Western District of Oklahoma
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Indictment Unsealed Alleging That Ex-Norman Car Dealership Executive Tampered with Court ProceedingsRead the Press Release
Witness Also Charged with Lying to Federal Grand Jury
OKLAHOMA CITY – United States Attorney Robert J. Troester announced that a federal grand jury indictment was unsealed today charging BOBBY CHRIS MAYES, 50, of Norman, with three counts of tampering with official proceedings. The indictment also charged ERIN ALLEGRE, 36, of Norman, with lying in testimony before a federal grand jury.
Mayes appeared for arraignment this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Shon T. Erwin. Mayes has been in federal custody since October 25, 2022, and he was ordered today to remain in custody pending further proceedings.
Public records reflect that Mayes was the former owner of the Big Red Dealerships (Big Red Sports/Imports, Big Red Kia, Norman Yamaha, Norman Mitsubishi, and Mayes Kia). On November 19, 2021, Mayes was convicted along with two co-defendants by a jury in Western District of Oklahoma Case Number CR-20-240-F. After nearly a three-week trial, Mayes was convicted of conspiring to commit wire fraud, 12 counts of wire fraud, six counts of uttering forged securities, and aggravated identity theft. Mayes is awaiting sentencing in that case, where he faces a mandatory term of imprisonment of two years for aggravated identity theft to run consecutive to any other term of imprisonment.
Today’s unsealed indictment alleges that from April through October of 2022, Mayes tampered with official proceedings in Case Number CR-20-240-F. More specifically, the indictment alleges Mayes orchestrated and helped to secure the unavailability of a key participant in the proceeding, fabricated e-mails and other evidence in an effort to secure a new trial in that prior case, and sent an anonymous e-mail to the Court as part of an effort to obtain a new trial in Case Number CR-20-240-F.
Today’s indictment also alleges that Allegre lied to the federal grand jury when she appeared as a witness on May 3, 2022, and testified regarding the investigation of the whereabouts of one of Mayes’ co-defendants in Case Number CR-20-240-F.
If found guilty on the indictment announced today, Mayes faces a maximum penalty of twenty years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 on each of the three counts of tampering. If convicted, Allegre faces a maximum of 5 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 for lying to the grand jury.
This case is the result of an investigation by FBI’s Oklahoma City Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas Snyder and Jacquelyn Hutzell are prosecuting the case.
The public is reminded that these charges announced today are merely allegations, and Mayes and Allegre are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Reference is made to court filings for further information.
Wichita Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Odometer TamperingRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – MICHAEL MARKS, 31, of Wichita, Kansas, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to commit odometer tampering, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
Public records reflect that on February 10, 2023, Marks was charged by Information with one count of conspiring to alter the odometers of motor vehicles. The Information alleges that between August 2017 and July 2022, Marks and his coconspirators purchased 15 used vehicles, altered their odometers to register lower mileages, and then resold the vehicles to unsuspecting buyers. Federal law prohibits conspiring to knowingly and willfully disconnect, reset, and alter an odometer of a motor vehicle intending to change the registered odometer mileage.
Today, Marks pleaded guilty to the Information. Marks will be sentenced in approximately 90 days. At sentencing, Marks faces up to three years of imprisonment and a fine of $250,000. Under the terms of his plea agreement with the government, Marks has also agreed to pay restitution to the victims who purchased the 15 vehicles.
This case is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Office of Odometer Fraud Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney D.H. Dilbeck.
Reference is made to the Information and other public court filings for further information.
“Shots Fired” Calls Result in Oklahoma City Man Sentenced to Serve 18 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Last week, DARVIS DEAN ARNETT, JR., 25, of Oklahoma City, was sentenced to serve 216 months in federal prison for being a convicted felon in illegal possession of firearms, announced United States Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On December 14, 2021, a federal grand jury returned a one-count indictment against Arnett charging him with being a prior convicted felon illegally in possession of a firearm. On February 15, 2022, a federal grand jury returned a superseding indictment charging Arnett with three counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm. On April 8, 2022, Arnett pleaded guilty to the three-count superseding indictment.
Public records reflect that on March 14, 2021, the Oklahoma City Police Department (OCPD) responded to a shots-fired call at a Hampton Inn. During a verbal altercation between Arnett, his two female accomplices, and unknown individuals, Arnett retrieved a handgun from a vehicle, fired one round into the air and two more rounds toward the male with whom he was fighting. Arnett was arrested during a traffic stop a short while later along with his two female accomplices. The firearm was discovered in the trunk of the vehicle.
Additionally, on May 3, 2021, the Edmond Police Department responded to a shots-fired call in a residential neighborhood. Arnett was seen on surveillance video firing more than 30 rounds of ammunition from a firearm fitted with a high-capacity drum magazine. Pursuant to a search warrant, police located the gun in a clothes hamper in Arnett’s parent’s bedroom.
Lastly, on November 11, 2021, Arnett’s ex-girlfriend came home and discovered her front door had been kicked in. Soon after she called 911 to report the burglary, Arnett showed up and tried to force his way into her apartment. She and one of her female friends were able to hold the door shut and she again called 911. When he could not get into the apartment, Arnett went to the parking lot where he fired the gun three times into the air. OCPD officers responding to this call heard three gunshots from the area of the apartment complex. Arnett was later arrested at his parent’s home in Edmond. Prior to Arnett’s arrest, his father gave police the firearm Arnett had hidden in the attic.
Federal law prohibits prior convicted felons from possessing firearms or ammunition. Prior to his arrest, Arnett had been convicted of at least three felonies out of Oklahoma County, including instances of robbery with a firearm and burglary in the first degree in CF-2015-2755, CF-2015-5969, and CF-2015-8233.
On Monday, January 30, 2023, U.S. District Judge Stephen P. Friot sentenced Arnett to serve a total of 216 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In announcing the sentence, Judge Friot noted the nature and circumstances of the offense, including Arnett’s criminal history.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, the Oklahoma City Police Department, and the Edmond Police Department, with assistance from the Oklahoma County District Attorney’s Office. Prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David R. Nichols, Jr., the case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a Department of Justice program to reduce violent crime. In October 2017, the Department announced the reinvigoration of Project Safe Neighborhoods and directed U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop crime-reduction strategies that incorporate lessons federal law enforcement has learned since the program’s launch in 2001.
This case is also part of "Operation 922" and "Operation Shots Fired." "Operation 922" is the Western District of Oklahoma’s implementation of Project Safe Neighborhoods, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. "Operation 922" prioritizes prosecution of federal crimes connected to domestic violence. "Operation Shots Fired" targets cases involving individuals who discharge firearms as part of their criminal activity, such as drive-by shootings or when shots are fired during robberies, domestic disputes, or other incidents. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://justice.gov/psn and https://justice.gov/usao-wdok.
Reference is made to court filings for further information.
Pauls Valley Man Sentenced to Serve Five Years in Federal Prison for Involuntary Manslaughter from Collision Causing Deaths of Two ChildrenRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Today, WILLIAM AARON DAVID PATCHELL, 26, of Pauls Valley, Oklahoma, was sentenced to serve sixty months in federal prison for involuntary manslaughter in Indian country, announced United States Attorney Robert J. Troester.
Public record reflects that in July of 2019, Patchell was driving on a country road at more than twice the posted speed limit when he hit a family vehicle. The collision resulted in the deaths of two children, the premature birth of a third child, and extensive injuries to two adults. An investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP) determined Patchell’s vehicle was travelling more than 80 miles per hour just before the collision. Based on the evidence collected, OHP determined Patchell’s speed caused the collision.
Patchell was initially charged in Garvin County District Court with two counts of Manslaughter in the First Degree, but the case was dismissed pursuant to McGirt v. Oklahoma on September 7, 2021.
On November 2, 2021, a federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment against Patchell for involuntary manslaughter. The case was prosecuted in federal court because the victims were members of a federally recognized Indian tribe and the crime occurred within the boundaries of the Chickasaw Nation, and within the Western District of Oklahoma.
On April 8, 2022, Patchell pleaded guilty to a one-count information charging him with involuntary manslaughter for causing the death of the two child victims.
Patchell was sentenced today to serve sixty months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Patrick R. Wyrick. Judge Wyrick also ordered that upon release from prison, Patchell must serve three years of supervised release.
This case was a result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiffany Noble prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to court filing for further information.
Coronavirus Fraud Task Force Getting ResultsRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY — Launched in April 2021, the Western District of Oklahoma Coronavirus Fraud Task Force is getting results. The Task Force combines the efforts of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute fraud related to the COVID-19 pandemic. It focuses on programs created or funded by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security ACT (CARES Act) and the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), and it is designed to find the best way to detect, deter, and punish those who take advantage of federal and state programs during the pandemic. These programs include, but are not limited to, fraud involving the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL), the Main Street Lending Program, unemployment insurance fraud, and fraud involving pandemic-related supplies.
To date, Task Force efforts have produced the following cases:
Sentencings:
- STEVEN MESROP, 30, of Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada; MIRNA MAHROUS HABIB, 25, of Mississauga, Ontario, Canada; KARIN TREISTER, 25 of Toronto, Canada; and DIJON CORNELIUS SHEPARD, 28, of Los Angeles, California, were collectively ordered to serve 104 months in federal prison and pay nearly $3.5 million in restitution. Public records reflect the defendants pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and related crimes for participating in a scheme to fraudulently acquire personal protective equipment and event tickets, which came to the attention of law enforcement in Oklahoma when co-conspirators used stolen credit card information from 52 credit cards to purchase $678,842.03 worth of tickets to Oklahoma State University athletic events. The defendants also targeted U.S.-based businesses selling pandemic related supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic. For more information about this case, visit: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdok/pr/canadian-man-pleads-guilty-conspiracy-fraudulently-acquire-personal-protective.
- ALFRED SMITH, 37, of Miami, Florida, was sentenced on July 27, 2022, to serve 30 months in federal prison and ordered to pay $246,606.50 in restitution. Public records reflect Smith committed access device fraud using debit cards issued by the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission (OESC), the state workforce agency tasked with administering the unemployment insurance program in Oklahoma. Smith used stolen identities to obtain unemployment insurance benefits from OESC. After OESC issued debit cards containing the unemployment benefits, Smith used the debit cards to withdraw cash from local ATMs. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Congress provided additional funding under the CARES Act and ARPA for unemployment benefits, which made the unemployment insurance program a target for fraudulent schemes.
- ANDRICE SAINVIL, 20, of Margate, Florida, was sentenced on December 29, 2022, to serve 24 months in federal prison and ordered to pay $26,699.80 in restitution. Public records reflect that Sainvil conspired with others to steal the identities of dozens of Oklahomans, use their victims’ names and social security numbers to apply for fraudulent unemployment insurance benefits with OESC, and caused OESC to mail prepaid debit cards containing those fraudulently obtained benefits to addresses accessible to coconspirators. Sainvil then retrieved those prepaid debit cards and used them to withdraw thousands of dollars in cash from ATMs throughout Oklahoma City and elsewhere. For more information about this case, visit: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdok/pr/florida-man-sentenced-two-years-federal-prison-pandemic-related-fraud.
Guilty Pleas:
- JILL NICOLE FORD, 31, formerly of Edmond, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty on January 20, 2022, to bank fraud and money laundering. According to public records, Ford fraudulently obtained a loan through the Main Street Lending Program for her business Oliver & Olivia Apparel, Inc. In the loan application, Ford falsely represented that she would use the loan proceeds for working capital and payroll only, and that she would not make distributions to herself as the company’s owner. Despite these representations, Ford used a portion of the proceeds to pay for construction on her personal home and to purchase a luxury SUV for her personal use. At sentencing, Ford faces up to 30 years of imprisonment and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for bank fraud. She also faces up to 10 years of imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000 for money laundering. For more information about this case, visit: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdok/pr/edmond-woman-pleads-guilty-cares-act-main-street-lending-program-fraud.
- BRIAN FOSTER, 53, of Norman, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty on November 15, 2022, to making a false statement to a financial institution. According to public records, Foster provided false income and tax information to a bank when applying for a $20,833 PPP loan in another person’s name. At sentencing, Foster faces up to 30 years of imprisonment and a fine of up to $1,000,000.
- RANDISHA PARKER, 41, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty on January 5, 2023, to making a false statement to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). According to public records, Parker knowingly made false statements to the SBA when she applied for a $56,000 EIDL loan. At sentencing, Parker faces up to two years of imprisonment and a fine of up to $5,000.
- OCTAVIO SANCHEZ, 49, of Norman, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty on January 18, 2023, to conspiracy and aggravated identity theft. According to public records, Sanchez used the identity of his deceased sister to apply for $3,200 in economic impact payments from the Internal Revenue Service. The CARES Act authorized economic impact payments, also known as stimulus checks, to eligible individuals to address the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic. Additional rounds of economic impact payments were authorized by the COVID-related Tax Relief Act of 2020 and ARPA. At sentencing, Sanchez faces up to five years of imprisonment and up to a $250,000 fine for conspiracy and a mandatory term of imprisonment of 24 months for aggravated identify theft.
Sentencings take place approximately 90 days after a plea of guilty.
Charged:
- NAQUIB U. HATAMI, 50, of Fairfax, Virginia, was charged by information on December 7, 2022, for making a false statement to a financial institution. According to public records, Hatami gave false information to a bank regarding his company’s payroll and number of employees when he applied for a $160,480 PPP loan. If convicted of making a false statement to a financial institution, Hatami faces up to 30 years of imprisonment and a fine of up to $1,000,000.
The public is reminded that charges are merely allegations and that the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
These investigations were led by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office; Special Inspector General for Pandemic Recovery (SIGPR); the Internal Revenue Service–Criminal Investigations; the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration; the Federal Reserve Board Office of Inspector General; the U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General; the United States Secret Service; Homeland Security New York’s El Dorado Task Force, the New York City Police Department, the Irvine (California) Police Department, with assistance from Customs and Border Protection; the Department of Labor Office of Inspector General, the Oklahoma City Police Department; and the Village Police Department.
The prosecutions arising out of these investigations were handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica Perry, Bow Bottomly, Will Farrior, Julia Barry, Danielle London, and D.H. Dilbeck, with assistance from Paralegals Karen Hadrava and Melody Harris.
Reference is made to public filings for more information on these cases.
For further information on Department of Justice response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus or https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdok/covid-19-fraud-0. Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
275 Convicted in Four Separate Investigations Concluded Within Last Nine Months of Drug Trafficking Networks Directed from Oklahoma State Prisons Using Contraband Cell PhonesRead the Press Release
1,061 Pounds of Drugs and 393 Firearms Removed Off Streets and $1.3 Million Taken Away from Drug Traffickers
OKLAHOMA CITY – Over the last nine months, numerous federal, state, and local investigators and prosecutors have concluded their fourth unrelated long-term investigation and prosecution of separate drug trafficking networks being directed from inside Oklahoma state prisons using contraband cell phones, announced United States Attorney Robert J. Troester. Details of the four investigations are described more completely in the following press releases:
- January 25, 2023 – 60 Southside Locos Gang Members and Associates Convicted for Drug Trafficking Operation Directed from Oklahoma State Prisons
- January 9, 2023 - 69 Universal Aryan Brotherhood Gang Members and Associates Convicted During Multi-Year Investigation into Their Drug Trafficking of Methamphetamine
- July 15, 2022 - 21 Defendants Convicted During Three-Year Investigation Into Drug Trafficking and Criminal Activities Led by Inmates Inside State Prison Walls Using Contraband Cell Phones
- April 5, 2022 - 125 Convicted During Five-Year Investigation That Functionally Dismantled the Irish Mob Gang’s Drug Trafficking and Criminal Activities
Together, these four investigations have yielded the following combined results:
- 275 defendants were convicted, including multiple defendants who either ordered or participated in acts of violence, such as witness retaliation, witness tampering, shootings, kidnappings, and death threats against prosecutors, as a part of these conspiracies;
- 30 of the defendants were incarcerated in Oklahoma Department of Corrections (ODOC) facilities while directing these often-violent drug trafficking networks through use of contraband cell phones;
- Four corrections workers at the ODOC and county level were prosecuted for crimes including conspiring to distribute drugs inside correctional facilities, possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, and conspiring to launder drug money;
- 1,061 pounds of methamphetamine, heroin, and cocaine were removed from the streets;
- 393 firearms were seized; and
- $1.335 million in cash was seized by law enforcement.
"Being behind bars did not stop state inmates in four separate criminal organizations from accessing contraband cell phones to continue directing their drug trafficking and violent networks through associates outside prison walls," said United States Attorney Robert J. Troester. "Now, 275 dangerous criminals have been held accountable, more than a half-ton of poisonous drugs and 393 firearms have been removed from the streets, and $1.3 million in cash has been taken away from drug traffickers. I commend the dedicated efforts by law enforcement and the prosecutors who worked these investigations and cases."
"The FBI and our law enforcement partners have worked relentlessly over the last several years to disrupt the violence and drug trafficking activity plaguing our state," said FBI Oklahoma City Special Agent in Charge Edward J. Gray. "We are all committed to eliminating the threat of gang activity, regardless of where it takes place, to make Oklahoma communities safer for our citizens."
"Drug trafficking, directed from inside our prisons systems, impacts the safety and security of all Oklahomans," said Eduardo A. Chávez, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s Dallas Field Division, who oversees operations in Oklahoma. "These joint federal investigations should send a strong message that DEA and our federal partners will continue to identify, disrupt and destroy these criminal groups from wherever they operate."
"The collaborative efforts of the law enforcement agencies involved in these investigations are another step in the right direction to eradicate the trafficking of illicit drugs and violent crime involving transnational criminal gangs in Oklahoma," said Robert Melton, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the HSI Dallas - Oklahoma and Texas Panhandle Division. "Our intent is clear; we will aggressively pursue prosecution for anyone who pushes these deadly substances to keep them from poisoning and destroying our communities."
"The financial expertise of IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agents was critical in detecting and tracing money laundering transactions of the various criminal organizations during the four separate investigations," said Christopher J. Altemus Jr., IRS-CI Special Agent in Charge of the Dallas Field Office. "The men and women of IRS-CI worked with federal and state agencies to expose the profits of these organizations, helping seize more than $1.3 million. This joint effort demonstrates our resolve to hold criminals accountable for their actions and disrupt their ability to conduct illegal activities."
"ATF is proud to stand next to our partners as we all continue the fight against violent crime across Oklahoma. These cases highlight what can be done when we all work together to go after the worst of the worst. Whether you are playing gangster on the inside or the outside of a jail, you will be caught. Our network is bigger than yours," stated ATF Dallas Field Division Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey C. Boshek II.
"The United States Marshals Service is committed to join forces with federal, city, and state law enforcement partners to hold offenders accountable and protect public safety," said Johnny Kuhlman, United States Marshal for the Western District of Oklahoma.
Oklahoma City Police Chief Wade Gourley said, "This case demonstrates that an incarcerated violent offender can still present a threat to public safety. We are honored to be a part of operations such as these, that serve to better protect the citizens of our community."
These investigations were led by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and Homeland Security Investigations, which received valuable assistance from the Oklahoma City Police Department; the United States Marshals Service; Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Oklahoma Department of Corrections Office of Inspector General; the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics; the Oklahoma County District Attorney’s Office; the Oklahoma Highway Patrol; the District 2 Drug Task Force; the District 6 Drug Task Force; the Sallisaw Police Department; the Moore Police Department; and the Edmond Police Department.
The prosecutions arising out of these four investigations were handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys David McCrary, Tom Snyder, Jason Harley, Chelsie Pratt, Nick Coffey, Travis Leverett, Steven Creager, David Petermann, Nick Patterson, and Kerry Blackburn, with assistance from Paralegals Jenifer Rowe and Linda Nixon.
These prosecutions are also part of multiple Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigations. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
60 Southside Locos Gang Members and Associates Convicted for Drug Trafficking Operation Directed from Oklahoma State PrisonsRead the Press Release
Law Enforcement Seize Nearly 200 Pounds of Drugs, 69 Guns, and $300,000 in Cash
OKLAHOMA CITY – A multi-year investigation targeting members and associates of the Southside Locos gang who directed their drug-trafficking activities using contraband cell phones from state prison cells has resulted in 60 convictions through multiple federal and state cases, announced United States Attorney Robert J. Troester.
Last month, the investigation culminated in the sentencing of Eduardo Rosales, 35, of Oklahoma City. Rosales who was one of the incarcerated leaders of this drug trafficking network operated by Southside Locos gang members and their associates. On December 15, 2022, Rosales was sentenced to serve 30 years in federal prison after he completes his current state prison sentences. At the sentencing hearing, the court took into consideration that Rosales used incarcerated associates, non-incarcerated associates, and contacts in Mexico to orchestrate a massive drug-trafficking ring that distributed methamphetamine throughout Oklahoma. The court also noted Rosales’ leadership role in the organization, his continued propensity to engage in criminal activity despite incarceration, the need for long-term incapacitation, and his criminal history. Public records reflect that Rosales holds multiple felony convictions and is currently serving a 15-year term of imprisonment with the Oklahoma Department of Corrections (ODOC).
Through the course of this investigation, public records reflect that federal, state, and local law enforcement used various investigative tools and techniques, including judicially authorized wiretaps on contraband cell phones being used in ODOC institutions. Defendants used these cell phones to direct trafficking operation outside prison walls, including to coordinate drug shipments from sources in Mexico, instruct couriers to store drugs for them and make deliveries to buyers, and direct third parties to collect and store proceeds of the drug sales.
Crimes for which these defendants were convicted include drug trafficking, drug conspiracy, distribution or possession with intent to distribute, using a communication facility to facilitate drug distribution, use of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime, felon in unlawful possession of a firearm, and maintaining drug-involved premises.
In this investigation, law enforcement officers seized more than 180 pounds of methamphetamine, approximately ten pounds of heroin, more than 200 grams of cocaine, 69 firearms, and approximately $300,000 in currency. Furthermore, coordination with ODOC Office of Inspector General resulted in the seizure of approximately 12 contraband cell phones and five dangerous weapons from incarcerated individuals associated with the charged conspiracies.
This investigation was led by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office, the Oklahoma City Police Department, the Internal Revenue Service—Criminal Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Oklahoma Department of Corrections, Office of Inspector General, with valuable assistance from the Oklahoma County District Attorney’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jason Harley, David McCrary, and Chelsie Pratt prosecuted these cases.
These prosecutions were part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Reference is made to court filings for further information.
Oklahoma Man Sentenced to Serve One Year in Federal Prison for Unwanted Sexual Contact Onboard FlightRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Last week, ANTONIO MAURICE WILSON, 53, of Clinton, Oklahoma, was sentenced to twelve months in federal prison for knowingly engaging in sexual contact with another person without her permission while onboard a flight, announced United States Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On August 2, 2022, a federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment against Wilson for offenses he committed while on a flight from Houston, Texas, to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Count 1 alleged Wilson assaulted a minor under 16. Count 2 accused Wilson of abusive sexual contact.
On October 21, 2022, Wilson pleaded guilty to a one-count information for knowingly engaging in sexual contact with a 13-year-old person known as "Jane Doe" without her permission. The two-count indictment returned on August 2, 2022, was dismissed pursuant to a plea agreement.
On January 20, 2023, U.S. District Judge Patrick R. Wyrick sentenced Wilson to serve twelve months in federal prison for his conduct, followed by five years of supervised release. He also ordered Wilson to pay a special assessment of $5,100. Wilson will be required to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison.
This case was the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office and the Edmond Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elizabeth Joynes and Brandon Hale prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to court filings for further information.
Oklahoma City Man Convicted of Carjacking, Kidnapping, and Using a Firearm in Metro Parking GarageRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – A federal jury recently convicted ROBERT LEE HARRISON, JR., 49, of Oklahoma City, of carjacking and other crimes, announced United States Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On April 6, 2022, a federal grand jury returned a four-count indictment against Harrison. Count 1 charged Harrison with illegal possession of ammunition. Count 2 charged him with carjacking. Count 3 charged him with kidnapping. Count 4 charged him with use and discharge of a firearm during the carjacking.
The trial began on January 10, 2023, before United States District Judge Stephen P. Friot. At trial, Harrison’s ex-girlfriend testified that he forced her into her car at gunpoint as she left work at the Integris Baptist Medical Center parking garage in Oklahoma City. Harrison confined her in the car by repeatedly punching her before she was able to escape. Harrison again caught her in the elevator lobby of the parking garage, where he shot her approximately eight times before fleeing the scene. Harrison was arrested the following day after a brief foot chase with Oklahoma City police officers.
On January 11, 2023, the federal jury returned its verdict of guilty on all counts. The jury convicted Harrison of being a felon in possession of ammunition, kidnapping, carjacking, and using a firearm during the carjacking. For the ammunition count, the jury convicted Harrison of possessing the spent cartridge cases found at the parking garage after the shooting. Under federal law, a person convicted of a felony is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
A sentencing hearing will take place in approximately 90 days. At sentencing, Harrison faces up to life in prison, a $250,000 fine, and five years of supervised release. Count 4 carries a mandatory term of imprisonment of five years, to be served consecutive to any other term of imprisonment.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Oklahoma City Police Department, with assistance from the Oklahoma County District Attorney’s Office. Prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys David Nichols, Jr. and Jacquelyn Hutzell, the case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a Department of Justice program to reduce violent crime. In October 2017, the Department announced the reinvigoration of Project Safe Neighborhoods and directed U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop crime-reduction strategies that incorporate lessons federal law enforcement has learned since the program’s launch in 2001.
This case is also part of "Operation 922" and "Operation Shots Fired." Operation 922 is the Western District of Oklahoma’s implementation of Project Safe Neighborhoods, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. "Operation 922" prioritizes prosecution of federal crimes connected to domestic violence. "Operation Shots Fired" targets cases involving individuals who discharge firearms as part of their criminal activity, such as drive-by shootings or when shots are fired during robberies, domestic disputes, or other incidents. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://justice.gov/psn and https://justice.gov/usao-wdok.
Reference is made to court filings for further information.
Oklahoma City Business Owner Sentenced After Pleading Guilty to Violating the Clean Air ActRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Yesterday, JAMES “DOC” LOVE, 53, of Norman, Oklahoma, was sentenced for Tampering with a Monitoring Device and Method Required to be Maintained Under the Clean Air Act, announced United States Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On September 20, 2021, Love was charged by a one-count Information with violating the Clean Air Act. The Clean Air Act was enacted by Congress to protect and enhance the quality of the Nation’s air resources to promote the public health and welfare and the productive capacity of its population. On October 7, 2021, Love pleaded guilty to the Information and sentenced on January 23, 2023, to probation for twelve months by U.S. District Judge Scott L. Palk. Love was also ordered to pay a $10,000 fine.
According to public record, Love owned and operated Southwest Diesel Service, a heavy-duty diesel engine full-service garage that was located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Love admitted that between February 2015 and April 2019, he directed his employees to modify the emissions control systems on heavy-duty diesel trucks. Specifically, Love directed these employees to alter the emissions control components, including removing the diesel particulate filters (DPFs) and plating the exhaust gas recirculation systems (EGRs). He then instructed others to reprogram the vehicles’ on-board computers so that the emissions control systems’ sensors failed to detect the alterations. These modifications prevented the trucks from accurately recording the pollutants they discharged into the atmosphere. They also ensured that the trucks continued to travel on public roads despite operating illegally.
"Emissions controls protect all of us from harmful effects of air pollution. However, Mr. Love put the health of the public at risk by manipulating devices intended to disable those emissions controls for financial gain," said U.S. Attorney Troester. "We hope this case sends a clear message to others that this type of conduct has serious consequences."
"The defendant put profits before public health by directing employees to bypass and disable the emission control equipment on heavy-duty diesel engines," said Special Agent in Charge Kim Bahney. "This sentencing demonstrates that EPA and our law enforcement partners will hold accountable those who violate laws designed to protect our communities from harmful air pollution."
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Brown. The investigation was conducted by the Oklahoma Environmental Crimes Task Force to include the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s Criminal Investigation Division and the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality’s Criminal Investigation Unit.
Reference is made to court filings for further information.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Collects More Than $53.5 Million in Fiscal Year 2022Read the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – United States Attorney Robert J. Troester announced today that the Western District of Oklahoma (WDOK) collected $53,584,692 in criminal and civil actions and through asset forfeiture in Fiscal Year 2022.
Of the total amount collected and exclusively worked by the district, $3,245,900 was for criminal actions and $2,952,310 for civil action. The WDOK also worked with components of the Department of Justice and other U.S. Attorney’s Offices to jointly collect $40,997,638 in civil cases. The WDOK collected $6,388,844 through asset forfeiture by partnering with agencies and divisions. Forfeited assets deposited into the DOJ Assets Forfeiture Fund are used to restore funds to crime victims as well as a variety of law enforcement purposes.
"In addition to keeping communities safe, my office prioritizes the recovery of financial losses suffered by victims of crime and by taxpayers who have lost funds through fraud on the government or default on loans," said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. "I am proud the talented women and men in my office who use the tools Congress has provided to seek to achieve financial justice in criminal and civil litigation involving the United States."
Highlights of the Western District of Oklahoma’s FY2022 collection efforts include:
- After a collaborative investigation with other DOJ components, Balfour Beatty Communities LLC (BBC), one of the largest providers of privatized military housing to the U.S. Armed Forces, paid $35.2 million to resolve claims that they defrauded the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, and U.S. Navy by falsifying satisfaction of performance objectives to obtain incentive payments to which it was not entitled.
- After a voluntary disclosure, Oklahoma Heart Hospital South, LLC paid $1,151,770.50 to resolve allegations it submitted false claims for Intensive Cardiac Rehabilitation services billed to Medicare.
- Comanche County Hospital Authority (“CCHA”) and two physicians paid $550,000 to resolve civil penalty claims related allegations that the prescriptions issued by Drs. Harden and Varkey were outside the usual course of professional practice and that CCHA neglected to implement appropriate prescribing policies and procedures.
- INTEGRIS ProHealth, Inc., and its parent company, INTEGRIS Health, Inc. paid $120,000 to resolve civil penalty claims stemming from allegations that Integris Baptist Medical Center Pharmacy violated the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970 and its regulations by failing to timely notify DEA regarding thefts or significant losses of Schedule II controlled substances.
- A $100,000.00 forfeiture money judgment against Rodger Bramley was collected in full on June 17, 2022. In 2013, Bramley was indicted with dozens of other individuals for their participation in an illegal gambling business, Legendz Sports. In 2015, a federal jury convicted Bramley of racketeering conspiracy, conducting an illegal gambling business, and money laundering conspiracy.
The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the U.S. and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims. The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss. While restitution is paid to the victim, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the department’s Crime Victims Fund, which distributes the funds collected to federal and state victim compensation and victim assistance programs.
Federal Prosecutors Aggressively Pursuing Those Who Lie in Connection with Firearm TransactionsRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY — The Western District of Oklahoma is aggressively seeking to keep firearms out of the wrong hands by pursuing those who lie in connection with gun purchases. Several recent cases charged in federal court highlight these efforts.
Federal law prohibits knowingly making any false statement in connection with purchasing, or attempting to purchase, a firearm. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) requires prospective firearm buyers to complete ATF Form 4473. This Form requires buyers to answer several questions, including those about the buyer’s competency, criminal history, drug use, immigration status, and history with domestic violence. Applicants who knowingly make false statements may also face criminal prosecution for a felony and up to 10 years in federal prison. Federal Firearms Licensees (FFLs), who sell or transfer a firearm to a prohibited person, allow a straw purchaser to buy a gun for someone else, or fail to keep proper records of who they sell firearms to may also face criminal prosecution. Before attempting to purchase a firearm, prospective buyers who have eligibility concerns should visit www.atf.gov or contact their local ATF field office.
"Keeping guns out of the hands of those who shouldn’t have them is of paramount concern," said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. "We will use the tools available to us to pursue those who use a straw purchaser or lie when trying to buy a gun. We will continue to work closely with ATF and our law enforcement partners to prevent guns from falling into the wrong hands by holding accountable those who lie to get them."
"ATF and its’ partners work tirelessly to keep firearms out of the hands of those who should not have them. There is no higher priority than protecting our citizens and their loved ones from firearms violence. The lesson learned here is that if you buy a gun for someone that shouldn’t have one, you will go to prison. And trust me, prison is not somewhere you want to be," stated ATF Dallas Field Division Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey C. Boshek II.
The following recent cases brought in federal court are examples of efforts in the Western District to hold defendants accountable for making false statements in connection with the attempted purchase or purchase of a firearm or related offenses:
Sentencings:
- AMY CARWILE, 46, and KEVIN CARWILE, 48, both of Purcell, Oklahoma, were sentenced on August 3, 2022, to serve three months in federal prison. According to public record, the Carwiles were engaged in the business of selling firearms, and dating back to 2012, they made false statements and failed to maintain proper records in connection with their firearm business. Transaction records indicate that the Carwiles had sold approximately 253 firearms through their off-the-books operation. Records further reflect law enforcement seized 112 firearms that were to be sold without completing the appropriate and required paperwork. Their federal firearms license to sell firearms has been revoked.
- EDDIE WAYNE MORRISON, 34 of Duncan, Oklahoma, was sentenced to time-served, or essentially 16 months in federal custody, on December 29, 2022, for making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm. According to public record, Morrison purchased a firearm from EZ Pawn in Duncan. Prior to purchasing a firearm, Morrison had been deemed incompetent by a court. He was also subject to a protective order in Love County. A judge had ordered Morrison detained in federal custody since August 12, 2021, until sentencing. He is currently serving a term of two years of supervised release.
Guilty Pleas:
- HERIBERTO FLORES, 29, of Oklahoma City, pleaded guilty on April 5, 2022, to illegal possession of ammunition as a convicted felon. According to public record, Flores was at an Oklahoma City Fairgrounds gun show with another individual, Haley Adkison, where officers observed the two looking at different handguns. Law enforcement pulled over Flores after he left the gun show and found him in possession of ammunition. At sentencing, Flores faces up to ten years in federal prison.
- HALEY LEEANNE ADKISON, 24, of Oklahoma City, pleaded guilty on August 18, 2022, to making a false statement during a firearms transaction. According to public record, Adkison was observed completing paperwork regarding the purchase of firearms at an Oklahoma City Fairgrounds gun show, after looking at different firearms with Heriberto Flores. Adkison was scheduled to take possession of six firearms at the vendor’s store in Tulsa, Oklahoma. At sentencing, Adkison faces up to ten years in federal prison.
- JOSHUA DAVID MOSELEY, 31, of Harrah, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty on September 6, 2022, to making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm. According to public record, Moseley attempted to purchase a firearm from Super Pawn #2 Inc., in Oklahoma City. Moseley checked “no” for having been convicted in any court of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence. Public records show that, on January 6, 2022, Mosely was convicted of misdemeanor domestic assault and battery in Oklahoma County District Court case CM-2021-1377. At sentencing, Moseley faces up to 10 years in federal prison.
- BRIONJRE MARTAI ODELL HAMILTON, 22, of Oklahoma City, pleaded guilty on October 10, 2022, to making false statements during attempted purchases of firearms. According to public record, on May 25, 2022, Hamilton was convicted of carrying a firearm under the influence of drugs (marijuana) in Oklahoma County District Court case CM-2021-3533. Thereafter, records reflect Hamilton lied on the ATF Form 4473 regarding his eligibility to purchase firearms and attempted to purchase firearms on four separate occasions, after the ATF informed Hamilton that he was a prohibited from doing so. At sentencing, Hamilton faces up to 10 years in federal prison on all four counts.
- NEMORY ZAHID RAMOS CASTRO, 22, of Oklahoma City, pleaded guilty on January 5, 2023, for making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm. According to public record, Ramos made false written statements in connection with the purchases of two assault-style firearms, one in Oklahoma City and one in Luther, Oklahoma. In one instance, Ramos submitted the ATF Form 4473 stating he was not acquiring the assault-style firearm for another person, but a few hours after the transfer law enforcement found another individual in possession of it during a traffic stop. At sentencing, Castro faces up to ten years in federal prison on both counts.
Sentencings hearing in federal criminal cases take place approximately 90 days after a plea of guilty. Reference is made to public filings for more information.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, the Department of Justice’s signature nationwide initiative that brings together federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officials and prosecutors to address violent crime, reduce gun violence, and enforce federal firearms laws.
Former Marlow Band Director Sentenced to 18 Months in Federal Prison for Sex Offense Involving a StudentRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – WILLIAM JOSEPH DANIEL, 46, of Stephens County, was sentenced last week to serve eighteen months in federal prison for sexual battery, announced United States Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On June 8, 2022, a federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment against Daniel for offenses he committed while employed with the Marlow Public School System. These incidents occurred between February 1, 2022, and May 12, 2022. Count 1 alleged Daniel touched the body and private parts of a student in a lewd and lascivious manner. Count 2 alleged Daniel digitally penetrated the private parts of the same student.
Daniel pled guilty to sexual battery on July 8, 2022, and was sentenced on January 6, 2023, to serve eighteen months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge David L. Russell. Judge Russell also ordered that upon release from prison, Daniel must serve three years of supervised release. Daniel was remanded to federal custody at the conclusion of the sentencing hearing. Upon his release from prison, Daniel will be required to register as a sex offender.
This case was prosecuted in federal court because the victim is a member of a federally recognized Indian tribe and the crime occurred within the boundaries of the Chickasaw Nation, and within the Western District of Oklahoma. This case is a result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office and the Marlow Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiffany Noble prosecuted the case.
Reference if made to the public record for additional information.
69 Universal Aryan Brotherhood Gang Members and Associates Convicted During Multi-Year Investigation into Their Drug Trafficking of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Gang Directed Drug Trafficking Network Through Contraband Cell Phones from State Prison Cells
OKLAHOMA CITY - A multi-year investigation into a prison-based drug trafficking organization has resulted in 69 defendants being convicted across multiple state and federal cases. The wrap-up of this investigation and prosecution is announced by United States Attorney Robert J. Troester.
Last month, the investigation culminated in the sentencing of Chance Alan Wilson, a/k/a Wolfhead, who was the leader of the Universal Aryan Brotherhood (UAB), a violent criminal organization that is primarily run from inside Oklahoma prisons. Wilson, who was serving a state sentence of 15 years in the Oklahoma State Penitentiary for Murder was sentenced to serve an additional 360 months in federal prison in December after being found to be primarily responsible for the distribution of hundreds of kilograms of methamphetamine and other drugs over many years.
Wilson and other UAB members relied on a network of individuals operating outside of prison to handle the distribution of the methamphetamine. Over the course of this investigation, federal, state and local law enforcement identified and targeted these individuals and the drug houses they ran on Wilson’s behalf. Wilson ran the operation from inside prison using contraband cell phones.
In the end, 69 individuals associated with the UABs operations have been charged and convicted, in both state and federal court. Across those convictions, law enforcement seized 62 firearms, more than 300 pounds of methamphetamine and more than $400,000 in drug proceeds. Collectively, the individuals charged federally have been sentenced to 418 years in custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons and 216 years of supervised release. Crimes for which the defendants were convicted include drug trafficking, drug conspiracy, money laundering, maintaining drug premises and illegal firearms possession.
"This is another wide-spread drug trafficking operation that was primarily directed and controlled by incarcerated gang members using contraband cell phones from their state prison cells," said United States Attorney Robert J. Troester. "I am grateful for the outstanding work by law enforcement and prosecutors who have held these defendants accountable, removed deadly poison from the streets, and taken guns out of the hands of criminals."
"Criminal gangs constitute a significant threat to public safety. Yet, even while incarcerated, criminal gang members like Chance Wilson and his cohorts continue their money laundering and drug trafficking schemes," said Robert Melton, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the HSI Dallas - Oklahoma and Texas Panhandle Division. "This defendant’s lengthy prison sentence and indictments of 69 other co-conspirators exemplify Homeland Security Investigations and our partner agencies’ commitment to dismantling these criminal gangs and Transnational Criminal Organizations."
"This multi-agency investigation demonstrates the commitment of law enforcement at all levels to disrupting criminal enterprises operating behind prison walls," said FBI Oklahoma City Special Agent in Charge Edward J. Gray. "The citizens of Oklahoma are safer today because of the massive amount of methamphetamine, weapons, and drug proceeds removed from our communities."
"The financial expertise of IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agents are critical in detecting and tracing money laundering transactions of criminal organizations, exposing their profits," said Christopher J. Altemus Jr., IRS-CI special agent in charge of the Dallas Field Office. "In this case, CI special agents worked with federal and state agencies to expose the profits of the UAB and depriving them of the funds they needed to operate their criminal organization. This joint effort demonstrates our resolve to serving our communities by investigating criminal activities that negatively impact everyday Americans"
This investigation was spearheaded by the Homeland Security Investigations, with valuable assistance by numerous other law enforcement partners, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation Oklahoma City Field Office, IRS Criminal Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Oklahoma City Police Department, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the Oklahoma County District Attorneys’ Office, District 2 Drug Task Force, District 6 Drug Task Force and the Oklahoma Department of Corrections.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas Snyder and Jason Harley prosecuted these cases, with assistance from Paralegal Linda Nixon and Supervisory Paralegal Jennifer Rowe.
These prosecutions were part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Reference is made to public filings for more information.
Federal Inmate Convicted of Indecent Exposure to a Prison Staff MemberRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Last week, JAMES M. LYNCH, 46, of Washington, D.C., was convicted of one felony count of indecent exposure, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
Public records reflect that, on December 16, 2020, James M. Lynch was charged with one count of indecent exposure while he was an inmate at the Federal Transfer Center (FTC) in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. FTC is a penal institution operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons, a division of the Department of Justice, that primarily houses offenders and parole violators who have yet to be assigned to a permanent prison facility.
According to evidence presented at a bench trial held on December 13, 2022, Lynch willfully exposed his genitalia and engaged in masturbatory acts in front of a female FTC employee. The trial lasted four hours. On December 28, 2022, Chief U.S. District Court Judge Timothy DeGiusti found Griffin guilty of Indecent Exposure.
A sentencing hearing will take place in approximately 90 days. At sentencing, Lynch faces no less than 30 days and up to 10 years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release.
This case was the result of an investigation by the Special Investigative Services at the Federal Transfer Center and the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mary E. Walters and D.H. Dilbeck prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to court filings for further information.
Florida Man Sentenced to Two Years in Federal Prison for Pandemic-Related FraudRead the Press Release
Also Ordered to Pay $26,699.80 in Restitution to Oklahoma Employment Security Commission for Fraudulent Unemployment Insurance Benefits
OKLAHOMA CITY– ANDRICE VANEC SAINVIL, 20, of Margate, Florida, pleaded guilty and was sentenced today to two years in prison for his role in a Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security ("CARES") Act fraud scheme, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
According to an indictment filed in September 2021, Sainvil conspired with others to steal the identities of dozens of Oklahomans, use their victims’ names and social security numbers to apply for fraudulent Unemployment Insurance ("UI") benefits with the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission ("OESC"), and cause OESC to mail prepaid debit cards containing those fraudulently obtained UI benefits to addresses to which the coconspirators had access throughout the Western District of Oklahoma. The indictment further alleges that Sainvil and others then retrieved those prepaid debit cards and used them to withdraw thousands of dollars in cash from ATMs throughout Oklahoma City and elsewhere.
At a hearing this morning, Sainvil pleaded guilty to count three of a six-count indictment against him, and admitted that he personally possessed four of those fraudulently obtained UI benefit debit cards, withdrawing more than $1,000.00 in cash from three of them. Sainvil was then sentenced to two years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. He was further ordered to pay $26,699.80 in restitution to OESC, and to forfeit the $2,658.00 in proceeds that he obtained as a result of the scheme.
This case is a result of an investigation by the United States Department of Labor Office of Inspector General. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Julia E. Barry.
Reference is made to court filings for further information.
Oklahoma City Man Charged with Causing Two Deaths During DUI Hit-And-Run in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – ANTONIO MARQUES MITCHELL, 25, of Oklahoma City, has been charged with two counts of involuntary manslaughter in Indian Country, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On December 20, 2022, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Mitchell with two counts of involuntary manslaughter. The indictment alleges that Mitchell caused the death of two people while in the commission of multiple misdemeanor offenses—including, fleeing the scene of an accident and driving under the influence. On December 19, 2022, Mitchell was arrested after he was charged by criminal complaint. He appeared for his arraignment and a detention hearing this morning before U.S. Magistrate Judge Amanda Maxfield Green, who ordered Mitchell released on conditions pending further proceedings in the case.
According to an affidavit filed in support of the criminal complaint, Mitchell was driving westbound on NW 16th St in Newcastle, Oklahoma, on December 30, 2021, when he collided with another vehicle at the intersection of Highway 76 and NW 16th St. The affidavit alleges that a witness told a 911 operator that Mitchell was smoking marijuana and that other witnesses also told police that Mitchell fled the scene of the collision after being asked for proof of insurance. Minutes after leaving the scene of the first collision, the affidavit alleges Mitchell swerved into oncoming traffic and again collided with a second car while Mitchell was driving 80 mph eastbound on Highway 37 in a 55-mph zone. It is alleged that the driver of the second car died at the scene, as did Mitchell’s own passenger. A sample of Mitchell’s blood tested positive for a combination of alcohol, amphetamine, and marijuana, according to the affidavit.
If found guilty, Mitchell faces a maximum potential penalty of 8 years in prison for each count and a fine of up to $250,000 for each count.
This case is in federal court because Mitchell is a citizen of the Seminole Nation of Oklahoma and the alleged crime occurred within the boundaries of the Chickasaw Nation.
This case is a result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office Safe Trails Task Force, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the Chickasaw Nation Lighthorse Police Department, the Newcastle Police Department, the Oklahoma Bureau of Investigation, and the McClain County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Allison B. Christian and Mark R. Stoneman are prosecuting the case.
The public is reminded that these charges are merely allegations, and Mitchell is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Reference is made to public filings for more information.
Former Elementary School Employee Sentenced to Serve 45 Years in Federal Prison for Production of Child Pornography and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Yesterday, GREG ALLEN HENKE, 43, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, was sentenced to serve 540 months in federal prison for production of child pornography and possession of material containing child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
"Henke violated his position of trust as an educator of special needs children when he chose to sexually abuse and exploit these vulnerable children who could not defend themselves," said U.S. Attorney Troester. "Although no sentence can restore the innocence to these child victims, our community is safer with him behind bars. Today’s sentence sends a clear message that my office and the FBI stand ready to respond with thorough investigations, aggressive prosecutions, and determined advocacy in pursuing those who seek to abuse children, whether it occurs behind a keyboard or closed doors."
"Henke preyed on innocent children without regard for the grievous and long-lasting harm his depraved conduct would cause them," said Edward J. Gray, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office. "The FBI will never waver in its commitment to protecting our society's most vulnerable citizens. I'm extremely proud of the collaborative effort that ensured this defendant will never be able to harm children again."
On September 7, 2021, a federal grand jury returned a Superseding Indictment that charged Henke with attempted access with intent to view child pornography, attempted coercion and enticement of a minor, possession of child pornography, and two counts of production of child pornography. Specifically, the Superseding Indictment alleges that between 2019 and 2021, Henke used two minor students at a local elementary school to engage in sexually explicit conduct and used his cell phone to capture the sexually explicit conduct. On November 15, 2021, Henke pleaded guilty to one count of possession of material containing child pornography and one count of production of child pornography.
At yesterday’s sentencing hearing, Senior U.S. District Judge Joe Heaton sentenced Henke to serve 540 months in federal prison for his conduct, followed by a lifetime of supervised release.He also ordered Henke to pay $87,000 in restitution to his victims. In imposing the sentence, Judge Heaton noted Henke’s history and characteristics, stating Henke had at least a twenty year history of sexually abusing children. Further, Judge Heaton highlighted the serious nature and circumstances of Henke’s offenses, noting Henke’s position of trust as an educator of special needs children and that Henke exploited those who are the most vulnerable in our society
This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Bow Bottomly prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the DOJ Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, 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.
Reference is made to court filings for further information.
Oklahoma Inmate Sentenced to Serve Three Decades in Federal Prison for Drug Dealing from State PrisonRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Last week, EDUARDO ROSALES, 35, of Oklahoma City, was sentenced to serve 360 months in federal prison for his involvement in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On December 4, 2019, a federal grand jury returned a 55-count Indictment charging Rosales and dozens of co-defendants with crimes related to a large-scale drug trafficking operation orchestrated from state prisons. According to the Indictment, the operation primarily focused on distributing methamphetamine using contraband cell phones from prison.
On August 3, 2021, Rosales pleaded guilty to Count 1 of a Superseding Information, alleging a drug conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. The Indictment pertaining to Rosales was dismissed at sentencing pursuant to a plea agreement.
On December 15, 2022, Senior U.S. District Judge Stephen P. Friot sentenced Rosales to serve 30 years in federal prison after he completes his current state prison sentences. Judge Friot also ordered Rosales to serve 10 years of supervised release after his federal prison term. At the sentencing hearing, the court took into consideration that in 2019, Rosales used incarcerated associates, non-incarcerated associates, and contacts in Mexico to orchestrate a massive drug-trafficking ring that distributed methamphetamine throughout Oklahoma. In imposing the sentence, Judge Friot noted Rosales’ leadership role in the organization, his continued propensity to engage in criminal activity despite incarceration, the need for long-term incapacitation, and his criminal history.
Public records reflect that Rosales holds multiple felony convictions. He is currently serving a 15-year term of imprisonment with the Oklahoma Department of Corrections for 2016 convictions for trafficking in illegal drugs (methamphetamine), being a felon in possession of a firearm, and possession of a weapon while committing a felony in Oklahoma County District Court case CF-2016-9180. Additionally, in Oklahoma County District Court cases CF-2013-8251, CF-2014-6012, CF-2016-10038, and CF-2017-2838, Rosales holds felony convictions for possession of a controlled and dangerous substance (cocaine and marijuana) after sustaining a prior felony conviction, possession of proceeds after sustaining a prior felony conviction, and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
This case resulted from a nearly two-year investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office, the Oklahoma City Police Department, and the Oklahoma Department of Corrections—Security Threats Intelligence. The investigation ultimately led to the federal indictments of more than 40 defendants related to this drug trafficking enterprise. Rosales is the last defendant to be sentenced from the two Indictments stemming from this investigation.
This prosecution is also a part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jason Harley, David McCrary, and Chelsie Pratt prosecuted the case.
District Court Orders Oklahoma Drug Compounder to Comply with Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic ActRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – A federal court today issued an order prohibiting Qualgen LLC, an Oklahoma company, Shaun P. Riney, Qualgen’s Chief Executive Officer, and Jasen Lavoie, Qualgen’s Director of Quality, from manufacturing and distributing drugs that are not in compliance with the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (FDCA).
In a civil complaint filed on December 6, the United States alleged that Qualgen, Riney, and Lavoie violated the FDCA at the company’s facilities in Edmond, Oklahoma, by manufacturing and distributing adulterated drugs. As an outsourcing facility registered with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Qualgen makes and distributes sterile drug products, including Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy pellets (testosterone, estradiol, and testosterone/anastrozole). The United States alleged that the defendants violated the FDCA by, among other things, failing to follow written procedures applicable to the quality control unit, failing to reject drug products that did not meet specifications, and failing to follow appropriate procedures in handling complaints about its drug products. The complaint also alleged that the FDA inspected the company’s facilities five times, in 2015, 2017, 2018, 2021, and 2022, and that many of the violations were repeat violations the FDA had identified in earlier inspections.
The FDCA’s current good manufacturing practice regulations mandate that manufacturers control the processes and procedures by which their drugs are manufactured, processed, packed, and held, to ensure that the drugs have the identity, strength, quality, purity, and other attributes necessary for their safe and effective use. Drugs not made in conformance with current good manufacturing practice regulations are deemed adulterated under the FDCA. According to the United States’ complaint, the FDA issued Qualgen several warnings, including during meetings with the FDA and in a warning letter to the company in 2016, regarding alleged deficiencies at its facilities.
"Drugs compounded in outsourcing facilities must be manufactured in conformance with applicable regulations," said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. "The Department of Justice will continue to work closely with the FDA and take action against compounding drug manufacturers who fail to abide by laws designed to protect public health."
"Failure to manufacture drugs in strict compliance with FDA requirements endangers the very people who need and rely on the quality of those medications," said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester for the Western District of Oklahoma. "We gladly partner with the FDA to enforce their regulations in order to ensure public safety is maintained in the pharmaceutical manufacturing and compounding process."
"While drugs compounded by outsourcing facilities are not subject to pre-market review and approval by the FDA for safety and effectiveness, they must comply with rigorous manufacturing quality assurance requirements," said Acting Director Jill P. Furman, J.D. of the Office of Compliance in the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. "The FDA’s commitment to ensuring compliance with current good manufacturing practice requirements is a critical protection for patients. We will remain vigilant and hold all manufacturers accountable to best protect the public health."
Without admitting or denying the allegations in the complaint, the defendants agreed to settle the suit and be bound by a consent decree of permanent injunction. The negotiated consent decree entered by the court permanently enjoins the defendants from violating the FDCA, and prohibits, among other things, the defendants from manufacturing, compounding, processing, labeling, holding, or distributing adulterated drugs.
Senior Trial Attorney Natalie N. Sanders of the Justice Department’s Consumer Protection Branch and Assistant U.S. Attorney Ronald R. Gallegos for the Western District of Oklahoma handled this matter, with the assistance of Senior Counsel Paige H. Taylor of the FDA’s Office of the Chief Counsel.
Additional information about the Consumer Protection Branch and its enforcement efforts may be found at http://www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch.
The claims resolved by the resolution announced today are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.
Illegal Firearm Possession Lands Convicted Felon from Norman in Federal Prison for a DecadeRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Earlier this week, OCTAVIO JUAN SANCHEZ, 36, of Norman, was sentenced to serve ten years, the statutory maximum sentence, in federal prison for illegal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On July 22, 2021, a federal grand jury returned a one-count Indictment that alleged illegal possession of a firearm. Federal law prohibits a person who has previously been convicted of felony from possessing a firearm or ammunition. On November 16, 2021, Sanchez was tried by a jury and found guilty.
Public records reflect that, on May 14, 2021, as part of an investigation stemming from a claim of domestic violence, Norman Police Department officers executed a search warrant at Sanchez’s residence. While searching the residence, officers found a firearm hidden in a trash can in the kitchen along with a loaded 16-round magazine. Officers also located more than eight pounds of marijuana, scales, and several vacuum baggies containing marijuana residue. Prior to being found in possession of the firearm, Sanchez had been convicted of multiple felony offenses.
On December 14, 2022, U.S. District Judge Bernard M. Jones sentenced Sanchez to serve 120 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In support of this sentence, Judge Jones cited Sanchez’s previous criminal history which includes convictions for assault with a deadly weapon, possession of a deadly weapon, possession of controlled substances, and burglary. Sanchez is currently charged with murder in the first degree and unlawful removal of a dead body, in Cleveland County case number CF-2022-860.
In a separate case, public records further reflect that, on June 8, 2022, a federal grand jury returned a multi-count Indictment against Sanchez alleging conspiracy, fraud, and identity theft related to his misuse of Social Security benefits and tax stimulus payments for the benefit of a deceased relative. A jury trial in this case is currently scheduled to begin in February 2023. The public is reminded that the charges contained in this Indictment are merely accusations, and that Sanchez is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The firearm case is the result of investigations by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Norman Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mary E. Walters and David R. Nichols, Jr. prosecuted the case.
This case is part of “Operation 922,” the Western District of Oklahoma’s local implementation of the national Project Safe Neighborhoods and Project Guardian initiatives to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. “Operation 922” prioritizes prosecution of federal gun crimes connected to domestic violence.
Reference is made to public filings for more information.
Former Oklahoma Supervisory Correctional Officer Sentenced for Promoting White Supremacist Assault on Black Inmates and Ordering Other AbuseRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – A former supervisory correctional officer at the Kay County Detention Center (KCDC) was sentenced today to 46 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for violating the civil rights of three pretrial detainees held at the KCDC.
On April 15, 2022, a federal jury convicted Matthew Ware, 53, of willfully depriving two pretrial detainees of their right to be free from a correctional officer’s deliberate indifference to a substantial risk of serious harm and of willfully depriving a third pretrial detainee of the right to be free from a correctional officer’s use of excessive force.
"This defendant is being held accountable for abusing his position of power and authority to, among other things, facilitate an attack carried out by white supremacists on a Black inmate," said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. "This sentence handed down reflects the seriousness of the defendant’s actions and ensures accountability for his unlawful conduct. The Justice Department will continue to hold corrections officials accountable, including those in leadership positions, when they willfully violate the constitutional rights of detainees and inmates in their custody and control."
"A jury found that Mr. Ware abused his position of power over the individuals in his custody," said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester for the Western District of Oklahoma. "Today’s sentence holds him accountable for that conduct. Mr. Ware violated the laws he was sworn to uphold, betrayed the public trust, and dishonored the many brave corrections officials who lawfully perform their important work each day. My office remains committed to protecting the civil rights of all Oklahomans, including those in custody."
"The defendant disregarded the civil rights of those under his care and ultimately used his position to inflict physical harm on multiple pretrial detainees," said Assistant Director Luis Quesada of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. "Today’s sentencing clearly shows the FBI will aggressively pursue any law enforcement officer who abuses their responsibility to protect and serve."
"The vast majority of the men and women working in correctional institutions do their jobs honorably on a daily basis. However, Mr. Ware’s disgraceful actions undermined the public’s trust and deprived the detainees of their civil rights under the U.S. Constitution," said Special Agent in Charge Edward J. Gray of the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office. "Rest assured, the FBI will work tirelessly alongside our law enforcement partners to ensure the civil liberties of every American are protected."
According to court documents and the evidence introduced at trial, on May 18, 2017, Ware, while serving as the Lieutenant of the KCDC, ordered lower-ranking correctional officers to move two Black pretrial detainees, D.W. and M.M., to a cell row housing white supremacist inmates whom Ware knew posed a danger to D.W. and M.M. Later that same day, Ware gave lower-ranking officers a second order: to unlock the jail cells of D.W. and M.M., and those of the white supremacist inmates at the same time the following morning. When Ware’s orders were followed, the white supremacist inmates attacked D.W. and M.M., resulting in physical injury to both, including a facial laceration to D.W. that required seven stitches to close.
Court documents and evidence introduced at trial also revealed that, on Jan. 31, 2018, Ware, while serving as the Acting Captain of the KCDC, ordered lower-ranking correctional officers to restrain another pretrial detainee, C.D., in a stretched-out position — with C.D.’s left wrist cuffed to the far-left side of the bench and his right wrist cuffed to the far-right side of the bench — in retaliation for C.D. sending Ware a note that critiqued how Ware ran the KCDC. C.D. was left restrained in this position for 90 minutes, resulting in physical injury.
Assistant Attorney General Clarke, U.S. Attorney Troester, Assistant Director Quesada, and Special Agent in Charge Gray made the announcement.
The FBI Oklahoma City Field Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Julia Barry for the Western District of Oklahoma and Trial Attorney Laura Gilson of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section prosecuted the case.
Three Oklahoma City Residents Sentenced to Serve More Than 21 Years Collectively in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Commit Mail and Wire FraudRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Earlier this week, LAURA R. JOHNSON, 47, THOMAS JOHNSON, SR., 54, and CHERYL M. ASHLEY, 72, all residents of Oklahoma City, were sentenced collectively to more than 21 years in federal prison for conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud in connection with a scheme to take ownership of more than a dozen real properties without the consent or knowledge of the actual owners, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On December 19, 2019, a federal grand jury returned a 16-count Indictment against the defendants. The federal grand jury returned a superseding indictment on June 16, 2020, which added additional charges. On November 17, 2020, each defendant pleaded guilty to a single count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud.
Public records reflect that the defendants used fraudulent documents from 2014 until 2019 to obtain titles to homes and other properties. The defendants primarily targeted real properties that had delinquent property taxes and therefore were subject to being auctioned by the Oklahoma County Treasurer’s Office. By paying off one or more years of back taxes, the defendants caused the properties to be removed from the county tax auction. The defendants then claimed they had purchased the properties at the county tax auction, when in fact they had filed fraudulent warranty deeds to transfer properties into the names of fictitious companies and individuals. The conspiracy also included fraudulent confidential stamp tax affidavits and fake mortgages, all of which contained forged notary signatures and seals.
Some homeowners vacated their homes based on phony eviction notices. When certain victims fought the takeover of their homes in court, the defendants filed pleadings with the names of fictitious lawyers and submitted affidavits in court signed by fictitious people.
The defendants targeted one home that had been owned by a woman who died in 2012. After they gained control of the decedent’s property, the defendants used bank records they found in the home and forged a power of attorney to lie to the bank in an attempt to withdraw more than $100,000 from the decedent’s bank account. When that attempt failed, the conspirators attempted to steal money by writing forged checks on the decedent’s account and causing electronic transfers out of the account for their personal benefit. They also filed a false will in Oklahoma County District Court after the woman’s nephew learned of the death and filed a probate action. Based on the fraudulent will, the court appointed Laura Johnson as the personal representative of the estate, which enabled her to withdraw approximately $146,000 remaining in the decedent’s bank accounts and obtain more than $45,000 from her oil and gas interests.
At sentencings earlier this week, Chief United States District Judge Timothy D. DeGiusti found the defendants’ conduct preyed on more than a dozen victims, many of whom were vulnerable due to their age or financial status. Judge DeGiusti sentenced the defendants as follows:
- Laura R. Johnson was sentenced on November 14, 2022, to 151 months in federal prison. This term of imprisonment will be followed by 4 years of supervised release. She was remanded to the custody of the United States Marshal Service at sentencing.
- Thomas Johnson, Sr. was sentenced on November 15, 2022, to 42 months in federal prison. This term of imprisonment will be followed by 3 years of supervised release.
- Cheryl M. Ashley was sentenced on November 16, 2022, to 60 months in federal prison. This term of imprisonment will be followed by 3 years of supervised release.
In addition, the Court will order the defendants to pay restitution to victims after a separate restitution hearing in approximately 90 days.
This case is the result of an investigation by the United States Secret Service and the Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica L. Perry prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for more information.
Bixby Man Sentenced to Serve Five Years in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Steal Trade Secrets from Oklahoma City Oil and Gas CompanyRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Yesterday, JOSHUA DECKER, 37, of Bixby, Oklahoma, was sentenced to serve 60 months in federal prison for conspiracy to steal trade secrets, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester for the Western District of Oklahoma.
On May 26, 2021, the government filed a one-count Superseding Information charging Decker with conspiracy to steal, download, and possess trade secrets. According to the Superseding Information, Decker was a controller for the valve division of an oil and gas company that serves customers engaged in drilling and production. With its valve operations headquartered in Oklahoma City, the company manufactures compact manifold ball valves sold across the United States. In March 2017, while employed as the controller at the company, Decker registered with the Oklahoma Secretary of State a new company called Legacy Valve Systems ("Legacy"). He then recruited co-workers at the victim company to join him at Legacy.
The Superseding Information alleges that from March to September 2017, Decker conspired to steal numerous trade secrets from the victim company. Specifically, it alleges Decker and others acting at his direction downloaded the technical drawings, material specifications, and manufacturing instructions for the victim company’s valves, and Decker transmitted the victim company’s detailed financial information—including cost information and sales by product and customer—by email to himself. The Superseding Information further alleges that Decker provided the victim company’s drawings to an individual who copied them and replaced the victim company’s logo with a Legacy logo to begin manufacturing and selling valves to compete with the victim company. Decker then directed others to delete all their text messages and files, including messages on an encrypted application, to conceal their theft from the victim company.
On June 2, 2021, Decker pleaded guilty to conspiracy to steal trade secrets. Decker admitted that the victim company undertook several measures to protect their information as trade secrets. Decker admitted that he, along with others, planned to take and use the drawings of the victim company’s valves to create products for Legacy. He also admitted that he possessed many of the drawings on his own laptop. Decker also admitted that he instructed those working with him to delete their communications about the drawings they took.
At yesterday’s sentencing hearing, U.S. District Judge Scott L. Palk sentenced Decker to serve 60 months in federal prison for his conduct, followed by three years of supervised release. Decker was also ordered to pay a total of $1,116,885.49 in restitution to the victim oil company. In arriving at the sentence, Judge Palk noted Decker’s history and characteristics, the nature and circumstances and seriousness of the offense, and the need to deter others from undertaking similar conduct.
This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Oklahoma City Field Office. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Gridley.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Former Correctional Officer Pleads Guilty to Accepting Bribes to Smuggle Contraband into Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – KACIE DEYO, 30, formerly of Yukon, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty today to accepting bribes while serving as a Correctional Officer at a federal prison in El Reno, Oklahoma, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
Public records reflect that on September 28, 2022, Deyo was charged by Information with one count of accepting a bribe by a public official. Public records further reflect that from November 2016 through January 31, 2022, Deyo was employed by the Federal Bureau of Prisons as a Correctional Officer at the Federal Correctional Institution located in El Reno (FCI – El Reno). FCI – El Reno is a medium-security prison for male inmates from throughout the United States serving federal terms of imprisonment. As a Correctional Officer, Deyo’s job duties included guarding federal inmates and enforcing regulations.
Today, Deyo pleaded guilty to accepting thousands of dollars of bribes in exchange for smuggling contraband into FCI – El Reno between March 3, 2021, and May 7, 2021. Deyo will be sentenced in approximately 90 days. At sentencing, Deyo faces up to 15 years in federal prison, followed by up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Oklahoma City Field Office. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Bow Bottomly.
Reference is made to the information and other public filings for further information.
Oklahoma Doctor Sentenced to Serve More Than Four Years in Federal Prison for Illegal Drug Distribution and Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – On October 25, 2022, MELVIN LEE ROBISON, 68, of Lake City, Colorado, was sentenced to serve 54 months in federal prison for illegal drug distribution and health care fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester for the Western District of Oklahoma, U.S. Attorney Juan Antonio Gonzales for the Southern District of Florida, Special Agent in Charge Eduardo A. Chávez for the Drug Enforcement Administration – Dallas Field Office, and Acting Special Agent in Charge Jason E. Meadows for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General’s Dallas Regional Office.
"Medical doctors take an oath to help those in times of need," said U.S. Attorney Troester. "Dr. Robison prescribed addictive, dangerous, and powerful controlled substances without a legitimate medical purpose and abused the medical system to line his pockets for financial gain. This conduct violated his oath and federal law. My office remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable doctors who fuel the opioid crisis and exploit their oath for money."
"Health care fraud continues to be one of the most widespread and common forms of fraud our nation faces," said Juan Antonio Gonzalez, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida. "It is shameful how Mr. Robison recruited patients to join him in his fraudulent scheme by offering them kickbacks from his illegal profits. We will continue to go after perpetrators like this with every resource available to us."
"As we continue to lose lives by the misuse and abuse of prescription drugs, we look to our medical professionals for sound guidance, professionalism, and integrity," stated Special Agent in Charge Chávez. "Dr. Robison broke that oath for one sole purpose: greed. Today’s conviction is a testament to the work of our investigators, prosecutors, and law enforcement partners who will continue to protect the lives of our loved ones."
"It is particularly egregious that Dr. Robison used stolen taxpayer money to travel abroad and then furthered his scheme by fraudulently billing Medicare while he was there," said Acting Special Agent in Charge Meadows. "HHS/OIG and our law enforcement partners will relentlessly pursue those who steal from the American taxpayers to afford their own selfish lifestyles on the backs of honest Americans."
On June 20, 2018, a federal grand jury returned a 159-count Indictment against Robison, who during the relevant time period ran the Robison Family Clinic in Sayre, Oklahoma. Robison was charged with numerous counts of drug distribution—specifically, dispensing opioids and other drugs outside the usual course of professional practice and not for a legitimate medical purpose—along with multiple counts of Medicare/Medicaid fraud based on, amongst other things, services he billed for while out of the country and services he billed for related to care of patients in nursing homes without performing the services or supervising those who provided them. On December 19, 2019, a Superseding Indictment was filed, charging Robison with five additional counts.
During the pendency of Robison’s prosecution on these drug and health care fraud charges, he was also charged in the Southern District of Florida on June 11, 2021, with one count of conspiracy to pay healthcare kickbacks.
On October 25, 2022, Robison pled guilty to two counts of the Superseding Indictment, charging him with the illegal distribution of controlled substances and health care fraud. As to the health care fraud, Robison admitted to fraudulently billing Medicare at a higher rate for services that were performed by a nurse practitioner instead of himself. Robison also pled guilty to a single count of conspiracy to pay healthcare kickbacks in his Florida case, as well. U.S. District Judge Timothy DeGiusti then sentenced Dr. Robison to serve a 54-month sentence on his two Oklahoma-based charges, and another 24 months on his Florida case, to be run concurrent to his Oklahoma sentences. Robison was also ordered to pay a fine of $13,362.00, to pay restitution of $112,384.61 to the Centers of Medicare & Medicaid Services, and to forfeit $202,597.18. In imposing the sentence, Judge DeGiusti specifically noted the detriment to the community in that the number of prescriptions from controlled substances far exceeded the population of Sayre, Oklahoma, where Robison practiced medicine.
Pursuant to the plea agreement, the remaining counts against Robison were dismissed at sentencing.
This case was the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Oklahoma State Board of Osteopathic Examiners, the Board of Medicolegal Investigations – Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of the Inspector General’s Dallas Regional Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation – Oklahoma City Field Office. The Florida case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation – West Palm Beach Field Office, as well as the Florida Department of Financial Services-Division of Investigative and Forensic Services, Bureau of Insurance Fraud.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Anderson prosecuted the case on behalf of the Western District of Oklahoma. Alexandra Chase prosecuted the case on behalf of the Southern District of Florida.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
United States Attorney Announces Initiative for Addressing Environmental Justice and Public Health ConcernsRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – United States Attorney Robert J. Troester announces an initiative to address environmental justice and public health concerns in the Western District of Oklahoma. An Environmental Justice Coordinator has been designated to coordinate the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s efforts in this important area. Members of the public may visit the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office at https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdok for information regarding where to report environmental violations or public health issues; and how to report such concerns to the Environmental Justice Coordinator.
"Protecting our community requires that we safeguard our environment and public health through the vigorous enforcement of federal laws," said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. "We encourage citizens to report concerns that create a danger to themselves and fellow Oklahomans. My office will work closely with regulatory authorities and investigative agencies who specialize in environmental and public health enforcement to take appropriate action where necessary."
The Office’s reporting procedures are part of the Department of Justice’s Comprehensive Environmental Justice Enforcement Strategy, which seeks to advance environmental justice through timely and effective remedies for environmental violations and injuries to natural resources in "underserved communities that have been historically marginalized and overburdened, including low-income communities, communities of color, and Tribal and Indigenous communities." The Department of Justice enforces the Nation’s civil and criminal environmental laws, including the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and hazardous waste laws. The Department also protects natural resources and handles cases relating to tribal rights and resources. Working with its Department of Justice partners, the U.S. Attorney’s Office seeks to secure environmental justice for all communities, to ensure that everyone enjoys the same degree of protection from environmental and health hazards, and to protect equal access to a healthy environment in which to live, learn, play, and work.
If you have information or concerns regarding the potential violation of any federal environmental law and its impact upon people, communities, or natural resources within our district, please share them with the office by email or mail.
Email:
Mail:
U.S. Attorney’s Office, Western District of Oklahoma
Attn: Environmental Justice and Public Health
210 West Park Avenue, Suite 400, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, 73102
The Office’s reporting procedures are in addition to other methods of reporting environmental concerns to the federal government, such as the online portal maintained by the United States Environmental Protection Agency:
https://echo.epa.gov/report-environmental-violations. Additional points of contact for federal agencies may be found on the Office’s website.
Choctaw Man Sentenced to Serve 8 Years in Federal Prison for Illegal Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Today, a federal judge sentenced MATTHEW RAY HUTCHERSON, 32, of Choctaw, to serve 96 months in federal prison for illegal possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. Federal law prohibits convicted felons from possessing firearms or ammunition.
On May 18, 2021, a federal grand jury returned an Indictment against Hutcherson, charging him with one count of being a felon in possession of firearms. Public records reflect that the charge arose after Hutcherson’s ex-girlfriend reported that he pointed a firearm to her head, which led authorities to search his residence for firearms, which they found. On September 8, 2021, Hutcherson pleaded guilty to the Indictment.
At today’s sentencing, U.S. District Judge David L. Russell sentenced Hutcherson to serve 96 months in federal prison. Judge Russell cited, among other things, Hutcherson's criminal history and danger he posed to the community. Public records reflect Hutcherson had convictions for child endangerment and possession of a controlled dangerous substance with intent to distribute at Oklahoma County case CF-2016-313; child abuse by injury at Cleveland County case CF-2015-2076; and driving under the influence at Cleveland County case CF-2018-1323. Hutcherson also has a long history of domestic abuse, and has previously been subject to six different protective orders filed in Oklahoma County, including by his grandmother, mother, and ex-girlfriends. Judge Russell also sentenced Hutcherson to serve three years of supervised release upon his release from federal prison.
This case is the result of an investigation by the United States Marshals Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorneys Stan West and Chelsie Pratt prosecuted the case.
This case is part of "Operation 922," the Western District of Oklahoma’s implementation of Project Safe Neighborhood, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. "Operation 922" prioritizes prosecution of federal crimes connected to domestic violence. For more information about "Operation 922", visit: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdok/project-safe-neighborhood-psn.
Reference is made to public filings for more information.
Former Watonga Police Chief Pleads Guilty to Illegal Receipt of a Firearm While Under IndictmentRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Earlier this week, WILLIAM SHAWN KAYS, 39, of Mustang, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty to one felony count of illegal receipt of a firearm by a person under indictment, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. Federal law prohibits those under felony indictment from receiving firearms and ammunition.
On June 8, 2022, a federal grand jury returned a three-count Second Superseding Indictment against Kays. Count 1 charged him with illegal receipt of a firearm and alleged that on or about August 15, 2021, Kays received a Glock .45 caliber pistol while under indictment for the felony offense of Burglary in the First Degree, charged in Blaine County District Court case number CF-2021-52. Counts 2 and 3 charged him with being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm.
On November 1, 2022, at a plea hearing before Chief U.S. District Judge Timothy DeGiusti, Kays pled guilty to Count 1. Kays admitted that he willfully received a firearm on August 15, 2021 and received the firearm knowing that he was under a pending indictment for a felony offense. The government agreed to dismiss Counts 2 and 3 at sentencing.
At sentencing, Kays faces up to 5 years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. A sentencing hearing will take place in approximately 90 days.
This case is a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Oklahoma City Field Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary E. Walters and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Powers.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods and Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiatives to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. The local implementation of these initiatives in the Western District of Oklahoma is through "Operation 922" which prioritizes prosecution of federal gun crimes connected to domestic violence.
Reference is made to court filings for further information.
Bethany Woman Pleads Guilty to Embezzling More Than $850,000 from Former EmployerRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Yesterday, JEANNIE VALENTIN, 68, of Bethany, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty to a single-count felony Information charging her with wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
Public records reflect that from 2000 until 2020, Valentin was the credit manager for the Oklahoma City branch of Dealers Electrical Supply (“DES”). DES was an electrical supplies distributor headquartered in Waco, Texas. Valentin was responsible for the management of the consolidated billing for DES’s customers, which included processing checks made payable to DES and then forwarding the checks to DES’s accounts payable department.
Yesterday, at a change of plea hearing before United States District Judge Bernard M. Jones, Valentin admitted that in 2003, she added “DESCO” as a DBA (“doing business as”) to her personal WEOKIE checking account without DES’s knowledge or authorization. Valentin further admitted that between 2003 and 2017, she diverted approximately 144 checks sent from customers for payment to DES and deposited each of these checks into her personal WEOKIE checking account without DES’s authorization. Valentin further admitted that used these funds to pay for various personal services and expenses. As a result of this scheme, Valentin defrauded DES out of approximately $854,449.06.
A sentencing hearing will take place in approximately 90 days. At sentencing, Valentin faces up to 20 years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. She will also be ordered to pay restitution.
This case is a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Oklahoma City Field Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Brown.
Reference is made to court filings for further information.
Oklahoma City Home Health Company and Two Former Corporate Officers Agree to Pay $22.9 Million to Settle Federal False Claims Act and Kickback Allegations Arising from Improper Payments to Referring PhysiciansRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – CHC Holdings, LLC d/b/a Carter Healthcare, an Oklahoma limited liability company that provides home healthcare through subsidiaries in multiple states, including Texas and Oklahoma, as well as Stanley Carter and Brad Carter (collectively Defendants) agreed to pay $22,948,004 to resolve allegations that Carter Healthcare wrongfully paid physicians to induce referrals of home health patients under the guise of medical directorships, resulting in the submission of false claims to the Medicare and TRICARE programs, announced United States Attorney Robert J. Troester.
The Anti-Kickback Statute prohibits offering, paying, soliciting, or receiving remuneration to induce referrals of items or services covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and other federally funded programs. The Physician Self-Referral Law, commonly known as the Stark Law, prohibits a hospital from billing Medicare for certain services referred by physicians with whom the hospital has an improper financial arrangement, including the payment of compensation that exceeds the fair market value of the services actually provided by the physician. Both the Anti-Kickback Statute and the Stark Law are intended to ensure that physicians’ medical judgments are not compromised by improper financial incentives and instead are based on the best interests of their patients. Claims submitted under the Anti-Kickback Statute and the Stark Law violate the False Claims Act.
"Offering illegal financial incentives to physicians in return for patient referrals undermines the integrity of our health care system," said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. "Patients deserve care based on good medicine and informed choice that is free from the corrupting influence of money and other motivating enticements. We are committed to pursuing entities and individuals that offer kickbacks and the doctors that solicit or accept them."
"The taxpayer dollars that fund Medicare and Medicaid are meant to support the delivery of health care services most suitable for beneficiaries. The payment of kickbacks to medical providers to induce referrals for home health services can improperly divert those dollars and undermine the quality of care being provided to patients," said Acting Special Agent in Charge Mike Stapleton with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). "This outcome is the result of cooperation amongst law enforcement partners focused on upholding the integrity of federal health care programs."
"Government-sponsored programs like Medicare and TRICARE are intended to support the healthcare needs of deserving Americans," said FBI Oklahoma City Special Agent in Charge Edward J. Gray. "Today’s announcement demonstrates the FBI’s commitment to holding individuals and companies accountable for illegally profiting off of federally funded programs. We are determined to safeguard the integrity of our nation’s healthcare systems."
The settlement resolves allegations that between 2013 and 2020, Carter Healthcare paid remuneration to its home health medical directors in Oklahoma and Texas for the purpose of inducing referrals of Medicare and TRICARE home health patients. The Defendants’ alleged conduct resulted in the submission of claims for services provided to these illegally referred patients, in violation of the False Claims Act. Stanley Carter and Brad Carter, Carter Healthcare’s previous CEO and COO respectively, also agreed to be excluded from participating in Medicare, Medicaid, and all other federal healthcare programs for a period of five years.
Contemporaneous with the civil settlement, CHC Holdings, LLC entered into a five-year Corporate Integrity Agreement (CIA) with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services—Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). The CIA requires, among other things, an Independent Review Organization to review arrangements entered into by or on behalf of Carter Healthcare entities. The CIA also increases individual accountability by requiring compliance-related certifications from key executives.
The allegations resolved by the settlement were brought in a lawsuit filed under the qui tam, or whistleblower, provisions of the False Claims Act, which permit private parties to sue on behalf of the United States for false claims and to receive a share of any recovery. The whistleblowers also alleged other claims under the False Claims Act and Oklahoma Medicaid False Claims Act. The qui tam case is captioned United States ex rel. Duffield et al. v. CHC Holdings, LLC, et al., No. CIV-17-826-HE (W.D. Okla.). The whistleblowers will share in the settlement amount.
Assistant United States Attorneys Scott Maule, Ron Gallegos, and Amanda Johnson prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. Investigative assistance was provided by HHS-OIG, HHS-OIG Office of Audit Services, the Department of Defense’s Defense Criminal Investigative Service, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
In reaching this settlement, Defendants did not admit liability, and the government did not make any concessions about the legitimacy of the claims. The settlement allows the parties to avoid the delay, expense, inconvenience, and uncertainty involved in litigating the case.
Separately, on the same date, the Defendants also settled a qui tam False Claims Act civil suit filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida for $7,175,000 to resolve allegations that, from 2014 through 2016, Defendants submitted claims for therapy services without regard to medical necessity and overbilled therapy services by upcoding patients’ diagnoses. The Florida qui tam case is captioned United States ex rel. Mahaffey et al. v. Carter Healthcare, et al., Case No. 9:16-cv-80459-MARRA (S.D. Fla.).
The total amount of the two settlement agreements, with interest, exceeds $30 million.
Four Defendants Sentenced to Serve More Than 14 Years Collectively in Federal Prison for Firearms Offenses Last WeekRead the Press Release
Three Additional Defendants Pleaded Guilty to Firearms Crimes
OKLAHOMA CITY — Last week, four defendants were sentenced to serve a total of 177 months in federal prison, and three other defendants pleaded guilty for firearms offenses, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
"Keeping guns out of the hands of those who are prohibited by law from possessing guns is critical to keeping our communities safe," said U.S. Attorney Troester. "I applaud the many state, local, tribal, and federal law enforcement agencies who regularly work with prosecutors in my office in a coordinated effort to reduce violent crime in Oklahoma."
The following seven defendants appeared in federal court in separate and unrelated cases:
Sentencings:
- ROBERT LEE FISHER, 49, of Yukon, Oklahoma, was sentenced on October 11, 2022, to 14 months in federal prison. According to public record, Fisher had an active victim’s protection order (VPO) and a conviction for domestic assault and battery; he was inside a bedroom he shared with his girlfriend and in possession of a shotgun when it discharged. The round went through an adjoining bedroom wall and struck his girlfriend’s 11-year-old daughter in the arm. Fisher pled guilty on October 26, 2021. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chelsie Pratt prosecuted this case.
- WILLIAM REECE, 32, of Woodward, Oklahoma, was sentenced on October 11, 2022, to 96 months in federal prison. According to public record, Oklahoma Highway Patrol initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle in Woodward. Reece was identified as the driver and an affiliate of a local street gang. Reece was found to have a loaded magazine on his person and a firearm in his vehicle. When deciding an appropriate sentence, the Court considered a 2019 domestic violence incident that involved the defendant pointing a firearm at his girlfriend and members of her family. Reece pled guilty on January 21, 2022. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary E. Walters prosecuted this case.
- KOURDAE AMERSON, 21, of Oklahoma City, was sentenced on October 12, 2022, to 37 months in federal prison. According to public record, this case arose from several high-speed chases that led to the arrest of three defendants. All three defendants were depicted in a live video on Facebook in possession of multiple firearms. They are also members of violent local gangs. Amerson pleaded guilty to being a drug user in possession of a firearm. Amerson pled guilty on July 12, 2021. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chelsie Pratt prosecuted this case.
- TRACI ASHFORD, 44, of Oklahoma City, was sentenced on October 14, 2022 to 30 months in federal prison. After a two-day trial, a federal jury returned a guilty verdict against Ashford. Evidence at trial showed that, on October 6, 2020, Ashford engaged in an altercation with his girlfriend, which resulted in Ashford brandishing an AK-47 style rifle. Soon after the altercation, Ashford was stopped by Oklahoma City Police Department officers who located the rifle in the backseat of the car driven by Ashford. Prior to being found in possession of the firearm, Ashford had been convicted of a felony domestic assault and battery in Oklahoma County, as well as domestic battery in Jefferson County, Arkansas. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jacquelyn Hutzell and Travis Leverett prosecuted the case.
Guilty Pleas:
- ASA MALEY, 36, of Chandler, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty on October 13, 2022, to a single-count information charging him with being a felon in possession of firearms. According to public record, law enforcement was contacted regarding a domestic assault with a deadly weapon during which the victim’s vehicle, within approximately eight feet of her occupied residence, was shot at least six times. Maley was identified as the shooter and arrested shortly thereafter. A search warrant executed at Maley’s residence resulted in six firearms found unsecured and in plain view. Assistant U.S. Attorney Danielle Connolly is prosecuting the case.
- BRIJONRE HAMILTON, 22, of Oklahoma City, pleaded guilty on October 12, 2022, to four counts of making a false statement during the attempted purchase of a firearm. According to public record, Hamilton attempted to purchase a firearm after being told by ATF that he was a prohibited person (drug user) and could not buy guns. After being informed that he was prohibited, Hamilton tried at least four times to purchase firearms by lying on a Form 4473, which is required to purchase a firearm. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Powers is prosecuting the case.
- ANTHONY WOODLEY, 28, of Oklahoma City, pleaded guilty on October 14, 2022, to illegal possession of a firearm. According to public record, Woodley attacked his pregnant girlfriend, threatened her with a gun, and strangled her. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Harley is prosecuting the case.
Sentencings take place approximately 90 days after a plea of guilty. At sentencing, each defendant faces up to ten years in federal prison and up to a $250,000 fine, followed by three years of supervised release, for each count of illegally possessing a firearm or ammunition. Under the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, after June 25, 2022, defendants prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition face up to fifteen years in federal prison for the same conduct.
These cases are the result of investigations conducted by the Oklahoma City Police Department, the Woodward Police Department, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, with assistance from the Oklahoma County District Attorney’s Office, the Woodward County District Attorney’s Office, and the Custer County District Attorney’s Office.
Several of these cases are part of “Operation 922” and “Operation Shots Fired.” Operation 922 is the Western District of Oklahoma’s implementation of Project Safe Neighborhoods, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. “Operation 922” prioritizes prosecution of federal crimes connected to domestic violence. “Operation Shots Fired” targets cases involving individuals who discharge firearms as part of their criminal activity, such as drive-by shootings or when shots are fired during robberies, domestic disputes, or other incidents. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://justice.gov/psn and https://justice.gov/usao-wdok.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Two Oklahoma City Men Sentenced to Serve Fifty Years Collectively in Federal Prison for Child Exploitation and Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Two Oklahoma City men have been sentenced to serve 50 years collectively in federal prison for child exploitation and child pornography offenses, announced United States Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On March 2, 2021, a federal grand jury returned a two-count Indictment charging CHRISTOPHER JAMES LAFEVER, 36, of Oklahoma City, with Distribution and Possession of Child Pornography. LaFever later pleaded guilty to Distribution of Child Pornography. On January 6, 2022, U.S. District Judge Charles Goodwin sentenced LaFever to serve 20 years in federal prison, followed 20 years of supervised release. LaFever has been in federal custody since February 9, 2021.
While investigating LaFever, law enforcement uncovered his association with DAKOTA ALLEN KIDWELL, 27, of Oklahoma City. Specifically, they discovered a video in LaFever’s possession that Kidwell had created. On October 8, 2021, Kidwell was charged in a two-count Complaint with Sexual Exploitation of Children and Distribution of Child Pornography. On November 1, 2021, Kidwell pleaded guilty to a one-count Information, charging him with Sexual Exploitation of a Child. At today’s sentencing, Judge Goodwin sentenced Kidwell to serve 30 years in federal prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release. Kidwell has been in federal custody since October 7, 2021.
In announcing both LaFever and Kidwell’s sentences, Judge Goodwin noted the nature and circumstances of the offenses. Both men will be required to register as sex offenders upon their release from prison.
These cases are the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tiffany Noble and Brandon Hale prosecuted Kidwell, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Stoneman prosecuted LaFever.
These cases are part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the DOJ Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, 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.
Reference is made to court filings for further information.
Yukon Man Pleads Guilty to Computer Access Fraud in Connection with Scheme to Misrepresent FAA Mechanic Certification to Local Aviation CompanyRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – GORDON BELLAMY, JR., 42, of Yukon, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty earlier this week to computer access fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On August 17, 2022, a federal grand jury returned a three-count indictment against Bellamy for alleged offenses while he was employed by Ally Aerospace Services as a contractor for AAR Corporation. The Indictment alleged that Bellamy worked as an aircraft maintenance mechanic at the Will Rogers World Airport in Oklahoma City and that he supervised mechanic crews responsible for removing and reattaching panels as part of the maintenance of commercial aircraft. Under Federal Aviation Administration ("FAA") regulations, supervising employees must be certified Airframe and Powerplant mechanics. According to the Indictment, in October of 2018, Bellamy illegally accessed an FAA database that contained records of all Airframe and Powerplant mechanic’s certificates, obtained a certificate belonging to another licensed mechanic, and falsely presented it to his employer as his own.
Count 1 charged Bellamy with wire fraud, and Count 2 charged him with computer access fraud. Count 3 alleged Bellamy committed aggravated identity theft.
On October 3, 2022, Bellamy pleaded guilty to computer access fraud before U.S. District Judge Jodi W. Dishman. As part of the plea hearing, Bellamy admitted that he intentionally accessed an FAA computer and obtained information from the FAA in furtherance of his scheme to defraud his employer, by misrepresenting himself as a certified Airframe and Powerplant mechanic.
At sentencing, Bellamy will face up to five years’ imprisonment and a fine of $250,000, followed by up to three years of supervised release. As part of the plea agreement, the government has agreed to dismiss at sentencing the remaining counts of the indictment. A sentencing date will be set by the court. Bellamy has been in federal custody since his arrest on August 23, 2022.
This case is a result of an investigation by the United States Department of Transportation-Office of the Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Danielle London.
Reference is made to court filings for further information.
Newcastle Woman Pleads Guilty to Embezzling from Local ChurchRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Last week, DARLA BRALLEY, 58, of Newcastle, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty to a two-count felony information charging her with wire fraud and making and subscribing a false tax return, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
Public records reflect that from 2012 until early 2020, Bralley served as the payroll administrator for St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church (“St. Paul”), located in Del City, Oklahoma. In her role as the payroll administrator, Bralley had signature authority over St. Paul’s operating account, and she had authority to issue checks for authorized expenses on behalf of St. Paul. Bralley also had authority to conduct online banking transactions for authorized St. Paul expenses.
At a plea hearing on September 28, 2022, Bralley admitted that between early 2014 and January 2020, she issued approximately 198 unauthorized checks drawn on St. Paul’s operating account to pay for various personal items and services, including personal credit card payments, utilities, and living expenses. She further admitted that she routinely accessed St. Paul’s operating account online and made several unauthorized transfers from that account to pay her personal expenses. Bralley admitted that she embezzled approximately $451,177.54 from St. Paul.
In addition to admitting to the wire fraud, Bralley admitted that on March 14, 2019, she signed under penalty of perjury a 2018 U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, Form 1040, that she then filed with the Internal Revenue Service. She admitted that the return was false because she only reported total income of $61,189.00, but she knew she had received substantial income in 2018 related to the money she embezzled from St. Paul that she did not report on her tax return.
At sentencing, Bralley faces up to 20 years in prison for the wire fraud charge and up to 3 years in prison for the tax charge.
This case is a result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division and the United States Secret Service. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Brown.
Reference is made to court filings for further information.
Two Oklahoma Men Plead Guilty to Racially-Motivated Hate CrimeRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – The Department of Justice announced today that two men, Devan Nathanial Johnson, 28, and Brandon Wayne Killian, 31, pleaded guilty to committing a hate crime in Shawnee, Oklahoma. Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke for the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, United States Attorney Robert J. Troester for the Western District of Oklahoma, and Special Agent in Charge Edward J. Gray of the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office made the announcement.
On January 18, 2022, a federal grand in the Western District of Oklahoma returned a two-count Indictment charging both defendants, who are white, with physically assaulting a Black man—as well as the Black man’s white friend—in the parking lot of the Brickhouse Saloon in Shawnee, Oklahoma. The Indictment alleges that the assault occurred because of the Black man’s race and color.
According to statements made before District Judge Bernard Jones at the plea hearings in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Oklahoma this week, both defendants admitted to assaulting the Black man in the parking lot of the bar on June 22, 2019, because the man was Black. The assault resulted in bodily injury to the victim.
"These two defendants are being held accountable for subjecting a Black man to a brutal and racially motivated assault," said Assistant Attorney General Clarke. "Convictions like these make clear that the Department of Justice will continue to investigate and prosecute individuals who violently assault others because of their race or the color of their skin."
"The defendants targeted a Black victim for a brutal attack simply because of the color of his skin," said United States Attorney Troester. "Hate-fueled criminal conduct is morally reprehensible and can never be acceptable in a civilized society. We will continue to use every tool at our disposal to combat all hate crimes."
"Violent acts of hate and racism have no place in our community and will not be tolerated," said Special Agent in Charge Gray. "The FBI will continue to use all authority granted to us by federal law to investigate crimes motivated by bias, and ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice."
At sentencing, each defendant faces a maximum penalty of ten years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000 for the violation. Both defendants will also be ordered to pay restitution to the victim of their crime.
The FBI Oklahoma City Field Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Julia Barry for the Western District Oklahoma and Trial Attorney Avner Shapiro of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division are prosecuting the case.
Oklahoma City Companies and Owner Pay Nearly $2 Million for Used Oil Processing, Transportation, and Storage ViolationsRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – January Environmental Services, Inc., January Transport, Inc. and company-owner Cris January (collectively Defendants) will pay civil penalties of $1.9 million and perform comprehensive corrective measures to resolve allegations that they violated the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) through their used oil transportation and processing operations in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, announced United States Attorney Robert J. Troester.
The United States and the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ) filed a complaint in federal district court in December 2020, alleging Defendants committed multiple violations of RCRA’s used oil and hazardous waste regulations. According to the complaint, Defendants transported and stored hazardous wastes without proper transport manifests or a RCRA permit, transported and processed used oil without proper testing to ensure that the oil did not contain hazardous waste, failed to maintain safe work spaces in the storage areas of the facility, and disposed of used oil filters mixed with other wastes at local landfills without first determining whether the mixture of wastes was hazardous. The violations were uncovered through a series of inspections conducted by ODEQ and subsequent joint inspections by EPA and ODEQ.
"Protecting our community requires that we safeguard our land and natural resources through the vigorous enforcement of federal environmental laws," said Robert J. Troester, United States Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma. "The settlement furthers three critical goals: accountability, compliance, and safety. I applaud the law enforcement professionals for their efforts with this resolution."
To settle the alleged violations and come into compliance with RCRA requirements, Defendants agreed to the entry of a consent decree by the Court (Consent Decree). Under the Consent Decree, Defendants must pay a civil penalty in the amount of $1.9 million. To come into compliance with the RCRA regulations, they must use proper methods to test for the presence of hazardous waste in the used oil they collect, transport to, and process at their facility. The Consent Decree also requires Defendants hire an independent engineer to evaluate the facility’s spill prevention and containment preparedness and submit compliance reports to EPA and ODEQ. In addition, they must ensure that all used oil filters are properly processed and assessed for potentially hazardous waste prior to sending any of the filters off-site for disposal.
In reaching this settlement, Defendants did not admit liability, and the government did not make any concessions about the legitimacy of the claims. The settlement allows the parties to avoid the delay, expense, inconvenience, and uncertainty involved in litigating the case.
This case was investigated by Environmental Protection Agency and the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ronald R. Gallegos and Environmental and Natural Resources Division attorneys Jason Barbeau and Asia A. McNeil-Womack prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
Duncan Information Technology Company and Its Owners Agree to Pay $54,000 to Settle Allegations of Submitting False Claims Involving Federal Communications Commission ProgramRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Omega Technology Center, Inc. ("Omega") and its owners Todd and Kristie Greenway (the "Greenways") agreed to pay $54,000 to settle civil claims stemming from allegations they submitted false claims involving a program of the Federal Communications Commission ("FCC"), announced United States Attorney Robert J. Troester.
The Universal Service Administrative Company ("USAC") is a not-for-profit entity that administers an FCC program called E-Rate. The E-Rate program is designed to improve the telecommunication capabilities of schools and libraries, particularly those in indigent areas. It does so by subsidizing the cost of new telecommunication equipment and services, and internal connections, to bring connectivity within the school or library (such as cabling, routers, and servers), as well as maintenance services.
Omega is a for profit business located in Duncan, Oklahoma, that provides information technology support to schools in Oklahoma. The United States alleges that Omega and the Greenways submitted invoices for payment to USAC under the E-Rate program for goods and services that were never provided to the Fort Towson school district for the 2010 and 2012 E-Rate years. To resolve the claims, Omega and the Greenways agreed to pay $54,000 to the United States, and to not participate in any FCC program administered by the USAC for a period of at least three years.
In reaching this settlement, Omega and the Greenways did not admit liability, and the government did not make any concessions about the legitimacy of the claims. The agreement allows the parties to avoid the delay, expense, inconvenience, and uncertainty involved in litigating the case.
This case was investigated by Federal Communications Commission, Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ronald R. Gallegos and Scott Maule prosecuted
Chickasaw Nation and United States Attorneys for the Western and Eastern Districts of Oklahoma Co-Host Public Safety SummitRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – On Tuesday, September 6, 2022, law enforcement officials gathered in Sulphur, Oklahoma, for the 2022 Chickasaw Nation Public Safety Summit. The Chickasaw Nation and United States Attorney’s Offices for the Western and Eastern Districts of Oklahoma co-hosted the event. The Summit envisioned to embrace collaboration on jurisdictional changes in Indian Country, and to answer questions and discuss procedures following recent court rulings that have impacted Indian Country in Oklahoma.
"This Public Safety Summit served as an opportunity to reflect on what has been achieved and engage in a dialogue on how we can work together to accomplish even more," said Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby. "While changing circumstances may affect the manner in which we carry out our criminal justice duties, our shared commitment to the pursuit of justice remains unchanged. Working relationships among Tribal, State, and Federal law enforcement agencies and the working relationships of those agencies with Tribal, State, and Federal courts are built on that shared commitment. Through collaboration and cooperation, we are stronger, more equipped, and better able to plan and respond to the needs of our citizens."
"We came together with the common resolve and commitment to protect public safety in the Chickasaw Nation, hold offenders accountable, and secure justice for victims of crime," said U.S. Attorney Robert Troester for the Western District of Oklahoma. "This discussion of important jurisdictional issues and addressing questions and issues raised by one another greatly enhanced the coordination, cooperation, and communication that is critically necessary among federal, state, local, and tribal officials going forward."
"The changing landscape of criminal jurisdiction in Oklahoma has posed some challenges for law enforcement," said United States Attorney Christopher Wilson for the Eastern District of Oklahoma. "This summit provided an excellent opportunity for local, state, tribal, and federal law enforcement agencies and prosecutors working within the Chickasaw Nation to meet together and focus on ways to ensure we are accomplishing our common mission to protect and serve."
The Summit included nearly 90 participants from the Chickasaw Nation, federal prosecutors, federal law enforcement, state law enforcement, tribal law enforcement, District Attorney’s Offices, Sheriffs’ Offices, and Police Departments that operate within the Chickasaw Nation. The format included various panel discussions to address topics such as the following:
- Indian Country jurisdiction following the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals decision in Bosse v. Oklahoma on October 7, 2011, which applied the U.S. Supreme Court McGirt v. Oklahoma decision to the Chickasaw Nation.
- Concurrent Jurisdiction following the U.S. Supreme Court’s Oklahoma v. Castro-Huerta decision on June 29, 2022.
- Law Enforcement Authority in Indian Country.
- Law enforcement and prosecutorial responses to crimes within the Chickasaw Nation.
- Updates in federal law and related programs.
- Public Safety services provided by the Chickasaw Nation.
Former Air Force Staff Sergeant Sentenced to Serve Four Years in Federal Prison for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – KEONTE NAVON MARTIN, 28, of Virginia Beach, Virginia, was sentenced this morning to serve 48 months in federal prison for possessing child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On April 8, 2021, a federal grand jury returned an Indictment against Martin, charging him with four counts of possession of child pornography. According to the United States Air Force Office of Special Investigations, Martin was an Airman employed at Tinker Air Force Base and held the rank of Staff Sergeant at the time of the incident. Martin has since been released from active duty.
On July 1, 2021, Martin pleaded guilty to Count 1 of the Indictment. As part of his plea, Martin admitted that he knowingly possessed a visual depiction that had traveled across state lines to get to Oklahoma, and that the visual depiction involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
At the sentencing hearing, U.S. District Judge David L. Russell sentenced Martin to serve 48 months in federal prison for his conduct, followed by five years of supervised release. Martin was also ordered to pay a total of $10,100.00 in assessments, and forfeit the electronic devices that contained the exploitative visual depictions. In arriving at the sentence, Judge Russell noted the nature and circumstances and seriousness of the offense, as well as the need to deter others from undertaking similar conduct. Restitution owed to the identified victims in the images that Martin possessed will be determined at a later date.
Upon his release from prison, Martin will be required to register as a sex offender.
This case is the result of an investigation by the United States Air Force Office of Special Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Julia E. Barry prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the DOJ Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, 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.
Reference is made to court filings for further information.
Duncan Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – DYLAN MICHAEL LILES, 29, of Duncan, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty today to possession of material containing child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On June 8, 2022, a federal grand jury indicted Liles with attempted child enticement, child exploitation, and transfer of obscene material to a minor. Today, Liles pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Bernard Jones to a superseding information charging him with possession of material containing child pornography. As part of his plea, Liles admitted that he knowingly possessed and accessed child pornography via Kik, a smartphone instant messaging application. The government has agreed to dismiss the Indictment at sentencing pursuant to a plea agreement.
At sentencing, Liles faces up to 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, at least five years of supervised release, and a $22,100 special assessment. Sentencing will take place in approximately 90 days. Liles will have to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act. After the guilty plea today, Judge Jones remanded Liles into the custody of the United States Marshal.
This case is the result of an investigation by the United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Corbin Houston.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the DOJ Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, PSC 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 PSC, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Reference is made to court filings for further information.
Oklahoma City Man Sentenced to Serve 10 Years in Federal Prison for Illegal Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Yesterday, a federal judge sentenced BRIAN KENDALL SMITH, III, 23, of Oklahoma City, to 120 months in prison for illegal possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. Federal law prohibits convicted felons from possessing firearms or ammunition.
On February 1, 2022, a federal grand jury returned a three-count Indictment against Smith charging him three counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm. On April 13, 2022, Smith pleaded guilty to Count Two of the Indictment.
At sentencing, U.S. District Judge Scott L. Palk sentenced Smith to serve 120 months in federal prison. Judge Palk cited, among other things, the serious nature of the offense, Smith’s criminal history, gang affiliation, and the need to protect the public. The Court imposed three years of supervised release. Public records reflect Smith had felony convictions for conspiracy to commit armed robbery in Oklahoma County case CF-2020-1809, assault with a dangerous weapon in Oklahoma County case CF-2020-1809, unlawful possession of a controlled dangerous substance with intent to distribute in Oklahoma County case CF-2020-3317, and possession of stolen property in Oklahoma County case CF-2020-3317.
This case is the result of investigations by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Wilson D. McGarry prosecuted the case.
This case is part of "Operation 922," the Western District of Oklahoma’s implementation of Project Safe Neighborhood, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. "Operation 922" prioritizes prosecution of federal crimes connected to domestic violence. For more information about "Operation 922", visit: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdok/project-safe-neighborhood-psn.
Reference is made to public filings for more information.
Del City Man Sentenced to Serve Seven Years in Federal Prison for Illegal Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Yesterday, a federal judge sentenced PATRICK SEAN HICKS, 40, of Del City, Oklahoma, to 84 months in prison for illegal possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On April 8, 2021, a federal grand jury returned a one-count Indictment against Hicks charging him with being a felon in possession of a firearm. On August 4, 2021, Hicks pleaded guilty to Count One of the Indictment. Federal law prohibits convicted felons from possessing firearms or ammunition.
Public records reflect that on November 29, 2020, at 12:49 a.m., the Del City Police Department received a 911 call regarding a domestic disturbance. Records further reflect that Hicks broke into his ex-wife’s house and threatened her, her boyfriend, and her children. Police officers arrived and eventually arrested Hicks with a gun in his hand. Hicks is a felon and had an active victim protective order (VPO) against him.
Public records reflect Hicks has felony convictions for larceny of copper in Cleveland County case CF-2007-599, unauthorized use of a vehicle in Oklahoma County case CF-2007-1518, unauthorized use of a vehicle and driving while privilege suspended in Oklahoma County case CF-2007-3073, forgery in the second degree and concealing stolen property in Oklahoma County case CF-2007-4099, possession of a Controlled and Dangerous Substance (CDS) in Cleveland County case CF-2009-1088, use of a computer for the purpose of violating Oklahoma statutes, threatening to perform an act of violence, and malicious injury and destruction of property in Oklahoma County case CF-2019-997, and second degree burglary, making a false declaration to a pawnbroker, and possession of stolen property in Oklahoma County case CF-2019-1173. The defendant also had four separate VPOs filed against him by his ex-wife in Oklahoma County case numbers PO-2018-2877, PO-2019-165, PO-2020-1488, and PO-2020-2178.
At sentencing, U.S. District Judge Patrick R. Wyrick sentenced Hicks to serve 84 months in federal prison. Judge Wyrick cited, among other things, the serious nature of the offense, Hicks’ criminal history, and the need to protect the public. Judge Wyrick also ordered that upon release from prison, Hicks must serve 3 years of supervised release. Defendant has been in custody since November 29, 2020.
This case was the result of an investigation by the Del City Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacquelyn M. Hutzell prosecuted the case.
This case is part of "Operation 922," the Western District of Oklahoma’s implementation of Project Safe Neighborhood, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. "Operation 922" prioritizes prosecution of federal crimes connected to domestic violence.
Reference is made to public filings for more information.
Prostitution Sting Arrest Results in Nine-Year Prison Sentence for Norman Man with Multiple Felony Convictions Found in Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Earlier this week, EUGENE DESHON HALL, 41, of Norman, was sentenced to serve more than nine years in federal prison for illegal possession of a firearm after previously being convicted of a felony, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On October 19, 2021, a federal grand jury returned a two-count Superseding Indictment that alleged illegal possession of a firearm and witness tampering. Federal law prohibits a person who has previously been convicted of felony from possessing a firearm or ammunition. On January 9, 2022, Hall plead guilty to illegal possession of a firearm.
Public records reflect that, on April 6, 2021, Oklahoma City Police Department Vice Unit officers conducted a prostitution sting operation at a motel. The operation resulted in the arrest of a sex worker. Prior to the arrest, the sex worker called Hall to assist with removing the undercover police officer from the motel room. When Hall arrived, he was armed with a revolver and admitted to officers he possessed the firearm. Before April 6, 2021, Hall had been convicted of multiple felonies in Oklahoma, including possession of a controlled substance in McCurtain County case CF-2002-174, domestic abuse in McCurtain County case CF-2004-170, possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute in McCurtain County case CF-2007-299, obstructing an officer and felony driving under the influence in McCurtain County case 2010-42, and possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute a controlled substance in McClain County case CF-2012-458.
On July 14, 2022, U.S. Chief District Judge Timothy D. DeGiusti sentenced Hall to serve 110 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In support of this sentence, Judge DeGiusti cited Hall’s lengthy criminal history.
This case is the result of investigations by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mary E. Walters and David R. Nichols, Jr. prosecuted the case.
This case is part of "Operation 922," the Western District of Oklahoma’s local implementation of the national Project Safe Neighborhoods and Project Guardian initiatives to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. "Operation 922" prioritizes prosecution of federal gun crimes connected to domestic violence.
Reference is made to public filings for more information.
"Operation Shots Fired" Getting ResultsRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – The Western District of Oklahoma’s "Operation Shots Fired" is getting results. Operation Shots Fired is the local implementation of the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative to reduce gun violence by prioritizing the federal prosecution of gun crimes connected to shootings through the collaboration and cooperation of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and prosecutors.
Specifically, Operation Shots Fired targets cases involving individuals who discharge firearms as part of their criminal activity, such as drive-by shootings or when shots are fired during robberies, domestic disputes, or other incidents. As part of this effort, law enforcement uses technology from ballistic imaging of shell casings located at crime scenes and casings from test fires of located firearms to produce actionable investigative leads through the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) made available through the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). NIBIN is the only interstate automated ballistic imaging network in operation in the United States and is available to most major population centers in the United States.
Once law enforcement identifies shooters, the U.S. Attorney’s Office evaluates whether it can leverage federal laws to charge, detain, and imprison the "worst of the worst" offenders who discharge their weapons during criminal acts in our communities. The U.S. Attorney’s Office works closely with the District Attorneys’ Offices to identify appropriate cases for federal firearm prosecution.
"Operation Shots Fired brings the power of federal prosecution to hold shooters accountable," said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. "We are proud to partner with our law enforcement partners and local prosecutors to help address the disturbing number of shootings in our communities which endanger all of us."
"ATF could not be more proud of the success of this critical initiative. There is no higher priority than keeping the citizens of Oklahoma City safe from violent criminals. By leveraging modern technology and good old school police work, plenty of bad guys are going to jail. Much of the success of this initiative is rooted in the deep relationships amongst all law enforcement agencies in the greater Oklahoma City area," stated ATF Dallas Field Division Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey C. Boshek, II.
"We’ve all been witness to the tragedies of gun violence in our society," said Oklahoma City Police Chief Wade Gourley. "We are proud to partner with other law enforcement agencies and prosecutors to hold criminals responsible for their violent actions."
Since Operation Shots Fired began in late 2021, 36 defendants have been charged with federal offenses. Within just the past couple of weeks, this initiative has included the following:
Sentencings:
- ANTONEYO HARBERT, 33, of Oklahoma City, was sentenced on July 6, 2022, to 60 months in federal prison. According to public record, officers responded to a shots fired call at an apartment complex and located Harbert, who was intoxicated, walking down the stairs of an apartment building with a gun with a 31-round extended magazine.
- ANTONIO McCRAY, 34, of Lawton, Oklahoma, was sentenced on July 7, 2022, to 96 months in federal prison. According to public record, McCray pulled a gun on a friend during an argument. In two other incidents, McCray forced his girlfriend to play Russian roulette and pulled the trigger on a loaded revolver twice while pointed at her head, and locked another friend in the bathroom, pistol-whipping her, and threatened to kill her and her family.
Guilty Pleas:
- TERRELL HUBBARD, 35, of Oklahoma City, pled guilty on June 15, 2022, to illegal possession of ammunition. According to public record, Hubbard is alleged to have traveled to the workplace of a victim but was not allowed to enter the facility and became upset. Before leaving the premises, Hubbard discharged a firearm into the facility, narrowly missing the victim. Hubbard has been ordered detained pending sentencing.
- STEPHEN MARTIN, 31, of Verden, Oklahoma, pled guilty on June 22, 2022, to one count of illegal possession of a firearm and one count of illegal possession of ammunition. According to public record, Martin beat his fiancé and her dog and threatened to kill his fiancé. He then forced her into a car with a shotgun. When police tried to pull them over, Martin ran. After he was in custody, police located where he had hidden the shotgun and ammunition. Martin has been ordered detained pending sentencing.
- WAYNE PITTS, 54, of Oklahoma City, pled guilty on July 5, 2022, to illegal possession of ammunition. According to public record, Pitts assaulted his wife and their dog, threatened to kill himself, and shot a firearm into the ground. Pitts has been ordered detained pending sentencing.
Recently Charged: (NOTE: The public is reminded that charges are merely allegations and that defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.)
- LINDELL BARKUS, 58, of Oklahoma City, was indicted on July 5, 2022, for the illegal possession of a firearm on May 24, 2022. According to public record, Barkus got in an argument with a random person at a 7-Eleven and started shooting. Barkus has been detained pending trial.
Sentencings take place approximately 90 days after a plea of guilty. At sentencing, each defendant faces up to ten years in federal prison and up to a $250,000 fine, followed by three years of supervised release, for each count of illegally possessing a firearm or ammunition. Under the recently enacted Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, future defendants will face up to fifteen years in federal prison for the same conduct that occurs after June 25, 2022.
Reference is made to public filings for more information.
Additional cases can be found at:
- Home Security Footage Leads to Ammunition and Drug Charges for Convicted Felon
- Domestic Altercation and Shooting Result in City Man Being Sentenced to 235 Months in Federal Prison for Unlawful Possession of Ammunition and Witness Tampering
For more information about Operation Shots Fired, please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at (405) 553-8999.
Oklahoma City Hospital Pays $120,000 to Settle Civil Penalty Claims Stemming from the Alleged Failure to Timely Report Thefts of Fentanyl and HydromorphoneRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – INTEGRIS ProHealth, Inc., and its parent, INTEGRIS Health, Inc. (collectively, "INTEGRIS") paid $120,000 to settle civil penalty claims stemming from allegations that Integris Baptist Medical Center Pharmacy ("Integris Pharmacy"), which is owned and operated by INTEGRIS ProHealth, Inc., violated the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970 and its regulations, announced United States Attorney Robert J. Troester.
The United States alleges that in October 2021 Integris Pharmacy failed to timely notify DEA regarding thefts or significant losses of Schedule II controlled substances. More specifically, Integris Pharmacy allegedly failed to report within one business day of discovery the thefts of fentanyl and hydromorphone by a former employee. To resolve these allegations, INTEGRIS agreed to pay $120,000 to the United States.
In reaching this settlement, INTEGRIS did not admit liability, and the government did not make any concessions about the legitimacy of the claims. The agreement allows the parties to avoid the delay, expense, inconvenience, and uncertainty involved in litigating the case.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Office of Diversion Control. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Amanda R. Johnson and Ronald R. Gallegos prosecuted the case.
21 Defendants Convicted During Three-Year Investigation into Drug Trafficking and Criminal Activities Led by Inmates Inside State Prison Walls Using Contraband Cell PhonesRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – A three-year investigation into an Oklahoma prison-based drug trafficking organization has resulted in 21 defendants being convicted across multiple federal cases. The wrap-up of this investigation and prosecution is jointly announced by Robert J. Troester, United States Attorney, Edward Chavez, DEA Special Agent in Charge of the Dallas Field Office, Christopher Altemus, IRS Criminal Investigations, Special Agent in Charge of the Dallas Field Office, and Wade Gourley, Chief of Police, Oklahoma City Police Department.
Public records reflect that over the course of this investigation, federal, state, and local law enforcement identified and targeted a drug trafficking organization run by Todd Mathew Strand, who was an Oklahoma Department of Corrections inmate already serving a 30-year state sentence for prior drug trafficking activity. Strand, with the assistance of fellow inmate Hugo Gonzalez, Jr., ran his operation from inside state prison using contraband cell phones. The pair then relied on a network of distributors and couriers on the streets to distribute methamphetamine and heroin and collect proceeds from those sales. Further, Strand and his organization gathered firearms (often in exchange for drugs), with at least some of those firearms intended to be exported to Mexico. In one instance, a search of a storage facility controlled by one of Strand’s associates resulted in the seizure of 13 assorted assault rifles, shotguns, parts, and ammunition that had been gathered for exportation to Mexico.
Crimes for which the defendants were convicted include drug distribution, drug conspiracy, money laundering, maintaining drug-involved premises, and illegal firearms possession. Strand also ordered acts of violence, including acts against his own associates, during the course of the conspiracy.
In the end, Strand was sentenced to serve 384 months (32 years) in federal prison. Strand’s second in command, Gonzalez, Jr., was sentenced to serve 264 months (22 years) in federal prison. Numerous other defendants with roles ranging from mid-level dealers and couriers to significant drug traffickers received sentences between 192 months and 36 months. Collectively, the 21 defendants received sentences of more than 187 years in federal prison. In addition, law enforcement seized approximately 46 pounds of methamphetamine and heroin, more than 50 firearms, and $35,000 in drug proceeds.
"This sprawling drug trafficking operation was primarily operated by inmates using contraband cell phones from inside state prison walls," said United States Attorney Robert J. Troester. "Thanks to the dedicated work and coordinated efforts of law enforcement, this drug trafficking network was stopped, and 21 defendants will collectively serve more than 18 decades in prison. I commend each of our law enforcement partners who worked together with prosecutors to achieve this outstanding result."
"Drug trafficking, on our streets and in our prisons, impacts the safety and security of all of our lives," said Eduardo A. Chavez, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Dallas/Oklahoma. "These convictions and prison terms should send a strong message to others that drug trafficking and its related violent crimes are not welcome here. DEA and our partners will continue to identify, disrupt, and destroy, these criminal organizations that choose to distribute drugs."
"The laundering of illegal drug profits is as important and essential to drug traffickers as the very distribution of their illegal drugs," said Gerardo Gomez, Assistant Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Dallas Field Office. "Without these ill-gotten gains, the traffickers could not finance their organizations. The significant sentencings in this investigation should send a clear message to would-be criminals—you will be caught, and you will be punished. We, along with our law enforcement partners, and the United States Attorney’s Office, continue to do our part to put drug traffickers in jail or in this case, keep them in jail."
"This case demonstrates just how dangerous and determined some criminals can be," said Wade Gourley, Chief of the Oklahoma City Police Department. "We are thankful to have law enforcement partners as committed as we are to the safety of the residents who depend on us all."
This investigation was spearheaded by the DEA with assistance from numerous other law enforcement partners, including the Oklahoma City Police Department, the IRS Criminal Investigative Division, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Sallisaw Police Department, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, the Moore Police Department, the Edmond Police Department, Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the Oklahoma County District Attorney’s Office, and the Oklahoma Department of Corrections.
These prosecutions were part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas Snyder and Jason Harley prosecuted these cases.
Reference is made to public filings for more information.
Federal Inmate Sentenced to Serve an Additional Year in Federal Prison for Indecent Exposure to Prison Staff MembersRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Yesterday, a federal judge sentenced DONTE EARL GRIFFIN, 36, of Cincinnati, Ohio, to serve an additional 12 months and 1 day in federal prison for Indecent Exposure, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On September 16, 2020, a federal grand jury returned a one-count Indictment that charged Griffin with Indecent Exposure while he was an inmate at the Federal Transfer Center (FTC) in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. According to evidence presented at a bench trial in April 2021, Griffin willfully exposed his genitalia and intermittently engaged in masturbatory acts in front of two female FTC employees. The trial lasted two hours, after which U.S. District Court Judge Timothy DeGiusti found Griffin guilty of Indecent Exposure.
At sentencing, Judge DeGiusti sentenced Griffin to serve 12 months and 1 day in federal prison. This sentence will run consecutive to Griffin’s current sentence in June 2015 in the Eastern District of Kentucky to serve 10 years in federal prison for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. Federal law prohibits convicted felons from possessing firearms and ammunition. In announcing the sentence in the Oklahoma indecent exposure case, Judge DeGiusti cited, among other things, the serious nature of the offense, Griffin’s criminal history, and the impact the incident had on the female Bureau of Prisons employees. Judge DeGiusti also ordered Griffin to serve three years of supervised release upon release from prison.
This case was the result of an investigation by the Special Investigative Services at the Federal Transfer Center and the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ashley L. Altshuler and Travis Leverett prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for more information.
Attorney General Merrick B. Garland Honors Western District of Oklahoma Employees with AwardsRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Yesterday, Attorney General Merrick B. Garland announced the recipients for the 69th Annual Attorney General’s Awards, recognizing Department of Justice employees and partners for extraordinary contributions to the enforcement of our nation’s laws. This year, Attorney General Garland specifically recognized Assistant U.S. Attorneys Emily Fagan and Ron Gallegos, and Paralegal Jessica Rogers, of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Oklahoma with the John Marshal Award. This Award, one of the Departments highest, recognizes contributions and excellence in specialized areas of legal performance. AUSAs Fagan and Gallegos and Paralegal Rogers received this Award for their dedicated work in obtaining a $1.25 million settlement in United States vs. Pelfrey to compensate victims of sexual harassment.
"This year’s awardees have served selflessly to further the Department’s important work upholding the rule of law, keeping our country safe, and protecting civil rights," said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. "I am proud to recognize these individuals for their professionalism, skill, and leadership, and I am grateful for their service to our Department and our nation."
"AUSA Ron Gallegos, AUSA Emily Fagan, and Paralegal Jessica Rogers worked closely with the Department’s Civil Rights Division to vindicate the rights of more than 40 female tenants and prospective tenants who, for nearly 20 years, endured abhorrent sexual harassment from their landlord when all they wanted was a safe place to call home," said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. "I am incredibly proud that Attorney General Merrick Garland has recognized their work with a John Marshall Award. They are representative of every dedicated prosecutor and support staff member who serve the Western District of Oklahoma in the pursuit of justice every day."
For a full list of this year’s award recipients, please visit: https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/attorney-general-merrick-b-garland-honors-department-justice-employees-and-others-69th-annual.
More detailed information about the Pelfrey case can be found here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdok/pr/justice-department-obtains-125-million-settlement-oklahoma-city-landlords-resolve.
Man from Wayne, Ok Sentenced to Serve Seven Years in Federal Prison for Purcell, Ok Robbery Involving Uzi-Style Airsoft GunRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Yesterday, SEAN ROBERT TYSON, 32, of Wayne, Oklahoma, was sentenced to serve 84 months in federal prison for a Purcell, Oklahoma, robbery involving an Uzi-style airsoft gun, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
Public records reflect that Tyson was initially charged and sentenced in the District Court of McClain County, Oklahoma. That conviction was dismissed based on the United States Supreme Court ruling in McGirt v. Oklahoma. On June 28, 2021, a one-count Information was filed in federal court against Tyson that charged him with Robbery in Indian Country. On July 15, 2021, Tyson pleaded guilty to the Information. According to court records, Tyson asked to borrow the victim’s phone while at Star Travel Plaza in Purcell. When the call concluded, Tyson pointed what looked like a real Uzi firearm at the victim and a two-year-old child held by the victim, saying to the victim that the phone now belonged to Tyson. He then fled in a vehicle with the victim’s phone.
At the sentencing hearing yesterday, U.S. District Court Judge Patrick Wyrick sentenced Tyson to serve 84 months in federal prison. In support of his sentence, Judge Wyrick cited, among other things, the serious nature of the offense, Tyson’s criminal history, and the impact of the robbery on the victim family. Judge Wyrick also ordered that upon release from prison, Tyson must serve three years of supervised release. Tyson has been in federal custody since his arrest on May 28, 2021. Tyson is an admitted member of the Universal Aryan Brotherhood.
This case was the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office and the Purcell Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Gridley, Jr. prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for more information.