Eastern District of Oklahoma
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Ardmore Woman Sentenced to 60 Months Probation, $32,600 Restitution for Theft of Government Funds, False StatementRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that ALLISON FAITH BATTLES, age 29, of Ardmore, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 5 years of probation, 3 months of home detention and $32,613.96 in restitution for Making A False Statement, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001(a)(2) and Theft Of Government Funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 641.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Oklahoma Department of Human Service, Office of Inspector General and the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General. The defendant was indicted in January 2014 and pled guilty in February 2014.
The Indictment alleged that on or about February 16, 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 Social Security Administration, an agency of the United States.
It further alleged that from in or about July 2009 to in or about April 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 Oklahoma Department of Human Services, an agency receiving and administering funds on behalf of the United States, which had been paid to the defendant as food stamps and medical 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.
Wagoner Man Sentenced to 240 Months for Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that MAURICIO ORTIZ-VARGAS, a/k/a Mauricio Ortiz, a/k/a Mauricio Hernandez-Chavez, a/k/a Mauricio Hernandez, age 36, of Wagoner, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 240 months imprisonment, followed by 5 years of supervised release for Conspiracy to Possess with intent to Distribute and Distribute 500 grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 846, 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A).
The charge is a result of an investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Department of Homeland Security Investigations – Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The defendant was indicted in June 2013 and pled guilty in March 2013.
The Indictment alleged that beginning in or about 2009 until on or about April 18, 2013, the defendant conspired with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture.
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 Chris Wilson represented the United States.
Four Individuals Indicted in July Federal Grand JuryRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office announced today the results of the July 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.”
VICENTE ANDRADE, age 31, of White Plains, NY
PEDRO HERNANDEZ-PEREZ, age 38, of White Plains, NY
a/k/a JOHNNY GARCIAPossession with Intent to Distribute Heroin
The Indictment alleges that on or about July 2, 2014, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendants did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol the Drug Enforcement Administration. The charges are in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A) and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2, punishable by not less than 10 years imprisonment and/or up to a $10,000,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris
PETER GLENN BAKER, age 42, of Skamania County, WA
Failure To Register As A Sex Offender
The Indictment alleges that from in or about October 2013 until in or about December 2013 and again from in or about March 2014 until on or about May 3, 2014, within 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, 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 Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2250(a)(1), 2250(a)(2)(B) and 2250(a)(3), punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney D. Edward Snow
JOBY TUCSON NORTHINGTON, age 34, of Tahlequah, OK
Possession of Unregistered Firearm (Destructive Device)
The Indictment alleges 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 charge arose from an investigation by the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The charge is in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Sections 5861(d), 5841 and 5871, punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Chris Wilson
Adair County Man Sentenced to 96 Months for Assault with Intent to Commit MurderRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today WILLIE JAMES HALLMARK, 37, of Adair County, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 96 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release for Assault with Intent to Commit Murder in Indian Country.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service and the FBI. HALLMARK was indicted in June 2013 and pled guilty in December 2013.
The indictment alleged that on or about June 6, 2013, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, WILLIE JAMES HALLMARK, an Indian, did knowingly and intentionally assault two individuals causing injury by stabbing with a knife with the intent to commit a murder, while on land held in Trust, for an individual member of the Cherokee Nation, by the United States of America.
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 Dean Burris represented the United States.
Sand Springs Man Sentenced to 5 Months Home Detention, $30,000 Restitution for Theft of Government PropertyRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that DAVID ALLEN ROBERTS, age 32, of Sand Springs, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 5 years of probation with 5 months of home detention for THEFT OF GOVERNMENT PROPERTY, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section(s) 641. ROBERTS was also ordered to pay $30,727.65 in restitution.
Charges arose from an investigation by the Broken Arrow Police Department, the Naval Criminal Investigation Services and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The defendant was indicted in November, 2013 and pled guilty in December, 2013.
The Indictment alleged that during the period of in or about February 2013 to on or about October 15, 2013, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did willfully and knowingly embezzle, steal, purloin, and convert to his own use and the use of another, things of value of the United States having a value of more than $1000.
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 Christopher Wilson represented the United States.
Norwalk CA Man Sentenced to 292 Months for Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that ALEJANDRO DIEGO GARCIA, age 36, of Norwalk, California was sentenced to 292 months imprisonment, followed by 5 years of supervised release for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(A)(viii) and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2.
Charges arose from an investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The defendant was indicted in August, 2013 and pled guilty in November, 2013.
The Indictment alleged that on or about July 15, 2013 in the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, ALEJANDRO DIEGO GARCIA, did unlawfully, knowingly and intentionally possess with the intent to distribute in excess of Five-Hundred (500) grams 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 prison at which he will serve his nonparolable sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow represented the United States.
Hugo Man Sentenced to 180 Months for Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that SAMMY WAYNE DAVIS, age 46, of Hugo, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 180 months imprisonment, followed by 8 years of supervised release for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(I) and 924(e).
The charge arose from an investigation by the Hugo Police Department, the Choctaw County Sheriff’s Office and District 17 District Attorney’s Drug Task Force. The defendant was indicted in February, 2013 and pled guilty in March, 2014.
The Indictment alleged that on or about June 5, 2011, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II Controlled Substance.
The 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 remains 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.
Westville Man, Woman Arraigned for Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
“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.”
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that MICHAEL ALLEN COOPER, age 39 and AMANDA JO JONES, age 24, both of Westville, Oklahoma were arraigned in federal court today on charges of Conspiracy To Possess With Intent To Distribute And Distribute Five Hundred (500) Or More Grams Of mixture or Substance Containing a Detectable Amount of Methamphetamine, a Schedule II Controlled Substance, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A).
The Indictment filed on June 11, 2014, alleges that beginning in or about June 19, 2013, through on or about April 9, 2014, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the defendants, did willfully and knowingly combine, conspire, confederate and agree together, and with others known and unknown to the Grand Jury, 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 charges arose from an investigation by the District 16 District Attorney’s Drug Task Force, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, and the U.S. Postal Service – Office of Inspector General.
The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearings. Both defendants were remanded into the custody of the United States Marshal Service.
The statutory range of punishment for COOPER is not less than life imprisonment and/or up to $20,000,000.00 in fines. The statutory range of punishment for JONES is not less than 10 years imprisonment and/or up to $10,000,000.00 in fines.
First Assistant United States Attorney Doug Horn represented the United States.
Muskogee Man Arraigned for Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
“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.”
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that TOMMY LOUIS TAYLOR, 35, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, was arraigned in federal court today on charges of FELON IN POSSESION OF A FIREARM, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1).
The Indictment alleges 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 charges arose from an investigation by the Muskogee Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearings. The Defendant was remanded into the custody of the United States Marshal Service.
The statutory range of punishment for TAYLOR is not more than 10 years imprisonment and/or up to $250,000.00 in fines.
Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow represented the United States.
Muldrow Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Material Involving Sexual Exploitation of MinorsRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that JAMES CHRISTOPHER COOKE, age 38, of Muldrow, Oklahoma, pled guilty to Possession of certain Material Involving the Sexual Exploitation of Minors, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(4)(B) and 2252(b)(2).
The charges are a result from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The defendant was indicted in March, 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 Kimberly E. West, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. The defendant will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.
The statutory range of punishment is up to 10 years imprisonment, 5 years to life on supervision and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow represented the United States.
Eleven Individuals Arraigned for Original, Additional Charges in Operation "Battle of Honey Springs"Read the Press Release
“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.”
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that the following individuals were arraigned in federal court on June 18, 2014, on charges of Conspiracy To Possess With Intent To Distribute And Distribute Methamphetamine in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, and 841(a)(1).
MICHAEL A. METZKER, a/k/a "Lurch", age 36, of Checotah, Oklahoma
MICHAEL W. METZKER, a/k/a "Chic", age 58, 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
STEVEN D. CARR, age 43, formerly of Checotah, Oklahoma
MICHAEL A. METZKER, a/k/a "Lurch" was also arraigned on charges of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B); Maintaining Drug Involved Premises in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 856(a)(1); and thirteen counts of Use of a Communication Device in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 843(b).
MICHAEL W. METZKER, a/k/a "Chic" was also arraigned on charges of two counts of Distribution of Methamphetamine in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C); Maintaining Drug Involved Premises in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 856(a)(1); and six counts of Use of a Communication Device in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 843(b).
MARGARET CASEY was also arraigned on charges of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A); Maintaining Drug Involved Premises in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 856(a)(1); and one count of Use of a Communication Device in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 843(b).
LACEY RENEE PARK was also arraigned on charges of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(b); and Maintaining Drug Involved Premises in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 856(a)(1).
The Indictment filed on June 11, 2014, charges that beginning in or about April 2013, up to and including April 15, 2014, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the defendants, who were members of the Metzker Drug Trafficking Organization (“Metzker DTO”), acted together in operating the Metzker DTO to distribute drugs for profit, and did knowingly combine, conspire, confederate and agree together, and with other persons known and unknown, to Possess with Intent to Distribute and Distribute Methamphetamine.
Michael A. Metzker, a/k/a "Lurch", a member of the Universal Aryan Brotherhood (UAB), was incarcerated in the Oklahoma Department of Corrections from December 24, 2009, until January 8, 2014. Michael A. Metzker, a/k/a "Lurch", utilized his UAB membership, and associations within the UAB, to contact other UAB members to assist in the distribution of methamphetamine. Beginning in or before April 2013, up to an including January 8, 2014, Michael A. Metzker, a/k/a "Lurch", utilized cellular telephones, illegally smuggled into the prison, to coordinate the acquisition and distribution of methamphetamine in Eastern Oklahoma and elsewhere. Upon release from incarceration up to and including April 15, 2014, Michael A. Metzker, a/k/a "Lurch", and his coconspirators 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, Absentee Shawnee Tribal Police, Muscogee (Creek) Nation, Kickapoo Nation Tribal Police, 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, presided over the hearings. All defendants were remanded into the custody of the United States Marshal Service.
The statutory range of punishment for Drug Conspiracy in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A), is not less than 10 years and not more than life imprisonment and/or up to $10,000,000.00 in fines.
The statutory range of punishment for Maintaining Drug Involved Premises in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 856(a)(1), is not more than 20 years imprisonment and/or up to $500,000.00 in fines.
The statutory range of punishment for Use of a Communication Device in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 843(b), is not more than 4 years imprisonment and/or up to $250,000.00 in fines.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.
El Paso TX Man Arraigned for Cocaine DistributionRead the Press Release
“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.”
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that ELADIO ARGUELLES, 26, of El Paso, Texas, was arraigned in federal court today on charges of 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)(A).
The Indictment filed on June 11, 2014, alleges that beginning on or about April 5, 2014, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, 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 charge arose from an investigation by the Savanna Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearings. The Defendant was remanded into the custody of the United States Marshal Service.
The statutory range of punishment for ARGUELLES is not less than 10 years imprisonment and/or up to $10,000,000.00 in fines.
Assistant United States Attorney Christopher Wilson represented the United States.
Calhoun City MS Man, Houlka MS Woman Arraigned for Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
“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.”
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that BRANDON JEVAR PITTMAN, 32 of Calhoun City, Mississippi, and DEJA MONET PHILLIPS, 18, of Houlka, Mississippi, were arraigned in federal court today on charges of POSSESSION WITH INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE METHAMPHETAMINE, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B) and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2.
The Indictment alleges that on or about March 6, 2014, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendants, 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 charges arose from an investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearings. Both defendants were remanded into the custody of the United States Marshal Service.
The statutory range of punishment for PITTMAN and PHILLIPS is not less than 5 years and not more than 40 years imprisonment and/or up to $5,000,000.00 in fines.
Assistant United States Attorney Kyle E. Waters represented the United States.
Ardmore Man Arraigned for Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
“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.”
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that NIKEA PAUL LEE, 38, of Ardmore, Oklahoma, was arraigned in federal court today on charges of POSSESSION WITH INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE METHAMPHETAMINE, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B).
The Indictment alleges 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 charge arose from an investigation by the Chickasaw Lighthorse Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearings. The Defendant was remanded into the custody of the United States Marshal Service.
The statutory range of punishment for LEE is not less than 5 years and not more than 40 years imprisonment and/or up to $5,000,000.00 in fines.
Assistant United States Attorney Kyle E. Waters represented the United States.
Nineteen Individuals Indicted in June Federal Grand JuryRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office announced today the results of the June 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.”
ELADIO ARGUELLES, age 26, of El Paso, TX
Possession with Intent to Distribute 5 Kilograms or More of Cocaine
The Indictment alleges 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 charge arose from an investigation by the Savanna Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The charge is, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A), punishable by not less than 10 years imprisonment and/or up to a $10,000,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Chris Wilson
MICHAEL ALLEN COOPER, age 39, of Moore, OK
AMANDA JO JONES, age 24, of Westville, OK
Drug Conspiracy
Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
Drug ForfeitureThe Indictment alleges that from in or about June 2013, until on or about April 9, 2014, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendants did willfully and knowingly combine, conspire, confederate and agree together, and with others known and unknown to the Grand Jury, 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 charges arose from an investigation by the District 16 District Attorney’s Drug Task Force, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the U.S. Postal Service – Office of Inspector General. The charges are in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 846, punishable by not less than 20 years imprisonment and/or up to a $20,000,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Douglas A. Horn
RICKY ELLIS LAMB, age 56, of Van Buren, AR
Possession and Uttering a Counterfeit Security
The Indictment alleges that on or about June 20, 2012 in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant 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. The Indictment further alleges that on or about July 18, 2012 in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, knowingly possessed, uttered and caused to be uttered counterfeit securities, to wit: counterfeit check #8561 on the account of Compass Assembly of God, Inc., made payable to Staples in the amount of $844.16, and drawn on Citizens Security Bank, an organization which operates in interstate commerce.
The charges arose from an investigation by the District 18 District Attorney’s Drug Task Force and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The charges are in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 513(a), punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Melody Noble Nelson
NIKEA PAUL LEE, age 38, of Ardmore, OK
Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
The Indictment alleges 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 charge arose from an investigation by the Chickasaw Lighthorse Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The charges are in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B), punishable by not less than 5 years and not more than 40 years imprisonment and/or up to a $5,000,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Kyle E. Waters
TOMMY LOUIS TAYLOR, age 35, of Muskogee, OK
Felon in Possession of a Firearm
The Indictment alleges 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 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 D. Edward Snow
DEJA MONET PHILLIPS, age 18, of Houlka, MS
BRANDON JEVAR PITTMAN, age 32, of Calhoun City, MS
Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
The Indictment alleges that on or about March 6, 2014, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendants, 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 charges arose from an investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The charges are 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, punishable by not less than 5 years and not more than 40 years imprisonment and up to a $5,000,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Kyle E. Waters
JACKIE DALE BRUMLEY, age 44, of Noble, OK
STEVEN D. CARR, age 43, of Walnut Shade, MO
MARGARET CASEY, age 45, of Checotah, OK
SCOTT WESLEY DUNCAN, age 38, of Oklahoma City, OK
CORNELL TYLEIZ HARVEY, age 29, of Oklahoma City, OK
SUNNY ANN MARTINEK, age 38, of Norman, OK
MICHAEL A. METZKER, age 36, of Checotah, OK
MICHAEL W. METZKER, age 58, of Checotah, OK
DEREK PARK, age 31, of Checotah, OK
LACEY RENEE PARK, age 30, of Checotah, OK
SHAWNA VANZANT, age 33, of Henryetta, OK
Drug Conspiracy
The Indictment alleges 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.
The charges arose from an investigation by the McIntosh County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The charges are in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, 8411(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A) and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2, punishable by not less than 10 years and up to a $10,000,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon L. Henson
Newcastle WA Man Sentenced to 63 Months, $146,000 Restitution for Card Skimming and Wire FraudRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that ELVIN ALISURETOVE, age 36, of Newcastle, Washington, was sentenced to 63 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release for Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1349. The defendant was also ordered to pay $146,014.38 in restitution.
The Indictment alleged that beginning in or about April 2012 and continuing until in or about January 2013, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the defendant and others known and unknown to the Grand Jury would obtain account information and personal identification numbers (“PIN’s”) by using a skimming device.
The charges further allege that on or about the period of December 3, 2012 to December 4, 2012, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did knowingly possess, and use, without lawful authority, a means of identification of another person during and in relation to Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud.
The charges are a result from an investigation by the Durant Police Department, the Muskogee Police Department and the United States Secret Service.
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.
First Assistant United States Attorney Doug Horn represented the United States.
Broken Arrow Man Pleads Guilty to Gratuity Received by Public OfficialRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that JEFFREY REESE FISHER, age 37, of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, pled guilty to an Information charging him with Gratuity Received by a Public Official, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 201(c)(1)(B) and 2.
The charges arose from an investigation by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General.
The Information alleged that beginning in April 2009 and continuing through March 2010, the defendant, a public official as an employee of the Department of Veterans Affairs, otherwise than as provided by law for the proper discharge of official duties, directly and indirectly did demand, seek, receive, accept and agree to receive and accept something of value personally for and because of an official act performed and to be performed by such official, that is FISHER, as Chief of Prosthetics for the Veterans Affairs Hospital in Muskogee, Oklahoma, solicited Al’s Medical, Muskogee, Oklahoma, a medical supply company doing business with the Veterans Affairs Hospital in Muskogee, Oklahoma, to pay for construction and remodeling work on FISHER’s private residence.
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 not more than 2 years imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $250,000.00.
First Assistant United States Attorney Doug Horn represented the United States.
Eufaula Man Pleads Guilty to ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that JOHN PAUL SHROPSHIRE, age 54, of Eufaula, Oklahoma, pled guilty to Conspiracy, in Violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371.
The charge is a result of an investigation by the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics. The defendant was indicted in April, 2013. An Information was filed in May, 2014.
The Information alleged that from in or about September, 2011, until on or about September 26, 2012, within 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 offenses against the United States.
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 more than 5 years imprisonment, and/or up to a $250,000 fine and a discretionary term of supervised release of not more than 3 years.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.
Bunch Man Sentenced to 151 Months, $395,000 for Methamphetamine and Marijuana DistributionRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that RALPH EUGENE JOHNSON, age 57, of Bunch, OK was sentenced to 151 months imprisonment and received a money judgment against in him in excess of $395,000.00, for Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C) and 841 (b)(1)(D).
Charges arose from an investigation by the Muskogee Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The defendant was indicted in August, 2013 and pled guilty in October, 2013.
The Indictment alleged that on or about June 19, 2013 in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, RALPH EUGENE JOHNSON, did unlawfully, knowingly and intentionally possess with the intent to distribute a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of Methamphetamine, a Schedule II Controlled Substance, and a substance containing a detectable amount 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 Kyle Waters represented the United States.
Wiconisco PA Man Sentenced to 20 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 that TRAVIS WAYNE DARKES, age 32, of Wiconisco, PA, was sentenced to 20 months imprisonment, followed by 60 months 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).
The charges are a result from an investigation by the Seminole Police Department, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the United States Marshal Service. The defendant was indicted in September, 2013 and pled guilty in October, 2013.
The Indictment alleged that from in or about March, 2013 until on or about September 4, 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 convictions from the State of Pennsylvania, Lebanon County, on or about December 20, 2006, for the offenses of Indecent Assault, 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 prison at which he will serve his nonparolable sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow represented the United States.
Tahlequah Woman Sentenced to 60 Months Probation and Restitution for 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 today that MARSHA RENEE WRIGHT, age 29, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 5 years of probation 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 1153. The defendant was also ordered to pay $5,100.00 in restitution.
Charges arose from an investigation by the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.. The defendant was indicted in September, 2013 and pled guilty in November, 2013.
The Indictment alleged that on or about August 29, 2013, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, within Indian country, on land held in Trust by the United States of America on behalf of the Cherokee Nation, the defendant herein, an Indian, did knowingly and intentionally assault an individual with intent to cause bodily harm, by ramming the vehicle Defendant was driving into a vehicle occupied by the other individual.
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 Dean Burris represented the United States.
Ardmore Man Pleads Guilty to Destruction of Mail by Postal EmployeeRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that JUSTIN SLATE THRONEBERRY, age 32, of Ardmore, Oklahoma, pled guilty to Delay Or Destruction Of Mail By Postal Employee, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1703.
The charge arose from an investigation by the United States Postal Inspection Service, Office of Inspector General. The defendant was indicted in March, 2014.
The Indictment alleged that on or about December 19, 2013 in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the Defendant, a United States Postal Service employee, did willfully, knowingly and unlawfully secrete, destroy, detain and open a package entrusted to him and which came into his possession to be conveyed by mail while performing his assigned duties as an employee of the United States Postal Service.
The 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 5 years imprisonment and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Chris Wilson represented the United States.
Two Yantis TX Men Plead Guilty to Wire/Mail FraudRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that MICHAEL SCOTT CALHOUN, age 49, and TOMMY WAYNE DAVIS, age 47, both of Yantis, Texas, pled guilty to 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 defendants were indicted in August, 2012.
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 Kimberly E. West, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the guilty pleas and ordered the completion of presentence reports.
The statutory range of punishment is up to 30 years imprisonment and/or up to a $1,000,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Chris Wilson represented the United States.
Durant Medical Center of Southeastern Oklahoma to Pay $1.5 Million to Resolve False Claims Act LawsuitRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The Medical Center of Southeastern Oklahoma, located in Durant, Oklahoma, and its parent, Health Management Associates, Inc., have agreed to pay $1,065,000 to the United States and $435,000.00 to the State of Oklahoma to resolve allegations that the hospital billed SoonerCare, the Oklahoma Medicaid Program, for surgical procedures performed by Dr. Daniel Castro, and related hospital services, that were not medically necessary, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced today. The settlement also resolves claims that the hospital billed for services related to surgical procedures that Castro did not perform. In January of this year, HMA was acquired by Community Health Systems, a nationwide acute care hospital chain. MCSO is an acute care hospital in Durant, Oklahoma, and Dr. Castro is an otolaryngologist who practiced at MCSO from 2005 to 2010.
Mark Green, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, stated: “Health Care Fraud is a tremendous problem in Eastern Oklahoma as well as across the nation. Fraud, such as billing for services that aren’t necessary, costs the taxpayers of Oklahoma thousands of dollars. The False Claims Act is a valuable weapon in the government’s arsenal to combat these types of abuses.”
The settlement announced today resolves allegations that MCSO submitted claims to SoonerCare for surgical procedures performed by Dr. Castro, and related hospital services that were not medically necessary. The surgical procedures in question were functional endoscopic sinus surgeries (FESS) performed by Dr. Castro on children who were SoonerCare beneficiaries. According to the United States, Dr. Castro performed FESS’s on children that were not medically indicated, and Dr. Castro and the hospital billed SoonerCare for the unnecessary surgeries and related hospital services. The settlement also resolves claims that MCSO billed SoonerCare for hospital services related to FESS’s that Dr. Castro did not actually perform.
The allegations that the government has settled with MCSO and HMA were raised in a lawsuit filed under the qui tam, or whistleblower, provisions of the False Claims Act. The Act allows private citizens with knowledge of fraud to bring civil actions on behalf of the government and to share in any recovery. The whistleblower, Sandra Simmons, will receive $159,750 as part of today’s settlement.
This civil settlement and the government’s intervention illustrate the government’s emphasis on combating health care fraud and mark another achievement for the Health Care Fraud Prevention and Enforcement Action Team (HEAT) initiative, which was announced in May 2009 by Attorney General Eric Holder and Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius. The partnership between the two departments has focused efforts to reduce and prevent Medicare and Medicaid financial fraud through enhanced cooperation. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Since January 2009, the Justice Department has recovered a total of more than $19 billion through False Claims Act cases, with more than $13.6 billion of that amount recovered in cases involving fraud against federal health care programs.
This case was a coordinated effort among the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the Civil Division of the United States Department of Justice, the Office of the Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services and the Office of the Oklahoma Attorney General. The lawsuit is captioned United States ex rel. Sandra Simmons v. Health Management Associates, Inc., Durant H.M.A., LLC d/b/a Medical Center of Southeastern Oklahoma, Durant HMA Physician Management, LLC and Dan J. Castro, M.D., Case No. CIV-12-043-JHP (E.D. Okla.).
Assistant United States Attorneys Susan S. Brandon and Robert Gay Guthrie are assigned to the case.
The claims settled or pursued by the government are allegations only; there has been no determination of liability.
Two Individuals Arraigned for Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
“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”
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that MICHAEL ALLEN COOPER, age 39 and AMANDA JO JONES, age 24, both of Moore, Oklahoma were arraigned in federal court today on charges of Conspiracy To Possess With Intent To Distribute And Distribute Five Hundred (500) Or More Grams Of mixture or Substance Containing a Detectable Amount of Methamphetamine, a Schedule II Controlled Substance, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A).
The Criminal Complaint filed on April 14, 2014, alleges that beginning in or about August 19, 2013, through on or about April 8, 2014, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the defendants, did willfully and knowingly combine, conspire, confederate and agree together, and with other persons known and unknown, to Possess with Intent to Distribute and Distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.
The charges arose from a joint investigation by the Tulsa Police Department, the West Siloam Springs Police Department, the Adair County Sheriff’s Office, the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, the Delaware County District Attorney’s Investigator, the District 27 District Attorney’s Drug Task Force, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, the United States Postal Inspection Service, Office of Inspector General and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearings. Both defendants were remanded into the custody of the United States Marshal Service.
The statutory range of punishment for COOPER is not less than life imprisonment and/or up to $20,000,000.00 in fines.
The statutory range of punishment for JONES is not less than 10 years imprisonment and/or up to $10,000,000.00 in fines.
First Assistant United States Attorney Doug Horn represented the United States.
Muskogee Man Sentenced to 121 Months for Brandishing A Firearm, Robbery in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that JAMAL LEE PIERCY, age 25, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 37 months imprisonment for Robbery in Indian Country, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1151, 1152 and 2111 and 84 months imprisonment to be served consecutively for Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to and in Furtherance of a Crime of Violence, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(ii). The terms of imprisonment will be followed by 3 years on supervised release.
Charges arose from an investigation by the Muscogee Creek Nation Lighthorse Police, the Muskogee Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. PIERCY was indicted in August, 2013 and pled guilty in September, 2013.
The Indictment alleged that on or about June 18, 2013, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, within Indian country, on land held in Trust by the United States of America on behalf of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, the defendant, a non-Indian, by force, violence and intimidation, took United States Currency from the presence of S.H., an Indian and did knowingly brandish and use a firearm, that is, a small caliber handgun, during and in relation to and in furtherance of a crime of violence.
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 Dean Burris represented the United States.
Eleven Individuals Arraigned in Operation "Battle of Honey Springs"Read the Press Release
“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”
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that the following individuals were arraigned on April 15, and 16, 2014, on charges of 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, 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A).
MICHAEL A. METZKER, a/k/a "Lurch", age 36, of Checotah, Oklahoma
MICHAEL W. METZKER, a/k/a "Chic", age 58, 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
STEVEN D. CARR, age 43, formerly of Checotah, Oklahoma
The Criminal Complaint filed on April 14, 2014, alleges that beginning in or about April 2013, up to and including April 14, 2014, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the defendants, did willfully and knowingly combine, conspire, confederate and agree together, and with other persons known and unknown, to Possess with Intent to Distribute and Distribute 500 grams or more of Methamphetamine.
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 coconspirators 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, presided over the hearings. All defendants were remanded into the custody of the United States Marshal Service.
The statutory range of punishment for a violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A), is not less than 10 years and not more than life imprisonment and/or up to $10,000,000.00 in fines.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.
Muskogee Man Pleads Guilty to Failure to Register as Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that JUSTIN WAYNE RIGGS, age 26, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, pled guilty to Failure to Register as Sex Offender, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2250(a)(1), 2250(a)(2)(A) and 2250(a)(3).
The charge arose from an investigation by the United States Marshal Service. The defendant was indicted in March, 2014.
The Indictment alleged that from in or about April 2013, until on or about October 16, 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 been Court-Martialed and convicted of felonies by the United States of America Department of the Army on or about May 6, 2011, for the offenses of knowing possession of images of child pornography and distribution of child pornography, knowingly failed to register and update his registration as required by the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
The Honorable Kimberly E. West, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the defendant’s 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. The defendant remains in the custody of the United States Marshal Service.
Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow represented the United States.
Spencer Man Sentenced to 262 Months for Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that MAURICE ELON EDWARDS, age 28, of Spencer, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 262 months imprisonment, followed by 4 years of supervised release for Possession of Controlled Substances with Intent to Distribute, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B)(viii) and 841(b)(1)(C) and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2.
The charge arose from an investigation by the McAlester Police Department, the Pittsburg County Sheriff’s Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration - Drug Task Force. The defendant was indicted in January, 2013 and was found guilty in September, 2013 by a federal jury along with co-defendant, ANTHONY DEXTER WASHINGTON, II, a.k.a. Tony Washington, age 27, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
The evidence presented at trial proved that on or about January 14, 2012, in McAlester, Oklahoma, the defendants, did aid and abet one another to unlawfully, knowingly and intentionally possess with the intent to distribute five (5) grams or more of actual Methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, a Schedule II controlled Substance and a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount 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 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 Kyle Waters represented the United States.
Vian Man Sentenced to 46 Months for Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that CLENTON KENDALL MCCOY, age 51, of Vian, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 46 months of 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).
Charges arose from an investigation by the Sequoyah County Sheriff’s Office. The defendant was indicted in August, 2013 and pled guilty in September, 2013.
The Indictment alleged that on or about July 1, 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 Harrington and Richardson .20 gauge single shot shotgun with no serial number, 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 Edward Snow represented the United States.
Catoosa Man Sentenced to 18 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 JAMES WILLIAM WHITE, age 46, of Catoosa, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment, followed by 5 years of supervised release for Failure to Register as a 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 and the Wagoner County Sheriff’s Department and the United States Marshal Service. The defendant was indicted in June, 2013 and pled guilty in August, 2013.
The Indictment alleged that from in or about March, 2013, until on or about June 4, 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 North Carolina on or about December 11, 2006, for the felony offense of Indecent Liberty With Child, 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 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.
Two Individuals Indicted in April Federal Grand JuryRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office announced today the results of the April 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.”
JEREMY DALE JONES, age 40, of Stilwell, OK
Kidnapping in Indian Country
Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of ViolenceThe Indictment alleges that on or about March 20, 2014, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Indian Country, the defendant, an Indian, did unlawfully, willfully and knowingly kidnap and confine B.D. and did unlawfully, willfully and knowingly brandish, carry and use a firearm, that is, two handguns and one rifle, during and in relation to a crime of violence for which he can be prosecuted in a court of the United States, that is, Kidnapping in Indian Country as alleged in Count One.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service, the Adair County Sheriff’s Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The charges are in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1153 and 1201(a)(2), punishable by up to life imprisonment and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine and Title 18, United States Code, Sections 924(c)(1)(A) and 924(c)(1)(A)(ii), punishable by not less than 7 years imprisonment and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris
JON PAUL SHROPSHIRE, age 54, of Eufaula, OK
Drug Conspiracy
The Indictment alleges that from in or about September 2011 until on or about September 26, 2012, 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 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 charge arose from an investigation by the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, the McIntosh County Sheriff’s Office, District 25 District Attorney’s Drug Task Force, Eufaula Police Department, the Mesquite Police Department in Texas and the United States Marshal Service. The charge is in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A), punishable by not less than 5 years imprisonment and/or up to a $10,000,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson
Antlers Man Pleads Guilty to Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that TROY LYNN HUGHES, age 54, of Antlers, Oklahoma, pled guilty to being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(l).
The charge is a result of an investigation by the District 17 District Attorney’s Drug Task Force, Pittsburg County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The defendant was indicted in November, 2013.
The Indictment alleged that on or about September 13, 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, 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, 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 more than 10 years imprisonment, and/or up to a $250,000 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Kyle Waters represented the United States.
Tahlequah Man Sentenced to 120 Months for Possession of Stolen FirearmRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that JUSTIN JAMES WALKER, age 28, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 120 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release Possession of Stolen Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(j).
Charges arose from an investigation by the Tahlequah Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The defendant was indicted in January, 2013 and pled guilty in October, 2013.
The Indictment alleged that on or about August 25, 2012, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did receive, conceal, store, barter, sell or dispose of a stolen firearm, to wit: Mossberg, Mode1500ATP, 12 Gauge Shotgun, bearing serial number Jl50578, which had been shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce, either before or after it was stolen, knowing or having reasonable cause to believe said firearm had been 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 prison at which he will serve his nonparolable sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Kyle Waters represented the United States.
Vian Woman Sentenced to 37 Months for Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that CORTNEY DAWN WILSON, age 22, of Vian, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 37 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release for Distribution of Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1); 841(b)(1)(C) and 18 U.S.C. Section 2.
The charges are a result from an investigation by the Sallisaw Police Department, the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The defendant was indicted in August, 2013 and pled guilty in October, 2013.
The Indictment alleged that on or about February 19, 2012, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did knowingly and intentionally distribute 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 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 Dean Burris represented the United States.
Hugo 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 SAMMY WAYNE DAVIS, age 46, of Hugo, Oklahoma, pled guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(I) and 924(e).
The charge arose from an investigation by the Hugo Police Department, the Choctaw County Sheriff’s Office and District 17 District Attorney’s Drug Task Force. The defendant was indicted in February, 2013.
The Indictment alleged that on or about June 5, 2011, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II Controlled Substance.
The Honorable Kimberly E. West, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over today’s hearing and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report. The defendant remains in the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.
The statutory range of punishment is not less than 10 years up to Life imprisonment and/or up to a $8,000,000.00 fine and up to 8 years of supervised release.
Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States.
Seminole Man Sentenced to 33 Months for Assault with A Dangerous WeaponRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that TISHOMINGO MARC WALDON, age 43, of Seminole, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 33 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 1151, 1153 and 113(a)(3).
The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The defendant was indicted in August, 2013 and pled guilty in September, 2013.
The Indictment alleged that on or about April 28, 2013, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, within Indian country, on Indian land held in Trust by the United States of America on behalf of an individual member of a federally recognized tribe, the defendant, an Indian, did willfully, deliberately, maliciously, with the intent to do bodily harm, strike R.W., about the head and body with a 2 inch by 4 inch piece of lumber and a boise d’arc walking stick.
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 Dean Burris represented the United States.
Wagoner 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 on March 25, 2014, MAURICIO ORTIZ-VARGAS, a/k/a MAURICIO ORTIZ, a/k/a MAURICIO HERNANDEZ-CHAVEZ, a/k/a MAURICIO HERNANDEZ, age 36, of Wagoner, Oklahoma, pled guilty to Conspiracy to Possess with intent to Distribute and Distribute 500 grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 846, 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A).
The charge is a result from an investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Department of Homeland Security Investigations – Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The defendant was indicted in June, 2013.
The Indictment alleged that beginning in or about 2009 until on or about April 18, 2013, the defendant conspired with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the defendant’s plea and ordered the completion of a presentence 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 $10,000,000.00 fine. Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.
McAlester Man Sentenced to 188 Months for Pseudoephedrine Possession/Distribution and RacketeeringRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that LARRY EUGENE PIRPICH, JR., age 53, of McAlester was sentenced to 188 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release for Conspiracy to Possess and Distribute Pseudoephedrine, a List I Chemical, Used to Manufacture a Controlled Substance in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, and 841(c)(2) and 10 counts of Interstate Travel in Aid of Racketeering Enterprises in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1952(a)(3).
PIRPICH was Indicted in December 2012, along with SHILA ANN PARKER, age 32, of McAlester, Oklahoma. Both defendants pled guilty in March 2013.
Charges arose from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, Bureau of Indian Affairs, McAlester Police Department, Oklahoma District Attorney District 18 Drug Task Force, Pittsburg County Sheriff’s Office, Choctaw Nation Tribal Police, Krebs Police Department, Stillwater Police Department, Shawnee Police Department, Tulsa Police Department, Broken Arrow Police Department, Kiowa Police Department, Lamar County Texas Sheriff’s Office, and Sherman, Texas Police Department.
The Indictment, alleged that beginning in or about January 2010, and continuing until in or about July 2012, the defendant conspired with others to possess and distribute a list I chemical, pseudoephedrine, knowing and having reasonable cause to believe the pseudoephedrine would be used to manufacture methamphetamine.
While residing in McAlester, Oklahoma, PIRPICH would purchase Pseudoephedrine from locations within Oklahoma, Texas, Colorado, and New Mexico for the purpose of manufacturing methamphetamine within the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere. PIRPICH possessed Oklahoma, Texas, Colorado, and Ohio state identification which enabled him to make pseudoephedrine purchases in multiple states. The defendant was aware of the pseudoephedrine purchase limits in Oklahoma and would travel to other states to make pseudoephedrine purchases when his purchase limits had been met in Oklahoma. It is a violation of Title 21 U.S.C. Section 844(a) for a person to knowingly or intentionally purchase at retail during a 30 day period more than 9 grams of pseudoephedrine.
The investigation further revealed that PIRPICH purchased in excess of 9 grams of pseudoephedrine in a single day. During the course of the conspiracy, PIRPICH individually purchased 1.82 kilograms of pseudoephedrine. At times throughout the conspiracy, PIRPICH would steal, attempt to steal or purchase items utilized in the manufacture of methamphetamine, in addition to pseudoephedrine, such as lithium batteries, camp fuel, denatured alcohol, and acetone.
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.
Mark F. Green, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, stated, “Purchasing pseudoephedrine for the manufacture of methamphetamine has become such an endemic problem within this district and throughout the country, that many states have enacted laws restricting its purchase. Oklahoma was in the forefront of states imposing these restrictions. In spite of these laws, criminals attempt to find ways to circumvent them. This case should be a powerful indication that efforts to get around these laws will not be tolerated. When efforts to evade these laws are discovered, violators will be vigorously prosecuted resulting in lengthy prison sentences.”
The investigation was a combined effort and operation coordinated by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) of the Eastern District of Oklahoma. OCDETF is an initiative led in and coordinated by the Office of the United States Attorney.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon L. Henson represented the United States.
Vian Man Pleads Guilty to Maintaining Drug Involved Premises for Manufacture, Distribution and Use of MethamphetamineRead 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, pled guilty to 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.
The Indictment alleged that during the period of on or about August 1, 2012 to on or about present date, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did knowingly and intentionally maintain a place at 307 Dennis St., Vian, Oklahoma, for the purpose of distributing, manufacturing and using methamphetamine, a Schedule II Controlled Substance.
The Honorable Kimberly E. West, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the guilty plea and ordered the completion of a presentence report. Sentencing will be scheduled following its completion. The defendant will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.
The statutory range of punishment is not more than 20 years imprisonment and/or up to a $500,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Kyle Waters represented the United States.
Muskogee Woman Sentenced to 70 Months for Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that LINDA JEAN FARIES, age 31, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 70 months imprisonment, followed by 5 years of supervised release for Drug Conspiracy, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 846.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Muskogee Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The defendant was indicted in June, 2013 and pled guilty in July, 2013.
The Indictment alleged that beginning in or about November 2012, the exact date being unknown to the Grand Jury, and continuing until on or about April 12, 2013, 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 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 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.
Calera Man Pleads Guilty to Embezzlement by Bank OfficerRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that DANIEL JAMES ABBOTT, age 32, of Calera, Oklahoma, pled guilty to an Information charging him with Embezzlement By Bank Officer Or Employee, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 656.
The charge arose from an investigation by the United States Secret Service.
The Information alleged that from on or about October 26, 2011 to on or about September 18, 2013, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, being an officer and employee of the First United Bank and Trust, Durant, Oklahoma, a bank whose deposits are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, with intent to injure and defraud First United Bank and Trust, willfully misapplied and embezzled the moneys, funds and assets belonging to said bank and entrusted to the custody and care of the defendant as an officer and employee in an amount exceeding $1,000.00.
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 its completion. The defendant remains on bond pending sentencing.
The statutory range of punishment is not more than 3 years imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release and a possible fine of up to $1,000,000.00.
Assistant United States Attorney Kyle Waters represented the United States.
Broken Arrow Man 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 that BOBBY GENE SMITH, age 43, of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, pled guilty to an Information charging him with Theft Of Government Funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 641.
The charge arose from an investigation by the United States Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General.
The Information alleged that from on or about May 8, 2010 to on or about May 7, 2011, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the Defendant, did willfully and knowingly embezzle, steal and convert to his own use, money and things of value from the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission, an agency receiving and administering funds on behalf of the United States, which had been paid to the defendant as unemployment insurance compensation benefits to which the defendant knew he was not entitled, and having a value in excess of $1,000.
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 not more than 10 years imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release and a possible fine of up to $250,000.00.
Assistant United States Attorney Kyle Waters represented the United States.
Oklahoma City Man Sentenced to 140 Months for Marijuana and Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that ANTHONY DEXTER WASHINGTON, II, a.k.a. Tony Washington, age 28, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 140 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release for Possession of Controlled Substances with Intent to Distribute, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B)(viii) and 841(b)(1)(C) and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2.
Charges arose from an investigation by the McAlester Police Department, the Pittsburg County Sheriff’s Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration - Drug Task Force. The defendant was indicted in January, 2013 and was found guilty in September, 2013 by a federal jury along with co-defendant, MAURICE ELON EDWARDS, age 29, of Spencer, Oklahoma.
The evidence presented at trial proved that on or about January 14, 2012, in McAlester, Oklahoma, the defendants, did aid and abet one another to unlawfully, knowingly and intentionally possess with the intent to distribute five (5) grams or more of actual Methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, a Schedule II controlled Substance and a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount 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 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 Kyle Waters represented the United States.
Muskogee Man Sentenced to 120 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 WILLIE LEE WARTSON, age 42, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 120 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release for Possession of Stolen Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(j).
Charges arose from an investigation by the Muskogee Police Department the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The defendant pled guilty in September, 2013.
The Information alleged that on or about February 13, 2013, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce, the following stolen firearm which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce, to-wit: one Titan, model Tiger, .38 Special caliber revolver, serial number 0095230, 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 prison at which he will serve his nonparolable sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.
Muskogee Man Sentenced to 105 Months for Marijuana and Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that HUR LEE BROWN, age 39, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 105 months imprisonment for Possession of Controlled Substances with Intent to Distribute, 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 Drug Enforcement Administration. The defendant was indicted in June, 2013 and pled guilty in July, 2013.
The Indictment alleged that on or about February 26, 2013, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, HUR LEE BROWN, defendant herein, did unlawfully, knowingly and intentionally possess with the intent to distribute a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of Methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, and a mixture of substance containing a detectable amount 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 Kyle Waters represented the United States.
Four Individuals Indicted in March Federal Grand JuryRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office announced today the results of the March 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.”
JUSTIN SLATE THRONEBERRY, age 32, of Ardmore, OK
Delay Or Destruction Of Mail By Postal Employee
The Indictment alleges that on or about December 19, 2013, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, a United States Postal Service employee, did willfully, knowingly and unlawfully secrete, destroy, detain and open a package entrusted to him and which came into his possession to be conveyed by mail, while performing his assigned duties as an employee of the United States Postal Service.
The charge arose from an investigation by the United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General. The charge is in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1703, punishable by up to 5 years imprisonment and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Chris Wilson
BILLY DON FULLER, age 47, of Spiro, OK
DONNA JEAN SCHAFER, age 53, of Spiro, OK
Drug ConspiracyPossession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to DistributeDrug Forfeiture
The Indictment alleges that 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, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendants did willfully and knowingly combine, conspire, confederate and agree together, and with others known and unknown to the Grand Jury, 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 charges arose from an investigation by the District 16 District Attorney’s Drug Task Force and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The charges are in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 846, punishable by not less than 20 years imprisonment and/or up to a $20,000,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson
DANIEL RAY JOHNSON, age 31, of McAlester, OK
Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetaminePossession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime
The Indictment alleges that on January 6, 2014, the defendant, did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute 5 grams or more of actual methamphetamine, a Schedule II Controlled Substance and from on or about January 6, 2014, to January 11, 2014 the defendant, did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine, a Schedule II Controlled Substance within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, while knowingly possessing firearms.
The charges arose from an investigation by the District 18 District Attorney’s Drug Task Force and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The charges are in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A) and 841(b)(1)(B), punishable by not less than 20 years imprisonment and/or up to a $20,000,000.00 fine and Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A), punishable by not less than 5 years imprisonment to be served consecutively to any other sentence imposed and/or up to a $250,000.00 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson
Vian Man Pleads Guilty to Maintaining Drug Involved Premises for Manufacture, Distribution and Use of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that JAMI STALEY, a.k.a. "KOUNTRY", age 31, of Vian, Oklahoma, pled guilty to Maintaining Drug Involved Premises, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 856.
The charges are a result of an investigation by the Sallisaw Police Department, the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The defendant was indicted in August, 2013.
The Indictment alleged that during the period of on or about August 1, 2012 to on or about present date, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did knowingly and intentionally maintain a place at 307 Dennis St., Vian, Oklahoma, for the purpose of distributing, manufacturing and using 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, presided over the hearing. 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 $500,000 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Kyle Waters represented the United States.
Owner of Cosmetology Schools Reaches $50,000 Settlement Regarding Submission of False Department of Education Tuition ClaimsRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma and the Department of Education announce the settlement of a civil lawsuit brought by the United States of America, acting on behalf of the U.S. Department of Education, against Shirley Zey Smith, a cosmetology school owner.
Ms. Smith was the owner, manager and operator of cosmetology schools located in Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Texas, including the School of Hair Design, Poteau Beauty College, Texarkana Cosmetology Careers, Sherman Cosmetology College, and Mena Cosmetology College. Both School of Hair Design and Poteau Beauty College were approved by the Department of Education to participate in the “Title IV Funding” program, which provides assistance to students for their tuition and fees through grant money and student loans. The other three schools were not approved to participate in “Title IV Funding”.
The lawsuit alleged Shirley Zey Smith and her staff caused students attending her three unapproved schools to submit false claims to the Department of Education, by applying for federal financial aid using the federal school code assigned to the two approved schools.
Pursuant to the settlement agreement, Smith will pay $50,000.00 in penalties and damages.
The case was investigated by the United States Department of Education Regional Inspector General’s Office located in Dallas, Texas. Assistant United States Attorney Robert Gay Guthrie represented the United States in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, located in Muskogee, Oklahoma.
Lawsuit Recovers $15,000 in Damages to Chickasaw National Recreation AreaRead the Press Release
Muskogee, Oklahoma - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma and the National Park Service announce the settlement of a civil lawsuit brought by the United States of America, acting on behalf of the National Park Service, against William T. Jester, a previous owner of land which is adjacent to Chickasaw National Recreation Area.
William T. Jester owned a vacant lot adjacent to the Chickasaw National Recreation Area overlooking the lake. The lawsuit alleged that Mr. Jester destroyed mature trees on government land adjacent to his property to improve his view of the lake.
The Government and Defendant have settled the case. Mr. Jester has paid $15,000.00 in damages to compensate the United States. The National Park Service reminds the public, that any modification to vegetation, or the terrain in general, on government property without a proper permit issued by the National Park Service, is a violation of the law.
Assistant United States Attorney Robert Gay Guthrie represented the United States.