Northern District of Oklahoma
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Vinita Man Convicted for Attempting to Sexually Entice a MinorRead the Press Release
A Vinita man was convicted in federal court for attempting to sexually entice an individual he believed to be a 14-year-old boy.
“John Flechs attempted to groom a child for sexual abuse via social media, but instead, was messaging an undercover officer with the Rogers County Sheriff’s Office,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “Law Enforcement’s online undercover work is vital to unmasking predators who may have already reached out to a child or plan to do so in the future. Because of his conduct, Flechs was convicted of attempted coercion and enticement of a minor.”
At trial, federal prosecutors argued that John William Thomas Flechs, 37, attempted to persuade, induce, entice, or coerce the “teenager” through common grooming tactics such as flattery, joking, and the introduction of sexual topics, that escalated over several days of messaging.
Starting on Jan. 15, 2021, Flechs initiated a conversation with the undercover officer. In Kik messages, Flechs complimented the “teenager” and asked him to send photographs on three occasions. Flechs further described sexual encounters he had with male relatives, introduced graphic sexual topics that would allude to sexual acts on the boy, discussed the boy’s penis size, and asked if he had ever had anal sex. He then suggested they meet.
Still posing as the 14-year-old boy, the undercover agreed to meet Flechs at a skate park. Flechs was taken into custody when he arrived at the park.
The Rogers County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Julie A. Childress and Edward Snow are prosecuting the case.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identity and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov/.
Military Dependent Found Guilty of Sexual Abuse of a Child in South KoreaRead the Press Release
A federal jury convicted a Salina, Oklahoma, man Wednesday for sexually abusing a child while the man was a military dependent at U.S. Army Garrison (USAG)-Yongsan, within the Republic of Korea, announced Assistant Attorney General Kenneth Polite and U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson for the Northern District of Oklahoma.
Derek Ray Flaming, 36, was found guilty of receipt of an obscene visual representation of the sexual abuse of children; distribution of an obscene visual representation of the sexual abuse of children; aggravated sexual abuse; and attempted sexual abuse.
“Derek Flaming sexually abused a young victim and has been convicted for his predatory acts. He now faces a minimum of 30 years and up to lifetime in prison when he is sentenced," said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “I want to thank federal prosecutors, our law enforcement partners, and the jury for hearing this child and for delivering justice on her behalf.”
According to court records and evidence presented at trial, on Nov. 18, 2016, while living in the Republic of Korea with his military spouse, Flaming attempted to sexually abuse a minor victim. Flaming admitted to law enforcement that he was nude in front of the minor victim but claimed this exposure was accidental. He also admitted to making inappropriate comments to her. Evidence at trial revealed that the defendant tried to force the minor to perform a sex act on him. When she refused, he became violent and started to strangle her. When she began screaming, he stopped.
A forensic examination of the electronic devices seized from the defendant’s residence revealed he used peer-to-peer software programs to download images and videos of child sexual abuse material. The evidence presented also showed that the defendant sent a child sexual abuse image to another person.
Following Wednesday’s guilty verdicts, the defendant was remanded into the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. He faces a mandatory sentence of 5 to 15 years of imprisonment for each of the receipt and distribution of an obscene visual representation of the sexual abuse of children charges; up to 20 years of imprisonment for the attempted sexual abuse charge, and 30 years to life imprisonment for the aggravated sexual abuse charge. A sentencing date has not been set.
MEJA gives U.S. courts jurisdiction to prosecute crimes committed outside the United States by, among others, dependents of military members accompanying the Armed Forces.
The case was investigated by the Army Criminal Investigative Command, the Justice Department’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) High Technology Investigative Unit, U.S. Marshals’ Northern Oklahoma Violent Crime Task Force and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Homeland Security Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by CEOS Trial Attorney Ralph Paradiso and Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Jolly of the Northern District of Oklahoma.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Jury Convicts Glenpool Man for Sexually Exploiting a MinorRead the Press Release
A federal jury found a Glenpool man guilty Tuesday for sexually exploiting a 16-year-old minor, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
Thomas Anthony Pearce, 54, was convicted of coercion or enticement of a minor, production of child pornography, possession of child pornography in Indian Country, and distribution of marijuana.
The crimes occurred from Feb. 3, 2021, through Feb. 8, 2021. Pearce met the victim online, coerced her into sexual activity, provided her with marijuana, and took sexually explicit photographs of the teenager. He was also found to possess additional child pornography on various electronic devices, which included images and video depicting the sexual abuse of children younger than 12 years of age.
“There are two heroes in this case: an alert Jenks police officer whose action helped protect the victim from further exploitation by Thomas Pearce and the victim who came forward and testified,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “This pedophile has been convicted thanks to the officer’s vigilance, the victim’s testimony, and the hours of work from investigators with Homeland Security Investigations and the Jenks Police Department. I am grateful for their dedicated service.”
In the early morning hours of Feb. 8, 2021, a Jenks police officer observed a suspicious white Dodge pick-up parked on a partially paved area just off a road and saw an adult male in the driver’s seat. As the officer turned around to investigate, the driver quickly drove away. The officer conducted a traffic stop and initiated contact with Pearce and a minor female in the passenger’s seat. Pearce claimed the minor was his niece but could not provide a phone number for the officer to contact the child’s parents.
During the stop, the minor victim told officers that she was high on marijuana that Pearce had given her and stated that nothing had occurred “this time” but that the defendant had zip tied her hands and took explicit pictures of her on another occasion. Pearce was taken into custody.
During a search of the vehicle at the scene, officers located marijuana, four thumb drives, a package of zip-ties, duct tape, three cell phones and other items.
The victim was later forensically interviewed. She disclosed that she and Pearce had contact on six different occasions and that Pearce’s sexual advances and abuse escalated with each encounter, to include sexually assaulting the victim, ziptying her, and taking sexually explicit photographs of her.
She stated that Pearce provided her with marijuana. He also told her to take a pill, which she refused.
On a phone found in the vehicle, investigators with Homeland Security Investigations and the Jenks Police Department discovered a file with the victim’s name on it, which contained explicit photographs depicting the sexual acts that the victim described in her interview.
In text messages between Pearce and the victim, Pearce made references to his sexual abuse of the victim, told the victim that she should take a pill that would make her feel good because “he said so,” and stated that he had had sexual encounters with other minors. When the victim texted that she did not want to meet him again, he threatened to harm her siblings.
Search warrants were also executed on Pearce’s residence in Glenpool and at two storage units in Tulsa. Officers seized a computer and numerous hard drives during the searches.
On a thumb drive seized, investigators found another file with a female’s name on it that contained sexually explicit images of a minor. The woman, now an adult, was contacted. She confirmed that she had met Pearce online while she was in high school and that Pearce had sex with her and took sexually explicit photographs. She stated that Pearce would pay her in cash, gifts, and marijuana.
Investigators also located child pornography on one of the hard drives seized. Video and image titles specifically referenced “raped teens” and other child sexual abuse.
“The Jenks Police Department was glad to be a part of this investigation from beginning to end. Our Officers and Investigators worked diligently with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and HSI to bring justice for the victims of Thomas Pearce,” said Major Melissa Brown, Patrol Division Commander for the Jenks Police Department. “We pride ourselves in our Officers’ commitment to this department and to the citizens of Jenks. There is not a prouder moment when our Officers are able to take a predator off the streets and keep our children safe. We want to thank all involved for their continuing efforts in this investigation,”
“This defendant exploited a child, violating federal statutes and destroyed the innocence of the most vulnerable members of our community,” said Christopher Miller, acting Special Agent in Charge HSI Dallas. “I am grateful for the continued vigilance and dedication of our special agents and law enforcement partners investigating this case. This perpetrator and others will be held accountable.”
Pearce was one of 33 defendants apprehended during Operation Clean Sweep. The four-month long operation focused on identifying predators who exploit children and ultimately led to the identification of 12 child victims. The operation was conducted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office and more than a dozen local, state, tribal and federal law enforcement agencies in 10 of the 11 counties in the Northern District of Oklahoma.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the Jenks Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Victor A.S. Régal and Richard M. Cella are prosecuting the case.
Federal Grand Jury B Indictments Announced- March 2022Read the Press Release
United States Attorney Clint Johnson today announced the results of the March 2022 Federal Grand Jury B.
The following individuals have been charged with violations of United States law in indictments returned by the Grand Jury. The return of an indictment is a method of informing a defendant of alleged violations of federal law, which must be proven in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt to overcome a defendant’s presumption of innocence.
Cody Dwayne Buzzard, Dakota Chase Buzzard, James William Buzzard. First Degree Murder in Indian Country; Assault with a Dangerous Weapon in Indian Country; Carrying, Using, Brandishing, and Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence (second superseding indictment). In this second superseding indictment, James Buzzard, 49, is now charged along with his sons Cody, 28, and Dakota, 20, all of Grove, with the first degree murder of Jerry Tapp. The three allegedly aided and abetted one another when they shot and killed the victim on Aug. 1, 2019. In count 2, the defendants are alleged to have aided and abetted one another to shoot a second victim during the same incident. Finally, the defendants are charged with brandishing and discharging a firearm during and relation to a crime of violence. The FBI; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, and Delaware County Sheriff’s Office are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ben Tonkin and Victor A.S. Régal are prosecuting the case. 21-CR-351
Anthony Taylor Fuller. Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury in Indian Country. On Feb. 27, 2022, Fuller, 30, of Tulsa, caused serious bodily injury when he assaulted an elderly victim. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Melody Noble Nelson is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-82
Raymond Lee Goldesberry. Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor Under 12 in Indian Country; Sexual Abuse of a Minor in Indian Country (superseding). Goldesberry, 42, of Tulsa, allegedly sexually abused a minor from May 2017 to Dec. 31, 2017. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chantelle D. Dial is prosecuting the case. 21-CR-450
Caleb Russell Klein. Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury in Indian Country. Klein, 32, of Tulsa, is alleged to have assaulted the victim on Feb. 16, 2022, causing serious bodily injury. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan H. Heatherman is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-79
Jesse Ray Matlock. Aggravated Sexual Abuse by Force and Threat in Indian Country; Assault of a Spouse, Intimate/Dating Partner by Strangling and Attempting to Strangle in Indian Country; Tampering with a Witness by Using and Threatening Physical Force; Carrying, Using, and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence. Matlock, 31, of Eucha, is alleged to have sexually assaulted the victim and strangled her on Feb. 24, 2022. He also threatened to harm the victim and her family if she reported the crime to authorities. He is further charged with carrying, using and brandishing a firearm during the crime. The FBI and Delaware County Sheriff’s Office are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven J. Briden is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-83
Jeremy Dustin Papke. Sexual Abuse of a Minor in Indian Country; Abusive Sexual Contact with a Minor in Indian Country; Coercion and Enticement of a Minor in Indian Country. From Sept.1, 2021, to Sept 30, 2021, Papke, 43, of Tulsa, allegedly engaged in a sexual act with a child who was between 12 and 16 years old. During that time, he further engaged in sexual contact with the victim. Finally, he is charged with coercing the minor into engaging in sexual activity. The FBI is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nathan E. Michel is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-84
Miguel Angel Tapia-Teran. Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; Possession of Fentanyl with Intent to Distribute (superseding). Tapia-Teran, of Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico, is charged with knowingly possessing with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. He is further charged with knowingly possessing with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. The Drug Enforcement Administration and Oklahoma Highway Patrol are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joel-lyn A. McCormick and Leah Paisner are prosecuting the case. 22-CR-50
Man Charged Along with his Sons for 2019 Delaware County MurderRead the Press Release
A Grove man has now been charged in a second superseding indictment with a 2019 Delaware County murder, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
A federal grand jury indicted James William Buzzard, 49, and his sons, Cody Dwayne Buzzard, 28, and Dakota Chase Buzzard, 20, all of Grove, with the first degree murder of Jerry Tapp.
The three men were charged with first degree murder in Indian Country; assault with a dangerous weapon in Indian Country; and carrying, using, brandishing and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. Cody and Dakota Buzzard were previously indicted in September 2021.
On Aug. 1, 2019, the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office responded to a 911 call reporting a shooting near Jay. Deputies discovered Jerry Tapp deceased in his front yard. It appeared that Tapp sustained multiple gunshot wounds to his body and that a second victim had sustained a gunshot wound to her arm. According to court documents, the victim told investigators that she heard a noise outside the home early that morning and thought Tapp had forgotten his keys to the house. When she turned on the light and opened the door, she heard gunfire and felt a sudden pain in her right wrist. She then shut and locked the front door, crawled to another room, and called 911. While investigating the crime, OSBI agents located and seized approximately 12, .22 caliber spent casings in the yard, driveway and roadway.
During an interview with authorities, Dakota Buzzard stated that he, James, and Cody Buzzard drove toward Tapp’s residence, parked up the road from the home, and waited for him to return from work. James Buzzard allegedly told his sons to retrieve a loaded .22 caliber rifle from the trunk of the car. Dakota stated that once Tapp drove by, the three men followed him to his home. After Tapp stepped out of his vehicle, prosecutors allege the Buzzards aided and abetted one another to shoot and kill Tapp and then shoot his girlfriend.
James Buzzard was initially charged by criminal complaint in February 2022 and was detained pending further criminal proceedings.
The crimes occurred within the Cherokee Nation reservation.
The FBI, Okalhoma State Bureau of Investigation, and Delaware County Sheriff’s Office are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ben Tonkin and Victor A.S. Régal are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Man Pleads Guilty for Ketamine Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A man who arranged the shipment of more than 10 kilograms of ketamine into the United States pleaded guilty this week in federal court, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
Xiao Yang Zhang, 28, a Chinese citizen living illegally in the United States, pleaded guilty to drug conspiracy.
As part of his plea agreement, Zhang admitted to participating in a plan to bring ketamine into the United States through international shipments. The ketamine was hidden in packages of retail goods so they would pass through U.S. Customs unnoticed. Zhang rented two rooms in the Tulsa area for the purpose of receiving the packages of ketamine from France and Italy. Zhang traveled to the Tulsa locations to retrieve the ketamine then transported the drug back to California for delivery to others. Zhang admitted to importing a total of 10.5 kilograms of ketamine into the United States from Europe and understood it was against the law. Zhang took part in the drug conspiracy from October 2020 to July 2021.
While ketamine has accepted medical uses for short-term sedation and anesthesia, it is also illegally distributed for its hallucinogenic affects. It has also been used to facilitate sexual assault. According to a Drug Enforcement Administration fact sheet, street names for the drug include Cat Tranquilizer, Cat Valium, Jet K, Kit Kat, Purple, Special K, Special La Coke, Super Acid, Super K, and Vitamin K. Learn more here.
In 2016, Zhang was apprehended crossing the U.S. border from Mexico. He was released pending immigration hearings but failed to appear. He is known to have lived in Hawaii and California.
Zhang will be sentenced at a later date. As part of the plea agreement, Zhang will be deported following any term of imprisonment imposed by the Court.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Customs and Border Protection are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas E. Buscemi is prosecuting the case.
Jury Convicts Man for a Shooting that Resulted in a Woman Being Struck by a BulletRead the Press Release
A federal jury today convicted a Tulsa man for taking part in a shooting that resulted in a woman being struck in the back of the head while she was driving, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
Michael Sam, 21, was found guilty of Assault with Intent to Commit Murder in Indian Country, Assault With a Dangerous Weapon in Indian Country, Assault Resulting in serious bodily injury in Indian Country, and two counts of Carrying and Using a Firearm during and in Relation to a Crime of Violence.
“Sam sought to settle a score when he recklessly shot into a car, missed his intended target, and struck a woman who was eight months pregnant. Not only did he have little regard for the individuals in the car, but he also endangered residents living in nearby homes,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “Through a continuing, robust partnership between the AFT and Tulsa Police Department, Sam and other criminals have been brought to justice for the violent gun crime they commit in Tulsa’s neighborhoods.”
On April 8, 2019, the woman drove her boyfriend to a drug deal, where he arranged to illegally purchase Xanax. Sam was one of several individuals in the dealer’s car. Sam and the boyfriend knew one another from school. The boyfriend knew Sam did not like him and tried to shake his hand, but Sam refused. The boyfriend purchased the Xanax then returned to the car with the victim.
When they drove away, the victim noticed the dealer’s car following them in the rearview mirror. When she turned into a residential neighborhood, shots were fired from the dealer’s vehicle. A bullet struck the rear windshield, causing it to shatter then strike the victim in the back of the head. The victim lost control of the vehicle and hit a mailbox before coming to a stop. The boyfriend saw the dealers car, which Sam was in, drive by the crashed vehicle.
Another bullet went into a house in the neighborhood and was stopped by a glass door. The woman who lived in that house was home at the time in her living room.
A witness called 911 to report the incident, and the victim was transported to the hospital. The victim was approximately eight months pregnant at the time of the incident. The victim’s unborn child was not harmed. As a result of her injuries, the victim’s vision was affected for a period of time, and she continues to suffer from seizures and headaches.
In court, Sam’s former girlfriend testified that she showed Sam a news report about the crime. After viewing the report, Sam told her that he and another individual had shot a pregnant woman, but the intended target was the woman’s boyfriend. She said he bragged about the shooting and pretended to be holding a gun.
At the crime scene, Tulsa police officers collected 13 spent shell casings from the street and a projectile was recovered from the victim at the hospital. Investigators determined that a .40 caliber firearm and .45 caliber firearm had been used in the shooting.
In a download of Sam’s Facebook account, investigators discovered messages in which Sam offered to sell a Glock .40 caliber pistol on April 11, 2019, just three days after the shooting. Also, a download of the cell phone belonging to Sam’s girlfriend revealed text messages from April 11, 2019, in which Sam told the woman to hide his guns in a child’s backpack in their apartment after she texted him that someone was at the door and she was concerned it was law enforcement.
On Jan. 13, 2020, law enforcement recovered a Glock Model 21, .45 caliber pistol during a traffic stop in Muskogee, Oklahoma. Forensic analysis showed that the pistol matched the cartridge casings recovered during the investigation into the Tulsa shooting. The driver, who was suspected of a separate crime, possessed the firearm but was not involved in the Tulsa shooting.
During testimony in court, an ATF Task Force Officer explained that criminals often trade, sell or dispose of firearms after they are used in high profile crimes in an effort to distance themselves from the guns and to hinder investigations. It was believed that Sam tried to do the same thing with the Glock .40 caliber pistol via Facebook just three days after the Tulsa shooting. The officer further said that the .45 caliber firearm was likely traded or sold sometime after the Tulsa shooting as well, which would explain why it was later found in Muskogee.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation, titled Operation Squeezed Out. The investigation centered on a firearms trafficking ring operating in the Northern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere.
OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
U.S. District Judge Daniel D. Crabtree, of the District of Kansas, presided over the trial. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Tulsa Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney David A. Nasar and Nathan E. Michel are prosecuting the case.
Man Pleads Guilty to Two Bank RobberiesRead the Press Release
A Bixby man pleaded guilty Thursday to robbing two Oklahoma banks of nearly $320,000, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
In a blind plea, Jerry Ray Brown, 44, admitted to two counts of bank robbery through the use of intimidation. Brown lived in Skiatook at the time of the robberies and later in Bixby while criminal proceedings were pending.
“Jerry Brown robbed two banks, and while awaiting federal court proceedings for those crimes, he attempted to stage his own kidnapping to avoid prosecution. He ultimately fled to Kansas where he was apprehended for a second time,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “Thanks to a concerted law enforcement effort from Oklahoma to Kansas, Jerry Ray Brown has been brought to justice.”
“The FBI will continue to aggressively investigate violent crimes such as the ones committed by Mr. Brown,” said Edward Gray, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Oklahoma City Division. “Anyone who carries out such menacing behavior and inflicts such trauma on innocent citizens has no right to be in our communities.”
Brown admitted to robbing Oklahoma Capital Bank in Skiatook on March 12, 2020, and Exchange Bank in Sperry on May 7, 2020. In both robberies, Brown demanded bank employees take him to their vaults and open their ATMs.
Bank tellers and surveillance video at both locations described or showed the suspect as being around 6 feet tall and weighing between 200 and 250 pounds. The suspect wore a black mask, distinctive black and gray gloves with a yellow logo; carried a black backpack; and drove a silver SUV. One of the tellers at the Skiatook bank suggested the robber’s mannerisms and build reminded her of Jerry Brown, who banked there.
During the investigation, law enforcement was able to link Brown to the robberies and arrested him. He was charged in federal court on Oct. 27, 2020, and later released while awaiting further criminal proceedings in the case.
On Oct. 25, 2021, authorities initially received a report that Jerry Brown was potentially kidnapped from his residence in Bixby in the early morning hours. Later that morning, Nowata police officers initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle registered to Brown and alleged that Brown eluded officers and disappeared. Just after 8 am, Brown was arrested by the Lyon County Sheriff’s Office in Kansas for the alleged theft of gasoline, evading authorities, and other charges. Brown was later returned to federal custody.
Brown’s likely motive for the robberies was to alleviate the numerous professional and personal financial problems he had been experiencing.
The FBI, Skiatook Police Department, and Owasso Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan M. Roberts is prosecuting the cases.
Federal Grand Jury A Indictments Announced- March 2022Read the Press Release
United States Attorney Clint Johnson today announced the results of the March 2022 Federal Grand Jury A.
The following individuals have been charged with violations of United States law in indictments returned by the Grand Jury. The return of an indictment is a method of informing a defendant of alleged violations of federal law, which must be proven in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt to overcome a defendant’s presumption of innocence.
Jose Guadalupe Campos Lopez. Sexual Abuse of a Minor in Indian Country (Count 1); Coercion and Enticement of a Minor (Counts 2,3); Sex Trafficking of Children (Counts 4,5). Campos, 35, is alleged to have engaged in sexual acts with a minor victim between the ages of 12 and 16, from Jan. 1, 2019, to Oct. 11, 2021. He is further charged with enticing the same victim and a second minor victim to engage in sexual activity. Finally, Campos allegedly recruited the two victims to engage in commercial sex acts. He allegedly provided money and other items as payment in return for the minors performing sex acts with him. The FBI and Mayes County Sheriff’s Office are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gina S. Gilmore is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-71
Dakota Wayne Campus. Assault of an Intimate/Dating Partner by Strangling and Attempting to Strangle in Indian Country; Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country; Carrying, Using, and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence; Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition. Campus, 27, of Tulsa, is charged with strangling an intimate partner on Feb. 4, 2022. He is further charged with assaulting the victim with a dangerous weapon and with carrying, using and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. Finally, he is charged with being a felon in possession of a Taurus Int. 9 mm caliber pistol and 10 rounds of ammunition. Neighbors in the apartment complex called authorities with reports of hearing a violent attack. Campus allegedly fled when authorities arrived but was located on Feb. 11 and taken into custody after a chase. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stacey P. Todd is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-64
Carlos Montil Cobb. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition; Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime. Cobb, 44, of Tulsa, is charged with being a felon in possession of a Fabrique Nationale 9 mm caliber semi-automatic pistol and seven rounds of ammunition on Feb. 10, 2022. He is further charged with knowingly possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine on Feb. 10, 2022, and with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam C. Bailey is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-72
Tye Dean Lewis Ross Cody. Involuntary Manslaughter in Indian Country. Cody, 21, of Nowata, was allegedly speeding and unlawfully passed another vehicle. Cody’s vehicle struck one motorist’s vehicle as he attempted to pass it and then collided head-on with a second vehicle, killing the driver. The incident occurred on May 28, 2020, in Nowata County. The FBI and Oklahoma Highway Patrol are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon A. Skates is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-63
Derek Ray Flaming. Receipt of an Obscene Visual Representation of the Sexual Abuse of Children; Distribution of an Obscene Visual Representation of the Sexual Abuse of Children; Aggravated Sexual Abuse; Assault with Intent to Commit Sexual Abuse; Attempted Sexual Abuse (second superseding). Flaming, 35, of Salina, Oklahoma, allegedly received and later distributed an image depicting a minor child engaged in sexually explicit conduct from Feb. 1, 2016, to Nov. 29, 2016. He is also charged with engaging in a sexual act with a minor under 12 years of age from May 1, 2015, to Oct. 23, 2016. He is further charged with assaulting a minor victim under the age of 12 with intent to commit aggravated sexual abuse from Nov. 1 through Nov. 16, 2016. Finally, he is charged with attempting to sexually abuse the child on Nov. 18, 2016. Flaming allegedly committed the crimes when he was a dependent of a U.S. Armed Forces member. The Army Criminal Investigative Command, CEOS High Technology Investigative Unit, U.S. Marshals’ Northern Oklahoma Violent Crime Task Force and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Homeland Security Investigations are the investigative agencies. CEOS Trial Attorney Ralph Paradiso and Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron M. Jolly of the Northern District of Oklahoma are prosecuting the case. See the June 28, 2021 press release announcing the initial indictment. 21-CR-281
Anthony James Nadolny. First Degree Burglary in Indian Country; Third Degree Burglary in Indian Country. On Dec. 17, 2019, Nadolny, 33, of Tulsa, allegedly broke into a home with the intent to commit a crime. He also broke into an automobile in the garage. Nadolny allegedly stole numerous items to include a firearm, credit cards, a tool set, personal documents, and more. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney George Jiang is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-65
Vernon Jenedia Neel. Aggravated Sexual Abuse by Force in Indian Country; Assault with Intent to Commit Aggravated Sexual Abuse by Force in Indian Country; Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury in Indian Country; Robbery in Indian Country; First Degree Burglary in Indian Country; Assault of an Intimate/Dating Partner by Strangling and Attempting to Strangle in Indian Country (second superseding). Neel, 42, a transient, is alleged to have held a victim down, choked her, then struck her in the face as he attempted to sexually assault her on July 3, 2021. Neel is also alleged to have taken the victim’s cell phone, keys, and BB gun by force and intimidation. Neel is further charged with first degree burglary for kicking in the door of a second woman’s home while the home was occupied on April 4, 2021. Finally, he is charged with assaulting a third victim, who was an intimate partner, by strangling her on Sept. 27, 2017. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stacey P. Todd and Vani Singhal are prosecuting the case. 21-CR-362
Kishan Harkishonbhai Panchal. Making a False Statement to a Firearms Dealer. Panchal, 26, of Broken Arrow, allegedly lied on federal forms, specifically the AFT Form 4473, when he attempted to purchase a firearm from Quik Fix Gun and Pawn in Bristow. Panchal marked that he had never been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence when, in truth, he had been convicted of Domestic Assault and Battery Against a Pregnant Woman in Osage County District Court in September 2020. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam C. Bailey is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-62
Richard Alan Stewart. Felon in Possession of Firearms and Ammunition; Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; Carrying a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime; Carrying, Using, and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime; Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime. Stewart, 50, of Miami, Oklahoma, is charged with being a felon in possession of a Spike’s Tactical Model ST15 multi-caliber semi-automatic rifle and with carrying the firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on Nov. 13, 2019. He allegedly possessed 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on Nov. 13, 2019. Stewart is further charged with being a felon in possession of a Smith and Wesson .380 caliber pistol, a Smith and Wesson .45 caliber revolver and a Heritage .22 caliber revolver and with possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on March 18, 2021. Stewart allegedly possessed with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine on March 18, 2021. Stewart is further charged with being a felon in possession of a Ruger EC9s 9 mm caliber pistol and seven rounds of ammunition and with possessing the firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on May 17, 2021. Stewart allegedly possessed with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on May 17, 2021. The Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Oklahoma Highway Patrol, and the Oklahoma District 13 Drug Task Force are the investigative agencies. This indictment resulted from an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force investigation “Operation Pullin Chains.” Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle McWaters is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-74
Nicholas Chase Washington. Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country (superseding). Washington, 36, of Tulsa, allegedly assaulted the victim with a dangerous weapon with intent to do bodily harm on Jan. 10, 2022. The FBI is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Shannon Cozzoni is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-55
Zane David Williams. Theft from a Gaming Establishment on Indian Lands of More Than $1,000. On Feb. 22, 2022, Williams, 35, of Harrison, Arkansas, allegedly stole property worth more than $1,000 from a casino operated by the Quapaw Nation. The FBI and Quapaw Tribal Marshals Service are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alex M. Scott is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-75
James Edward Wise. Possession of an Unregistered Rifle Having a Barrel of Less Than 16 Inches in Length. Wise, 44, of Tulsa, is charged with possessing an Izimash 7.62 X 39 caliber semi-automatic rifle having a barrel of less than 16 inches in length that was not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney John E. Brasher is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-76
Federal Jury Convicts Pryor Man of Sexually Abusing Two of his ChildrenRead the Press Release
TULSA, Okla. – A Pryor man was convicted Thursday in federal court for repeatedly sexually abusing two of his daughters for approximately 10 years, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. In 2020 when the two victims were adults, they came forward to report the abuse.
A federal jury found Keith Duane Parnell, 49, guilty of three counts of aggravated sexual abuse of a minor under 12 in Indian Country and four counts of sexual abuse of a minor in Indian Country.
“For years, Keith Parnell violated the trust and innocence of two children,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “This week, a federal jury evaluated the evidence and convicted Parnell of these grievous crimes. I am thankful for the jury’s service and for the exemplary work done in this case by the Pryor Police Department, FBI, and federal prosecutors Reagan Reininger and Chantelle Dial.”
“The details of this case are stomach-turning and serve as a prime example of how children can be victimized in the safety of their own homes,” said Edward Gray, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Oklahoma City Division. “We must do better as adults in protecting innocent children because even one being victimized by a predator is too many. A first step in helping someone who may be a victim: Call 1-800-CALL-FBI if you, or someone you know, has suffered sexual abuse.”
Parnell began sexually abusing the two minor victims at approximately 5 years of age. The victims described Parnell as a good dad who was trusted and was always “nice about the sexual abuse.” Over the next ten years, the abuse escalated and included Parnell repeatedly forcing the victims to perform oral sex on him and also penetrating the victims’ genitals with his penis and fingers. Neither child knew the other was also being abused. They had hoped by enduring the abuse, they were protecting their siblings. As a teenager, one of the victims tried to tell a relative about the sexual abuse. A witness for the prosecution, who was there the night the disclosure occurred, corroborated the victim’s account. At trial, the victim testified that multiple relatives told her it was too late for police to do anything and that it was a family embarrassment, eventually resulting in her recanting the allegations.
The two victims struggled to cope with the abuse they endured from Parnell, and as teenagers, each attempted suicide. Neither victim reported the abuse to authorities until they were adults.
Often in cases of child sexual abuse, victims may not come forward when they are young to disclose the abuse. Victims may not report for various reasons that may include: feelings of shame, fear of being blamed, fear of their abuser, fear of the break-up of their family, fear of others not believing them, pressure from others not to report the crimes, or they may look up to their abuser.
In August 2020, one of the victims described in detail the abuse both victims endured as children in a Facebook post. A Pryor Police detective was alerted about the post, began an investigation into the allegations, and interviewed the two victims and others.
In closing, the defense called into question the victims’ motives and surmised the claims were lies and mudslinging made up in an attempt to get back at Parnell due to a recent rift that was forming between Parnell and one of the victims. He also questioned why they did not go to authorities and why they maintained a relationship with their abuser.
Prosecutors argued in closing statements that the victims could be believed-- that their first sexual experiences, starting at the age of five, were sexual assaults committed by their own father. They stated that much of the victims’ testimony was corroborated by witnesses for both the defense and prosecution. Prosecutors further described a home in chaos where the victims did not feel safe and lived in constant fear of losing their family or being punished. They were afraid of their parents but also afraid to lose their siblings, the parents they did have, and their home. Prosecutors stated the victims’ accounts were credible and asked the jury to find Parnell guilty.
The FBI and Pryor Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Reagan V. Reininger and Chantelle D. Dial are prosecuting the case.
Sapulpa Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Prison for Sexually Abusing Two ChildrenRead the Press Release
A Sapulpa man, who was arrested after a young child ran away from him and reported his sex abuse crimes to a federal agent in a restaurant parking lot, was sentenced Wednesday for sexually abusing two young victims, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced Andrew Lee Gibbs, 64, to 30 years in federal prison followed by five years of supervised release.
“A young victim ran from her abuser Andrew Gibbs unknowingly into the hands of a Homeland Security Investigations agent with 10 years of experience working crimes against children,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “Every day, I am reminded of the strength exhibited by victims of crime and of the dedication exhibited by agents and officers sworn to protect communities across Oklahoma. Both are critical to the successful prosecution of dangerous criminals.”
In October 2021, a federal jury found Gibbs guilty of abusive sexual contact of a minor in Indian Country and aggravated sexual abuse of a minor in Indian Country.
The jury found that on March 7, 2021, Gibbs knowingly touched the first victim in a sexual manner. They further found that on the same day, the defendant sexually abused a second child, who was also under the age of 12. After the sexual assaults, one of the children broke away from Gibbs, and eventually ran up to a man in a restaurant parking lot, told him that the defendant did an “unsafe touch,” and begged the man for help. The man, who happened to be a Homeland Security Investigations special agent, then called 911. Gibbs soon arrived, but the child accused him of abuse. He left then returned a few minutes later with the child’s mother. When she heard of the abuse, she removed her remaining children from his vehicle.
A Child Abuse Forensic Interviewer later spoke with both victims who stated that Gibbs, an adult they had trusted, sexually abused them in his vehicle during an outing to a park. Following the visit to the park, Gibbs took the children to a nearby store where one ran away and sought help.
"These young victims should have been enjoying time with friends and going to school, not worrying about being abused for Mr. Gibbs' own sexual gratification" said Edward Gray, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Oklahoma City Division. "The potential damage done to the children by his depravity will likely outlast his punishment. Help us protect our community's children by reporting other violent predators to your local law enforcement agency or the FBI."
The FBI and Tulsa Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Valeria Luster and Chantelle D. Dial prosecuted the case.
Woman Sentenced for Embezzling $429,732 from her Small Business EmployerRead the Press Release
A woman was sentenced Wednesday in federal court for stealing $429, 732 from a veteran-owned small business in operation for 38 years, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced Carol A. Broyles, 49, of Tulsa, to 27 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release. She was further ordered to pay $429,732 in restitution to the business owners.
“Carol Broyles embezzled almost $430,000 from her employers, who treated her like family,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “She repaid them by violating their trust and gambling away their hard-earned profits. She will now spend more than two years in prison to account for her corrupt actions.”
“Ms. Broyles’ theft has negatively affected multiple people for the rest of their lives,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher J. Altemus Jr., Dallas Field Office. “Her greed has destroyed a business and the owners who trusted her to help protect it. This sentencing should give her time to consider her actions and detour criminals from committing similar crimes.”
Broyles pleaded guilty on Nov. 3, 2021, to wire fraud and to subscribing to a false tax return. She admitted that while employed at a small business in Tulsa from January 2012, through October 2016, she devised a scheme to misappropriate the businesses’ funds to enrich herself and to pay for personal expenses. She used her access to the company’s cash collections to take funds, and she cashed several checks from the company’s account.
Broyles further admitted that she did not report the misappropriated funds on her 2015 tax form. Boyles knowingly failed to report $86,081 in stolen funds, and signed the form under penalty of perjury.
At sentencing, the victims described the financial devastation incurred because of Broyles’ criminal acts. Additionally, Assistant U.S. Attorney Reagan Reininger pointed to Broyles’ lack of personal accountability. She noted that Broyles claimed to have stolen the money to pay for expensive family medical bills, but instead Broyles spent nearly all the money gambling. She further noted that since Broyles became aware of the criminal investigation and throughout criminal proceedings, Broyles made little to no effort to make any restitution to the victims.
IRS-Criminal Investigation and the FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Reagan V. Reininger prosecuted the case.
Tulsa Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
A Tulsa man who repeatedly sexually abused a child under the age of 12 was sentenced Thursday in federal court, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
Chief U.S. District Judge John F. Heil III sentenced Joshua David Slinkard, 41, to life in federal prison and a lifetime supervised release.
On Sept. 2, 2021, Slinkard pleaded guilty to two counts of aggravated sexual abuse of a minor in Indian Country and one count of possession of child pornography. Slinkard later tried to withdraw his plea, but his request was denied.
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office, FBI, and Tulsa Police Department are committed to seeking justice on behalf of children who have suffered at the hands of sexual predators like Joshua Slinkard. This life sentence serves as a reminder that such criminal behavior will not be tolerated,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
“The FBI works tirelessly in collaboration with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to ensure child predators face justice for their unspeakable crimes,” said Edward J. Gray, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office. “This sentencing reaffirms our unwavering commitment to protecting our most vulnerable citizens from abuse and exploitation.”
In a sentencing memorandum, Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Childress called Slinkard a danger to all children. She stated that Slinkard’s criminal history exhibited “a predilection to sexually abuse children.” In addition to abusing the victim in this case, Slinkard also touched the victim’s eight-year-old friend inappropriately and was convicted in Mayes County for an offense that involved him touching a 5-year-old child. Childress further noted that Slinkard was found to be in possession of child pornography.
The abuse charged in this case occurred from Jan. 1, 2009, through Nov. 26, 2010. According to court documents, the victim was frequently left in Slinkard’s care. Slinkard sexually abused the victim and often called her derogatory names.
The defendant warned the victim not to tell anyone. When she did, he consistently attempted to discredit the child’s pleas for help. The child repeatedly reported the abuse to her mother and other family members, but she was not believed.
In 2011, the child finally disclosed the abuse to a school counselor after watching a school presentation about sexual abuse. The counselor contacted authorities, and Slinkard was arrested. Even after his arrest, Slinkard attempted to obstruct justice by writing a letter to the child’s mother pleading with her to convince the child to say she lied about the abuse.
During the investigation, law enforcement also found Slinkard to be in possession of video files containing the sexual abuse of children, including those of children who were younger than 12 years of age.
At the sentencing hearing, the victim, now an adult, emphasized that when a child discloses abuse, others need to listen to them and believe them. The victim further stated that although it has been difficult, she is striving to live a full life by working and taking college courses.
In 2011, Slinkard pleaded guilty to sexual abuse and child pornography charges in Tulsa County District Court, but the conviction was subsequently dismissed based on the Supreme Court’s decision in McGirt v Oklahoma. Because the crime occurred within the boundaries of the Muscogee Nation reservation and the defendant is an enrolled tribal citizen, the federal government prosecuted the case.
The FBI and Tulsa Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie A. Childress prosecuted the case.
Man Who Threatened to Kidnap and Kill his Former Girlfriend SentencedRead the Press Release
A 35-year-old Tulsa man who strangled his former girlfriend and later attempted to kidnap her was sentenced Wednesday in federal court, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
U.S. District Judge Claire V. Eagan sentenced David Samuel Boggs Jr. to 121 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release.
“The facts of this case are disturbing. David Boggs strangled a victim until she passed out, located the victim at a hospital days later where she was being treated, and was apprehended by police outside the hospital with a ‘kill kit,’” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “Tulsa Police Officers’ vigilance and swift action saved this victim’s life. I am thankful for our law enforcement partners and their commitment to serve and protect those living in communities across northeastern Oklahoma.”
Boggs Jr. previously pleaded guilty to felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, assault of an intimate/dating partner by strangling and attempting to strangle in Indian Country, and attempted kidnapping in Indian Country.
On June 10, 2020, Boggs Jr. violated a protective order when he drug his former girlfriend from her hotel room, strangled her until she passed out, then kicked her in the head while wearing steel toe boots.
Then on July 17, 2020, while the victim was being treated at a local hospital, Boggs Jr. contacted her and told her he was going to pick her up at the hospital, tie her up, and then take her where no one could hear her scream. She alerted law enforcement, and officers from the Tulsa Police Department began searching for the defendant. Officers located and stopped the defendant in a vehicle just outside the hospital. In the vehicle, officers located the loaded pistol, a change of clothes, binoculars, a wood hacksaw, an aluminum baseball bat and a cell phone, all which pointed to the fact the defendant intended to harm the victim.
Boggs Jr. admitted in his plea agreement that he had contacted the victim that day and told her he was going to kidnap then kill her. He stated that he borrowed a friend’s car and FMK .9mm caliber pistol and drove to the hospital to kidnap the victim. He knew the pistol was loaded with 11 rounds of ammunition and that he was prohibited from possessing a firearm and ammunition because he was a felon.
The FBI and Tulsa Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Steven J. Briden and Jessica L. Wright prosecuted the case.
Woman Sentenced for Taking Part in a Robbery that Resulted in the Victim being StabbedRead the Press Release
A 24-year-old Sand Springs woman who aided her boyfriend in a 2018 robbery was sentenced Tuesday in federal court, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
“Tori Lasley knowingly took part in a planned robbery and consequently will be incarcerated for seven years,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “Federal prosecutors and our partners at the FBI and Tulsa Police Department will vigorously pursue and hold accountable individuals who commit violent crime within our community.”
U.S. District Judge Claire V. Eagan sentenced Tori Lynn Lasley to seven years in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release.
Lasley pleaded guilty on Nov. 3, 2021, to robbery in Indian Country. In her plea agreement, Lasley admitted that she aided Peyton Drew Keele, 32, of Tryon, in robbing the victim on May 28, 2018. She stated that they went to the victim’s apartment, and once inside, Keele stabbed the victim in the leg so the two defendants could take items of value from the victim and his home. Lasley admitted that she knew what Keele was going to do and intentionally participated in the robbery.
According to court documents, the victim was suffering from a stab wound to the leg when officers responded to the scene. The victim reported that Keele, also known as “Duck,” and his girlfriend Lasley had entered his apartment under the ruse of returning a cell phone they had previously stolen from him.
Keele then demanded to know where the money was that the victim’s wife had recently won while gambling. The victim indicated he no longer had the money, and Keele stabbed him in the leg. The couple then stole numerous items belonging to the victim. As he was leaving, Keele told the victim, “No hard feelings.” Items stolen included jewelry, a wallet, a cell phone, an antique revolver and the victim’s car.
During the investigation, officers discovered Lasley had been arrested while driving a vehicle without a valid driver’s license. A vehicle inventory was conducted prior to the vehicle being towed. That inventory listed multiple items that were known to have been taken during the robbery.
Lasley is a citizen of the Seminole Nation, and the crime occurred within the boundaries of the Muscogee Nation reservation.
The FBI and Tulsa Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas E. Buscemi is prosecuting the case.
Federal Jury Convicts Miami Man for Assaulting and Paralyzing a Vo-Tech ClassmateRead the Press Release
A man was convicted Friday in federal court for paralyzing a fellow student when he picked him up and slammed him head-first onto the ground during a surprise attack in 2017, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
A federal jury found Jace Christian Williams, 23, of Miami, Oklahoma, guilty of maiming in Indian Country. The defendant also opted to plead guilty just before closing arguments to the charge of assault resulting in serious bodily injury in Indian Country.
“Jace Williams’ anger and ego led to an assault that paralyzed his victim. His conduct was intentional, violent and criminal,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “The FBI, Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office and federal prosecutors are to be commended for their investigation and prosecution of this case.”
The victim and defendant knew one another and attended the same technical school in Afton. In the days leading up to the crime, Williams expressed anger toward the victim because he felt the victim had interfered and ruined Williams’ chances of having a sexual encounter with two women. The defendant shared his frustration with fellow classmates. Williams told one student that he was going to make sure the victim couldn’t “use his arms or legs for five months.”
On Nov. 3, 2017, another classmate drove Williams and two friends to watch a fight that was slated to happen between two different men at E. 200 Rd in Afton. The driver sat in his truck and scrolled through his phone after arriving. The victim and multiple other students also drove to the location to watch the fight.
As the victim and other students assembled in a circle waiting for the fight to begin, multiple witnesses from different vantage points saw Williams suddenly approach the victim from behind in a surprise attack.
Before the victim could turn around, Williams wrapped his arms around the victim’s body, lifted him backward and slammed him head-first onto the ground. The maneuver was similar to what is commonly referred to as a “suplex.” Once the victim was on the ground then on his stomach, Williams proceeded to punch the victim in the back repeatedly then spat on him.
Williams’ two friends then returned to the truck and told the driver Williams had jumped the victim and that it was bad. Soon after, Williams entered the truck, breathing heavily, and demanded the driver take him home. The driver testified that Williams ripped off his own shirt and bragged that what he had done to the victim was “fun” and that he wanted to do it again. The driver said he feared the defendant at that point and complied.
A witness to the crime called 911 and waited for paramedics to arrive. The victim was transported to a hospital in Joplin, Missouri. The victim sustained a C6-7 fracture-subluxation with bilateral locked facets and paralysis as a result of the injuries inflicted by Williams. The victim remains paraplegic.
The crime occurred within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation reservation. The FBI and Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Richard M. Cella and Brandon A. Skates are prosecuting the case.
Federal Grand Jury B Indictments Announced- February 2022Read the Press Release
United States Attorney Clint Johnson today announced the results of the February 2022 Federal Grand Jury B.
The following individuals have been charged with violations of United States law in indictments returned by the Grand Jury. The return of an indictment is a method of informing a defendant of alleged violations of federal law, which must be proven in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt to overcome a defendant’s presumption of innocence.
Earl Dean Baker III. Aggravated Sexual Abuse by Force and Threat in Indian Country (Count 1); Sexual Abuse by Threat and Fear in Indian Country (Count 2); Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition (Counts 3,4); Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute (Count 5) (superseding). Baker, 33, of Tulsa, allegedly raped and threatened a woman on Nov. 3, 2021. In this superseding indictment, he is further charged with two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. He possessed Taurus 605 Protector Poly .38 SPL+P caliber revolver on June 21, 2021, and a SCCY CPX-2 9mm caliber semi-automatic pistol on Aug. 9, 2019. Finally he is charged with being in possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. The FBI, Tulsa Police Department, and Muscogee Nation Lighthorse Police Department are the investigative Agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie A. Childress is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-02
Zane Paul Bennett. Unlawfully Making a Destructive Device. Bennett, 20, of Broken Arrow, is alleged to have knowingly and unlawfully made a destructive device, described as cardboard tubes secured together with black roofing tape, having a cannon fuse attached, and containing a pyrotechnic explosive and shrapnel consisting of rivets, fishhooks, and screws. The device was found on Jan. 24, 2022, during a traffic stop. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Broken Arrow Police Department, Tulsa Police Department and Oklahoma Highway Patrol are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert T. Raley and Christopher J. Nassar are prosecuting the case. See Complaint press release here. 22-CR-56
Kevin Lynn Greer. Felon in Possession of a Firearm; Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute; Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime; Receipt and Distribution of Child Pornography; Possession of Child Pornography in Indian Country (superseding). Greer, 50, of Collinsville, is newly charged in this superseding indictment with knowingly receiving and distributing images and video files of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct and with knowingly possessing and accessing the child sexual abuse material. Greer is also charged with being a felon in possession of two Remington 30-06 caliber rifles, a DoubleStar Corp 5.56mm caliber rifle, a Ruger .380 caliber pistol, a Smith & Wesson .45 auto caliber pistol, a Ruger 9mm pistol, a Taurus .357 Magnum caliver revolver, and 674 rounds of ammunition. He is further charged with possession with intent to distribute less than 50 kilograms of marijuana on Nov. 10, 2021. Finally, he is charged with possessing the firearms to further his illegal marijuana operation. The FBI executed federal search warrants on Greer’s Collinsville home and business on Nov. 10, 2021. According to a criminal complaint, agents located the firearms, ammunition and 4 kilograms of marijuana packaged in 41 plastic bags. The FBI is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alex M. Scott is prosecuting the case. 21-CR-527
Britney Kay Hays. Financial Institution Fraud (1-4); Mail Fraud (Count 5); False Statements (Counts 6-10); Aggravated Identity Theft (Count 15); Failure to Appear (Count 16) (superseding). Hays, 29, of Tulsa, is newly charged in this superseding indictment with failing to appear for a pre-trial conference scheduled for Jan. 5, 2022, in federal court. Hays allegedly carried out a scheme to enrich herself. She fraudulently opened various accounts with another individual’s personal identifying information, such as date of birth, social security number and address, to conduct financial transactions on the internet or to make in-person purchases using debit or credit cards issued for the opened accounts. Hays further forged checks addressed to herself for deposit at various financial institutions or unlawfully paid to others on her behalf. Hays used the fraudulently opened accounts to conduct a series of purchases and transactions which caused an aggregate loss in the approximate total amount of at least $11,024.03. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney David D. Whipple is Prosecuting the case. 21-CR-360
Robert William Perry II. Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor Under 12 in Indian Country; Abusive Sexual Contact of a Minor in Indian Country (superseding). Perry II, 31, is charged with sexually abusing a child under 12 years of age from May 6, 2017, to May 15, 2018. In this superseding indictment, count one has been updated to reflect the minor was under 12 years of age. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alex M. Scott and Valeria G. Luster are prosecuting the case. 20-CR-218
Jose Luis Suazo-Martinez. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Martinez, 21, of Tulsa, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after he was previously removed on July 15, 2020, at or near Dallas, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles M. McLoughlin is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-54
Miguel Angel Tapia-Teran. Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute. Tapia-Teran, 33, of Hermosillo, Mexico, is charged with knowingly possessing with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine on Jan. 25, 2022. He is further charged with knowingly possessing with intent to distribute 500 grams of cocaine the same day. The Drug Enforcement Administration and Oklahoma Highway Patrol are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joel-lyn A. McCormick and Leah Paisner are prosecuting the case. 22-CR-50
Russell Wayne Toppah. Sexual Abuse of an Incapable Victim in Indian Country. On July 18, 2016, Toppah, 47, of Tulsa, knowingly sexually assaulted a victim who was incapacitated and incapable of providing consent. The FBI and Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Melody Noble Nelson is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-53
Xiao Yang Zhang. Drug Conspiracy (Count 1) Smuggling Goods into the United States (Counts 2,4,6); Importation of Ketamine (Counts 3,5, 7) Zhang, 28, a Chinese citizen living illegally in the United States, is charged with knowingly and intentionally conspiring with others to possess with the intent to distribute ketamine. Zhang is alleged to have fraudulently and knowingly caused the drug to be brought into the United States. Various packages were allegedly mailed to Zhang disguised as retail goods but also contained hidden ketamine. The packages were intercepted on March 24, 25, and 30. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Customs and Border Protection are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas E. Buscemi is prosecuting the case. 21-CR-329
Claremore Man Convicted of 2018 Sexual AssaultRead the Press Release
A federal jury found a Claremore man guilty Wednesday for sexually assaulting a woman in 2018, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
Travis Carl Condry, 29, was convicted of aggravated sexual abuse by force and threat in Indian Country.
“Travis Condry is a rapist who believed that ‘stop doesn’t always mean stop,’” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “Today, a federal jury upheld the law and brought Condry to justice for his criminal sexual conduct.”
The victim and defendant knew one another prior to the crime, and on Dec. 21, 2018, Condry violated the victim’s trust and raped her. The encounter was initially consensual, although the victim was hesitant. The victim quickly withdrew consent as he started to have sex with her. Condry placed his phone on the bed and recorded the incident. The camera did not capture video of the crime, but the audio recorded what occurred. During the incident, the victim told Condry “you can’t do this,” “no,” “please stop,” and “I’m serious.” Condry could also be heard saying “Don’t run away” as the victim tried to pull away from him. The defendant continued to rape the victim while she repeatedly screamed and pleaded for Condry to stop for almost five minutes. Eventually, Condry relented and told the victim she would have to provide oral sex all night instead.
The victim told Condry she felt like she had been assaulted and left immediately after the crime. As the victim left, Condry told her to “snap me, text me, or don’t.”
The victim then called two friends to relay what happened as she drove home. Both friends testified to how distraught the victim was that night. The victim then reported the crime to the Claremore Police Department and consented to a sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE) examination at the hospital.
Officers interviewed Condry the following day. During the interview, Condry said that he had been drinking and the encounter was consensual sex. He further told investigators that the victim told him to stop but he did not stop right away. He stated that in his opinion “stop doesn’t always mean stop.”
In closing, Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Briden reminded the jury that no means no, stop means stop, and crying and pleading means stop. He suggested that Condry doesn’t believe “stop means stop” because it would prevent him from getting what he wants.
Condry will be sentenced on July 12, 2022.
The crime was initially charged in Rogers County District Court, but the charges were dismissed based on the Supreme Court’s decision in McGirt v Oklahoma and subsequent court decisions. Because the crime occurred within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation reservation and Condry is an enrolled tribal citizen, the federal government prosecuted the case.
The FBI and Claremore Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Steven J. Briden and Valeria G. Luster are prosecuting the case.
Tulsa Man Sentenced for the Assault and Attempted Kidnapping of an Intimate PartnerRead the Press Release
A Tulsa man who assaulted and attempted to kidnap his intimate partner then tried to convince her to lie to authorities about the incident was sentenced Thursday in federal court, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced Derek Lee Lovell, 37, to 80 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release.
“Derek Lovell assaulted his partner, attempted to drag her to their car against her will, then tried to manipulate her into lying to protect him from prosecution,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson “The U.S. Attorney’s Office will not tolerate domestic violence in Indian Country.”
In October, a federal jury convicted Lovell of attempted kidnapping in Indian Country; assault with intent to commit a felony; and attempting to influence, delay, and prevent testimony through corrupt persuasion.
On Jan. 28, 2021, the Tulsa Police Department responded to a Burger King near 1100 S. Harvard Ave. and 3242 E. 11th Street. Callers provided information that a man was assaulting a woman near the establishment. Callers further reported the man had a knife and fled in a silver Chrysler sedan.
Responding officers made contact with the female victim who stated that she had fled from her spouse as he chased her down the sidewalk. He eventually pinned her against a nearby concrete wall then attempted to drag her back to a vehicle. Officers observed the victim was visibly shaken. She was also concerned about cooperating with officers due to fear of reprisal.
During the assault, a driver pulled over and attempted to help the victim. Lovell then pulled out a pocketknife, approached the vehicle, stabbed the front right tire and shouted an expletive. Two other witnesses who tried to help the victim, along with camera footage, corroborated the driver’s statement to officers. The witnesses were also able to describe Lovell’s vehicle and license plate.
On Jan. 29, 2021, Tulsa Police officers executed a traffic stop on Lovell’s vehicle while on South Lewis Avenue and took the defendant into custody.
In court documents, Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Childress noted the violence involved in the offense, Lovell’s attempts to thwart justice, and Lovell’s extensive criminal history, which included two domestic violence convictions within the last five years. Following those convictions, the state of Oklahoma filed revocation applications for Lovell’s failure to appear for supervision, failure to provide required residence and employment information, failure to complete batterer’s counseling, failure to obtain drug and alcohol assessments, and for new criminal charges. Childress suggested that Lovell’s criminal history demonstrated a complete failure of personal accountability.
Lovell is a citizen of the Choctaw Nation, and the crimes were committed within the Muscogee Nation reservation.
The FBI and Tulsa Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Julie A. Childress and Edward Snow prosecuted the case.
Claremore Woman Pleads Guilty to Child Abuse and Child Neglect in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
A Claremore woman who injured one child and put a second at risk when she drove while under the influence of illegal substances pleaded guilty Thursday in federal court, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
Ashley Nicole Blizzard, 33, pleaded guilty to child abuse in Indian Country and child neglect in Indian Country. If the plea agreement is accepted by U.S. District Judge Claire V. Eagan, Blizzard will spend four years in federal prison followed by five years of supervised release. Judge Eagan will sentence Blizzard on June 14, 2022.
“Ashley Blizzard acted recklessly when she placed two children in harm’s way while driving under the influence,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “Thankfully the Rogers County Sheriff’s Office answered the call for assistance and quickly located and stopped Blizzard. They are to be commended for their swift action to protect the young child inside the vehicle.”
Blizzard admitted that on Feb. 28, 2020, she harmed the health, safety and welfare of an 11-year-old child by striking him with a vehicle and hitting his arm while in front of a Claremore home. The child was trying to stop Blizzard from driving under the influence with a 2-year-old in her vehicle. Blizzard further stated that she failed to protect the 2-year-old child from exposure to the use or possession of illegal drugs or illegal activities, admitting that she drove the vehicle while under the influence of illegal substances and while the toddler sat on top of a broken meth pipe in the front passenger seat of the vehicle. The child was also unrestrained.
Deputies from the Rogers County Sheriff’s Office located the defendant, stopped her, then took her into custody after finding her license was revoked and locating drug paraphernalia in the vehicle. The children are citizens of the Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma. The crime occurred within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation reservation.
The FBI and Rogers County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leah Paisner is prosecuting the case.
Doctor Pleads Guilty to Accepting Illegal Kickback Payment in Return for Writing Prescriptions for Compounded DrugsRead the Press Release
A doctor licensed in the states of Oklahoma and Texas pleaded guilty Wednesday for writing and referring compounded drug prescriptions in return for illegal kickback payments, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
Jerry May Keepers, 68, of Kingwood, Texas, pleaded guilty to one count of soliciting and receiving heath care kickback. Keepers violated the federal anti-kickback statute when he accepted the illegal payment.
If the plea agreement is accepted by U.S. District Judge Claire V. Eagan, Keepers will serve 36 months of supervised probation and pay no more than $1,518,180.46 in restitution. Judge Eagan will sentence Keepers on May 10, 2022.
In the plea agreement, Keepers admitted that OK Compounding solicited him to write prescriptions for his patients that would be filled by the pharmacy. OK Compounding was a pharmacy controlled by Christopher Parks and Dr. Gary Lee, who are also defendants in the case.
Specifically, on January 22, 2014, Keepers knowingly received $25,000 from representatives of OK Compounding. The purpose of the payment was to induce Keepers to refer prescriptions for expensive compounded drugs to the pharmacy. The compounded medications were filled, and claims were filed by the pharmacy. Those medications were in turn paid for by federal healthcare programs, including TRICARE, Medicare, CHAMPVA, and the Federal Employees Compensation Act Program.
According to the superseding indictment filed in the case, kickback payments were disguised through various sham business arrangements, including contracts where several physicians purported to serve as “medical directors” or “consulting physicians” for the pharmacy. Keepers and OK Compounding represented that Keepers had been paid for his services as a national spokesperson, medical director or national marketing director.
It is illegal to pay or receive “kickbacks” in conjunction with federal health care insurance. Prohibitions against kickbacks are crucial to ensure that financial motives do not undermine the medical judgment of physicians and other health care providers.
Keepers ran a pain clinic practice in the cities of Friendswood, Beaumont and Humble, Texas, and established a clinic in Tulsa in November 2012.
The Department of Labor- Office of Inspector General (OIG), IRS - Criminal Investigation, U.S. Postal Service- OIG, Department of Veterans Affairs- OIG, FBI, the Department of Health and Human Services-OIG, and Defense Criminal Investigative Service conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Melody Noble Nelson and Richard M. Cella are prosecuting the cases.
Oklahoma Orthopedic Surgeon Agrees to Pay Almost $343,000 to Settle False Claims Act AllegationsRead the Press Release
Dr. Mark Stephen Wilson agreed to pay the United States $342,750 to resolve False Claims Act allegations that he accepted illegal kickback payments from Brookhaven Specialty Pharmacy LLC, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
Wilson is an orthopedic surgeon in Tulsa and Oklahoma City and focuses on pain management and rehabilitation.
From February 2014 through September 2016, Wilson was alleged to have knowingly accepted significant payments from Brookhaven Specialty Pharmacy LLC in exchange for recommending and prescribing pain creams that were compounded and produced by the pharmacy.
As part of their arrangement, the pharmacy paid Wilson what the two parties characterized as “medical director fees” based upon an hourly rate. However, the United States alleged the “medical director fees” were, in actuality, kickback payments for prescribing the compounded pain creams.
Because Wilson wrote the prescriptions for patients who were federally insured under the Federal Employees Compensation Act Program (FECA), the kickbacks were in violation of the False Claims Act.
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to ensuring federal health care dollars are spent in accordance with the law and will not tolerate the abuse of federal health care programs,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “The government will use every tool at our disposal, including civil or criminal proceedings, to hold violators accountable.”
It is illegal to pay or receive “kickbacks” in conjunction with federal health care insurance. Prohibitions against kickbacks are crucial to ensure that financial motives do not undermine the medical judgment of physicians and other health care providers. The civil False Claims Act is an important tool used to protect the integrity of taxpayer-funded health care programs.
To report fraud and abuse committed against the federal government in the Northern District of Oklahoma, please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at 918-382-2700 and speak to a member of the ACE Unit.
This settlement agreement resolves allegations that Wilson had an illegal financial relationship with Brookhaven Specialty Pharmacy LLC, concerning pain creams. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only; there has been no determination of liability.
This matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard M. Molot of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut and is the product of a collaborative investigation by the U.S. Department of Labor-Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Postal Service-Office of Inspector General.
Leader of a Drug Trafficking Organization Sentenced to 136 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
The leader of a drug trafficking organization that distributed cocaine and methamphetamine to buyers in Tulsa was sentenced Friday in federal court.
“Serial drug distributor Moises Gaeta will serve more than 11 years in federal prison for distributing pounds of methamphetamine in Tulsa,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “Distributors like Gaeta have little regard for the lives lost to addiction and violence resulting from their criminal operations. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate, disrupt, and prosecute criminal networks who pose a threat to communities in the Northern District of Oklahoma.”
U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced Moises Gaeta, 38, of Tulsa, to 136 months in federal prison followed by five years of supervised release.
Gaeta previously pleaded guilty to drug conspiracy. Gaeta admitted that beginning as early as January 2019 and continuing through August 2020, he knowingly conspired with others to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and 28 grams or more of cocaine. Gaeta supplied and distributed the drugs to third parties.
Along with Gaeta, codefendants Jose Alfredo Rivas, Jose Luis Loya-Saenz, Rhonda Sanders and Amanda Marie Wells all pleaded guilty for their roles in the distribution ring. Rivas was sentenced to 84 months in prison; Loya-Saenz received 70 months in prison; Sanders received 27 months in prison; and Wells received three years of probation.
This case was prosecuted as part of Operation Gopher Broke, an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation led by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel-lyn McCormick and the FBI’s Oklahoma City Field Office. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
In 2009, Gaeta was sentenced in a separate case to 324 months in federal prison for distributing narcotics and firearms. In 2018, Gaeta filed for and was granted a motion for early release from prison. Upon his release in September 2018, Gaeta returned to Tulsa, established contact with former criminal associates and began distributing methamphetamine.
The FBI and Tulsa Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel-lyn McCormick prosecuted the case.
Jury Convicts Youth Group Leader for Attempted Coercion and Enticement of a MinorRead the Press Release
A federal jury convicted a church youth group leader Wednesday for engaging in a sexualized relationship with a minor, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
Thomas Daniel Johnson, 48, of Sand Springs, was found guilty of attempted coercion and enticement of a minor. U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier presided over the trial.
“Thomas Johnson was known for being a mentor to adolescent males. He hid behind that reputation when he repeatedly sent a vulnerable child sexually explicit texts and requests for nude photographs,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “I want to commend the victim in this case who exhibited courage and strength as he testified at trial this week. I am also proud of the work of Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jeff Gallant and Valeria Luster who fought for justice for this child.”
Thomas Johnson knew the victim’s family and volunteered as a youth leader at a church both families attended. Johnson was known as a mentor to adolescent and teenage boys, so the victim’s family asked him to mentor their child.
On Aug. 15, 2020, the victim’s mother discovered numerous sexually explicit texts, memes and images sent to her child by Johnson and confronted the defendant. Then both parents contacted law enforcement and turned their child’s phone in to authorities. Further examination of the phone revealed thousands of messages exchanged between Johnson and the victim, dating back to March 2019.
During the trial, prosecutors contended that Johnson engaged in a sexualized relationship using text messaging when the minor was 11, 12 and 13 years old, thus committing the crime of attempted coercion and enticement of a minor.
The United States argued Johnson groomed the victim, first gaining the victim’s trust and friendship. Johnson regularly encouraged the victim and called the victim a stud, sexy beast, and made sexual references and jokes.
Then the sexualized relationship increasingly involved the exchange of memes and comments with references to oral sex, penises, ejaculation and more. Johnson eventually told the victim about several sexual experiences he (Johnson) had taken part in. The victim testified that at first, he felt the exchange of texts and memes were jokes, but he grew increasingly uncomfortable as the defendant began routinely making comments about the victim’s penis and physical appearance, as well as implying that he was sexually attracted to the victim.
Johnson repeatedly asked the minor to send pictures of his penis or “nudes.” The defendant further suggested in messages that he could give the victim oral sex or vice versa. A few days before the communications were discovered, Johnson sent the victim a selfie of himself with a banana in his mouth simulating oral sex and during the texting exchange, asked the victim if he “could handle it,” implicitly offering to perform oral sex on the minor victim.
The victim testified that he believed Johnson would have acted on his (Johnson’s) requests had the victim complied.
The defense contended that taken in context and with the understanding of Johnson’s reputation for making sexual innuendos among family, friends, and other adolescents and teenagers he had mentored, the messages were simply misguided humor and did not represent grooming behavior. The defense further argued that Johnson was mentoring the child and trying to connect with the child by using common terminology, references and memes used among teenage males today.
Federal prosecutors argued that Johnson’s behavior was consistent with psychological tactics exhibited by child predators known as grooming behaviors. In court documents, prosecutors cited United States v. Chambers which stated, “The ultimate goal of grooming is the formation of an emotional connection with the child and a reduction of the child’s inhibitions in order to prepare the child for sexual activity.”
In closing, prosecutors reminded the jury that the defendant’s actions were no joke and that framing the texts as jokes was not a defense. They reminded the jury that the defendant told the victim to delete their text messages, which indicated Johnson understood the communications were questionable and criminal. They said instead of simply being misguided, harmless jokes, Johnson’s communications were meant to sexualize a 12-year-old child and desensitize the child to inappropriate sexual communications and material. They stated the only thing that stopped the inappropriate behavior was the intervention by the child’s parents and law enforcement.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Gallant noted Johnson wrapped himself in “a cloak of authority” and took advantage of the victim’s trust. He stated that mentors set age-appropriate boundaries with children. Instead, Johnson, a man in his forties, repeatedly crossed those boundaries by sending a “cesspool of memes and messages” that degraded and sexualized a vulnerable boy. He asked the jury to hold Johnson accountable with one word: Guilty.
The Sand Springs Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jeffrey A. Gallant and Valeria G. Luster are prosecuting the case.
Federal Grand Jury A Indictments Announced- February 2022Read the Press Release
United States Attorney Clint Johnson today announced the results of the February 2022 Federal Grand Jury A.
The following individuals have been charged with violations of United States law in indictments returned by the Grand Jury. The return of an indictment is a method of informing a defendant of alleged violations of federal law, which must be proven in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt to overcome a defendant’s presumption of innocence.
Alberto Barragan-Ochoa. Possession of Heroin with Intent to Distribute. On or about January 4, 2022, Barragan-Ochoa, 31, knowingly possessed with intent to distribute 100 grams heroin. The Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs, Tulsa Police Department, and Bixby Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam C. Bailey is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-38
Jeremy Nicholas Botonis. Coercion and Enticement of a Child; Abusive Sexual Contact with a Child in Indian Country (superseding). Botonis, 43, of Sand Springs, allegedly persuaded and enticed a minor to engage in sexual activity from May 20, 2019, to Sept. 3, 2019. On Aug. 24, 2019, he further engaged in and attempted to engage in sexual contact with the minor who was between the ages of 12 and 16. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcements’ Homeland Security Investigations and the Mayes County Sheriff’s Office are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Nassar is prosecuting the case. 21-CR-195
Markia Curran. Attempted Possession of Fentanyl with Intent to Distribute. On Dec. 29, 2021, Curran, 37, of Sand Springs, knowingly and intentionally attempted to possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl. The Drug Enforcement Administration, Tulsa Police Department and Oklahoma Highway Patrol conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel-lyn A. McCormick is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-44
Skyler Dean Easter. Sexual Abuse of a Minor in Indian Country. On or about December 13, 2021, Easter, 21, of Bartlesville, is alleged to have knowingly engaged in a sexual act with a child between the ages of 12 and 16. The FBI’s Oklahoma City Field Office and Bartlesville Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Victor A.S. Régal is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-31
Luis Alfredo Jacobo; Antonio Cervantes Garcia; William Donavan Johnson III; Shauni Breanne Callagy; David Scott Chambers; Gene Olen Charles Rast; Renee Lynn Haynes; Jesus Valdez Martinez; Kelly Wayne Bryan; Curtis Anthony Jones. Continuing Criminal Enterprise (Count 1); Drug Conspiracy (Count 2-5); Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises (Counts 6-7); Interstate Travel to Aid Racketeering (Counts 8, 13); Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute (Count 9); Possession of Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime (Count 10); Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute (Count 11); Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute (Count 12); Unlawful Use of a Communication Facility (Counts 14-39) (3rd superseding indictment). In this third superseding indictment, Jacobo, 30, of Bakersfield, California, is further charged in counts 14-39 with using a cell phone and app to coordinate drug operations. The Drug Enforcement Administration, Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs, Bureau of Indian Affairs, City of Miami Police Department, Grove Police Department, Bakersfield Police Department, Kern County Sheriff’s Office, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Oklahoma District 13 Drug Task Force are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas E. Duncombe is prosecuting the case. See the press release announcing charges here. 22-CR-102
Alejandro Jimenez-Lobaina. Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute; Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime. On or about January 11, 2022, Jimenez-Lobaina, 29, of Tulsa, intentionally possessed with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine. He is further alleged to have possessed a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The Drug Enforcement Administration and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alex M. Scott is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-32
Clyde Douglas Knox Jr. Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; Possession of Cocaine With Intent to Distribute; Possession of a Firearms During and in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime. Knox Jr., 52, allegedly possessed with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and possessed with intent to distribute cocaine on Sept. 8, 2021. He is further charged with possessing a firearm to further his drug trafficking crimes. The Tulsa Police Department is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel-lyn McCormick is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-45
Ashton Nikoel Mattingly. Child Neglect in Indian Country (Count 1); Tampering with Evidence by Corruptly Altering, Destroying, Mutilating, and Concealing Records and Other Objects (Counts 2-4). Mattingly, 30, of Tulsa, allegedly neglected an infant who was two months old on Jan 4, 2021. The child died. Mattingly is also charged with calling an individual on Feb. 11, 2021, and asking the individual to go to Mattingly’s residence and remove a white pill bottle with an orange cap so the pill bottle would be unavailable as evidence in the investigation into the death of the child. She also allegedly instructed the same individual to change the password for the Snapchat associated with Mattingly’s username so the record inside would be unavailable as evidence. On Feb. 16, 2021, Mattingly is also alleged to have instructed a different individual to report falsely to Mattingly’s service provider that Mattingly’s cell phone was stolen and to request the service provider disable access to the phone, so the record inside would be unavailable as evidence. The FBI’s Oklahoma City Field Office and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Tonkin is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-30
Jesse Clay Miles Jr. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition; Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime; Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises. Miles Jr., 51, of Miami, was a felon in possession of a Smith and Wesson .32 caliber pistol and 217 rounds of ammunition. He is further charged with knowingly possessing with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on Nov. 22, 2021. Miles Jr. is also charged with knowingly possessing the Smith and Wesson, .32 caliber pistol in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Finally, he is charged with maintaining a place in Miami, Oklahoma, for the purpose of distributing methamphetamine. The Drug Enforcement Administration and Bureau of Indian Affairs are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle M. McWaters is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-33
Eduardo Perez-Ulloa; Marco Antonia Venegas-Gallardo. Drug Conspiracy; Possession of Fentanyl with Intent to Distribute; Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute. Perez-Ulloa, 22, and Venegas-Gallardo, 40, both illegally in the United States, are charged with drug conspiracy. The two men allegedly possessed with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of fentanyl and possessed with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on Jan. 4, 2022. The Drug Enforcement Administration, Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs, Tulsa Police Department, and Bixby Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam C. Bailey is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-40
Casey Stephen Proctor. On July 20, 2021, Proctor, 36, possessed with intent to distribute fentanyl. The Drug Enforcement Administration and Broken Arrow Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S Attorney Joel-lyn McCormick is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-46
Wesley James Smith. Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute. Smith, 31, of Collinsville, is charged with possessing with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on Jan. 4, 2022. The Drug Enforcement Administration, Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs, Tulsa Police Department, and Bixby Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam C. Bailey is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-41
Quindell Curtis Stanley. Assault with Intent to Commit Murder in Indian Country; Carrying, Using, Brandishing, and Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence (superseding). On May 30, 2019, Stanley, 35, of Fairland, assaulted the victim, with intent to commit murder, by shooting the woman in the chest with a firearm. He is further charged with carrying, using, brandishing, and discharging a firearm during the crime. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, FBI’s Oklahoma City Field Office, Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office, Newton County Sheriff’s Office, and Joplin Police Department are the investigative agencies Assistant U.S. Attorney Niko A. Boulieris and Justin G. Bish are prosecuting the case. 21-CR-424
Francisco Alejandro Urieta-Nunez. Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute. Urieta-Nunez, 21, of El Paso, Texas, allegedly possessed with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine. The Drug Enforcement Administration and Oklahoma Highway Patrol are the investigative agencies. U.S. Attorney Adam C. Bailey is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-43
Tyler Ward. Possession of Fentanyl with Intent to Distribute; Possession of Heroin with Intent to Distribute; Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime; Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises. Ward, 28, of Tulsa, is alleged to have possessed with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of fentanyl, 100 grams or more of heroin, and 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. He is also charged with possessing a firearm to further his drug trafficking crimes and with maintaining a residence in Tulsa to distribute the drugs. The Drug Enforcement Administration, Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs, Tulsa Police Department, and Bixby Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam C. Bailey is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-42
Mannford Man Sentenced for Sending Sexually Explicit Pictures to Individual He Believed Was a MinorRead the Press Release
A man who thought he was sending sexually explicit pictures to a 15-year-old runaway, but instead was communicating with an undercover investigator, was sentenced in federal court, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
U.S. District Judge Claire V. Eagan sentenced Johnny Wayne Rose Jr., 41, of Mannford, to 78 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release.
In October 2021, Rose Jr. pleaded guilty to attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor. In his plea agreement, Rose Jr. admitted that he used his cell phone, Facebook, and Kik to converse with an individual he believed was a 15-year-old female runaway who was addicted to methamphetamine. In those conversations, he attempted to convince the individual he believed to be a minor to meet for sex and offered to provide methamphetamine to the “minor.” He also asked for topless photographs from the “minor” and sent sexually explicit photographs of himself. Instead of speaking to a minor female, Rose Jr. was unknowingly communicating with an undercover investigator from the Rogers County Sheriff’s Office. The communications and photographs Rose Jr. sent constituted the attempted transfer of obscene material to an individual he believed was 15 years of age. The communications occurred between Feb. 25, 2021, and March 5, 2021.
This case was brought as part of Operation Clean Sweep, a four-month long operation that concentrated law enforcement efforts on counteracting the spike in internet facilitated child-exploitation crimes in the Northern District of Oklahoma. The operation was carried out in partnership with more than a dozen local, state, tribal and federal law enforcement agencies. This case was also brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
The Rogers County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Nassar prosecuted the case
Owasso Man Sentenced for Voluntary Manslaughter in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
An Owasso man who killed his stepfather in March 2020 was sentenced today in federal court, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
“Jordan Kuykendall violently assaulted his mother, and Charles Botts was forced to intervene. Kuykendall then fought Mr. Botts and during the struggle, stabbed him to death,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “Those who commit violent criminal acts within the Northern District of Oklahoma will be brought to justice. Kuykendall will serve 78 months in federal prison for his crime.”
U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced Jordan Taylor Kuykendall, 25, to 78 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release. He was further ordered to pay $7,500 in restitution.
On Oct. 8, 2021, Kuykendall pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter in Indian Country. In his plea agreement, Kuykendall admitted that on May 17, 2020, he got into an argument with his stepfather, Charles Botts, and stabbed him, resulting in the victim’s death.
At approximately 1 am on May 17, 2020, Botts intervened when Kuykendall, who was intoxicated, assaulted his mother. Botts pulled the defendant off the mother and pinned him down on the floor. According to a witness, the victim then told Kuykendall that he loved him and released him. When he released Kuykendall and walked away to his bedroom, the defendant followed him with a knife. Inside the bedroom, a struggle ensued between the defendant and victim. Kuykendall stabbed the victim and repeatedly struck the victim in the head while he was laying against a closet door.
Medics transported Botts to St. Francis Hospital in Tulsa where he was later pronounced dead just after 4 am. According to the medical examiner’s report, Botts “died as a result of a stab wound of the left lateral chest,” that penetrated his heart.
At sentencing, Botts’ sister described how her brother had grown in the last five years since he found Christ. She called him the brother she remembered as a child. She described his selflessness and explained that when Kuykendall needed help, her brother was there for him. She then said Kuykendall acted recklessly the night he took her brother’s life.
In a sentencing memorandum, the United States requested an upward departure from the federal sentencing guidelines. They argued that due to the brutal nature of the crime, a term of 15 years imprisonment was appropriate. The United States noted that multiple individuals had gone out of their way to help the defendant the night of the crime, and in return, he committed an assault and killing. They also noted that while Kuykendall did not have a criminal history, victim witness statements indicated that Kuykendall had a history of violence and lashing out at family and dating partners.
The defense asked for a sentence of 63 months due, in part, to the long term psychological effects of Kuykendall’s exposure to violence in the home as a young child.
The FBI and Owasso Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan H. Heatherman iproseucted the case.
Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Voluntary ManslaughterRead the Press Release
A man who fatally shot a close friend during an altercation was sentenced Wednesday in federal court, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced Jonhron Starks, 27, of Tulsa, to 63 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release. Starks previously pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter in Indian Country.
“In a tragic act of violence, Jonhron Starks, took the life of Dre’Leigha Everidge-Taylor,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “Starks escalated an already heated altercation by bringing, pointing, and discharging a firearm, killing Everidge-Taylor. He has now been held accountable for his actions in accordance with the law.”
At the sentencing hearing, Starks apologized to the victim’s sister who was in the courtroom. His defense attorney also pointed out that instead of going to trial, the defendant was remorseful and felt that he should take responsibility for the crime. The attorney also noted that the victim’s and defendant’s families were long-time friends, and Starks regarded the defendant as family.
In a victim impact statement, Everidge-Taylor’s sister told Starks that she and her mother forgave the defendant and still loved him. She urged him to be a better person and make better decisions as he moved forward and further requested he uplift her sister’s name, not disparage it. She then described how difficult it was to lose her sister.
Starks entered a guilty plea on Oct. 6, 2021. He admitted that on Sept. 19, 2020, he fatally shot victim Dre’Leigha Everidge-Taylor in front of an apartment located at 541 East 32nd Street in Tulsa. During the incident, Starks said he carried a firearm and intervened in an argument between the victim and her husband. During the altercation, Starks said a single round was fired from his handgun while in his possession and control, striking and killing the victim
According to a Criminal Complaint initially filed in the case, the victim’s husband left their apartment after getting into an argument with the victim in the early morning hours of Sept. 19. He went to Starks’ apartment where Starks and two females were hanging out watching movies. The victim came to Stark’s apartment and told her husband to come home. The husband left with the victim but soon returned to Stark’s apartment. The victim also returned and banged on Stark’s door and window, breaking the window. Starks confronted the victim with a gun. The argument became physical. He pointed the firearm at the back of the victim’s head and told her to get away from his door but did not fire. The physical argument continued, and Starks fired the gun. The bullet struck the victim in the chest. Witnesses reported hearing Starks say “I can’t believe I shot my cousin, I’m sorry DD,” then saw him flee from the scene.
Witnesses came to the victim’s aid, and the Tulsa Police Department responded to the crime scene. Everidge-Taylor died at the scene. Starks turned himself in the following day.
During the investigation, officers discovered there was no surveillance footage of the shooting. Surveillance footage from another part of the apartment complex did show Starks flee the scene and briefly stop, leaving something near a fence. Officers went to that location and discovered a .40 caliber Springfield handgun. Officers also recovered a spent .40 caliber shell casing just inside the door of the apartment. Further investigation determined the handgun was stolen from a Haskell, Oklahoma. home in March 2016. The investigation also showed that illegal drugs and alcohol may have contributed to the incident.
The victim was a citizen of the Muscogee Nation, and the crime occurred within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation Reservation.
The FBI’s Oklahoma City Field Office and Tulsa Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan M. Roberts prosecuted the case.
Tulsa Man Sentenced to 7 Years in Prison for Receiving and Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
A Tulsa man was sentenced in federal court Monday for receiving and possessing sexually explicit images and videos of minors, including children under the age of 12, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
“Jack Brady Jr. possessed nearly 7,200 image and video files of child sexual abuse material, some of which depicted the sadomasochistic abuse of children,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “Not only will he spend seven years in federal prison, but he will also financially compensate many of the victims for downloading and viewing the horrific abuse they were subjected to.”
Jack Clinton Brady Jr., 67, of Tulsa, was sentenced to seven years in federal prison followed by seven years of supervised release. As required by the Amy, Vicky, and Andy Child Pornography Victim Assistance Act of 2018, U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell ordered Brown to pay $39,000 in restitution to victims who were abused in the creation of the child sexual abuse material.
In August 2021, Brady pleaded guilty to receipt of child pornography and possession of child pornography in Indian Country.
Brady admitted that from Jan. 1, 2018, to March 4, 2021, he used electronic means to download multiple computer files containing child sexual abuse material. He further admitted to possessing the depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, including depictions of prepubescent minors under the age of 12.
The defendant’s criminal actions came to light after a family member found a video of child pornography on Brady Jr.’s laptop and contacted authorities. The Tulsa Police Department responded to the call and immediately identified the material as child pornography. The family member said the defendant, a charter bus driver at the time, was scheduled to drive high school students to an event the following day.
During an interview with law enforcement, Brady Jr. indicated that he had child pornography on the laptop and on external hard drives in a computer bag located in his bedroom. Multiple files found on Brady Jr.’s electronic devises depicted the abuse of infants and toddlers and the sadomasochistic abuse of children younger than 12 years of age.
Brady Jr. is a citizen of the Osage Nation and the crimes occurred within the boundaries of the Muscogee Nation Reservation.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Nassar is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc
Jury Convicts Big Cabin Man of Sexual Abuse and StrangulationRead the Press Release
A Big Cabin man was found guilty late Friday for sexually assaulting and strangling a former dating partner, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
The jury convicted Christopher Michael Guinn, 23, of aggravated sexual abuse by force and threat in Indian Country and of assault of an intimate/dating partner by strangling and attempting to strangle in Indian Country.
“Violent acts of sexual and physical abuse such as those committed in this case will not be tolerated,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “Christopher Guinn preyed on this victim and has now been held accountable by a jury of his peers.”
"The FBI will continue working with our law enforcement partners to hold violent offenders accountable for threatening the safety of the communities we serve throughout the state of Oklahoma," said Edward J. Gray, FBI Special Agent in Charge of the Oklahoma City Field Office.
At trial, the United States alleged that in the early morning hours of March 17, 2019, Guinn sexually assaulted and strangled a former dating partner. During the assault, Guinn held the victim down and grabbed her around the neck. Guinn applied varying degrees of pressure to the victim’s neck and at several points, left the victim gasping for air. The victim testified that Guinn threatened her by saying that if she and her children did not move back in with him, he would find them. He also told her that if she reported the sexual assault, he would come to her mother’s house while the victim was sleeping and rape the victim again. She also believed that Guinn had a gun under the mattress.
After Guinn fell asleep, the victim fled and contacted law enforcement. Deputies with the Mayes County Sheriff’s Office responded and met the victim at the hospital. They documented the victim’s injuries and interviewed her. The Tulsa Police Department conducted a SANE exam.
When interviewed by law enforcement, the defendant stated the incident was not rape but consensual sex and theorized the victim was lying because she was jealous of him being with another woman at a party.
The United States showed Guinn had a history of exerting control over women and sexually assaulting them. Two additional women who previously dated Guinn testified about similar assaults they endured by the defendant. They also testified that Guinn physically abused them and isolated them from friends and family. Both had protective orders against the defendant.
In closing, Assistant U.S. Attorney Gina Gilmore said both the victim and defendant revealed who they were by their actions. She reminded the jury the victim reported the crime, filed for a protective order, and consistently and repeatedly shared details to both state and federal authorities. Gilmore said the defendant also revealed who he was by his history with women. She said the evidence showed Guinn was controlling, isolating, and took what he wanted despite being told “no.”
The jury returned guilty verdicts on both counts.
The FBI’s Oklahoma City Field Office, Mayes County Sheriff’s Office, Tulsa Police Department and Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica L. Wright and Gina S. Gilmore are prosecuting the case.
Tulsa Man Sentenced for Abusing a 3-Year-Old ChildRead the Press Release
A Tulsa man responsible for abusing a three-year-old child was sentenced Friday in federal court, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
Chief U.S. District Judge John F. Heil III sentenced Craig Allan Morrison, 37, to 25 years in federal prison followed by five years of supervised release.
A federal jury found Morrison guilty of two counts of child abuse in Indian Country and his girlfriend, Amanda Lyn Walker, 42, guilty of two counts of enabling acts of child abuse in Indian Country. Walker was sentenced to 10 years in prison on Jan. 10, 2022.
“Craig Morrison brutally assaulted this young victim and will spend 25 years in federal prison for his crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “Victims of violence are best supported by a team of medical professionals, victim advocates, law enforcement and prosecutors. In this case, their collaborative work was critical to detecting the abuse, protecting the boy from further harm, and fighting for justice on his behalf.”
Federal prosecutors argued that, based on the facts of the case, an appropriate sentence for Morrison would be 25 years in federal prison. In court documents and proceedings, prosecutors explained the child was severely beaten but also suffered severe mental trauma resulting from the time he lived with Morrison and Walker. According to victim impact statements, the child initially hid in closets, avoided eye contact, was scared of taking baths and would scream in terror, and did not like being held or consoled.
Prosecutors explained the long term impact of abuse was far greater for a child victim than it would be for an adult victim. They explained that because of the child’s age and stage of development, the aggravated assaults and trauma his body carries from the abuse would have a more significant and life-long impact on the child. Prosecutors and a guardian ad litem for the child emphasized that the trauma of Morrison’s repeated abuse and Walker’s enabling and willful failure to protect her child could create ripples across the child’s life.
Child mental and physical abuse are forms of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). According to the CDC, ACEs can have measurable and “lasting negative effects on health, well-being, as well as life opportunities…” Toxic stress from ACE’s can change brain development and affect how the body responds to stress, and are often linked to chronic health problems, mental illness and substance misuse in adulthood. The more ACE’s people experience at a young age, the greater the impact.
In sentencing, Judge Heil noted Morrison’s other conviction for a domestic violence strangulation in 2008 in violation of a protection order and that Morrison’s violence had escalated. Prosecutors argued Morrison’s propensity toward violence endangered the public and he should be incarcerated for a significant amount of time to protect others.
The couple went to trial in June 2021.
During the trial, the jury received evidence describing two separate instances of child abuse involving a then three-year-old child.
On Feb. 18, 2020, the couple took Walker’s then three-year-old-child to St Francis Hospital for injuries they claimed occurred after the child fell or jumped from his bed. Suspecting abuse, hospital staff contacted pediatricians who specialize in child abuse cases to further examine the child. The child was found to have extensive bruising to his head, back, shoulder, abdomen, buttocks, and leg. Also found were scabbed abrasions on his scalp and on the right side of his forehead. Laboratory testing further showed elevated liver enzymes and elevated amylase. One of the pediatricians who treated the child testified that the laboratory tests indicated liver and pancreatic injuries. She further explained that the child’s injuries showed the child had suffered blunt force trauma and were the result of child abuse. The victim remained at the hospital for five days for treatment.
During an investigation, Tulsa police officers learned of another incident that took place on or about Dec. 20, 2019, when family members observed and photographed a hand-shaped bruise on the child’s face. According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Walker told a relative that Morrison had hit the child in the face while sleeping due to a “night terror” and that the child’s other bruises were from falls. The relative also reported several other examples where Walker allowed Morrison to mistreat the child, including shoving food into the child’s mouth, causing him to choke.
Walker was further warned by one of Morrison’s family members in text messages to distance herself from Morrison because he was dangerous. The family member also reported that Morrison said the child cried for no reason, so Morrison gave the child reason to cry.
The crimes took place within the Muskogee Nation Reservation, and the minor is a citizen of the Comanche Nation.
The FBI and Tulsa Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Melody Noble Nelson and Chantelle D. Dial prosecuted the case.
Man Who Orchestrated the Sale of Hundreds of Kilos of Meth for the Universal Aryan Brotherhood Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
A member of the Universal Aryan Brotherhood has pleaded guilty in federal court for leading and organizing the sale of hundreds of kilos of methamphetamine throughout Oklahoma, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
Jeremy C. Anderson, 34, pleaded guilty to the charge of continuing criminal enterprise but refused to cooperate with the United States. If the plea agreement is accepted by a federal judge, Anderson will serve 22 years in federal prison.
“Jeremy Anderson’s methamphetamine operation helped support the Universal Aryan Brotherhood’s criminal enterprise and contributed to addiction and violence in Oklahoma. He has now been held accountable,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “The successful prosecution of this criminal enterprise is an example of what can be accomplished when law enforcement agencies team up to share their unique capabilities and resources.”
In his plea agreement, Anderson admitted from at least 2011 and continuing through December 2018, he led, organized and managed a large-scale methamphetamine distribution enterprise. The enterprise involved more than five people who obtained and distributed hundreds of kilos of methamphetamine at Anderson’s direction. The methamphetamine was manufactured in Mexico and distributed throughout the state of Oklahoma, including Tulsa. Anderson obtained hundreds of thousands of dollars from the sale and distribution of the drug.
Anderson was initially charged on Dec. 7, 2018, with 17 other UAB members and associates. The indictment was unsealed Feb. 20, 2019, and alleged the gang to be a racketeering enterprise that committed acts of murder, kidnapping, the trafficking of methamphetamine and firearms, money laundering, assault, and robbery throughout the State of Oklahoma.
The UAB was established in 1993 within the Oklahoma Department of Corrections and modeled itself after the principles and ideology of the Aryan Brotherhood, a California-based prison gang that formed in the 1960s.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and IRS-Criminal Investigation led the investigation with assistance from the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office, the Oklahoma Department of Corrections, the Tulsa and Enid Police Departments, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Dennis A. Fries is prosecuting this case.
You can find the press release announcing charges here.
Mounds Man Sentenced to Life in Prison Plus 10 years for First Degree Murder in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
Kyle Quentin Sago, 32, of Mounds, was sentenced Thursday in federal court for fatally shooting a man the day they renewed an old friendship, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced Sago to life in prison plus 10 years.
In September, a federal jury convicted Sago of first degree murder in Indian Country, two counts of felon in possession of ammunition; and causing death by using and discharging a firearm in the commission of first degree murder.
“Kyle Sago committed an egregious, senseless crime when he took the life of Daniel Morgan,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “While today’s sentence cannot rectify the loss of Mr. Morgan, it sends a message that the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners take seriously our mission to uphold justice. There are no higher priorities than keeping our communities safe and fighting for victims of violent crime.”
“The FBI works every day with our law enforcement partners to hold violent offenders accountable when they commit egregious acts such as murder. Violent crime affects not only the victims, but also their families and the community at large,” said Edward J. Gray, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office. “The FBI remains committed to our responsibility to uphold the Constitution and protect all Americans, and we are as committed as ever to our work in Indian Country.”
At the sentencing hearing, Morgan’s young daughter told the court her father was kind, nice, and that everyone relied on him. She said she missed his laugh and him being at her birthday parties. Other family members said they would never understand why Morgan’s friend would kill him, especially after Morgan saved him from a fire, and described the difficulty they endured after losing him. They thanked Judge Frizzell for his handling of the case and asked that Sago be sent to prison for life.
When imposing the sentence, Judge Frizzell explained that there seemed to be no explanation as to why Sago committed the murder except possibly for Sago’s long history of drug use, calling methamphetamine a scourge. He reminded Sago of the tragedy caused by his actions not only for the family but also for Sago himself.
On July 25, 2020, Officers from the Tulsa Police Department were notified of a shooting that occurred within the Muscogee Nation reservation. A witness, victim Daniel Morgan’s girlfriend, identified Kyle Sago as having fired the shots that killed the victim.
At trial, Morgan’s girlfriend explained that she woke up at about 3:30 pm the day of the crime and saw Sago visiting with the victim. Morgan introduced Sago as a good friend. She noticed burns on Sago’s arms. Morgan explained that he had saved Sago years ago from a fire at a meth lab. She said the two continued to exchange stories and visited.
After Sago left, the victim lay down for a nap because he had been working the night prior. Morgan’s girlfriend then heard multiple Facebook Messenger calls to the victim’s phone while he was asleep. She noted that Kyle Sago initiated the calls.
The witness stated that Sago soon returned to the residence in a white sedan When she stepped outside, he demanded to speak with Morgan about "business" and she should wake him.
When Morgan walked outside, the witness stated that she heard multiple gunshots. She moved to the door and witnessed Sago shoot at Morgan approximately four more times from the white sedan as the victim retreated around to the side of the house.
Other witnesses called 911 and ran to assist. Morgan’s girlfriend also assisted and called the victim’s mother. She further cooperated with authorities in identifying Sago as the shooter. Daniel Morgan sustained 4 gunshot wounds and died at the scene.
Several witnesses who saw the crime occur confirmed the suspect shot from the same white sedan and continued to drive and fire at the victim as he ran for cover.
The FBI’s Oklahoma City Field Office and Tulsa Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ross E. Lenhardt and Aaron M. Jolly prosecuted the case. Mr. Lenhardt is a prosecutor from the Western District of Pennsylvania. He volunteered to assist prosecution efforts here in the Northern District of Oklahoma due to increased jurisdictional responsibilities regarding crimes involving Native American victims or defendants and that occur within the Muscogee Nation, Cherokee Nation, and Quapaw Nation Reservations.
See trial press release here.
Man Charged for Manufacturing an Explosive DeviceRead the Press Release
A man responsible for the production of an explosive device made from fireworks, fishhooks, rivets and other material was charged in federal court, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
Zane Paul Bennett, 20, was charged by Criminal Complaint with unlawful manufacture of a destructive device.
On January 24, 2022, an officer with the Broken Arrow Police Department conducted a traffic stop after learning that Mariah Davis, Bennett’s partner, had allegedly been observed shoplifting at a retail store. While speaking to Davis, an officer observed what appeared to be a dstructive device in the back seat of the vehicle. The woman explained that the device belonged to her boyfriend.
Davis called Bennett who arrived on foot and then asked if he could take possession of the vehicle if Davis was going to be detained. After officers advised Bennett of his rights, Bennett told them that he manufactured the destructive device.
Agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) were called and conducted interviews with the couple. Bennett allegedly indicated he had manufactured the destructive device in a nearby motel where the couple was staying. He explained that he used fireworks, fish hooks to hold the tubes of the destructive devices together, then added metal items before wrapping the device together.
At the location of the traffic stop, the Tulsa Police Department Bomb Squad x-rayed the destructive device, which showed several large fish hooks, screws, and rivets in the device. Also inside the device were a large quantity of small fireworks packed together. The device was dismantled and the components retained. After obtaining a search warrant of Bennett’s hotel room, officers and agents with the Broken Arrow Police Department and ATF located and seized fireworks and a metal rivet consistent with what was found in the destructive device.
A Criminal Complaint is a temporary charge alleging a violation of law. For the case to proceed to trial, the United States must present the charge to a federal Grand Jury within 30 days. Once a Grand Jury returns an Indictment, a defendant has a right to a jury trial at which the United States would have the burden of proving the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The ATF, Broken Arrow Police Department, Tulsa Police Department, and Oklahoma Highway Patrol are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert T. Raley and Christopher J. Nassar are prosecuting the case.
*This is a corrected press release. The initial press release sent out showed Bennett as 19 but he recently turned 20. This has also been corrected to clarify spelling of the defendant's last name.
Jury Convicts Tulsa Man for Strangling and Repeatedly Punching his Dating PartnerRead the Press Release
A federal jury found a Tulsa man guilty Tuesday for assaulting and strangling a dating partner, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
Dhylian Whalin Rhain Gonzalis, 30, of Tulsa, was convicted of assault of an intimate/dating partner by strangling, suffocating, and attempting to strangle and suffocate in Indian Country and assault resulting in substantial bodily injury to an intimate/dating partner in Indian Country. The jury returned their verdict in in less than 30 minutes.
“Because of Dhylian Gonzalis’ criminal actions he will now spend time in federal prison where he can no longer batter his dating partner. Strangulation is a serious violent criminal offense that can lead to death,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “Domestic violence prosecutions save lives. This office will continue seeking justice on behalf of survivors and will connect them with community partners who can provide needed resources for mental and physical recovery.”
On Aug. 28, 2020, the victim and Gonzalis, who were dating at the time, got into an argument. Gonzalis punched the victim in the right eye and continued striking her eight times before she was able to retrieve a phone and run to the hallway bathroom with the intention of calling 911. Gonzalis chased her and berated her for trying to call for help. He then slammed through the bathroom door, grabbed the victim by the neck, lifted her off the floor, pressed her up against the wall, and strangled her until she was nearly unconscious.
At the time of the assault, Gonzalis was on parole with the state of Oklahoma for trafficking methamphetamine. He begged the victim not to call the police, threatened to kill himself, and told her to take him to a relative’s house.
Once she dropped him off, the victim quickly drove to her brother’s house, and later contacted authorities. Responding officers took pictures of her injuries, and the victim made her statement. The victim suffered a severe black eye, various cuts and bruises, and defensive wounds on her arms. She also had visible strangulation marks around her neck and her voice was hoarse.
The Tulsa Police Department and FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas E. Buscemi and Edward Snow are prosecuting the case.
Multi-Convicted Felon Found Guilty for Possession with Intent to Distribute Crack Cocaine in TulsaRead the Press Release
A federal jury convicted a 41-year-old Muskogee man for possessing with intent to distribute crack cocaine in Tulsa, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
Michael Lamont Phillips, aka “Mike Mike,” was found guilty of possession of cocaine base with intent to distribute.
“Michael Phillips has a lengthy history of criminal conduct in northeastern Oklahoma,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “This time, he intended to deal crack cocaine in the Tulsa community and was arrested by Tulsa Police Department’s Street Crimes investigators. I am thankful they are on the job and committed to safeguarding our neighborhoods.”
On April 18, 2021, Tulsa Police Street Crimes investigators were patrolling around 4700 East Apache Street after several citizens had complained about drug and firearms offenses, gang activity, and shootings taking place in the area. While on patrol, an investigator saw a line of cars driving eastbound quickly and recklessly, including a gold Chevrolet Tahoe driven by Phillips.
The investigator stopped Phillips for speeding and driving recklessly without a seatbelt. During the stop, the investigator noted that Philips’ breath smelled like alcohol, and the officer smelled the odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. He also found that Phillips had two outstanding warrants and was driving on a suspended license.
Phillips was taken into custody and a search of his vehicle was conducted for marijuana and open containers of alcohol. During the search, officers located what appeared to be crack cocaine in a natural void near the center console of the vehicle. The substance tested positive for cocaine and weighed almost 30 grams. Also located in the vehicle was an open bottle of Vodka, marijuana, and $246 in various denominations. Based on the quantity of the crack cocaine and the amount and denominations of that cash, officers concluded and testified in court there was cause to believe that Phillips possessed the crack with intent to distribute it.
Phillips was previously convicted in Muskogee County District Court of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, attempted robbery by force or fear, and intimidation of a witness in 2004. He was further convicted in federal court of two counts of possession of firearm and ammunition after former conviction of a felony in 2005. Finally, he was convicted in Tulsa Country District Court of possession of firearm after former conviction of a felony in 2014.
The FBI and Tulsa Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ryan H. Heatherman and Nathan M. Michel are prosecuting the case.
Methamphetamine and Heroin Distributor Sentenced to 77 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
A Tulsa drug dealer was sentenced Tuesday for distributing methamphetamine and heroin in the Tulsa-metro area, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced Kamau Jahi Williams, 43, to 77 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release.
On Sept. 29, 2021, a federal jury found Williams guilty of distribution of methamphetamine, drug conspiracy, and distribution of heroin.
“Kamau Williams’ profession of choice was drug distribution, and because of his chosen profession, he will spend more than six years in prison,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “Methamphetamine and heroin addiction is costly- it harms families and takes lives. Thanks to our partners at the DEA and Tulsa Police Department, Williams will no longer be dealing these dangerous drugs in Tulsa’s neighborhoods.”
In the Summer of 2020, the DEA agents and Task Force Officers with the Tulsa Police Department became aware of Williams’ potential criminal activity and began physical surveillance of the suspect. On Oct. 20, 2020, Williams met with another individual in a fast food restaurant parking lot in Tulsa. Williams was observed entering the lot in a black pick-up to meet the other man. Agents watched the man take possession of a white plastic bag from Williams and place it in the rear of his white SUV. Soon after, officers stopped the man for a traffic violation. He consented to a vehicle search and officers located 56 grams of methamphetamine in the rear of the vehicle in the same white bag he was seen receiving from Williams earlier. Fifty-six grams is equal to 24 dosage units and worth thousands of dollars. After the seizure, investigators continued their investigation into Williams.
In April 2021, two codefendants were charged in a superseding indictment with Williams and additional charges were added. Agents intercepted communication between Kamau Williams, Albert Thomas III, and Tanara Ruble involving a conspiracy to distribute heroin. The defendants used code words like “dog food” or “black Nike t-shirt” when discussing drug transactions. Agents learned from the communication that Williams was trafficking marijuana, methamphetamine, and heroin.
Williams was also found to be distributing heroin based on a March 4, 2021, drug deal. Ruble met with Williams at the Love More Hookah Lounge, a business owned by Williams. The two were observed entering the business and Ruble exited a short time later. Within the next hour, Williams called Thomas who then met him at the hookah lounge. The two men entered the lounge and emerged after several minutes. After leaving, Thomas was again stopped by uniformed officers, and heroin was discovered along with Glock .45 caliber pistol.
In addition to his convictions in this case, Williams recently pleaded guilty in a separate drug conspiracy case prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office where he purchased methamphetamine from a source of supply in California that was mailed to an abandoned Tulsa address. The packages were intercepted by several postal carriers who delivered the methamphetamine to Williams for redistribution. Williams faces a minimum of 15 years in federal prison in the case and will be sentenced in June 2022.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and Tulsa Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel-lyn A. McCormick and David A. Nasar prosecuted the case.
Jury Finds Man Guilty of Assaulting a Dating PartnerRead the Press Release
A federal jury convicted a man Friday who assaulted his dating partner in November 2020, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
Alexander Michael Koloff, 29, of Tulsa, was found guilty of assault by striking, beating, and wounding.
During the domestic violence incident, Koloff, who had been drinking, took the victim’s phone so he could search through it. The woman asked him to return it when he was done, but he refused and eventually fled into a bathroom. As he tried to close the bathroom door, Koloff slammed the victim’s foot in the door injuring her. Next, Koloff slapped the victim, put his arms around her body and neck, and took her to the ground. Koloff then put his foot on her chest so the victim couldn’t move, took victim’s phone and fled the apartment,. The victim sought help from a neighbor and called 911. Koloff returned a short time later and locked himself in the apartment.
Officers responded to the incident and noted bruising and red marks on the victim that appeared consistent with the abuse described by the victim. An officer also conducted an on-scene lethality assessment with the victim, who identified to officers that she was in fear, was threatened, and had previously experienced violence from Koloff.
When performed, the on-scene lethality assessment can help police officers identify victims at high risk of homicide by their partners, ensure victims have a safe place to stay following a domestic violence incident, and place them in immediate contact with a domestic violence advocate.
The victim was later examined by a medical professional and found to have suffered multiple injuries including bruises and abrasions on her arms, back, chest, head and leg.
The Tulsa Police Department and FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Niko Boulieris and Kristin Harrington are prosecuting the case.
Jury Convicts Tulsa Man for his Role in Two CarjackingsRead the Press Release
A man who was involved in two carjackings at apartment complexes in Tulsa was convicted in federal court, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
A federal jury found Raul Hernandez-Moreno, 21, of Tulsa, guilty of two counts of carjacking; two counts of carrying, using and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence; and possession of a firearm and ammunition by an alien illegally in the United States.
Codefendants Nicole Marie Rumualdo, aka Nicole Hughes, 28, and Carlos Alfredo Arroliga, 26, both pleaded guilty in November to two counts of carrying, using, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. They are scheduled to be sentenced June 2, 2022. Hernandez-Moreno opted to proceed to trial.
“Criminals like Raul Hernandez-Moreno and his associates should take notice. The U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners fight for victims and hold violent criminals accountable,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “Law enforcement and federal prosecutors Gina Gilmore and Joel-lyn McCormick worked hand in hand to bring this case to trial and secure a conviction. I am proud of their work and dedication to Justice.”
On Oct. 26, 2021, Hernandez-Moreno, Rumualdo, and Arroliga were responsible for two carjackings in Tulsa. At 7:30 am, Hernandez-Moreno and his two accomplices pulled alongside a gray 2006 Mazda 3 in the Echo Trails Apartments in Tulsa. The defendants exited their blue SUV, and Rumualdo pointed a loaded handgun at the victim. Hernandez-Moreno blocked the victim from behind. Speaking in Spanish, Rumualdo demanded the victim’s wallet and cell phone. When the victim responded that he did not have his wallet and cell phone, Rumualdo snatched the victim’s keys. Hernandez-Moreno and Rumualdo drove off in the Mazda, and Arroliga followed in the blue SUV.
A few hours later, the three defendants targeted a maintenance worker in his parked vehicle at Bristol Park Apartments in Tulsa. The victim was preparing to perform repairs at the complex when the defendants pulled into a nearby spot. Hernandez-Moreno then approached the victim and pointed a loaded gun at the victim, ordering him to hand over his money. Hernandez-Moreno then took the victim’s keys and drove off in the victim’s 2010 gray Chevrolet Silverado. Arroliga and Rumualdo followed in the blue SUV.
Officers were able to locate surveillance footage of the crimes from one of the apartment complexes. The video showed the vehicle used by the defendants, a bright blue Ford Escape with a paper tag and unique license plate frame. The same day of the crime, the blue Ford Escape was observed on Garnett Road, and a traffic stop was initiated because it matched the description of the SUV seen in the surveillance video. Arroliga was driving the vehicle and taken into custody for questioning. On Oct. 27, 2020, Hernandez-Moreno and Rumualdo were found in the stolen Mazda at the Echo Trails Apartment complex. They were immediately taken into custody.
The Tulsa Police Department and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Gina S. Gilmore and Joel-lyn A. McCormick prosecuted the case.
Federal Grand Jury B Indictments Announced- JanuaryRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Clint Johnson today announced the results of the January 2022 Federal Grand Jury B.
The following individuals have been charged with violations of United States law in indictments returned by the Grand Jury. The return of an indictment is a method of informing a defendant of alleged violations of federal law, which must be proven in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt to overcome a defendant’s presumption of innocence.
Alex Devon Brumfield. Coercion and Enticement of a Minor; Production of Child Pornography; Possession of Child Pornography; Sexual Abuse of a Minor in Indian Country. Brumfield, 23, of Tulsa, allegedly used electronic means to knowingly entice a minor to engage in sexual activity. He also took pictures of the minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing visual depictions and possessed child pornography. Finally, Brumfield is charged with engaging in a sexual act with the child. The crimes took place on Dec. 30-31, 2021. The FBI and Broken Arrow Police Department conducted are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stacey P. Todd is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-14
Ronnell Dontae Butler. Felon in Possession of Ammunition; Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country; Carrying, Using, and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence; Child Abuse in Indian Country (superseding). Butler, 25, of Oklahoma City, is charged with being a felon in possession of Luger 9 mm caliber ammunition. He is further alleged to have pointed a firearm at a woman and threatened to shoot her as a child sat near her, thereby also threatening the child’s safety. The crime occurred on Nov. 1, 2021. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cymetra M. Williams is prosecuting the case. 21-CR-559
Steve Cruz Jr. First Degree Burglary in Indian Country. Cruz Jr., 23, of Miami, is charged with breaking into an occupied home on Jan. 2, 2022. The FBI and Quapaw Tribal Marshal’s Service are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Tonkin is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-21
Jeffery Carl Cunningham. Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor Under 12 Years of Age in Indian Country (Counts 1-3) (superseding). Cunningham, 44, of Eucha, is charged with sexually abusing three different children who were under the age of 12. The crimes date back as far as 1997. The FBI is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam C. Baily is prosecuting the case. 21-CR-384
Koalton Byrnn Ellis. First Degree Murder in Indian Country. On July 24, 2021, Ellis, 29, assaulted victim Buffie Raulston by stabbing her with a knife at a motel in Bartlesville. The victim later succumbed to her injuries. The FBI and Bartlesville Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gina S. Gilmore is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-22
Joshua Earl English. Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury to an Intimate/Dating Partner in Indian Country (Count 1); Assault of an Intimate/Dating Partner by Strangling, Suffocating, and Attempting to Strangle and Suffocate in Indian Country (Count 2); Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country (Counts 3, 4); Child Abuse in Indian Country (Count 5). On Jan. 1, 2022, English, 31, of Tulsa, allegedly assaulted a dating partner by repeatedly striking her in the face, resulting in substantial bodily injury. The same day, English also placed his hands over the victim’s mouth and nose then forced her onto the ground, held her by the neck, and sat on her chest and hands. All these actions restricted the victim’s ability to breathe. On Sept. 22 and Sept. 28, 2021, English also repeatedly struck his dating partner with a belt. Finally, from July 1, to July 31, 2021, English allegedly committed child abuse when he struck an individual who was holding a child, causing the child to fall to the ground. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stacey P. Todd is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-15
Greggory William Henson. Misprision of Felony. On Nov. 6, 2021, Henson, 37, of Tulsa, is alleged to have moved a vehicle so it would not be available for evidence. Henson knew the car was used during the commission of a felony, where a man was killed with a firearm. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward Snow is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-16
Daniel Lee Jumper. Assault of an Intimate/Dating Partner by Strangling and Attempting to Strangle in Indian Country. On Dec. 6, 2021, Jumper, 26, of Eucha, allegedly strangled his spouse. The FBI and Delaware County Sheriff’s Office are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle M. McWaters is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-17
Richard Martinez; Markie Eilene Cruze. Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute. Martinez, 34, and Cruz, 31, both of Fresno, California, are charged with aiding and abetting one another when they knowingly possessed with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine on Jan. 17, 2022. The Drug Enforcement Administration and Oklahoma Highway Patrol are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Tonkin is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-23
Eleazar Perez-Delgado. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Perez-Delgado, 47, of Tulsa, is charged with unlawfully being in the United States after having been deported on April 13, 2019, at or near Del Rio, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles M. McLoughlin is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-18
Emmitt Graywolf Sam. First Degree Felony Murder in Indian Country. Sam, 23, of Tulsa, aiding and abetting Nathan Simmons, unlawfully killed victim Johnathan Stephens during the commission of a series of robberies on June 25, 2016. Acting together, the two men committed the robberies, and while doing so, fatally shot the victim. The FBI and Tulsa and Broken Arrow Police Departments are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney John E. Brasher is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-13
Joshua Lee White. Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury in Indian Country. On Jan. 5, 2022, White, 46, of Claremore, beat another man with his fists and an unknown object. The FBI, Owasso Police Department, and investigators from the Rogers County District Attorney’s Office are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nathan E. Michel is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-19
Adrien Jesse Zorrilla. Sexual Abuse of a Minor in Indian Country. On Jan. 1, 2022, Zorrilla, 21, of Broken Arrow, knowingly engaged in a sexual act with a child between 12 and 16 years of age. The FBI and Muscogee Nation Lighthorse Tribal Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alex M. Scott is prosecuting the case. 22-CR-24
Collinsville Man Found Guilty at Trial for Assaulting a Pregnant WomanRead the Press Release
A federal jury found a man guilty Thursday for severely beating and strangling his pregnant niece in July 2021, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
Kenneth Dale Walker, 54, of Collinsville, was convicted of assault resulting in serious bodily injury in Indian Country.
“Kenneth Walker viciously attacked his pregnant niece in her own home, endangering the victim and her unborn child,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “This office will continue to prosecute domestic crimes of violence to seek justice on behalf of the victims. I am proud of the dedicated work of Assistant U.S. Attorneys Leah Paisner and Stacey Todd, the FBI, and Collinsville Police Department that led to Mr. Walker’s conviction.”
On July 14, 2021, Walker started an argument with his pregnant niece when she refused to provide him a set of keys to her home due to his recent erratic behavior at her home. During the argument about the keys, Walker headbutted his niece. Walker then shoved the victim down into a recliner, causing the recliner to flip backward and the victim’s head to collide with a small table. He stood over the victim and repeatedly kicked the pregnant victim in the stomach. The victim turned her body defensively to protect the unborn child, causing him to instead kick her upper thighs. Walker also lunged at her and attempted to gouge her eyes with his thumbs. He then strangled the victim to the point she saw spots, could not breathe, and thought she and her unborn child would die.
The only thing that stopped Walker’s attack was the victim’s boyfriend who entered the room after overhearing the commotion and saw Walker strangling the victim. When the boyfriend pried Walker off the victim, Walker tried to drag the victim by her hair with him. After the victim was freed, Walker left the home.
The victim and her boyfriend called 911, and the Collinsville Police Department responded to the scene. The victim was taken to the emergency room where she was treated.
Based on interviews with the victim, her medical records, photographs of her initial injuries, and the police reports, a medical expert for the prosecution determined that during the assault, the victim had sustained multiple contusions and abrasions to her neck, face, and back; she experienced the prolonged obstruction of blood flow to her brain, impairing her brain function; her ability to breath was compromised due to the strangulation; and she had sustained a concussion. The expert concluded and testified that the victim’s injuries were serious and the result of a near-fatal strangulation.
In addition to Thursday’s federal conviction, Walker has been convicted of assault and battery three times, domestic assault and battery three times, violation of a protective order, and further convicted of various drug and gun offenses in the state of Oklahoma.
The FBI and Collinsville Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Leah D. Paisner and Stacey P. Todd are prosecuting the case.
Sand Springs Man Sentenced to 138 Months in Prison for Firing a Gun at Woman through her DoorRead the Press Release
A man who intentionally shot through a neighbor’s door during a domestic violence incident involving a child was sentenced in federal court, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced Michael Adam Lindsey, 37, of Sand Springs, to a total of 138 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release.
He is to serve 18 months in prison for assault with a dangerous weapon with intent to do bodily harm in Indian Country and 120 months for carrying, using, brandishing, and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
Lindsey pleaded guilty in September 2021. Lindsey admitted in his plea agreement that on April 29, 2018, he intended to cause bodily harm when he shot a firearm toward a neighbor as she stood behind a door. Just before the incident, a child fled to the neighbor’s home to escape from Lindsey, who had been drinking and just attempted to strangle her. When the neighbor saw the defendant holding a gun, she closed and locked the door before he could enter. When Lindsey was unable to enter the home, he intentionally fired a shot through the door. The bullet went through the door and hit the woman in the upper left arm, near her shoulder. The woman was later treated at the hospital and recovered.
“Michael Lindsey was a danger to his neighborhood and his family. Lindsey could have just as easily killed his neighbor, instead of wounding her when he shot through her door,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “I am thankful she has fully recovered. She is to be commended for selflessly acting to protect the child from harm when she brought her into the home.”
According to a sentencing memorandum filed by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Kelly, Sand Springs police officers found Lindsey laying on the ground outside his home and further located a Jennings .22 caliber pistol and a box of 36, .22 caliber bullets on the front passenger seat of his car. The slide on the pistol was slightly locked back and a spent round and unspent round appeared jammed in the chamber, indicating that Lindsey had attempted to fire again but could not.
Kelly stated that Lindsey possessed the handgun despite having two prior felony convictions. Individuals convicted of a felony are prohibited from possessing firearms. Kelly also stated that Lindsey’s decision to drink 15 or 16 double shots the day of the crime was not a defense nor an excuse for his dangerous behavior.
The FBI and Sand Springs Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Kelly prosecuted the case.
Universal Aryan Brotherhood Member Who Killed a Man in 2017 Pleads Guilty to Participating in a Racketeering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Universal Aryan Brotherhood member Dillon Rose, 30, pleaded guilty this week to conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
As part of the conspiracy, he admitted to murdering victim Jason Harris in 2017.
The plea agreement calls for Rose to serve 22 years in prison to run concurrent with the state of Oklahoma sentence he is presently serving. U.S. District Judge Claire V. Eagan will determine Rose’s sentence on May 3, 2022.
“Dillon Rose took an active role in the Universal Aryan Brotherhood. As part of his nefarious crimes, he kidnapped and murdered a man,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “I want to thank Assistant U.S. Attorney Dennis Fries and special agents with Homeland Security Investigations and IRS-Criminal Investigation who have sought justice for Oklahomans victimized by this deadly criminal organization.”Rose, in his plea agreement, stated that he was a member of the Universal Aryan Brotherhood from 2016 to the present. Rose knew that at least two other UAB members would commit racketeering crimes. He understood the objectives of the racketeering conspiracy and took part in it. Rose admitted to being involved directly, or as a coconspirator, in two or more racketeering crimes to include murder, kidnapping, and more. Specifically on Oct. 4, 2017, Rose along with Dustin Baker kidnapped, robbed and killed Jason Harris. The 38-year-old victim was later discovered in an SUV on the shoulder of Highway 169.
Rose was indicted on Dec. 7, 2018, with 17 other UAB members and associates. The indictment was unsealed Feb. 20, 2019, and alleged the gang to be a racketeering enterprise that committed acts of murder, kidnapping, the trafficking of methamphetamine and firearms, money laundering, assault, and robbery throughout the State of Oklahoma. The indictment alleged that nine individuals were murdered as part of the UAB’s racketeering operations, often upon the orders of the Main Council, the highest governing body of the UAB.
The UAB is a “whites only” prison-based gang with members operating inside and outside of state prisons throughout Oklahoma. It was established in 1993 within the Oklahoma Department of Corrections and modeled itself after the principles and ideology of the Aryan Brotherhood, a California-based prison gang that formed in the 1960s.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and IRS-Criminal Investigation led the investigation with assistance from the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office, the Oklahoma Department of Corrections, the Tulsa and Enid Police Departments, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Dennis A. Fries is prosecuting this case.
You can find the press release announcing charges in February 2019 here.
Members of Retail Theft Organization Face Federal and State ChargesRead the Press Release
Members of a large-scale theft ring have been charged by Federal and State prosecutors for their roles in an organization whose operations crossed state lines and caused more than $10 million in losses to retailers, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson and Oklahoma Attorney General John O’Connor.
This week, local, state, and federal law enforcement arrested 24 defendants in Tulsa and the surrounding areas, as part of Operation Booster Buster. Five defendants remain at large.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office charged a total of 29 defendants with taking part in the largescale retail theft ring staged out of northeastern Oklahoma.
“Organized retail crime is costly to the economic well-being of our communities. This alleged retail theft ring is estimated to have caused retailers more than $10 million in losses,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “A joint team of investigators have worked meticulously over the past several years to connect the evidence and bring this case forward for prosecution. I am thankful for their professionalism and persistence.”
“This investigation was complex, challenging, and lengthy,” Oklahoma Attorney General John O’Connor said. “These are serious crimes. Organized crime is on the rise nationwide, and my office is committed to holding criminals accountable for their actions. I want to thank the state, local, and federal law enforcement agents and prosecutors for their work and partnership in this case.”
Charges were announced at a press conference Thursday. U.S. Attorney Johnson and Oklahoma Attorney General O’Connor were joined by Tulsa Chief of Police Wendell Franklin, Special Agent in Charge Christopher Miller of Homeland Security Investigations, Special Agent in Charge Christopher Altemus Jr. of IRS-Criminal Investigation, and Tulsa County Sheriff Vic Regalado.
Stores targeted include Reasor’s, Sprouts, Walmart, Sam’s Club, Costco, Walgreens, CVS, GNC and others.
For example, on Sept. 4, 2019, defendants Amber Clayson, Latoya Duhart and others allegedly boosted $1,329 worth of over-the-counter products, such as Flonase, Mucinex, Nexium, Zegerid, and Allegra, from a Reasor’s in Jenks, Oklahoma.
According to the federal indictment and the state’s probable cause affidavit, defendant Linda Been led the ring of “boosters” that netted $4.5 million from the sale of stolen merchandise and over-the-counter products to fencing organizations outside of Oklahoma. “Fences” then sold the stolen products through e-commerce sites, like eBay and Amazon.
Normally, fences paid Been half the market value for each item. Been, in turn, paid boosters half of her expected profit for each item they brought to her. Financial payments for stolen products were normally made through PayPal, Venmo, and Cash App, and some payments were made with drugs.
Been provided her boosters with a detailed list of items to steal and the pricing she would pay for each. She further instructed her ring on boosting techniques, including box stuffing. Box stuffing occurs when criminals conceal higher-value items inside lower-value item boxes and only paying for the lower-valued items.
Been and her team of boosters allegedly stole products from retailers in Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Missouri, Arkansas, and Colorado. Been would pay boosters’ expenses when they traveled outside the state. She would further pay boosters’ bond when arrested so they could continue boosting.
Boosters would then deliver the goods to predetermined locations in Tulsa, Sand Springs, and Cleveland, Oklahoma. Defendants Billy Osborne, Juston Osborne, Corey Fields, and Amanda Johnson allegedly helped manage the operation by storing stolen inventory at their residences or businesses and by prepping the merchandise for bulk shipments to fences outside the state. Been also stored stolen merchandise at her residences, prepared inventories, coordinated payment, and shipped the pallets of stolen items.
“Consumers and businesses incur a high price for thieves who commit larcenies and profit by selling their stolen goods to well organized theft rings,” said Tulsa Police Chief Wendell Franklin. “Thieves should take notice. Tulsa is not going to capitulate and allow criminals to disrupt commerce in our city.”
“These federal indictments are a result of the tremendous work and collaboration accomplished by our trusted law enforcement partners, said Christopher Miller, acting Special Agent in Charge HSI Dallas. “It does not matter where these criminal networks operate and sell their illegally acquired goods. We will work without end to ensure those involved are investigated and brought to justice.”
The investigation into the retail theft ring began in 2019 when an organized crime investigator from a pharmacy retailer shared information with Tulsa Police Detectives about bulk thefts at their Tulsa area locations. Investigators linked several boosters in the Tulsa area to Been and her son, state defendant Curtis Leon Gann Jr. They also noted that Been and Gann Jr. were allegedly selling over-the-counter medications, along with other commonly stolen items on their eBay accounts.
The Tulsa Police Department reached out to lead investigator Agent Thomas Helm with the Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office. Once it was determined that crimes linked to Been’s retail theft organization also occurred in surrounding states, a federal investigation was launched.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office, Tulsa Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and IRS Criminal Investigation joined forces to lead Operation Booster Buster. HSI Task Force Officers from the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office also joined in the investigation.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, IRS-Criminal Investigation, the Tulsa Police Department, Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office, and Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney’s Richard M. Cella and Reagan V. Reininger are prosecuting the case on behalf of the federal government. Senior Deputy Attorney General Joy Thorp and Assistant Attorney General Kenneth Dane Towery are prosecuting the case on behalf of the state of Oklahoma.
*A “booster” is a person who steals goods and merchandise, specifically, but not limited to OTC from retail stores.
* A “fence” or “fencing operation” is a person, organization or entity that purchases or receives stolen goods and merchandise from boosters. The fence or fencing operation then re-sells the stolen goods and merchandise to third parties.
An indictment and other charging documents are merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Tulsa Woman Sentenced for Enabling the Abuse of a 3-Year-Old ChildRead the Press Release
A Tulsa woman who enabled the abuse of a young child was sentenced Monday in federal court, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
Chief U.S. District Judge John F. Heil III sentenced Amanda Lyn Walker, 42, to 10 years in federal prison followed by five years of supervised release.
On June 23, 2021, a federal jury found Walker guilty of two counts of enabling acts of child abuse in Indian Country and her boyfriend, Craig Allan Morrison, 37, guilty of two counts of child abuse in Indian Country. Morrison is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 14.
On June 23, 2021, a federal jury found Walker guilty of two counts of enabling acts of child abuse in Indian Country and her boyfriend, Craig Allan Morrison, 37, guilty of two counts of child abuse in Indian Country. Morrison is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 14.
“Amanda Walker lied to family and law enforcement about abuse inflicted on a young child by Craig Morrison,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “Saint Francis Hospital’s pediatric staff, who reported the abuse to authorities, is to be commended for their thorough examination of the victim and dedication to protecting children.”
During the trial, the jury received evidence describing two separate instances of child abuse involving a then three-year-old child. Prosecutors contended that Walker had ignored the abuse, allowed it to continue, and chose to protect her boyfriend instead of the child.
The first incident took place on or about Dec. 20, 2019, when other family members observed and photographed a hand-shaped bruise on the child’s face. According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Walker told a relative that Morrison had hit the child in the face while sleeping due to a “night terror” and that the child’s other bruises were from falls. The relative also reported several other examples where Walker allowed Morrison to mistreat the child, including shoving food into the child’s mouth, causing him to choke.
Walker was further warned by one of Morrison’s family members in text messages to distance herself from Morrison because he was dangerous. The family member also reported that Morrison said the child cried for no reason, so Morrison gave the child reason to cry.
The second incident took place on or about Feb. 18, 2020, when the victim was taken to the Saint Francis Hospital Pediatric Emergency Room with injuries and extensive bruising to the child’s head, back, shoulder, abdomen, buttocks, and leg. Laboratory testing showed elevated liver enzymes and elevated amylase. A pediatrician who treated the victim testified these laboratory tests indicated liver and pancreatic injuries and that the child’s injuries showed the child had suffered blunt force trauma and were the result of child abuse. The hospital contacted authorities.
When interviewed by Tulsa police officers, Walker claimed the child sometimes jumped off his bed and injured himself on the concrete floor, so she assumed that may have been what occurred. She decided to take the child to the hospital when she felt a contusion on the child’s head.
The crimes took place within the Muskogee Nation Reservation and the minor is a citizen of the Comanche Nation.
The FBI and Tulsa Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Melody Noble Nelson and Chantelle D. Dial prosecuted the case.
Shannon Kepler Sentenced to 25 Years for MurderRead the Press Release
Former police officer Shannon Kepler, 61, was sentenced today in federal court for killing Jeremey Lake on Aug. 5, 2014.
U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced Kepler to 25 years in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release. Per the family’s request, he further ordered Kepler to pay restitution in an amount to cover the cost of a headstone for the victim. Kepler was sentenced for using a firearm in the commission of second degree murder. A separate assault charge for firing at Lake’s brother was previously dismissed by Judge Frizzell due to the statute of limitations.
During sentencing, Jeremey’s father spoke in court. He described the emotional and physical toll taken by his first-born son’s death and the subsequent trials. He described how difficult it was to think of his son suffering while the defendant drove away from the crime scene.
Jeremey’s father and the family members who submitted letters reminded the Court that Jeremey never had the chance to grow into the man he had hoped to become for his unborn child. They explained that prior to his death, Jeremey found a steady residence and intended to go to welding school. They also spoke about his selflessness and willingness to help others, as evidenced by his volunteer work at the homeless shelter. One family member explained that the only place she could speak to Jeremey now was at his grave.
“Nineteen-year-old Jeremey Lake died almost immediately after Shannon Kepler gunned him down in the street in 2014,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “Kepler, at the time, was sworn to uphold the law but instead made a series of decisions that led to the young man’s murder. Today’s 25-year sentence provides a measure of justice to Mr. Lake’s family, though I know their healing continues. It also serves as a reminder that the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners will hold individuals accountable for acts of violence in our community.”
A federal jury convicted Kepler in April 2021 for killing Lake.
A week prior to Lake’s 2014 murder, Kepler dropped off his 18-year-old daughter at a homeless shelter with no extra clothing, no money, and no cell phone. He later logged into his daughter’s Facebook account while he was at work and saw that she had newly changed her status to being “in a relationship” with Jeremey Lake. Kepler then used police databases to gather information on Lake and printed off police reports about the victim. The day of the crime, Kepler changed into dark clothing, used his wife’s SUV, then travelled after dark to Lake’s last known address with a loaded revolver in the waistband of his pants.
After seeing Lake and Lisa Kepler around 9 pm, Kepler approached Lake and shot him in the street on North Maybelle Avenue, near downtown Tulsa. After shooting the victim twice through the chest, he turned and fired in the direction of his daughter, the victim’s brother, and a third witness to the killing. Lake died at the scene.
At the time of the murder, Kepler was a 24-year veteran of the Tulsa Police Department.
Kepler appealed his 2017 State manslaughter conviction for the killing on grounds that his case should have been tried in federal court based on the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in McGirt v. Oklahoma. Kepler is a citizen of the Muscogee Nation, and the shooting took place on the nation’s Reservation.
The FBI and Tulsa Police Department joined forces to lead the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ross E. Lenhardt and Sean J. Taylor prosecuted the case. Mr. Lenhardt is a prosecutor from the Western District of Pennsylvania, and Mr. Taylor is a prosecutor from the Eastern District of Texas. Both volunteered to assist prosecution efforts in the Northern District of Oklahoma due to increased jurisdictional responsibilities regarding crimes that occur on the Muscogee, Cherokee and Quapaw Nations’ Reservations involving Native American victims or defendants.
You can find the trial press release here.
Federal Grand Jury A Indictments Announced- January 2022Read the Press Release
United States Attorney Clint Johnson today announced the results of the January 2022 Federal Grand Jury A.
The following individuals have been charged with violations of United States law in indictments returned by the Grand Jury. The return of an indictment is a method of informing a defendant of alleged violations of federal law, which must be proven in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt to overcome a defendant’s presumption of innocence.
Earl Dean Baker III. Aggravated Sexual Abuse by Force and Threat in Indian Country; Sexual Abuse by Threat and Fear in Indian Country. Baker III, 33, of Tulsa, allegedly threatened and raped a victim on Nov. 3, 2021. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Childress is prosecuting the case.
Andrew Michael Crowels, Katie Dawn Keck. Carjacking; Robbery in Indian Country; Carrying, Using, and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence; Kidnapping in Indian Country; Robbery in Indian Country; Kidnapping in Indian Country. Crowels, 36, of Tulsa, and Keck, 32, of Pryor, allegedly took a vehicle from the owner by force and intimidation on Dec. 14, 2021. Crowels allegedly brandished a firearm during the carjacking. Crowels and Keck, aided and abetted by others, also allegedly kidnapped the victim and stole currency, debit cards, credit cards, the victim’s Ford Focus, and a cell phone during the incident. After being unable to use the victim’s debit card, the defendants forcibly took the victim to his place of employment and stole money from the safe. The Tulsa Police Department is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Buscemi is prosecuting the case.
Coti D’Shayne Davis. Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. Davis, 30, of Tulsa, is charged with failing to register and update his registration as a sex offender from Feb. 1, 2019, to July 31, 2021. The U.S. Marshals Service is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Valeria Luster is prosecuting the case.
Dhylian Whalin Rhain Gonzalis. Assault of an Intimate/Dating Partner by Strangling, Suffocating, and Attempting to Strangle and Suffocate in Indian Country; Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury to an Intimate/Dating Partner in Indian Country; Assault of an Intimate/Dating Partner by Strangling, Suffocating, and Attempting to Strangle and Suffocate in Indian Country; Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury to an Intimate/Dating Partner in Indian Country. Gonzalis is charged with two counts of strangling his dating partner on Aug. 28, 2020. He further charged with two counts of striking the victim, causing serious bodily injury. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Buscemi is prosecuting the case.
Christian James Harrison. First Degree Murder in Indian Country; Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country; Carrying, Using, Brandishing, and Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence. Harrison, 19, of Tulsa, is charged with shooting and killing a 13-year-old boy during an argument on Dec. 22, 2021. Harrison is also charged with assaulting and discharging a firearm at a second victim. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Kelly is prosecuting the case.
Michael Dylan Hedrick. Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country. Hedrick, 28, of Tulsa, allegedly struck the victim with the intent of doing bodily harm on Nov. 28, 2021. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard M. Cella is prosecuting the case.
Randy Thomas Lynch; Haley Ashton Spry. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition; Drug Conspiracy; Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; Possession of Firearms in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime; Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises; Receipt of a Firearm While Under Indictment for a Felony (superseding indictment). Lynch, 34, of Tulsa, is charged in count 1 with being a felon in possession of a Mossberg 12-guage caliber pump-action shotgun; a Smith and Wesson .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol; a Taurus .38 Special caliber revolver; a Remington Union Metallic Cartridge Company .45 caliber semi-automatic pistol; a Kimber .45 caliber semi-automatic pistol; a Winchester 20-gauge caliber pump-action shotgun; a Hawk Industries Co. Ltd 12-gauge caliber pump-action shotgun, and 57 rounds of assorted ammunition. Lynch is charged in Count 2 with conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. He is further charged with knowingly possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine and with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Both Lynch and Spry, 24, of Tulsa, are charged with aiding and abetting each other when maintaining a residence for the purpose of distributing methamphetamine. Finally, Spry is charged with receiving a Glock .380 caliber semi-automatic pistol while under indictment for a felony. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney David A. Nasar is prosecuting the case.
Geary Wayne Stotesbury. Carjacking; Kidnapping in Indian Country; Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country; Theft of over $1,000 in Indian Country; Tampering with a Witness and Victim by Using and Threatening Physical Force. Stotesbury, 40, of Pryor, used violence and intimidation to take a vehicle from a victim on Nov. 17, 2021, after he kidnapped the victim. He is also charged with cutting and stabbing the victim during the carjacking. Stotesbury is also charged with theft of property worth over $1,000 in value, which included cash, a cell phone and the victim’s vehicle. Finally, Stotesbury is charged with threatening to kill the victim and hitting and cutting the victim to prevent her from reporting the crime to authorities. The FBI and Mayes County Sheriff’s Office are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gina Gilmore is prosecuting the case.
Jeffrey David Sutton. Assault with Intent to Commit Murder in Indian Country; Carrying, Using, Brandishing, and Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence. Sutton, 53, of Mounds, is charged with shooting a victim with intent to commit murder on Dec. 2, 2021. He is further charged with carrying and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence. The FBI, Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office and Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Briden is prosecuting the case.
Amanda Nicole West. Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country. West, 33, of Bartlesville, allegedly brandished a knife and threatened to stab and kill the victim. The FBI and Bartlesville Police department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle McWaters is prosecuting the case.
Tulsa Man Pleads Guilty to Shooting Outside a Tulsa NightclubRead the Press Release
A 21-year-old Tulsa man who committed a shooting outside of a Tulsa nightclub in August pleaded guilty Wednesday in federal court, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
Jaden Perez pleaded guilty to carrying, using, brandishing, and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. Perez admitted to firing a handgun at a security guard and injuring him on Aug. 21, 2021, at a nightclub in southeast Tulsa. He faces ten years in federal prison at his sentencing, which is scheduled for April 27, 2022.
“Jaden Perez has been held accountable for his blatant criminal disregard for the safety of nightclub patrons and employees when he shot a security guard outside the nightclub. I am thankful that no one was killed in the incident,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office and our partners at the Tulsa Police Department and ATF will continue to hold accountable those responsible for gun violence in our community.”
In his plea agreement, Perez admitted that he got into a fight with a security guard as the nightclub was closing. After the fight ended, he returned to his friend’s car to retrieve two firearms, a Kimber .45 caliber pistol and a Taurus 9mm caliber pistol. Perez then ran across the parking lot firing multiple times at security guards and other bystanders, ultimately hitting one security guard who returned fire and struck Perez multiple times.
During the shooting, the security guard felt a pain in his chest when he was struck. Upon examination, he suffered bruising and redness to the left side of his chest.
Perez fled the scene immediately afterwards. Tulsa police officers responding to the shooting conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Perez’s friend shortly after the incident and found Perez in the back seat suffering from gunshot wounds. Perez was transported by ambulance to St. Francis Hospital for treatment.
Perez is a citizen of the Muscogee Nation, and the crime occurred on the Muscogee Nation Reservation.
The Tulsa Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney George Jiang is prosecuting the case.
Clinton Johnson Appointed U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of OklahomaRead the Press Release
Attorney General Merrick Garland appointed Clinton J. Johnson as the United States Attorney for the Northern District of Oklahoma effective December 26, 2021. Chief U.S. District Judge John F. Heil III administered the oath of office.
“I am privileged to serve the people of northeastern Oklahoma and to lead an exceptional team of attorneys and support staff dedicated to ensuring the public’s safety,” said U.S Attorney Clint Johnson. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office remains committed to working closely with our local, state, federal and tribal partners in the pursuit of justice in the Northern District of Oklahoma.”
Johnson previously began a term appointment as the Acting U.S. Attorney on March 1, 2021, under the Vacancies Reform Act. That term appointment expired on December 25, 2021. Under the Attorney General’s December 26, 2021, appointment, Johnson now serves as the United States Attorney for a term of 120 days or until a presidentially appointed U.S. Attorney is in place.
Johnson is the chief federal law enforcement officer responsible for all federal criminal prosecutions and civil litigation involving the United States in the Northern District of Oklahoma, an area covering eleven counties and including thirteen federally recognized Indian tribes. He leads a staff of more than 100 attorneys and support personnel to accomplish this mission.
He has also held the position of First Assistant U.S. Attorney where he supervised the criminal, civil, and administrative divisions for the Northern District of Oklahoma. He further managed the agency’s budget and resources and took an active role in the hiring of personnel and expansion of office space as the U.S. Attorney’s Office was required to grow dramatically to fulfill its public safety mission.
Johnson is a career federal prosecutor with 26 years of experience. He has investigated and prosecuted violent felonies, white-collar offenses, public corruption, drug and gun-related crimes, and human trafficking in the Northern District of Oklahoma. Previously, he served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney and Deputy Branch Chief in the District of New Mexico.
For more information about the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Oklahoma, please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndok. The U.S. Attorney’s full bio can be found here.
Federal Grand Jury B Indictments Announced- DecemberRead the Press Release
Acting United States Attorney Clint Johnson today announced the results of the December 2021 Federal Grand Jury B.
The following individuals have been charged with violations of United States law in indictments returned by the Grand Jury. The return of an indictment is a method of informing a defendant of alleged violations of federal law, which must be proven in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt to overcome a defendant’s presumption of innocence.
Tyler Ray Baker. First Degree Burglary in Indian Country. Baker, 21, of Tulsa, is charged with breaking into a residence by opening a window or door while an occupant was inside on Nov. 30, 2021. Baker was fleeing officers during a foot pursuit and allegedly entered the home to evade law enforcement. The occupant confronted Baker who then left the residence and was eventually apprehended by Tulsa police officers. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cheryl L. Baber is prosecuting the case. 21-CR-544
Ronnell Dontae Butler. Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country; Child Abuse in Indian Country. Butler, 25, of Oklahoma City, allegedly pointed a firearm at a female victim and threatened to shoot her on Nov. 1, 2021, all while a child was in the same room. The FBI, Tulsa Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cymetra M. Williams is prosecuting the case. 21-CR-559
Manuel Gustavo Cardenas-Lozoya; Alexis Perez-Camacho; Juan Luis Lopez-Carreon; Danahe Cervantes; Reinaldo Gustavo Martinez; Miguel Angel Gabino-Trujillo; Christopher Holdman; Yovani Soto Tejo; Aren Yoana Lopez-Gomez; Audrina Denis Lopez-Gomez; FNU LNU aka Chuy. Drug Conspiracy (Count 1); Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute (Count 2); Distribution of Cocaine (Count 3); Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute (Count 4); Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute (Count 5); Use of a Communication Facility in Committing (Counts 6-97), Causing, and Facilitating the Commission of a Drug Trafficking Felony; Money Laundering Conspiracy (Count 98). (superseding) According to the indictment, an unknown defendant called “Chuy” led the drug trafficking organization from Mexico. Chuy directed shipments of multi-kilogram quantities of cocaine from Mexico to Oklahoma and ensured the drug proceeds were sent back to Mexico. He coordinated with alleged Tulsa-based distributor and money launderer Manuel Gustavo Cardenas-Lozoya, 39, who sold bulk quantities of cocaine to mid-level dealers in Tulsa for redistribution. The two would then coordinate the transport of sizeable drug profits from Tulsa back to Mexico. At Chuy’s direction, Alexis Perez-Camacho, 23, and Juan Luis Lopez-Carreon, 39, transported the cocaine from Oklahoma City to Tulsa so it could be distributed by Cardenas-Lozoya and mid-level dealers. Perez-Camacho also stored cocaine and drug proceeds at his residence. Danahe Cervantes, 23, Cardenas-Lozoya’s girlfriend, helped facilitate the drug sales by acting as a translator. Mid-level dealers who purchased the cocaine from Cardenas-Lozoya for redistribution in Oklahoma were Reinaldo Gustavo Martinez, 44; Miguel Angel Gabino-Trujillo, 38; Christopher Holdman, 46; and Yovani Soto Tejo, 36. Aren Yoana Lopez-Gomez, 33, and Audrina Denis Lopez-Gomez, 34, helped Cardenas-Lozoya laundered money and assisted him in his distribution efforts.The conspirators used Messenger and cells phones to allegedly discuss the amount of cocaine, price and payment arrangements, distribution times and locations, settling debts owed, and money laundering. All defendants but Chuy have been located and arrested. The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Operation Snow Hunter. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach.The Drug Enforcement Administration led the operation with assistance from the Tulsa Police Department, Broken Arrow Police Department, Oklahoma Highway Patrol, Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office, Delaware County District Attorney’s Office, Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs, Miami Police Department, Bureau of Indian Affairs, and the Colorado Springs Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney David A. Nasar is prosecuting the case. 21-CR-506
Harley Drew Campbell. Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country; Felon in Possession of Ammunition. Campbell, 41, of Tulsa, is charged with purposefully driving his vehicle into a Catoosa police officer’s patrol car on Dec. 5, 2021. The officer was trying to apprehend the defendant at the time of the incident. Campbell is further charged with being a felon in possession of 70 rounds of ammunition. The FBI and Catoosa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon A. Skates is prosecuting the case. 21-CR-560
Rodrigo Javier Diaz De La Cruz. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Diaz-De La Cruz, 22, is charged with reentering the United States after having been removed on March 18, 2020, at or near Hidalgo, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles M. McLoughlin is prosecuting the case. 21-CR-545
Janice Margaret Glaze. Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises; Possession of Firearms in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime. Glaze, 57, of Grove, is alleged to have knowingly possessed with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine on Oct. 6, 2021. She is further charged with maintaining a residence in Grove for the purpose of distributing the drug. Finally, she is charged with possessing seven firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The Drug Enforcement Administration and Grove Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nathan E. Michel is prosecuting the case. 21-CR-546
Kovon Daylan Hemphill. Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country. Hemphill, 29, of Tulsa, allegedly attempted to stab a Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office deputy on Nov. 11, 2021. The FBI and Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney John E. Brasher is prosecuting the case. 21-CR-547
Keith Dwain Murray. Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury in Indian Country. Murray, 53, of Quapaw, allegedly assaulted an individual on Nov. 24, 2021, resulting in serious bodily injury. The FBI and Quapaw Tribal Marshals Service are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan H. Heatherman is prosecuting the case. 21-CR-548
Seth James Palmer. Assault with Intent to Commit Murder in Indian Country; Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country; Carrying, Using, Brandishing, and Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence. Palmer, 21, of Quapaw, allegedly brandished a firearm, shot at a family of four occupying a vehicle, and threatened to kill them on April 13, 2021. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Quapaw Tribal Marshals Service are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle M. McWaters is prosecuting the case. 21-CR-549
Brandon Cruze Rose. Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury in Indian Country. On June 6, 2019, Rose, 29, of Bartlesville, allegedly assaulted an individual, resulting in serious bodily injury. The FBI and Bartlesville Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Victor A.S. Régal is prosecuting the case. 21-CR-550
Noe Alejandro Sandoval-Herrera. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Sandoval-Herrera, 29, is charged with reentering the United States after having been previously removed on July 9, 2018, at or near San Ysidro, California. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles M. McLoughlin is prosecuting the case. 21-CR-551
Jacob Darnell Singleton. Robbery in Indian Country; Assault by Striking, Beating, and Wounding (Misdemeanor). Singleton, 21, of Tulsa, allegedly took $200 from an individual by force, violence and intimidation on Dec. 1, 2021, while the victim was retrieving money from an ATM. Later that evening he allegedly struck a different female victim several times in the head. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nathan E. Michel is prosecuting the case. 21-CR-552
Joel Richard Smith; Amanda Irene Smith. Child Abuse in Indian Country (Counts 1, 3); Child Neglect in Indian Country (Counts 2,4). From July 8, 2016, and continuing through April 5, 2019, Joel and Amanda Smith, aiding and abetting one another, are alleged to have repeatedly struck a child with their hands and belt and restrained the child’s ankles with handcuffs. During that time, they also failed to adequately provide for the physical, emotional, and educational needs of the child. The child ran to a neighbor’s home for help and was severely malnourished, did not have basic hygiene needs met, and showed signs of physical abuse, including difficulty walking. Joel Smith, 46, of Salina, is charged in counts 1 and 2. Amanda Smith, 43, of Salina, is charged in counts 3 and 4. The FBI and Mayes County Sheriff’s Office are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sandra M. Urban is prosecuting the case. 21-CR-553
William Mark Sullivan; Michelle Cadman-Sullivan. Bank Fraud Conspiracy (Count 1); Aggravated Identify Theft (Counts 2 -5). Sullivan, 48, and Cadman-Sullivan, 41, residences unknown, are alleged to have fraudulently applied for six Paycheck Protection Program loans at Arvest Bank in Tulsa and The Exchange Bank in Skiatook. Paycheck Protection Program loans are guaranteed by the Small Business Administration under the CARES Act,. The two applied for more than $2.7 million dollars in loans and actually obtained $691,145 in funding from the banks. The coconspirators created various business entities that would fraudulently represent on loan applications that they had a number of employees and amount of payroll expenses that would qualify for the loans. The two applied for the loans under fictitious companies like Oaklahoma Paving LLC; U.S. Central Construction LLC; USA-1 Construction INC.; Oaklahoma Energy; and Oaklahoma Paving. The two lied on the applications, signed them and failed to disclose to the banks that they were submitting duplicative and overlapping applications. In counts 2 through 5, Cadman-Sullivan is charged with aggravated identity theft for unlawfully using the names of others in relation to the scheme. The Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection Office of Inspector General and Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin C. Leitch and Matthew J. Feeley are prosecuting the case. 21-CR-561
Thomas Velazquez-Pacheco. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Velazquez-Pacheco, 30, reentered the United States are having been previously deported on Aug. 27, 2014, at or near Hidalgo, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles M. McLoughlin is prosecuting the case. 21-CR-554
Britton Lemarcus Washington. Interference with Interstate Commerce by Robbery; Bank Robbery. On Nov. 26, 2021, Washington, 33, of Tulsa, allegedly affected interstate commerce when he robbed a Check Into Cash in Tulsa, stealing $874.05. On Nov. 29, 2021, he is further alleged to have robbed a Spirit Bank of Oklahoma in Tulsa of $2,820. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle M. McWaters is prosecuting the case. 21-CR-555
Salvador Yanez-Pereyra. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Yanez-Pereyra, 30, is charged with reentering the United States are having been previously deported on Sept. 18, 2019, at or near Paso Del Norte, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles M. McLoughlin is prosecuting the case. 21-CR-556