Eastern District of Oklahoma
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Two Checotah Men Plead Guilty to Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced the guilty pleas of MICHAEL A. METZKER and MICHAEL W. METZKER. The two pled guilty to 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).
MICHAEL A. METZKER, a/k/a Lurch, age 36, of Checotah, Oklahoma 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 Steven P. Shreder, 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 presentence reports. Sentencings will be scheduled following their completions. The defendants will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.
The statutory range of punishment is not less than 10 years imprisonment and/or up to a $10,000,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.
Muskogee Man Pleads Guilty to 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, pled guilty to 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.
The Indictment 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 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. 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.
Eufaula Man Sentenced to 150 Months for Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that SEAN DEVAL WARRIOR a/k/a Sean G, age 33, of Eufaula, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 150 months imprisonment, followed by 36 months of supervised release for Distribution of Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C).
Charges arose from an investigation by the District 18 and District 25 Drug and Violent Crime Task Forces, Eufaula Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The defendant was indicted in August, 2014 and pled guilty in September, 2014.
The Indictment alleged that on or about January 24, 2014, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, SEAN DEVAL WARRIOR a/k/a Sean G, defendant herein, did knowingly and intentionally distribute 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 designated federal prison at which he will serve his nonparolable sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace represented the United States.
Tucson AZ Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine, 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, pled guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(D).
The charge arose from an investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The defendant was indicted in November, 2014.
The Indictment alleges 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 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 10 years up to life imprisonment and/or up to a $10,000,000.00 fine. The defendant will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow 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 STEVEN ALEX HUGHART, age 38, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, pled guilty to 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.
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 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 up to 10 years imprisonment and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine. The defendant will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow represented the United States.
Eufaula Woman Pleads Guilty to 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, pled guilty to Obstruction of Justice, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1512(c)(2).
The charge arose from an investigation by the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General.
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 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 $250,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace represented the United States.
Ardmore Man Sentenced to 92 Months for Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that NIKEA PAUL LEE, age 38, of Ardmore, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 92 months imprisonment, followed by 4 years of supervised release for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B).
The charge arose from an investigation by the Chickasaw Lighthorse Police, the Ardmore Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The defendant was indicted in June 2014 and pled guilty in July 2014.
The Indictment alleged that on or about February 6, 2014, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did knowingly and intentionally possess with the intent to distribute over five (5) grams or more of actual Methamphetamine, 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 was remanded to 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 Chris Wilson represented the United States.
Tahlequah Man Sentenced to 65 Months for Possession of Destructive DeviceRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that JOBY TUCSON NORTHINGTON, age 34, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 65 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release for POSSESSION OF UNREGISTERED FIREARM (DESTRUCTIVE DEVICE), in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Sections 5861(d), 5841 and 5871.
The charge is a result of an investigation by the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The defendant was indicted in July, 2014 and pled guilty in August, 2014.
The Indictment alleged that on or about April 12, 2014, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did knowingly possess a destructive device, which is a firearm, as defined in Title 26, United States Code, Section 5845, not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.
The 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.
Assistant United States Attorney Chris Wilson represented the United States.
Spiro Woman Sentenced to 150 Months for Drug Conspiracy (Methamphetamine Distribution)Read the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that DONNA JEAN SCHAFER, age 53, of Spiro, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 150 months imprisonment, followed by 48 months of supervised release for Drug Conspiracy, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 846 and 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A).
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 August, 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, DONNA JEAN SCHAFER, 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 designated federal facility at which she will serve her nonparolable sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.
Muldrow Man Sentenced to 97 Months for Possession of Materials Involving Sexual Exploitation of MinorsRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that JAMES CHRISTOPHER COOKE, age 38, of Muldrow, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 97 months imprisonment, followed by 60 months of supervised release for Possession of certain Material Involving the Sexual Exploitation of Minors, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(4)(B) and 2252(b)(2).
The charges are a result from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The defendant was indicted in March, 2014 and pled guilty in June, 2014.
The Indictment alleged that from between in or about September, 2012 and December 5, 2012, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, and elsewhere, the defendant, did knowingly possess and attempt to possess matters which contained visual depictions, as that term is defined in Title 18, United States Code, Section 2256(5), the production of said visual depictions involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, as that term is defined in Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2256(2)(A)-(B), and said visual depictions were of sexually explicit conduct, and had been transported in interstate commerce by computer.
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 Edward Snow represented the United States.
Madill Woman Sentenced to 36 Months Probation, $15,900 Restitution for Wire FraudRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that KRISTEN RENEA BROWN, age 19, of Madill, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 3 years of probation and restitution of $15,923.60 for WIRE FRAUD, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
BROWN pled guilty in September, 2014 to an Information alleging that from on or about September 23, 2013 to on or about October 1, 2013, KRISTEN RENEA BROWN, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the defendant herein, did execute a scheme to defraud Victim #1, an account holder at Landmark Bank in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, to-wit: the defendant transferred money from the bank account of Victim #1 into Defendant’s own bank account at Landmark Bank, and by means of debit card used said money to purchase items for her own use and benefit and the use and benefit of others. As part of the scheme to defraud, the defendant transmitted and caused to be transmitted by means of wire communication in interstate commerce, writings, signs, signals, pictures, or sounds, for the purpose of executing and attempting to execute the aforesaid scheme and artifice to defraud.
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 Chris Wilson represented the United States.
Westville Woman Sentenced to 60 Months for Drug Conspiracy (Methamphetamine Distribution)Read the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that AMANDA JO JONES, age 24, of Westville, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 60 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release for Conspiracy, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 371.
The charge arose from an investigation by the District 16 District Attorney’s Drug Task Force, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, and the United States Postal Inspection Service.
JONES pled guilty in August, 2014 to an Information filed alleging that from in or about June 2013 until on or about April 9, 2014, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the defendant, did, knowingly and intentionally conspire, confederate and agree with others both known and unknown to commit offense against the United States, namely, possession with intent to distribute and distribute methamphetamine, and in furtherance of said conspiracy the defendant committed the following Overt Act: On or about June 17, 2014, caused $13,300 in United States Currency to be transferred to individuals in California to pay for methamphetamine received and distributed by Michael A. Cooper.
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 she will serve her nonparolable sentence.
First Assistant United States Attorney Doug Horn represented the United States.
Tulsa Woman Sentenced to 48 Months Probation, $112,800 Restitution for Theft of Government FundsRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that JANET CAROLYN JONES, age 65, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 4 years of probation and restitution of $112,865 for 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 defendant JONES pled guilty in September, 2014 to an Information alleging that from in or about September 2000 through September 2013, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the Defendant did willfully and knowingly embezzle, steal and convert to her own use, money and things of value from the Social Security Administration, an agency of the United States, which had been paid to Ora Dell Dixon, a/k/a, Ora Dell Trento, as retirement benefits, to which the defendant knew she was not entitled and having a value in excess of $1,000.
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 Chris Wilson represented the United States.
Muskogee 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 JAMES DEWAYNE MARSHALL, 23, of Muskogee, 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, Sections 924(c)(1)(A).
The charges arose from an investigation by the Carter County Sheriff’s Department, The Ardmore Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The defendant was indicted in August, 2014 and pled guilty in September, 2014.
The Indictment alleged that on or about February 5, 2014 within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, JAMES DEWAYNE MARSHALL, did knowingly possess a firearm, to wit: One Ruger, model P95, 9mm caliber pistol, bearing serial number: 318-87182, in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime for which he may be prosecuted in a court of the United States, that is Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. The defendant will remain in custody of the United States Marshal Service pending transportation to the designated federal prison at which he will serve his sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow represented the United States.
Muskogee Man Sentenced to 110 Months for Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that TOMMY LOUIS TAYLOR, 35, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 110 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).
The charges arose from an investigation by the United States Marshals Service. The defendant was indicted in June, 2014 and was found guilty in August, 2014 by a federal jury.
The evidence presented at trial proved that on or about December 19, 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, to-wit: one H&R .32 caliber revolver, bearing serial number BA021273, 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 custody of the United States Marshal Service pending transportation to the designated federal prison at which he will serve his sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow represented the United States.
Houlka, MS, Woman Sentenced to 21 Months for Failure to Report and Concealment of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that DEJA MONET PHILLIPS, age 18, of Houlka, Mississippi, sentenced to 21 months imprisonment, followed by 1 year of supervised release for Misprison of a Felony, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 6.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
The Information alleged that on or about March 6, 2014, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant assisted another individual in concealing a large quantity of methamphetamine and failed to report it to law enforcement when the opportunity arose.
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 remaining in custody of the United States Marshal Service pending transportation to the designated federal facility at which time she will serve her nonparolable sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Kyle Waters represented the United States.
Eufaula Man Sentenced to 25 Months for CounterfeitingRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that RICKY ELLIS LAMB, age 33, of Eufaula, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 25 months imprisonment, followed by supervised release for Possession and Uttering a Counterfeit Security, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 513(a).
Charges arose from an investigation by the United States Secret Service. The defendant was indicted in June, 2014 and pled guilty in September, 2014.
The Indictment alleged that on or about June 20, 2012 in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, RICKY ELLIS LAMB, defendant herein, knowingly possessed, uttered and caused to be uttered counterfeit securities, to wit: Counterfeit check # 6410 on a closed account, made payable to Staples in the amount of $665.58, and drawn on Weokie Credit Union, an organization which operates in interstate commerce, with intent to deceive another.
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 Melody Noble Nelson represented the United States.
Calhoun City, MS, Man Sentenced to 84 Months for Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that BRANDON JEVAR PITTMAN, 32, of Calhoun City, Mississippi, was sentenced to 84 months imprisonment, followed by 4 years of supervised release for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B) and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The defendant was indicted in June 2014 and pled guilty in August 2014.
The Indictment alleged that on or about March 6, 2014, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did knowingly possess with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of Methamphetamine, 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 remaining in custody of the United States Marshal Service pending transportation to the designated federal facility at which time he will serve his sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Kyle Waters represented the United States.
Roff Woman Sentenced to 36 Months Probation, $12,999 Restitution for Theft of Government FundsRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that MARY LOUISE FARRIS, a/k/a Mary Louise Allen, age 42, of Roff, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 3 years of probation and restitution of $12,999.00 for 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 on or about February 22, 2012 to on or about December 18, 2012, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the Defendant did willfully and knowingly embezzle, steal and convert to her own use, money and things of value from the Social Security Administration, an agency of the United States, which had been paid to Mary Lou Allen, as widow benefits, to which the defendant knew she was not entitled and having a value in excess of $1,000.
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 Chris Wilson represented the United States.
Muldrow 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 TERRY WAYNE HYATT, age 34, of Muldrow, Oklahoma, pled guilty to Felon in Possession of a Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(e)(1), punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Muldrow Police Department. The defendant was indicted in November, 2014.
The Indictment alleged 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, 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. The defendant will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Melody Nelson represented the United States.
Hartshorne 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 KENNETH EDWARD DAY, age 37, of Hartshorne, Oklahoma, pled guilty to Felon in Possession of Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(e), punishable by not less than 15 years imprisonment and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration. The defendant was indicted in November, 2014.
The Indictment alleged that on or about August 20, 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 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. The defendant will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Melody Nelson represented the United States.
Calera Man Pleads Guilty to Making a 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, pled guilty to making a False Statement, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1014, punishable by not more than 30 years imprisonment and/or up to a $1,000,000.00 fine.
The charge arose from an investigation by the United States Department of Agriculture. The defendant was indicted in November, 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 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.
Assistant United States Attorney Melody Nelson 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 HANK JOSHUA BELL, age 34, 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 November, 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 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 and/or up to a $250,000 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Kyle Waters represented the United States.
Idabel Woman Arraigned for Murder During Perpetration of Child Abuse of Two Year Old GirlRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that DAKOTA LANE WILLISTON, age 19, of Idabel, Oklahoma was arraigned in federal court today.
The defendant is charged with 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.
The Indictment alleges 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 Steven P. Shreder, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. The defendant was remanded into the custody of the United States Marshal Service.
Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States.
Lost City 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 today that JERRY WAYNE MORRISON, JR., a/k/a "HOOTIE," age 34, of Lost City, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 60 months imprisonment, followed by 3 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 the District 27 District Attorney’s Drug Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The defendant was indicted in November, 2013 and pled guilty in July, 2014.
The Indictment alleged that on or about November 30, 2012, 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, to-wit: one Taurus, model PT709 Slim, 9mm caliber pistol, 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 Kyle Waters represented the United States.
Two Individuals Indicted in December Federal Grand JuryRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office announced today the results of the December 2014 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.”
STEVE ARBY CHANDLER, II, age 44, of Muskogee, OK
Failure to Register as Sex Offender
The Indictment alleges that from on or about April 3, 2014 until on or about July 3, 2014, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, and elsewhere, STEVE ARBY CHANDLER, II, 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 Michigan on or about January 31, 1990, for the felony offense of Criminal Sexual Conduct 2nd Degree, traveled in interstate commerce and knowingly failed to register and update his registration as required by the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
The charges arose from an investigation by the United States Marshal Service. The charges are in violation of 18, United States Code, Sections 2250(a)(1), 2250(a)(2)(B) and 2250(a)(3), punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Chris Wilson
DARRELL DEWAYNE PERRY, age 54, Tahlequah, OK
Failure to Register as Sex Offender
The Indictment alleges that from in or about October 2014 until on or about November 20, 2014, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, and elsewhere, DARRELL DEWAYNE PERRY, defendant herein, 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 Oklahoma, in Muskogee County, on or about September 14, 1998, for the offenses of Rape First Degree, Rape by Instrumentation and Sodomy, 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 charges arose from an investigation by the United States Marshal Service.
The charges are 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 5 years imprisonment and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow
Tulsa 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 that LaDONNA JANE BURNS, age 44, Tulsa, Oklahoma, pled guilty to Embezzlement and Theft From An Indian Tribal Organization, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1163, punishable by not more than 5 years imprisonment, and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine.
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.
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 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 Rob Wallace represented the United States.
Tahlequah Man Sentenced to 24 Months for Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that CHUCK ALLEN EASTHAM, age 41, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 2 years imprisonment, followed by 3 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 is a result from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The defendant was indicted in March, 2014 and pled guilty in July, 2014.
The Indictment alleged that on or about October 24, 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, one Marlin (Glenfield) Model 30A, 30-30 Caliber lever action rifle, 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 Kyle Waters represented the United States.
Tahlequah Man Pleads Guilty to Racketeering ChargesRead 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 pled guilty to 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.
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 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 5 years imprisonment and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.
Panama City, Florida, Man Sentenced to 60 Months for Wire/Mail FraudRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that JAMES DEAN KAYVONFAR, age 53, of Panama City, Florida, was sentenced to five years probation for Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud/Mail Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1349.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The defendant was indicted in August, 2012 and pled guilty in June 2013.
The Indictment alleged that in or about August 2007 to in or about April 2010, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the defendant, knowingly and wilfully conspired with other persons known and unknown to the Grand Jury, to transmit or caused to be transmitted by means of a wire communication or the United States Mail, communication for the purpose to defraud the United States and Texas Capital Bank, a financial institution insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, all in order to obtain money by means of false and fraudulent pretenses, representations, and promises.
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 Chris Wilson represented the United States.
Muskogee Woman Pleads Guilty to 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 pled guilty to 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.
The Indictment alleged that on or about October 2, 2014, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, JACL YN 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 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 on bond pending sentencing.
The statutory range of punishment is not more than 5 years imprisonment and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.
El Paso, Texas, Man Sentenced to 70 Months for Cocaine DistributionRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that ELADIO ARGUELLES, age 26, of El Paso, Texas, was sentenced to 78 months imprisonment and 4 years supervised release for an Information charging him with Possession with Intent to Distribute 5 Kilograms or More of Cocaine, 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 Savanna Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
The Information filed on July 24, 2014 alleged that on or about April 5, 2014, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did knowingly and intentionally possess with the intent to distribute five (5) kilograms or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of Cocaine, 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 designated federal facility at which he will serve his nonparolable sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Chris Wilson represented the United States.
Antlers Man Sentenced to 27 Months for Failure to Register as Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that PETER GLENN BAKER, age 42, of Antlers, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 27 months imprisonment, followed by 5 years of supervised release for 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).
Charges arose from an investigation by the United States Marshal Service. The defendant was indicted in July, 2014 and pled guilty in August, 2014.
The Indictment alleged that from in or about October 2013 until in or about December 2013, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, and elsewhere, the defendant, an individual required to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, after having received a felony conviction from the State of Washington on or about December 2, 2004, for the felony offense of Rape of a Child in the Third Degree, traveled in interstate commerce and knowingly failed to register and update his registration as required by the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
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 Edward Snow represented the United States.
Ardmore/Davis Man Sentenced to 24 Months, $14 Million Restitution for Bank FraudRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that W.A. MOORE, JR., a/k/a "Dub" Moore, age 75, of Ardmore, Oklahoma, formerly of Davis, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 24 months imprisonment for Bank Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1344. The defendant was also ordered to pay $14,698,660.98 in restitution.
The charge arose from an investigation by the United States Department of Agriculture and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
MOORE pled guilty in February, 2014 to an Information alleging that from on or about October 1, 2009 and continuing through March, 31, 2011, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, Defendant, W.A. MOORE, JR., a/k/a "Dub" Moore, devised a scheme and artifice to defraud First National Bank of Davis, a bank whose deposits were insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, to wit: the defendant knowingly and fraudulently approved nominee loans for the benefit of bank customers in order to avoid the bank's legal lending limit.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the sentencing. The defendant was ordered to report to the Bureau of Prisons on January 14, 2015.
Assistant United States Attorneys Melody Nelson and Tom Wright represented the United States.
Sallisaw Man Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud, Identity Theft and CounterfeitingRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that CHRISTOPHER JACOB FROEHLICH, age 28, of Sallisaw, Oklahoma, pled guilty to three counts of Wire Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1343, two counts of AGGRAVATED IDENTITY THEFT, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1028A(a)(1) and one count of UTTERING A COUNTERFEIT SECURITY WITH INTENT TO DECEIVE, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 513(a).
The charges arose from an investigation by the United States Postal Inspector and the United States Secret Service.
The Indictment, filed on September 10, 2014, alleged that from December 25, 2013 to March 24, 2014, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the defendant devised a scheme and artifice to defraud and to obtain money and property by means of materially false and fraudulent pretenses, representations and promises. It was part of the scheme that the defendant used his computer to create fraudulent accounts at various financial institutions. The defendant created these fraudulent accounts using the identities of other persons without their permission. The defendant also created and uttered counterfeit checks.
The Honorable Kimberly E. West, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the defendant’s guilty pleas, and ordered the completion of a presentence report. Sentencing will be scheduled upon its completion. The defendant remains in the custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Chris Wilson represented the United States.
McAlester Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that EDDIE A. BROWN, age 42, of McAlester, Oklahoma, pled guilty to Distribution of Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A).
The charge is a result of an investigation by the District 18 District Attorney’s Drug Task Force and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The defendant was indicted in September 2014.
The Indictment alleged that on or about March 20, 2014, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did knowingly and intentionally distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual), a Schedule II Controlled Substance.
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 and ordered the completion of a presentence and investigation report. The defendant will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.
The statutory range of punishment is not less than 10 years imprisonment and/or up to a $10,000,000 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.
Former Choctaw Nation Executive Director of Construction Found Guilty of Conspiracy to Commit Bribery, Theft of Federal Funds by Tribal Officer and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that JASON BRETT MERIDA, age 42, of Rattan, Oklahoma was found guilty by a federal jury on Thursday, November 20, 2014 of six counts of a seven-count indictment.
The defendant was indicted in February, 2014 and charged with Conspiracy To Commit Theft Or Bribery Of Programs Receiving Federal Funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371; 2 Counts of Theft By An Employee Or Officer Of A Tribal Government Receiving Federal Funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 666(a)(1)(A) and 2; Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1957 and 2 Counts of Tax Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 7206(1).
The defendant was acquitted on one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering.
The trial began with testimony on October 29, 2014 and concluded with closing arguments and jury deliberations on Thursday, November 20, 2014.
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.
The charges resulted from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations.
United States Attorney Mark Green stated, “Greed can be a terrible vice! In this case, Jason Merida and his co-conspirators placed their personal gain above the interests of the Choctaw Nation and its members. This verdict is a prime example of justice served when officials abuse a public trust.”
“Last night’s guilty verdict is loud and clear: bribery, conspiracy, money laundering and tax fraud are not acceptable business practices to gain contracts with the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma,” said R. Damon Rowe, Special Agent in Charge for Dallas Field Office of IRS Criminal Investigation. He continued, “IRS will use every means available to identify and investigate those individuals who utilize illegal means to gain lucrative contracts to the detriment of the Choctaw Nation and to the American taxpayer.”
James Finch, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation added, “The conviction of Jason Merida should serve as a reminder for all public officials to honor their respective offices. Corrupt public officials mar the trust which must exist between citizenry and government, and rob the public of the expectation that public officials will exercise good stewardship of their trust. The FBI and its investigative partners will continue to pursue and bring to justice all who soil their 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 trial and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report. The defendant was released while awaiting sentencing.
First Assistant United States Attorney Douglas A. Horn and Assistant United States Attorney Chris Wilson represented the United States.
Tahlequah Woman Pleads Guilty to Firearm Possession in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking OffenseRead 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 pled guilty to 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, punishable by not less than 5 years imprisonment, and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine.
The charges are a result from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives and the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Department. The defendants were indicted in September 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 Kimberly E. West, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearings.
Assistant United States Attorney Kyle Waters represented the United States.
Eastern District of Oklahoma United States Attorney’s Office Collects $3,282,431 in Civil and Criminal Actions for U.S. Taxpayers in Fiscal Year 2014Read the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - Attorney General Eric Holder announced on Wednesday that the Justice Department collected approximately $24.7 billion in civil and criminal actions in the fiscal year ending September 30, 2014. The more than $24 billion in collections in FY 2014 represents nearly eight and a half times the appropriated $2.91 billion budget for the 94 U.S. Attorney’s offices and the main litigating divisions in that same period.
United States Attorney Mark Green announced today that the Eastern District of Oklahoma collected $3,282,431 in criminal and civil actions in Fiscal Year 2014. Of this amount, $417,196 was collected in criminal actions and $2,865,235 was collected in civil actions.
Additionally, the U.S. Attorney’s office in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, working with partner agencies and divisions, collected $852,749 in asset forfeiture actions in FY 2014. Forfeited assets deposited into the Department of Justice Assets Forfeiture Fund are used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes.
“Collection of monies due the United States of America in both criminal and civil matters is a responsibility of this U.S. Attorney’s Office as well as those across our nation. We here in the Eastern District of Oklahoma are committed to fulfilling that responsibility,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Green.
Tahlequah Woman Pleads Guilty to Interstate Travel in Aid of Racketeering EnterpriseRead 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 pled guilty to Interstate Travel or Transportation in Aid of Racketeering Enterprises, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1952(a)(3).
Charges are 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.
The Indictment alleged that beginning on or about April 22, 2012, the defendant, traveled in interstate commerce from the State of Oklahoma to Little Rock, 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 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 5 years imprisonment and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.
Nine Individuals Indicted in November Federal Grand JuryRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office announced today the results of the November 2014 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.”
LINDA LUE ADAMS, age 68, of Eufaula, OK
a/k/a LINDA CORLEY
a/k/a LINDA MARTINTheft Of Government Funds
Concealment Of A Material FactThe Indictment alleges that beginning in or about November 2011, and continuing until in or about November, 2013, 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 and Social Security Disabled Widow payments, to which she knew she was not entitled, having a value in excess of $1,000.00. It further alleges that the defendant intentionally concealed her conviction and incarceration for a crime in order to receive and continue to receive and spend Disability Income and Disabled Widow payments made by the Social Security Administration to her. By such action, the defendant took approximately $22,867.80 in Social Security Disability Income and Disabled Widow payments to which she was not entitled. The charges arose from an investigation by the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General.
The charges are in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 641 and 2, punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine and Title 42, United States Code, Section 408(a)(4), punishable by not more than 5 years imprisonment and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace
HANK JOSHUA BELL, age 34, of Muskogee, OK
Felon In Possession Of A Firearm
The Indictment alleges 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 charges arose from an investigation by the Muskogee Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The charges are in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1), punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Kyle Waters
ARICA ROSE BRISCOE, age 21, of Decatur, GA
NATHANIEL DENNIS, Jr., age 23, of Ellenwood, GAPossession Of A Counterfeit Security
The Indictment alleges that on or about August 5, 2014, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, ARICA ROSE BRISCOE and NATHANIEL DENNIS, JR., defendants herein, knowingly possessed counterfeit securities, to wit: counterfeit checks drawn accounts of organizations which operate 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, Sections 513(a) and 2, punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Melody Nelson
LADONNA JANE BURNS, age 44, of Tulsa, OK
Embezzlement
Theft From An Indian Tribal OrganizationThe Indictment alleges 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 charges arose from an investigation by the Creek Nation Lighthorse Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The charges are in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1163, punishable by not more than 5 years imprisonment and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace
KENNETH EDWARD DAY, age 37, of Hartshorne, OK
Felon In Possession Of Firearm
The Indictment alleges that on or about August 20, 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 charges arose from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration. The charges are in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(e), punishable by not less than 15 years imprisonment and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Chris Wilson
KENNETH WAYNE RABORN, age 64, of Ardmore, OK
PATRICIA ANN RABORN age 56, of Ardmore, OKTheft Of Government Funds
Concealment Of A Material Fact
False StatementThe Indictment alleges that beginning in or around July 2006, and continuing until in or around February, 2014, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendants did knowingly and willfully embezzle, steal, and purloin money of the Social Security Administration, namely, Social Security Disability Income payments to which they knew they were not entitled, having a value in excess of $1,000.00. The Indictment further alleges that beginning in or around March 2005, and continuing until in or around October, 2012, the defendants had knowledge of the occurrence of an event affecting the right to receive or continue to receive Social Security Disability Income payments. KENNETH WAYNE RABORN concealed and failed to disclose such event with the intent to fraudulently secure payment when no payment was authorized. Specifically, defendant KENNETH WAYNE RABORN intentionally concealed his securing gainful employment in order to receive and continue to receive and spend Disability Income payments made by the Social Security Administration to him. By such action, defendant KENNETH WAYNE RABORN took approximately $86,289.50 in Social Security Disability Income payments to which he was not entitled.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General. The charges are in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 641 and 2, punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine; Title 18, United States Code, Section 408(a)(4), punishable by not more than 5 years imprisonment and/or 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 and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace
MICHAEL GLENN VALLES, age 47, of Calera, OK
False Statement
The Indictment alleges 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 charges arose from an investigation by the United States Department of Agriculture. The charges are in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1014, punishable by not more than 5 years imprisonment and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Melody Nelson
Hugo Man Pleads Guilty to Assault with a Dangerous Weapon 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, pled guilty to an Information charging him with 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.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Choctaw Nation Tribal Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
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 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 not more than 10 years imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $250,000.00.
Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States.
Tahlequah Woman Pleads Guilty to Interstate Travel in Aid of Racketeering EnterpriseRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that ELIZABETH PORTUGAL, age 28, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma pled guilty on October 29, 2014, to Interstate Travel or Transportation in Aid of Racketeering Enterprises, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1952(a)(3).
Charges are 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.
The Indictment alleged that beginning on or about January 29, 2013, 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 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 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 5 years imprisonment and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.
Tahlequah Man Pleads Guilty to 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 that ROBERT JAMES KOHNE, age 24, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma pled guilty on October 29, 2014, to Obtaining Possession of a Controlled Substance by Deception, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 843(a)(3).
Charges are 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.
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 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 4 years imprisonment and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.
Tahlequah Man Pleads Guilty to Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that DANIEL WAYNE MAULDIN, age 25, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma pled guilty on October 29, 2014, to Drug Conspiracy, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C).
Charges are 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.
The Indictment alleged that beginning in or about January 2010, the exact date being unknown to the Grand Jury, and continuing up to and including the date of the Indictment, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the defendant 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 by knowingly and intentionally possessing with intent to distribute and distributing a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of Oxycodone, 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 and/or up to a $1,000,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.
Riverside, CA Man Sentenced to 51 Months, $2.5 Million Restitution and $3 Million Forfeiture for Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that DAVID LEWIS McDOWELL, age 52, of Riverside, California was sentenced to 51 months imprisonment for Money Laundering, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1957. McDOWELL was also ordered to pay approximately $2,500,000.00 in restitution and to forfeit $3,000,000.00 in assets.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation and Federal Bureau of Investigation. The defendant was indicted in April, 2013 and pled guilty in March, 2014.
The Indictment alleged that on or about June 25, 2008, through November 9, 2009, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did knowingly engage in a monetary transaction through a financial institution, affecting interstate commerce, in a criminally derived property of a value greater than $10,000, that is, by causing money to be transferred from accounts at Ameristate Bank, such proceeds having derived from a specified unlawful activity, that is wire fraud.
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 Melody Nelson represented the United States.
Davis Man Found Guilty of Bank Fraud, Jury Finds for Forfeiture of $3.2 Million in AssetsRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that ROY LYNN WESBERRY, age 55, of Davis, Oklahoma was found guilty of Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud and four (4) counts of Bank Fraud by a federal jury on Monday, October 20, 2014. The jury also found that the defendant should forfeit $3,200,000.00 in assets as part of any sentence imposed.
The defendant was indicted in February, 2014 and charged with Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1344 and 4 counts of Bank Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1344 and 2.
The Indictment alleged that from on or about February 1, 2011, through February 28, 2011, the exact dates unknown to the Grand Jury, ROY LYNN WESBERRY, defendant herein, and others unknown and known to the Grand Jury, knowingly conspired, agreed and confederated to execute and attempt to execute, a scheme and artifice to defraud First National Bank of Davis, a federally insured national bank.
The trial began with testimony on October 15, 2014 and concluded with closing arguments and jury deliberations on Monday, October 20, 2014.
Testimony at the trial established that WESBERRY and W.A. “Dub” Moore, President of First National Bank of Davis (FNB), committed bank fraud in an attempt to hide from bank examiners, large amounts of loans to WESBERRY from First National Bank of Davis.
Additional evidence proved that during a bank examination on February 7, 2011, the Office of Comptroller of Currency (OCC) discovered the WESBERRY loans. Those loans caused the bank to be critically undercapitalized and on March 11, 2011 FNB was closed and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation was named receiver of the bank.
W.A. “Dub” Moore pled guilty to bank fraud on February 24, 2014. He is currently awaiting sentencing.
The charges are a result from an investigation by the United States Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General 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 investigation report. The defendant was released while awaiting sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorneys Melody Nelson and Tom Wright represented the United States.
Ringling Man Pleads Guilty to Illegal Receipt of 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, pled guilty to 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.
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 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.
The statutory range of punishment is not more than 5 years imprisonment and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine. 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.
McAlester Woman Pleads Guilty to 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, of McAlester, Oklahoma, pled guilty to Stalking, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2261A(1), 2261 and 2.
The charge arose from an investigation by the McAlester Police Department. The defendant was indicted in September, 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 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.
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 Chris Wilson represented the United States.
Vian Man Sentenced to 51 Months for Maintaining Drug Involved PremisesRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that CLIFFORD PERKINS JR., age 43, of Vian, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 51 months imprisonment for Maintaining Drug Involved Premises, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 856.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Sallisaw Police Department, District 27 District Attorney’s Drug Task Force, Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The defendant was indicted in August, 2013 and pled guilty in March, 2013.
The Indictment alleged that from on or about August 1, 2012 until Indicted, the defendant, did knowingly and intentionally maintain a place at 307 Dennis Street, Vian, Oklahoma, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, for the purpose of distributing, manufacturing and using methamphetamine, 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 Dean Burris represented the United States.