment alleges that on or about March 14, 2015, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant CLINTON JAMES JONES, 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.
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.
Assistant United States Attorney Chris Wilson represented the United States.
Lithia Georgia Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Counterfeit SecuritiesRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that TORY DERREL LARKINS, age 30, of Lithia, Georgia, pled guilty to POSSESSION OF COUNTERFEIT SECURITIES, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 513(a), punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00 or both.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the United States Secret Service.
The Indictment alleges that on or about October 9, 2014, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, TORY DERREL LARKINS, defendant herein, knowingly possessed counterfeit securities, to wit: counterfeit checks purported to be genuine checks of MTW Creations, LLC, drawn on an account at Bank of America, an organization which operates in interstate commerce, with intent to deceive another.
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.
Assistant United States Attorney Chris Wilson represented the United States.
Muskogee 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 today that HANK JOSHUA BELL, age 34, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 120 months imprisonment for Felon in Possession of a Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1).
Charges arose from an investigation by the Muskogee Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The defendant was indicted in November, 2014 and pled guilty in December, 2014.
The Indictment alleged that on or about October 8, 2014, 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 commerce.
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 nonparolable sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Linda Epperley represented the United States.
Lindsey Man Pleads Guilty to Wire FraudRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that CODY DILLON CORDELL, age 27, of Lindsey, Oklahoma, pled guilty to an Information charging him with WIRE FRAUD, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The Information alleged that on or about March 13, 2013 to on or about March 15, 2013, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the defendant, CODY DILLON CORDELL devised and intended to devise a scheme and artifice to defraud Action Petroleum Services Corp. to obtain money and property by means of materially false and fraudulent pretenses, representations and promises.
The Honorable Kimberly E. West, 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 defendant remains on bond pending sentencing.
The statutory range of punishment is up to 20 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00 or both.
First Assistant United States Attorney Doug Horn represented the United States.
Calera Man Sentenced to 60 Months Probation, $53,000 Restitution for False StatementRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that MICHAEL GLENN VALLES, age 47, of Calera, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 5 years probation with 8 months of home confinement for making a False Statement, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1014. The Defendant was also ordered to pay $53,560.28 in restitution.
The charge arose from an investigation by the United States Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General. The defendant was indicted in November, 2014 and pled guilty in December, 2014.
The Indictment alleged that on or about January 22, 2010, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, knowingly made a false statement for the purpose of influencing the action of the United States Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency in connection with a security agreement in which the defendant listed $80,739.19 in value of cattle that he had purchased in August and September 2009 when in truth and in fact, as the defendant well knew, he had only purchased $27,178.91 worth of cattle during that time period.
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 Melody Nelson represented the United States.
Okmulgee Man Pleads Guilty to Marijuana DistributionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that STANLEY DEMARGO THOMAS, age 48, of Okmulgee, Oklahoma, pled guilty to POSSESSION WITH INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE MARIJUANA, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(D).
Charges arose from an investigation by the United States Marshal Service. The defendant was indicted in March, 2015.
The Indictment alleged that on or about October 11, 2014, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, STANLEY DEMARGO THOMAS, did knowingly and intentionally possess with the intent to distribute marijuana, a Schedule I controlled substance.
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 a presentence report to be completed.
Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States.
Claremore Woman Pleads Guilty to Embezzlement and Theft from Indian Tribal OrganizationRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that LANA CAROLE KELLEY, age 38, of Claremore, Oklahoma, pled guilty to EMBEZZLEMENT AND THEFT FROM INDIAN TRIBAL ORGANIZATION, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1163.
Charges arose from an investigation by the Choctaw Nation Tribal Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The defendant was indicted in March, 2015.
The Indictment alleged that between on or about March 10, 2010 and on or about May 21, 2012, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, LANA CAROLE KELLEY, did embezzle, steal, knowingly and willfully convert to her own use or the use of another and willfully misapply in excess of $1,000.00 of moneys, funds and credits which was then intrusted to the custody and care of an employee of Choctaw Nation Healthcare, an Indian tribal organization.
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 a presentence report to be completed.
Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States.
Tahlequah Woman Sentenced to 60 Months for Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that MISTY DAWN BURTON, age 23, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma was sentenced to 60 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release for Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking Offense, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A) and 2.
The charge is a result of an investigation by the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives. The defendant was indicted in September, 2014 and pled guilty in November, 2014.
The Indictment alleged that on or about March 19, 2013, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, MISTY DAWN BURTON did knowingly possess a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime for which she may be prosecuted in a court of the United States, that is, Distribution of Oxycodone.
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 facility at which she will serve her nonparolable sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States.
Boynton Man Sentenced to 188 Months for Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that MICHAEL WAYNE CHERRY, age 48, of Boynton, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 188 months imprisonment, followed by 5 years of supervised release for Felon in Possession of a Firearm, in violation of Title 18 United States Code, Section 922(g)(1).
The charge arose from an investigation by and the Muskogee County Sheriff’s Department. The defendant was indicted in December, 2013 and was found guilty at a jury trial in September, 2014.
The evidence presented at trial proved that on or about September 4, 2013, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, knowingly possessed in and affecting commerce, the following firearm; one Mossberg model 500A, 12 gauge pump action shotgun that had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.
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. The defendant will remain in custody of the United States Marshal Service pending transportation to the designated federal facility at which he will serve his nonparolable sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow represented the United States.
Spiro Man Sentenced to 262 Months for Drug Conspiracy, Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that BILLY DON FULLER, age 48, of Spiro, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 262 months imprisonment, followed by 5 years of supervised release for Drug Conspiracy, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 846 and Possession With Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, 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.
The charge is a result of an investigation by the District 16 District Attorney’s Drug Task Force and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The defendant was indicted in March, 2014 and pled guilty in July, 2014.
The Indictment alleged that from in or about the beginning of 2011, the exact date being unknown to the Grand Jury, and continuing until on or about December 31, 2013, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, and elsewhere, BILLY DON FULLER, did willfully and knowingly combine, conspire, confederate and agree together, and with others known and unknown to the Grand Jury, to commit offenses against the United States, to wit: to knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
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 federal facility at which he will serve his nonparolable sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.
Ringling Man Sentenced to 37 Months for Illegal Receipt of A FirearmRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that CODY BRANSON BARNES, age 22, of Ringling, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 37 months imprisonment and 3 years supervised release for Illegal Receipt of a Firearm by a Person Under Felony Indictment or Information, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(n) and 924(a)(1)(D).
The charge arose from an investigation by the Ardmore Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The defendant was indicted in July, 2014 and pled guilty in October, 2014.
The Indictment alleged that on or about January 31, 2014, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, who was then under indictment and information for a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, namely, Assault and Battery with a Dangerous Weapon, in the District Court of Jefferson County, Case No. CF-13-37, willfully received a firearm which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.
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 facility at which he will serve his nonparolable sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Chris Wilson represented the United States.
McAlester Man, Woman Sentenced to 65 and 43 Months, $31,000 Restitution for StalkingRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that TONI SHNEA FOURKILLER, age 31, and RICHARD ROCKEY BLACKMAN, age 32, both of McAlester, Oklahoma, were sentenced in federal court for Stalking, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2261A(1), 2261 and 2.
FOURKILLER, was sentenced to 43 months imprisonment and 3 years supervised release and BLACKMAN was sentenced to 65 months imprisonment and 3 years supervised. The defendants were ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $31,652.86.
The charge arose from an investigation by the McAlester Police Department. The defendants were indicted in September, 2014 and pled guilty in October, 2014.
The Indictment alleged that on or about March 23, 2014, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, left Indian country, with the intent to injure, harass, intimidate, and place under surveillance with intent to injure, harass, or intimidate another person, and in the course of, and a result of such travel, engaged in conduct that placed P.S. in reasonable fear of serious bodily injury to himself and caused P.S. serious bodily injury and substantial emotional distress.
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. At the conclusion of the sentencing hearing, both defendants were remanded into the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending transportation to the designated prison at which they will serve their nonparolable sentences.
Assistant United States Attorney Chris Wilson represented the United States.
Gainesville, Texas, Couple Sentenced to 27 and 33 Months for Gaming Establishment Employee TheftRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that CHARLES DAVID ROHRER age 37 and NATAYA SHAWN SIZEMORE, age 42, both of Gainesville, Texas, were sentenced in federal court on April 13, 2015.
ROHRER was sentenced to 27 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release and SIZEMORE to 33 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release for Theft by Officers or Employees of Gaming Establishment on Indian Lands, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1168(b) and 2.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Chickasaw Nation Lighthorse Police and the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The defendants were indicted in September, 2014 and pled guilty in November, 2014.
ROHRER was remanded into the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending transportation to the designated federal prison at which he will serve his nonparolable sentence. SIZEMORE was ordered to report to the Bureau of Prisons on May 15, 2015.
The Indictment alleges that on or about January 11, 2014, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, defendants herein, aiding and abetting one another, while NATAYA SHAWN SIZEMORE was an employee of the Inn at Winstar, did embezzle and steal in excess of $1,000.00 of moneys belonging to the Inn at Winstar, an Indian gaming establishment operated by the Chickasaw Nation, 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 hearings.
Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States.
Tahlequah Woman Sentenced to 12 Months for RacketeeringRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that ELIZABETH PORTUGAL, age 28, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, was sentenced to12 months imprisonment and 3 years supervised release for Interstate Travel or Transportation in Aid of Racketeering Enterprises, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1952(a)(3).
The charge is a result of an investigation by the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and 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 defendant was indicted in July, 2014 and pled guilty in October, 2014.
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 prison at which she will serve her nonparolable sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.
Muskogee Man Pleads Guilty to Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that JORDAN WAYNE PARKS, age 24, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, pled guilty to Felon in Possession of a Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1).
Charges arose from an investigation by the Muskogee Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The defendant was indicted in March, 2015.
The Indictment alleged that on or about June 17, 2014, 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 Marshal Service pending sentencing.
The statutory range of punishment is not more than 10 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine on both.
Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States.
Tahlequah Man Sentenced to 41 Months for RacketeeringRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that JOSHUA ALLEN BARNETT, age 24, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma was sentenced to 41 months imprisonment and 3 years Supervised Release for Interstate Travel or Transportation in Aid of Racketeering Enterprises, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1952(a)(3) and 2.
The charge is a result of an investigation by the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and 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 defendant was indicted in July, 2014 and pled guilty in December, 2014.
The Indictment alleged that on or about January 29, 2013, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the defendant, traveled in interstate commerce from the State of Oklahoma to Bella Vista, Arkansas, and attempted to purchase Oxycodone from Cornerstone Pharmacy with a false prescription with the intent to promote, manage, establish, carry on and facilitate the promotion, management, establishment and carrying on of an unlawful activity, that is, a business enterprise involving narcotics or controlled substances in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, 841(a)(1), and 841(b)(1)(C), and thereafter performed or attempted to perform an act to promote, manage, establish and carry on, and to facilitate the promotion, management, establishment and carrying on, of such unlawful activity.
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 prison at which he will serve his nonparolable sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.
Second Tahlequah Man Sentenced to 41 Months for RacketeeringRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that ERIC STANFIELD COCHRAN-CLINE, age 27, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma was sentenced to 41 months imprisonment and 3 years Supervised Release for Interstate Travel or Transportation in Aid of Racketeering Enterprises, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1952(a)(3).
The charge is a result of an investigation by the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and 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 defendant was indicted in July, 2014 and pled guilty to an Information in September, 2014.
The Information alleged that on or about August 10, 2012, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the defendant traveled in interstate commerce from the State of Oklahoma to Fort Smith, Arkansas, and purchased Oxycodone from Walgreens Pharmacy with a false prescription with the intent to promote, manage, establish, carry on and facilitate the promotion, management, establishment and carrying on of an unlawful activity, that is, a business enterprise involving narcotics or controlled substances in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, 841(a)(1), and 841(b)(1)(C), and thereafter performed or attempted to perform an act to promote, manage, establish and carry on, and to facilitate the promotion, management, establishment and carrying on, of such unlawful activity.
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 prison at which he will serve his nonparolable sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.
Three Individuals Indicted in April 2015 Federal Grand JuryRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office announced today the results of the April 2015 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.
CLINTON JAMES JONES, age 34, of Sallisaw, Oklahoma
Felon in Possession of Firearm and Ammunition
The Indictment alleges that on or about March 14, 2015, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant CLINTON JAMES JONES, 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 charge arose from an investigation by the Sallisaw Police Department, the United States Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The charge is in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1), punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000.00 fine or both.
Assistant United States Attorney Chris Wilson
JOSE LUIS FLORES-GARCIA, age 22, of Nuevo Laredo, Mexico
a/k/a CARLOS FERNANDOPossession of Firearm by Illegal Alien
The Indictment alleges that on or about February 18, 2015, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, JOSE LUIS FLORES-GARCIA, a/k/a Carlos Fernando, then being an alien illegally and unlawfully in the United States, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce, a firearm, to-wit: one Lorcin 9mm semi-automatic handgun, which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the United States Department of Homeland Security. The charge is in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(5)(A), punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000.00 fine or both.
Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris
BILLY WADE VINCENT, age 55, of Poteau, Oklahoma
Felon in Possession of Firearm
The Indictment alleges that on or about December 10, 2014, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, BILLY WADE VINCENT, 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 commerce.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Poteau Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The charge is in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1), punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000.00 fine or both.
Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris.
Tahlequah Man Sentenced to 48 Months Probation for Obtaining Possession of A Controlled Substance by DeceptionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced today that ROBERT JAMES KOHNE, age 24, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 4 years of probation for Obtaining Possession of a Controlled Substance by Deception, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 843(a)(3).
The charge is a result of an investigation by the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and 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 defendant was indicted in July, 2014 and pled guilty in October, 2014.
The Information alleged that on or about March 21, 2013, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant knowingly and intentionally obtained possession of Oxycodone, a Schedule II Controlled Substance, by deception, by providing a Walmart pharmacy clerk with a false prescription for Oxycodone.
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 Shannon Henson represented the United States.
Tahlequah Man Sentenced to 60 Months for Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that NATHANQUE LANORT SAVAGE, a/k/a Nathan Lenard Savage, a/k/a Nathan Leonard Savage, age 39, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 60 months imprisonment, followed by 5 years of supervised release for Felon in Possession of a Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1).
The charges arose from an investigation by the Muskogee Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. SAVAGE was Indicted and pled guilty in October, 2014.
The Indictment alleged that on or about October 29, 2013, 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, the following firearm and ammunition, to-wit: a Black .380 Bryco, model Bryco 38 Semi-Automatic handgun and two rounds of .380 caliber ammunition marked CBC, one round of .380 caliber ammunition marked Federal, one round of .380 caliber ammunition marked PMC, one round of .380 caliber ammunition marked WIN, which had been previously 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 Marshal Service pending transportation to the designated federal prison at which he will serve his nonparolable sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow represented the United States.
Muskogee Woman Sentenced to 60 Months Probation for Concealing Person from ArrestRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that JACLYN CAMPBELL, age 24, of Muskogee, Oklahoma was sentenced to 5 years of probation for Concealing Person from Arrest, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1071.
The charge is a result of an investigation by the United States Marshal Service. The defendant was indicted in November, 2014 and pled guilty in December, 2014.
The Indictment alleged that on or about October 2, 2014, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, JACLYN CAMPBELL, did willfully and knowingly harbor and conceal Joshua Allen Barnett, a person for whose arrest a warrant and process had been issued under the provisions of a law of the United States, so as to prevent the discovery and arrest of Joshua Allen Barnett, after notice and knowledge of the fact that a warrant and process had been issued for the apprehension of Joshua Allen Barnett, and which warrant had been issued on a felony charge.
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 Shannon Henson represented the United States.
Henryetta Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that TRAVIS L. SMITH age 32, of Henryetta, Oklahoma, pled guilty to Distribution of Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B).
The charge arose from an investigation by the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics.
The Indictment alleged that on or about October 22, 2014, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did knowingly and intentionally 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 statutory range of punishment is not more than 20 years imprisonment and/or up to a $5,000,000.00 fine. The defendant will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.
Smithville Man Sentenced to Time Served, Home Detention, $1,600 for Post Office BurglaryRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that BRANDON ANDREW DUNCAN, age 24, formerly of Smithville, Oklahoma, was sentenced in federal court today for POST OFFICE BURGLARY, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2115. DUNCAN was given credit for time served, approximately 7 ½ months incarceration. The defendant was also sentenced to 4 months of home detention, 2 years of supervised release and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $1,636.50.
The charges arose from an investigation by the McCurtain County Sheriff’s Office and the United States Postal Service. DUNCAN was indicted in June, 2014 and pled guilty in September, 2014.
The Indictment alleged that between December 21, 2013, and December 23, 2013, the exact date unknown, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, BRANDON ANDREW DUNCAN, did forcibly break into a post office located at Smithville, Oklahoma, with the intent to commit a larceny in such post office.
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 Dean Burris represented the United States.
Ardmore Man Sentenced to 15 Months for Bank Theft, Embezzlement and MisapplicationRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that RICHARD PAUL GEURIN, 48, of Ardmore, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 15 months imprisonment, followed by 24 months of supervised release for Bank Theft, Embezzlement and Misapplication, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 656.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The defendant was indicted in August 2014 and pled guilty in September 2014.
The Indictment alleged that from on or about February 3, 2011, until on or about February 24, 2014, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, defendant RICHARD PAUL GEURIN, being an officer, director, agent, or employee of, or connected in a capacity with, First Bank & Trust of Duncan, Oklahoma, a bank whose deposits are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, with intent to injure and defraud the said First Bank & Trust of Duncan, 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 First Bank & Trust of Duncan, Oklahoma, in that the defendant withdrew cash from the accounts of certain bank customers and misapplied, embezzled, abstracted and purloined the funds for his own use or benefit.
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 Rob Wallace represented the United States.
Two Individuals Indicted in February Federal Grand JuryRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office announced today the results of the February 2015 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. Statutory maximum punishments are in parentheses. United States Sentencing Guidelines may be considered, upon conviction, by the sentencing court. Federal prison sentences are non-parolable.”
TORY DERREL LARKINS, age 30, of Lithia, GA
Possession Of Counterfeit SecuritiesPossession And Utterance Of A Counterfeit Security
The Indictment alleges that on or about October 8, 2014, and October 9, 2014, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, defendant herein, knowingly possessed, uttered and caused to be uttered counterfeit checks purported to be genuine checks of MTW Creations, LLC, drawn on an account at Bank of America, an organization which operates in interstate commerce, with intent to deceive another.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the United States Secret Service. The charges are in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 513(a), punishable not more than 10 years imprisonment; up to a $250,000.00 fine or both.
Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace
MARNITA CAROL PARKER, age 48, of Ravia, OKa/k/a MARNITA CAROL FOSTER
Theft Of Government FundsMaking A False Statement
The Indictment alleges that on or about October 16, 2009, and continuing until on or about May 1, 2014, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did knowingly and willfully embezzle, steal, and purloin money of the Department of Veterans Affairs, a department or agency of the United States, namely, Department of Veterans Affairs Dependency and Indemnity Compensation payments to which she knew she was not entitled, in the excess of $1000.00.
It is further alleged that on or about September 20, 2013, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the Defendant did knowingly and willfully make and cause to be made a materially false, fictitious, and fraudulent statement and representation in a matter within the jurisdiction of the Department of Veterans Affairs, an agency of the United States, in that on a Department of Veterans Affairs form known as “Marital Status Questionnaire” MARNITA CAROL FOSTER a/k/a Marnita Carol Parker completed the form and signed the form with her mother’s name, when in truth and fact, as defendant well knew, her mother was deceased.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General. The charges are in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 641, punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment; up to a $250,000.00 fine and Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001(a)(2), punishable by not more than 5 years imprisonment; up to a $250,000.00 fine or both.
Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace
Ardmore Woman Pleads Guilty to Theft of Government FundsRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that PATRICIA ANN RABORN age 56, of Ardmore, Oklahoma, pled guilty to Theft of Government Funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 641 and 2.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General.
The Indictment alleged that beginning in or around July 2006, and continuing until in or around February, 2014, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did knowingly and willfully embezzle, steal, and purloin money of the Social Security Administration, namely, Social Security Disability Income payments to which she knew she was not entitled, having a value in excess of $1,000.00. The Indictment further alleged that beginning in or around March 2005, and continuing until in or around October, 2012, the defendant had knowledge of the occurrence of an event affecting the right to receive or continue to receive Social Security Disability Income payments.
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 statutory range of punishment is not more than 10 years imprisonment and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace represented the United States.
Hugo Man Sentenced to 39 Months for Assault in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that TRAVIS PAUL LINDSEY, age 24, of Hugo, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 39 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 113(a)(3), 1151 and 1152. LINDSEY was also ordered to pay $16,087.20 in restitution.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Choctaw Nation Tribal Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The defendant pled guilty in November, 2014.
The Information alleged that on or about October 4, 2014, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, within Indian country, the defendant, did knowingly and intentionally assault T.B., an Indian, with intent to cause bodily harm, by striking him with a dangerous weapon.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. The defendant will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending transportation to the designated federal prison at which he will serve his nonparolable sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States.