Western District of Oklahoma
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Afghan National Arrested for Plotting an Election Day Terrorist Attack in the Name of ISISRead the Press Release
Note: View the unsealed criminal complaint here.
WASHINGTON — The Justice Department today announced charges against a citizen of Afghanistan residing in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, for conspiring to conduct an Election Day terrorist attack in the United States on behalf of the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization (FTO).
According to a criminal complaint filed today, Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi, 27, conspired and attempted to provide material support to ISIS and obtained firearms and ammunition to conduct a violent attack on U.S. soil in the name of ISIS. As part of the plot, the defendant allegedly took steps to liquidate his family’s assets, resettle members of his family overseas, acquire AK-47 assault rifles and ammunition, and commit a terrorist attack in the United States.
“As charged, the Justice Department foiled the defendant’s plot to acquire semi-automatic weapons and commit a violent attack in the name of ISIS on U.S. soil on Election Day,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “We will continue to combat the ongoing threat that ISIS and its supporters pose to America’s national security, and we will identify, investigate, and prosecute the individuals who seek to terrorize the American people. I am deeply grateful to the public servants of the FBI, National Security Division, and U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Oklahoma for their work to disrupt this attack and for the work they do every day to protect our country.”
“This defendant, motivated by ISIS, allegedly conspired to commit a violent attack, on Election Day, here on our homeland," said FBI Director Christopher Wray. "I am proud of the men and women of the FBI who uncovered and stopped the plot before anyone was harmed. Terrorism is still the FBI's number one priority, and we will use every resource to protect the American people."
“Thanks to the relentless efforts of the FBI, National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section, and federal prosecutors in my office, the alleged plan to commit an attack on Election Day was disrupted and Mr. Tawhedi was arrested,” said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester for the Western District of Oklahoma. “Fighting terrorism remains the top priority of the Justice Department. We will continue to pursue, disrupt, and hold accountable those who plot to commit acts of terrorism against our country and our people.”
According to the criminal complaint, as part of the investigation into Tawhedi, the FBI searched Tawhedi’s phone and obtained communications between Tawhedi and a person who facilitated recruitment, training, and indoctrination of persons who expressed interest in terrorist activity and who Tawhedi understood to be affiliated with ISIS. Tawhedi was also seen in a video recorded on July 20 reading to two children text that describes the rewards a martyr receives in the afterlife. Tawhedi also allegedly accessed, viewed, and saved ISIS propaganda on his iCloud and Google account, participated in pro-ISIS Telegram groups, and contributed to a charity which fronts for and funnels money to ISIS.
The complaint alleges that while liquidating their family’s assets prior to the attack, Tawhedi and his co-conspirator, who is a juvenile, advertised the sale of the family’s personal property on Facebook. At the FBI’s direction, a confidential human source responded to inquire if a computer was still for sale. The FBI source noted that he needed the computer for a new gun business he was starting, which ultimately led Tawhedi and the juvenile to meet with the source and other FBI assets at a rural location to test firearms. Tawhedi expressed interest in purchasing two AK-47 assault rifles, magazines, and ammunition from the source.
According to the criminal complaint, on Oct. 7, Tawhedi and the juvenile met with the FBI assets at a rural location in the Western District of Oklahoma and purchased, received, and took possession of two AK-47 assault rifles, ten magazines, and 500 rounds of ammunition. Upon receipt of the rifles and ammunition, Tawhedi and the juvenile were arrested.
In his seized communications, Tawhedi allegedly indicated that his attack was planned for Election Day, and in a post-arrest interview, Tawhedi allegedly confirmed the attack was planned for Election Day targeting large gatherings of people, during which he and the juvenile were expected to die as martyrs.
Tawhedi was charged with conspiring and attempting to provide material support to ISIS, which carries a maximum prison sentence of 20 years, and receiving a firearm to be used to commit a felony or a federal crime of terrorism, which carries a maximum prison sentence of 15 years, if convicted.
The case is being investigated by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office, with valuable assistance from the Oklahoma City Police Department and the Moore, Oklahoma Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica L. Perry, Matt Dillon, and Mark Stoneman for the Western District of Oklahoma and Trial Attorneys George C. Kraehe and Everett McMillian of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Afghan National Arrested for Plotting an Election Day Terrorist Attack in the Name of ISISRead the Press Release
Note: View the unsealed criminal complaint here.
The Justice Department today announced charges against a citizen of Afghanistan residing in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, for conspiring to conduct an Election Day terrorist attack in the United States on behalf of the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization (FTO).
According to a criminal complaint filed today, Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi, 27, conspired and attempted to provide material support to ISIS and obtained firearms and ammunition to conduct a violent attack on U.S. soil in the name of ISIS. As part of the plot, the defendant allegedly took steps to liquidate his family’s assets, resettle members of his family overseas, acquire AK-47 assault rifles and ammunition, and commit a terrorist attack in the United States.
“As charged, the Justice Department foiled the defendant’s plot to acquire semi-automatic weapons and commit a violent attack in the name of ISIS on U.S. soil on Election Day,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “We will continue to combat the ongoing threat that ISIS and its supporters pose to America’s national security, and we will identify, investigate, and prosecute the individuals who seek to terrorize the American people. I am deeply grateful to the public servants of the FBI, National Security Division, and U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Oklahoma for their work to disrupt this attack and for the work they do every day to protect our country.”
“This defendant, motivated by ISIS, allegedly conspired to commit a violent attack, on Election Day, here on our homeland," said FBI Director Christopher Wray. "I am proud of the men and women of the FBI who uncovered and stopped the plot before anyone was harmed. Terrorism is still the FBI's number one priority, and we will use every resource to protect the American people."
“Thanks to the relentless efforts of the FBI, National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section, and federal prosecutors in my office, the alleged plan to commit an attack on Election Day was disrupted and Mr. Tawhedi was arrested,” said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester for the Western District of Oklahoma. “Fighting terrorism remains the top priority of the Justice Department. We will continue to pursue, disrupt, and hold accountable those who plot to commit acts of terrorism against our country and our people.”
According to the criminal complaint, as part of the investigation into Tawhedi, the FBI searched Tawhedi’s phone and obtained communications between Tawhedi and a person who facilitated recruitment, training, and indoctrination of persons who expressed interest in terrorist activity and who Tawhedi understood to be affiliated with ISIS. Tawhedi was also seen in a video recorded on July 20 reading to two children text that describes the rewards a martyr receives in the afterlife. Tawhedi also allegedly accessed, viewed, and saved ISIS propaganda on his iCloud and Google account, participated in pro-ISIS Telegram groups, and contributed to a charity which fronts for and funnels money to ISIS.
The complaint alleges that while liquidating their family’s assets prior to the attack, Tawhedi and his co-conspirator, who is a juvenile, advertised the sale of the family’s personal property on Facebook. At the FBI’s direction, a confidential human source responded to inquire if a computer was still for sale. The FBI source noted that he needed the computer for a new gun business he was starting, which ultimately led Tawhedi and the juvenile to meet with the source and other FBI assets at a rural location to test firearms. Tawhedi expressed interest in purchasing two AK-47 assault rifles, magazines, and ammunition from the source.
According to the criminal complaint, on Oct. 7, Tawhedi and the juvenile met with the FBI assets at a rural location in the Western District of Oklahoma and purchased, received, and took possession of two AK-47 assault rifles, ten magazines, and 500 rounds of ammunition. Upon receipt of the rifles and ammunition, Tawhedi and the juvenile were arrested.
In his seized communications, Tawhedi allegedly indicated that his attack was planned for Election Day, and in a post-arrest interview, Tawhedi allegedly confirmed the attack was planned for Election Day targeting large gatherings of people, during which he and the juvenile were expected to die as martyrs.
Tawhedi was charged with conspiring and attempting to provide material support to ISIS, which carries a maximum prison sentence of 20 years, and receiving a firearm to be used to commit a felony or a federal crime of terrorism, which carries a maximum prison sentence of 15 years, if convicted.
The case is being investigated by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office, with valuable assistance from the Oklahoma City Police Department and the Moore, Oklahoma Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica L. Perry, Matt Dillon, and Mark Stoneman for the Western District of Oklahoma and Trial Attorneys George C. Kraehe and Everett McMillian of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Western District of Oklahoma's "Operation 922" Domestic Violence Initiative Remains a Powerful and Effective Tool to Combat Domestic Violent CrimeRead the Press Release
352 Charged and Nearly 500 Firearms Recovered
OKLAHOMA CITY – With October serving as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Oklahoma (USAO), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the Oklahoma City Police Department want the community to know that “Operation 922” continues to be a powerful tool in the fight against domestic violence-related violent crime.
“Domestic violence remains at unacceptable, epidemic levels in Oklahoma. Through the power of federal prosecution, Operation 922 seeks to save the lives of domestic violence victims and responding law enforcement officers, while holding abusers accountable,” said United States Attorney Robert J. Troester. “Safe neighborhoods start with safe homes.”
“ATF’s top priority has always been to keep firearms out of the hands of people that shouldn’t have them. This is particularly true when it comes to domestic violence offenders within our communities. The mere presence of a firearm in a home where abuse is occurring significantly increases the risk of considerable harm,” said ATF Dallas Division Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey C. Boshek II. “Domestic abuse knows no boundaries, nor does the extent of the methods we will go to in order to stop it. We thank our partners, especially the United States Attorney’s Office in the Western District of Oklahoma, for their continued pursuit of justice through Operation 922. Together we are stronger.”
“With October being Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we recognize domestic abuse continues to affect individuals and families across our community,” said Oklahoma City Police Chief Ron Bacy. “We are committed to working with our federal partners in doing everything we can to protect victims of abuse, while ensuring those who inflict harm face the consequences.”
OPERATION 922 - STRATEGY
In 2018, the USAO launched “Operation 922” as a local strategy to reduce violent crime and target the subject matter of domestic violence. Domestic violence is found in all ethnic groups and all communities, including rich and poor, educated and undereducated, urban and rural, and employed and unemployed.
When domestic violence escalates to a point that it involves firearms, the result can be lethal for victims, responding law enforcement officers, or others (e.g., family members, mass shootings, bystanders, etc.). For these reasons, Operation 922 focuses on repeat domestic abusers and particularly violent offenders who violate federal law—primarily firearms offenses—and uses the power of federal prosecution to quickly remove abusers from the home, protect the victims over whom the abuser exerts control, and safeguard law enforcement responding to domestic calls. Although the USAO has used more than 20 separate federal statutes to hold abusers accountable, the cases most frequently used are federal firearms laws, mostly found in 18 U.S.C. § 922. This statute is the origin of the name “Operation 922.”
OPERATION 922 - IN ACTION
State, local, and tribal law enforcement and prosecutors know who the repeat domestic abusers and particularly violent offenders are in their respective communities. Through Operation 922, they have access to federal agents and prosecutors who ultimately determine whether the facts warrant federal prosecution.
Unlike in a typical state domestic violence case, when federal prosecutors bring federal firearms charges, the abuse is not critical to the charged offense. Because the focus of the crime centers on the illegal firearm offense, victims are often shielded from testifying and being subject to cross-examination regarding the abuse. However, federal prosecutors are nevertheless able to use instances of abusive behavior, victim protection orders, and prior violent conduct to seek to detain the defendant during the case. Federal prosecutors are also able to present this information at sentencing for consideration by the judge.
Because Operation 922 is victim-focused, federal prosecutors work closely with, and rely upon, the Palomar Family Justice Center and other service providers. These entities ensure that domestic violence survivors receive necessary wrap-around services far beyond the USAO’s capabilities.
OPERATION 922 - BY THE NUMBERS
Since Operation 922 was launched in 2018, 352 defendants have been charged with federal offenses, with those charges originating in 26 of the Western District of Oklahoma’s 40 counties. Of the 352 defendants charged:
- more than 94% have already pled guilty or been convicted at trial,
- more than 88% have already been sentenced with the average sentence of more than 74 months in federal prison, and
- 33% were known gang members from 43 different gangs, even though this initiative does not specifically target gangs.
In addition to removing the abuser from the home on federal charges, law enforcement has removed 495 firearms and more than 12,250 rounds of ammunition from those same homes.
Outside of the courtroom, federal prosecutors have provided training on Operation 922 to more than 2,500 federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers and prosecutors across the country since 2018. Well over half of those trained were in Oklahoma. The USAO has also provided multiple trainings to other U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country, some of which have implemented their own domestic violence initiative patterned after Operation 922.
For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, visit https://justice.gov/psn and https://justice.gov/usao-wdok.
“Operation Sonic Boom” Targeting Violent Crime in Oklahoma City Results in 50 Defendants Charged with Firearms and Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
Law Enforcement Seize 193 Firearms, including 83 Machinegun Conversion Devices, Two 3-D Printers, and More Than 63 Kilograms of Drugs
OKLAHOMA CITY – Following a two-month targeted initiative called “Operation Sonic Boom” to reduce violent crime in Oklahoma City, 50 individuals have been charged in federal and state court with various firearms and drug offenses.
Today’s announcement was made by Robert J. Troester, United States Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma, and Jeff Boshek, Special Agent in Charge of the Dallas Field Office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco, and Explosives (ATF), who led the investigation. Other critical partners in this operation include:
- Vicki Behenna, Oklahoma County District Attorney,
- Ron Bacy, Chief, Oklahoma City Police Department,
- Johnny Kuhlman, United States Marshal,
- Eduardo A. Chávez, Special Agent in Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration Dallas Field Division,
- Tim Tipton, Commissioner, Oklahoma Department of Public Safety,
- Donnie Anderson, Director, Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotic and Dangerous Drugs, and
- Keith Brown, Executive Director, Texoma High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area.
Federal Defendants: Forty-two defendants have been charged in federal court, some together, while others were charged individually. Offenses with which individuals have been charged include illegal firearms trafficking, unlawful possession and transfer of machineguns, unlawful possession of firearms, making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm, using a firearm during and in relation to a drug-trafficking crime, and conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine. The names, specific charges, and potential sentences of these federal defendants, if convicted, are in the attached chart. Reference is made to public records, including related, recently unsealed federal Indictments, for additional information.
State Defendants: Eight defendants have been charged in Oklahoma County District Court. Offenses with which they have been charged include aggravated trafficking of fentanyl, trafficking of methamphetamine, possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, and possession of a firearm after juvenile adjudication. The names, specific charges, and potential sentences of these state court defendants, if convicted, are in the attached chart. Reference is made to public records for additional information.
Seizures: In addition to charging 50 defendants, law enforcement recovered the following items:
- 193 firearms, including:
- 81 Pistols
- 4 Revolvers
- 10 Rifles
- 6 Shotguns
- 9 Machineguns, and
- 83 Machinegun conversion devices (MCDs), including 30 partially completed MCDs
- Two 3-D printers (used to print MCDs)
- More than 63 kilograms of drugs, with an approximate street value of nearly $750,000, including:
- 53 kilograms of methamphetamine
- 1.5 kilograms of fentanyl
- 5.2 kilograms of cocaine, and
- 3.8 kilograms of marijuana
Please note that these numbers are the collective recoveries over the course of Operation Sonic Boom and are not attributable to each individual defendant.
MCDs, commonly known as “switches” or “auto sears,” unlawfully convert semi-automatic handguns into fully automatic weapons (i.e., machineguns). The possession, manufacturing, and sale of MCDs violates federal law as illegal possession of a machinegun. Those charged with MCD-related offenses face up to ten years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
“There is no doubt that Operation Sonic Boom has had a resounding impact to make Oklahoma City safer,” said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. “This Operation alone removes from our streets nearly 200 dangerous firearms and machineguns, and over 63 kilos of deadly drugs. I commend ATF’s leadership with this effort and our law enforcement partners who worked together to make Operation Sonic Boom successful.”
“Early mornings, late nights, time away from family, dangerous situations are all worth it for law enforcement officers when the outcome is life changing for the citizens and communities they protect. The streets of Oklahoma City are forever altered due to the excellent work by the United States Attorney’s Office, ATF, and our law enforcement partners during Operation Sonic Boom,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey C. Boshek II. “Operations like this highlight the importance of authentic relationships between law enforcement agencies to keep our communities safe. ATF will remain vigilant and steadfast in our fight against violent crime in Oklahoma City and surrounding areas and will continue to pursue the worst of the worst lawbreakers living amongst us.”
“We appreciate the efforts of local, state and federal law enforcement officials during this months-long operation,” said Oklahoma County District Attorney Vicki Zemp Behenna. “The invaluable work they did to get these guns and drugs off the streets and out of hands of dangerous felons will ultimately keep our city and citizens safer.”
“This operation demonstrates the positive outcomes that can occur when law enforcement agencies work together to address a specific problem,” said Oklahoma City Police Chief Ron Bacy. “The partnership we have with these agencies help dismantle the networks that fuel violence by taking dangerous criminals, drugs, and firearms off the streets making our community a safer place.”
Operation Sonic Boom was funded by the Texoma High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) which is made up of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies in North Texas and Oklahoma. HIDTA fosters and supports intra-agency cooperation strategies to target the region's drug-related and violent crime threats to public safety by using funding provided by the Office of National Drug Control Policy, out of the Executive Office of the President of the United States.
This Operation is the result of collaboration and partnership among ATF, Oklahoma City Police Department, Oklahoma County District Attorney’s Office, U.S. Marshal’s Service, Drug Enforcement Administration, Oklahoma Department of Public Safety, Oklahoma Highway Patrol, Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotic and Dangerous Drugs, and the Texoma HIDTA.
The public is reminded these charges are merely allegations, and that each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Defendant lists attached below:
Federal Defendants
State Defendants
Enid Woman Sentenced to Serve 30 Months in Federal Prison after Embezzling more than $400,000 from NonprofitsRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY –DEBORAH WILCZEK, 46, of Enid, has been sentenced to serve 30 months in federal prison for making, uttering, and possessing a forged security, and willfully filing a false federal income tax return, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On May 16, 2023, a federal grand jury returned a 17-count Superseding Indictment against Wilczek, charging her with devising and carrying out a scheme to defraud the YWCA in Enid (YWCA) and the Cimarron Montessori School (Cimarron). According to the Superseding Indictment, from November 2012 through April 2019, Wilczek served in leadership positions for the YWCA. She also served on Cimarron’s School Board in various capacities from August 2016 to April 2021. The Superseding Indictment alleges Wilczek routinely accessed both the YWCA and Cimarron’s business bank accounts, wrote herself checks, and made several unauthorized bank transfers to pay for her personal expenses, including her personal credit card. She concealed her theft by misclassifying these expenses in each nonprofits’ bookkeeping system. In total, Wilczek embezzled $414,951.35 from the two nonprofits, with $139,308.35 coming from YWCA and $275,643 coming from Cimarron. It is also alleged that Wilczek forged Cimarron board members’ signatures on checks written to herself and her consulting firm.
The Superseding Indictment further alleges Wilczek willfully filed false federal income tax returns for the years 2016 through 2020, where she listed her total income substantially below the income actually received as a result of the fraud described above.
On November 7, 2023, Wilczek pleaded guilty to Counts 10 and 17 of the Superseding Indictment, and admitted she possessed a check with a forged signature written on a bank account belonging to Cimarron and that she filed an income tax return for the 2020 tax year that materially understated her income.
At the sentencing hearing on September 11, 2024, Chief U.S. District Judge Timothy D. DeGiusti sentenced Wilczek to serve 30 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. The court also ordered Wilczek to pay $439,749.80 in restitution, with $139,308.35 going to the YWCA, $221,622.45 going to Cimarron, and $78,819.00 going to the IRS. In announcing the sentence, Judge DeGiusti noted the seriousness of the offense, and the detrimental effect that Wilczek’s conduct has had on the Enid community and the organizations themselves.
This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Stillwater Resident Agency, IRS Criminal Investigation, and the Enid Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Danielle London prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for further information.
United States Attorney to Co-Chair Justice Department’s New “ANTI-MCD” Committee, Targeting Machinegun Conversion DevicesRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester will Co-Chair a new Justice Department standing committee called Action Network to Terminate Illegal Machinegun Conversion Devices (“ANTI-MCD”). Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco announced the creation of the ANTI-MCD Committee last Friday, which will include representatives of each of the Department’s law enforcement components (ATF, FBI, DEA, and U.S. Marshal’s Service), the Civil and Criminal Divisions, the Executive Office for United States Attorneys, and the Office of the Deputy Attorney General. U.S. Attorney Troester will Co-Chair with Tim Jones, Deputy Assistant Director of ATF. Deputy Attorney General Monaco’s full announcement can be found here.
Machinegun conversion devices (MCDs), often referred to as “switches” or “auto sears,” convert semi-automatic weapons into fully automatic machineguns that fire multiple rounds by a single pull of the trigger. Making, selling, or possessing MCDs is illegal under federal law. The significant danger MCDs pose to our community and the proliferation of these illegal devices on our streets requires immediate and sustained attention.
The ANTI-MCD Committee will provide leadership and guidance for how to best deploy Department resources to reduce the proliferation of MCDs, work with interagency and external partners on initiatives and joint MCD prosecution and enforcement efforts, and ensure coordination among Department components and other stakeholders. The Committee will also propose additional initiatives and make recommendations to ODAG on all aspects of the Department’s efforts to address the proliferation of MCDs including research and data collection, policy updates, resource allocation, and coordination with our federal, state, local, Tribal, and territorial prosecution and law enforcement partners.
“MCDs present a clear and immediate danger in our communities to both the public and law enforcement. We must combat this threat with an all-hands approach,” said U.S. Attorney Troester. “I am honored to Co-Chair the ANTI-MCD Committee that will bring together the expertise of our internal and external partners to address this nationwide threat.”
“MCDs are a significant public safety threat that continues to grow more pervasive each day,” said Timothy Jones, Deputy Assistant Director of Field Operations at ATF. “The creation of the ANTI-MCD Committee is a coordinated effort to enhance law enforcement efforts to hold offenders accountable and ultimately save lives. I am honored to bring ATF’s investigative and technical expertise to this initiative as Co-Chair of the Committee with U.S. Attorney Troester.”
In November 2023, the Western District of Oklahoma announced the creation of Project Switch Off, a local Project Safe Neighborhood initiative, to address the significant danger MCDs present and remove them from our streets. Federal prosecutors and ATF have trained nearly 750 law enforcement officers on MCDs. Between 2020 and 2022, the Western District charged eight individuals with MCD-related offenses, compared to 39 individuals prosecuted over the last year through Project Switch Off.
Federal Jury Convicts Oklahoma City Man of Armed Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – A federal jury has convicted AKIN ZHON WOFFORD, 29, of Oklahoma City, of armed bank robbery and possessing and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On February 7, 2023, a federal grand jury returned a two-count Indictment against Wofford, charging him with armed bank robbery and possessing and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. On August 21, 2024, a federal jury convicted Wofford on both counts.
According to evidence presented at trial, on November 7, 2022, Wofford entered a branch of City National Bank and Trust in Oklahoma City. After he waited several minutes in the lobby, Wofford jumped over the teller counter, pulled out a firearm, pointed it at a bank employee, and demanded money. Wofford then opened the teller drawer and grabbed handfuls of cash before he exited the bank. An investigation into the vehicle used during the bank robbery ultimately led authorities to Wofford. Law enforcement later searched Wofford’s residence and found clothes similar to those worn by Wofford during the bank robbery. He was arrested on November 18, 2022.
At sentencing, Wofford faces up to 25 years in federal prison for the armed bank robbery charge, and no less than seven years and up to life in federal prison for the firearm charge, which is to be served consecutively with the armed bank robbery sentence.
This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Wilson D. McGarry, Daniel Gridley, and Stanley J. West prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Edmond Doctor Pays $64,000 to Settle Civil Penalty Claims Stemming from Allegations of Recordkeeping ViolationsRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – John Ross, MD (“Dr. Ross”), has paid $65,000 to settle civil penalty claims stemming from allegations that he violated the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970 (“Act”) and its regulations, announced United States Attorney Robert J. Troester.
Dr. Ross was employed as a urologist at OU Health Physicians Fountain Lake Urology Clinic (“Clinic”) in Edmond, Oklahoma. The United States alleges that from September 2021, through July 2022, Dr. Ross failed to maintain records for certain purchases of testosterone, a Schedule III controlled substance, that contained all the information required by the regulations promulgated by the Act. Dr. Ross also failed to report the Clinic as a practice location and failed to properly document one instance of the destruction of testosterone pellets. To resolve these allegations, Dr. Ross agreed to pay $65,000 to the United States.
In reaching this settlement, Dr. Ross 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.
Recordkeeping is a vital part of managing controlled substances. Complete and accurate records help avoid diversions and losses of controlled drugs. A registrant who purchases controlled substances must comply with the inventory and purchase record requirements contained in the regulations implementing the Act. Failure to do so subjects the registrant to civil monetary penalties.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Office of Diversion Control. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ronald R. Gallegos and Amanda R. Johnson prosecuted the case.
Sex Offender Sentenced to Serve 30 Years in Federal Prison for Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – MATTHEW RYAN STROBL, 34, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve 30 years in federal prison for distribution and attempted distribution of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On August 16, 2023, a federal grand jury returned a four-count Indictment against Strobl, charging him with attempted sexual exploitation of a child, attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor, commission of a felony sex offense by an individual required to register as a sex offender, and distribution and attempted distribution of child pornography. According to public record, beginning in March 2023, Strobl initiated and maintained contact on a social media app with a Homeland Security Investigations agent, who was undercover portraying a minor female. Despite the agent purporting to be 14 years old, Strobl repeatedly indicated he wanted to have sex with the fictitious minor and continuously asked the agent to send explicit photos. Strobl also sent the agent more than 1,000 child pornography files.
During this same period, Strobl’s phone was confiscated by an Oklahoma Department of Corrections probation officer, who discovered Strobl attempting to procure explicit photos from another minor, on another social media app.
On December 4, 2023, Strobl pleaded guilty to Count 4 of the Indictment, and admitted he distributed child pornography using his cell phone.
At the sentencing hearing on August 29, 2024, U.S. District Judge Jodi W. Dishman sentenced Strobl to serve 30 years in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release. In announcing the sentence, Judge Dishman noted the nature and circumstances of Strobl’s offense and Strobl’s criminal history.
Public record reflects that Strobl has a history of sexually abusing minors, including felony convictions for second degree rape in Oklahoma County District Court case number CF-2012-2113 and sexual battery in Oklahoma County District Court case number CF-2018-4518.
This case is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and the Oklahoma Department of Corrections. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jordan Ganz and Brandon Hale prosecuted the case.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Tornado Alley Child Exploitation Task Force. Members of the Task Force in the Western District of Oklahoma include Homeland Security Investigations, Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigations, Oklahoma Highway Patrol, Oklahoma City Police Department, and Comanche County Police Department. The Tornado Alley Child Exploitation Task Force is an implementation of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. 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 public filings for additional information.
Lawton Man Sentenced to Serve 30 Years in Federal Prison for Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Yesterday, CHARLES RAYMOND FRENCH, JR., 38, of Lawton, was sentenced to serve 360 months in federal prison, the statutory maximum, for production of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On October 3, 2023, a federal grand jury returned a two-count Indictment against French, charging him with production of child pornography and possession of child pornography. According to an affidavit filed in support of the previously filed criminal complaint, on September 6, 2023, an FBI Online Covert Employee (OCE) connected with French on a social media messaging app. During the conversation, French expressed an interest in material that depicts the sexual abuse of children, and shared several photographs and videos of child pornography with the OCE, including two photographs French claimed to have taken himself which involved three-year-old and ten-year-old victims. Authorities linked the account to French, and he was arrested at his Lawton home on September 7, 2023.
On December 1, 2023, French pleaded guilty to Count 1 of the Indictment, and admitted to producing child pornography.
At the sentencing hearing yesterday, U.S District Judge Jodi W. Dishman sentenced French to serve 360 months in federal prison, the statutory maximum, followed by five years of supervised release. In announcing the sentence, the Court noted the “depravity” of the crime, specifically that the defendant preyed on the most vulnerable victims in our society: children. The Court further emphasized that the sentence needed to reflect the extreme nature and seriousness of the defendant’s conduct—given the threat to the safety of the community posed by the defendant—and to send a message to the public that these crimes will be punished severely.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Lawton Division of the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Joynes prosecuted the case.
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 public filings for additional information.
Armed Carjacking Lands Moore Man in Federal Prison for More Than a DecadeRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Earlier this week, BRIAN GENE TWO-BABIES, 39, of Moore, was sentenced to serve 121 months in federal prison for brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence and carjacking, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On April 16, 2024, Two-Babies was charged by Superseding Information with brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, and carjacking. According to public record, on December 15, 2023, Two-Babies approached a vehicle in Oklahoma City armed with a pistol. Two-Babies attempted to open a locked car door, threatened the driver multiple times, and then discharged the firearm into the air. The victim handed over their phone, keys, and wallet to Two-Babies, who pointed his firearm at the victim and threatened to take their life. Two-Babies drove away in the victim’s car and was arrested by Oklahoma City Police officers while still in the victim’s car the next morning.
On April 22, 2024, Two-Babies pleaded guilty to the Superseding Information, and admitted to taking the car by force while armed, with the intent to cause “serious bodily harm”.
At the sentencing hearing on August 28, 2024 , U.S. district Judge Bernard M. Jones sentenced Two-Babies to serve 121 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. In announcing the sentence, the Court noted the serious and senseless nature of the offense, specifically how Two-Babies placed the victim in fear of their life and discharged a firearm during the crime.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan J. West prosecuted the case.
This case is also part of “Operation Shots Fired.” 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.
Oklahoma Medical Clinic, Owners, and Treating Physician Pay $246,000 to Settle Allegations of Submitting False Medicare Claims for Medically Unnecessary Ultrasound ProceduresRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Medical Clinic, LLC (“OMC”), Tracy Ellis, D.C., (“Dr. Ellis”) and Tristan Ellis (“Mrs. Ellis”), paid $150,000 to resolve allegations that they submitted or caused the submission of false claims to the Medicare program for medically unnecessary ultrasound procedures, announced United States Attorney Robert J. Troester. In a separate agreement Mark L. Wells, PA-C (“Mr. Wells”), paid $96,000 to resolve allegations he, as the practitioner treating the patients and performing the medically unnecessary ultrasound services, caused the submission of false claims to the Medicare program.
OMC was an Oklahoma limited liability company that provided chiropractic, medical and durable medical equipment services in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Dr. Ellis is a chiropractic physician licensed to practice in the State of Oklahoma who worked at OMC during the relevant time and was responsible for the submission of claims to Medicare. Mrs. Ellis was a part owner of OMC and was aware of the services provided by OMC. Mr. Wells is a physician assistant licensed to practice in the State of Oklahoma who worked at OMC during the relevant time.
The United States alleges that from December 1, 2017, through November 30, 2022, OMC billed Medicare for medically unnecessary ultrasound services performed by Mr. Wells. The Medicare program does not cover medically unreasonable or unnecessary services and supplies, including, for example, excessive and/or unnecessary diagnostic procedures. To resolve these allegations, OMC and the Ellis’ paid $150,000, and Mr. Wells paid $96,000, to the United States.
In reaching this settlement, OMC, the Ellis’, and Mr. Wells 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.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Amanda R. Johnson and Ronald R. Gallegos prosecuted the case. Investigative assistance was provided by HHS-OIG Office of Audit Services.
Oklahoma City Physician Pays $165,000 to Settle Civil Penalty Claims Stemming from his Alleged Issuance of Invalid Prescriptions for Schedule III Controlled SubstancesRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Tuan Alex Nguyen, M.D. (“Dr. Nguyen”), paid $165,000 to settle civil penalty claims stemming from allegations he violated the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970 (“Act”) and its regulations, announced United States Attorney Robert J. Troester.
During the relevant time, Dr. Nguyen was licensed and practiced medicine in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Practitioners prescribing controlled substances must be registered under the Act and meet the applicable Act requirements. Among other things, when issuing a prescription for a controlled substance, the Act requires the practitioner be authorized to prescribe that substance by the jurisdiction in which he or she is licensed to practice.
The United States alleges that from November 2022 to September 2023, Dr. Nguyen issued prescriptions in the state of Oklahoma for Schedule III Controlled Substances without the required certificate of registration from the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics. To resolve these allegations, Dr. Nguyen agreed to pay $165,000 to the United States.
In reaching this settlement, Dr. Nguyen 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.
Felon Convicted of Illegal Firearm Possession after Altercation with PoliceRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – A federal jury has convicted RONNIE GERALD WIGGINS, 60, of Norman, of illegal possession of a firearm after a previous felony conviction, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On September 19, 2023, a federal grand jury charged Wiggins with being a felon in possession of a firearm. On August 14, 2024, a federal jury found Wiggins guilty on the charge.
According to evidence presented at trial, on October 30, 2022, an officer with the Norman Police Department made contact with Wiggins after multiple concerned citizens called 911 to report his erratic driving. During the interaction, officers learned that Wiggins had a warrant for parole violation on a 2001 Texas murder conviction. When they began to arrest him, Wiggins became argumentative and attempted to run. Once he was in custody, officers found a pistol and two loaded ammunition magazines in his vehicle.
Public record shows Wiggins has sustained multiple previous felony convictions including:
- First degree murder in Oldham County (Texas) District Court case number CR-01C-001;
- Felon in possession of a firearm in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Oklahoma case number CR-00-74-C;
- Attempting to possess a prohibited object (heroin), in U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas case number 93-30006-02;
- Armed robbery and conspiracy to commit armed robbery in Bernalillo County (New Mexico) District Court case number CR-90-00165;
- Bank robbery in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico case number CR-89-517-02;
- Theft of a vehicle in Grants County (New Mexico) District Court case number CB 89-93-CR; and
- Robbery with a firearm in Cleveland County (Oklahoma) District Court case number CF-83-535.
As a result of these prior convictions, Wiggins qualified as an Armed Career Criminal. At sentencing, Wiggins faces up to life in federal prison on this conviction.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Norman Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel Gridley and Danielle M. Connolly are prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. For more information about PSN, please visit https://justice.gov/psn and https://justice.gov/usao-wdok.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Pilot Convicted for Lying on Applications to the Federal Aviation Administration to Obtain a Medical Certificate Necessary to Pilot Commercial Passenger AircraftRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – A federal jury has convicted OLUKAYODE ADURAGBENRO OJO, 36, of Dallas, TX, of two counts of making a false statement to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to obtain a medical certificate necessary to pilot a commercial passenger aircraft, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On June 4, 2024, a federal jury returned a two-count Superseding Indictment against Ojo, charging him with two counts of making a false statement. On August 16, 2024, a federal jury found Ojo guilty on both counts.
Evidence presented at trial indicated that Ojo, an FAA-certified commercial airline pilot, pleaded guilty to two misdemeanor theft charges on February 8, 2023, in Kentucky state court in connection with a theft of passenger luggage from the baggage carousels at the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport. Ojo then made false statements to the FAA in March 2023 and March 2024 while applying for an FAA First Class Medical Certificate to conceal his history of prior criminal convictions. A First Class Medical Certificate permits an airman to pilot commercial passenger aircraft.
Following the guilty verdict, U.S. District Judge Jodi W. Dishman ordered Ojo to be detained pending sentencing, where he faces up to five years in federal prison and fines up to $250,000.00 on each count.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Transportation Security Administration–Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jackson Eldridge and Matt Dillon are prosecuting the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Oklahoma Man Convicted of Illegal Firearms Possession after Fleeing from Oklahoma Highway Patrol TrooperRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – A federal jury has convicted THOMAS LAMAR BROWN, 46, of Oklahoma City, of illegal possession of firearms after a previous felony conviction, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On March 5, 2024, a federal grand jury charged Brown with being a felon in possession of firearms. On August 14, 2024, a federal jury convicted Brown on the charge. According to trial testimony, on April 15, 2023, a trooper with Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP) stopped Brown for a traffic violation on Interstate 40. The trooper spotted a sheathed knife in the passenger seat then asked Brown, the driver, to exit the vehicle. Brown began to act erratically, and the trooper noticed a firearm holster on Brown’s hip. After the trooper drew his service pistol, Brown fled on foot.
Brown was arrested following a brief chase. Inside his vehicle, OHP located four firearms, 29 loaded magazines, and thousands of rounds of ammunition.
Public record shows Brown has multiple previous felony convictions, including three counts of infliction of corporal injury to a spouse or cohabitant in cases filed in California State Court.
At sentencing, Brown faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in federal prison and up to life under the Armed Career Criminal Act.
This conviction is the result of an investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Travis Leverett and Danielle London are prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a Department of Justice program to reduce violent crime. In October 2017, the Department announced the reinvigoration of PSN 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,” the Western District of Oklahoma’s implementation of PSN, which prioritizes prosecution of federal crimes connected to domestic violence. For more information about PSN, please visit https://justice.gov/psn and https://justice.gov/usao-wdok.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Armed Robbery of Marijuana Stash House in Oklahoma City Leads to Four Guilty PleasRead the Press Release
More Than 600 Pounds of Black-Market Marijuana and Over $40,000 in Cash Recovered
OKLAHOMA CITY – BRANDON MICHAEL NORMAN, 26, of West Melborne, Florida, has pleaded guilty to interference with commerce by robbery and possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On August 5, 2024, Norman was charged by Superseding Information with interference with commerce by robbery and possession of marijuana with intent to distribute. According to public record, on February 8, 2024, officers with the Oklahoma City Police Department (OCPD) responded to a reported armed robbery at a metro home. Victims in the home told authorities that three men, later identified as Norman’s co-defendants, William Lewis Daniels, 25, Jordon Isaih Watson, 25, and Keldon Sherrod Williams, 26, all of Texas, forced their way into the home and ordered the victims onto the floor where their hands were restrained with zip-ties. The victims told police that one of the defendants, later identified as Daniels, had a firearm. The defendants then ransacked the house and stole more than $36,000 in cash, more than 600 pounds of black-market marijuana stuffed into trash bags, and other items. OCPD officers determined the residence was a black-market marijuana stash house. Security footage from an adjacent property showed four vehicles leaving the stash house after the robbery, including a car stolen from the victims. The stolen car was later located by OCPD officers in a nearby business parking lot.
Authorities pulled over two of the suspect vehicles shortly thereafter without incident, and arrested Norman, Watson, and Williams. Daniels, however, led authorities on a high-speed chase down Interstate 235 during rush hour traffic, wrecked his vehicle, and fled briefly on foot before he was arrested. Between the three vehicles, OCPD recovered 690 pounds of marijuana, $40,710.00 in cash, and one firearm.
On August 12, 2024, Norman pleaded guilty to the Superseding Information, and admitted he took cash and marijuana from the victims, and that he possessed marijuana which he intended to distribute to others.
Daniels, Watson, and Williams have each pleaded guilty to interference with commerce by robbery and possession of marijuana with intent to distribute. Daniels has also pleaded guilty to being a drug user in possession of a firearm.
At sentencing, Norman, Watson, and Williams face up to 40 years in federal prison and fines totaling up to $1,250,000.00 each. Daniels faces up to 55 years in federal prison and fines totaling up to $1,500,000.00.
This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Drew E. Davis is prosecuting the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Oklahoma City Man Sentenced to Spend 15 Years in Federal Prison after Threatening Woman with Firearm and Possessing Fentanyl with Intent to DistributeRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – REUBEN JULIUS INGRAM, III, 44, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve 180 months in federal prison for illegal possession of firearms after a previous felony conviction and possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On October 3, 2023, a federal grand jury returned a three-count Superseding Indictment, charging Ingram with being a felon in possession of firearms, possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime. According to public record, on August 22, 2023, the Oklahoma City Police Department (OCPD) received a call from a woman who claimed Ingram had pointed a firearm at her multiple times, threatened to kill her, and hit her vehicle window with the firearm. OCPD officers later located Ingram’s car in a nearby motel parking lot, and arrested Ingram after a traffic stop. Officers then searched Ingram’s motel room pursuant to a search warrant, where they found three firearms, ammunition, and large quantities of fentanyl and crack cocaine.
Public record further reflects that Ingram holds multiple prior felony convictions, all in Oklahoma County District Court, including trafficking in illegal drugs in case number CF-2012-1744, domestic assault and battery in case number CF-2007-6521, and driving while under the influence of alcohol and attempting to elude officers in case number CF-2000-4027.
On January 9, 2024, Ingram pleaded guilty to counts 1 & 2 of the Superseding Indictment, and admitted to possessing at least forty grams of fentanyl with the intent to distribute it, and to possessing a firearm despite his criminal history.
At the sentencing hearing on August 8, 2024, U.S. District Judge Scott L. Palk sentenced Ingram to serve 180 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. In announcing his sentence, Judge Palk noted the seriousness of Ingram’s crimes, as well as his history of violence, including domestic violence offenses.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary E. Walters prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a Department of Justice program to reduce violent crime. In October 2017, the Department announced the reinvigoration of PSN 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,” the Western District of Oklahoma’s implementation of PSN, which prioritizes prosecution of federal crimes connected to domestic violence. For more information about PSN, please visit https://justice.gov/psn and https://justice.gov/usao-wdok.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Company, Executive and Employee Indicted for $100M Price-Fixing Conspiracy Involving Publicly Funded Infrastructure ProjectsRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in Oklahoma City returned an indictment, which was unsealed today, charging Sioux Erosion Control, Inc. (Sioux), its vice president and another employee with a price-fixing conspiracy targeting over $100 million in publicly-funded transportation construction contracts across Oklahoma.
According to court documents, it is alleged that Vice President BG Dale Biscoe, Randall David Shelton and Sioux conspired with their competitors in the erosion control industry to raise and maintain prices for products and services from approximately September 2017 through April 2023. Erosion control products and services, including sod, are used to control runoff of soil or rock on highway construction and repair projects. In addition to conspiring to raise prices for sod, it is alleged that the defendants and their co‑conspirators agreed to divide up contracts across different areas of Oklahoma and rigged bids for particular projects by submitting intentionally high-priced bids or outright refusing to bid.
“Protecting competition for taxpayer-funded infrastructure projects remains a priority for the Antitrust Division,” said Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Kanter of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “This indictment shows the Justice Department and its Procurement Collusion Strike Force partners’ commitment to protecting taxpayer dollars throughout Oklahoma and across the country from brazen collusion.”
“My office is committed to root out price-fixing, collusion and fraud in taxpayer-funded projects,” said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester for the Western District of Oklahoma. “We are proud to work with our law enforcement partners in this effort to protect integrity in publicly-funded ventures and preserve the public trust.”
“Today’s announcement represents the FBI’s commitment to protecting competitive markets from those who try to cheat the system,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Joseph Skarda of the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office. “We will continue to work alongside our law enforcement partners to uncover these harmful schemes and hold the perpetrators responsible.”
“Violations of the nation’s antitrust laws will be taken seriously and those who circumvent federal bidding and contract regulations will be held accountable,” said Special Agent in Charge Joseph Harris of the Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General (DOT-OIG), Southern Region. “This investigation demonstrates our commitment to working with our law enforcement and prosecutorial partners to uproot and expose brazen fraud schemes devised purely for personal gain.”
Four individuals — including a former Sioux employee — previously pleaded guilty for their roles in the charged conspiracy. Those individuals have not yet been sentenced.
Biscoe, Shelton and Sioux are charged with a violation of Section 1 of the Sherman Act. The maximum penalty for individuals is 10 years in prison and a $1 million criminal fine. The maximum penalty for corporations is a $100 million criminal fine. If convicted, a federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The DOT-OIG and FBI Oklahoma City Field Office investigated the case.
Trial Attorneys Bethany Lipman, Matthew Grisier and Marc Hedrich of the Antitrust Division’s Washington Criminal Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Brown for the Western District of Oklahoma are prosecuting the case.
Anyone with information about this investigation or other procurement fraud schemes should notify the Procurement Collusion Strike Force (PCSF) at www.justice.gov/atr/webform/pcsf-citizen-complaint. The Justice Department created the PCSF in November 2019. It is a joint law enforcement effort to combat antitrust crimes and related fraudulent schemes that impact government procurement, grant and program funding at all levels of government – federal, state and local. For more information, visit www.justice.gov/procurement-collusion-strike-force.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Armed Robbery Spree Leads to Decade in Federal Prison for Oklahoma City ManRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – JOHN CORBIN BROWN, 41, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve 120 months in federal prison for six separate armed robberies in the Oklahoma City metro, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On September 5, 2023, a federal grand jury returned a 12-count Indictment against Brown, charging him with six counts of interference with commerce by robbery, and six counts of using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. According to the Indictment, beginning in May 2023, Brown robbed six different businesses in the span of less than a month in Oklahoma City. The targeted businesses included a liquor store and a food market, each of which was targeted once, and a convenience store and a medical marijuana dispensary, each of which was targeted twice, with two of those robberies taking place on the same day, July 6, 2023.
On February 14, 2024, Brown pleaded guilty to the six counts of interference with commerce by robbery, and one count of using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. As part of his plea, Brown admitted to robbing the businesses by force, and that he brandished a firearm during at least one of the robberies.
At the sentencing hearing on July 30, 2024, U.S. District Judge Joe Heaton sentenced Brown to serve 120 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release. In announcing the sentence, the Court noted the very serious nature of the offenses, including that Brown repeatedly pointed a gun at victims, and that the conduct involved a spree of robbery offenses.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan J. West prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Oklahoma City Man Sentenced to Serve 15 Years in Federal Prison after Illegally Possessing Firearm & Shooting at Police OfficerRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Yesterday, MICHAEL ANTHONY WILSON, II, of Oklahoma City, was sentenced to serve 180 months in federal prison for illegal possession of a firearm following a previous felony conviction, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On November 20, 2023, a federal grand jury charged Wilson with being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to public record, in October 2023, as an Oklahoma City police officer completed an unrelated report, his patrol unit was struck by gunfire. The officer was inside the car at the time of the shooting and suffered minor injuries. Public record further reflects that Wilson fired a total of six shots. After speaking with witnesses and reviewing surveillance footage, officers located and arrested Wilson.
Public record further reflects that Wilson has previous felony convictions for kidnapping and domestic assault and battery in Oklahoma County District Court case number CF-2018-21, and second-degree burglary and unauthorized use of a vehicle in Canadian County District Court case number CF-2015-153.
On February 7, 2024, Wilson pleaded guilty, and admitted he possessed the firearm despite his prior criminal record.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jacquelyn M. Hutzell and Drew E. Davis prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Florida Man Sentenced to Serve Three Years in Federal Prison for COVID Relief Loan FraudRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Yesterday, ADONIJAH LINDSAY, 39, of Miami, Florida, was sentenced to serve 36 months in federal prison for wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On August 16, 2023, a federal grand jury returned an Indictment, which charged Lindsay with two counts of wire fraud. According to the Indictment, on June 24, 2020, Lindsay applied to the Small Business Administration (SBA) for an Economic Injury Disaster Loan, which provided loans to small businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Indictment alleges that in the loan application, Lindsay claimed to own a business with revenue of more than $200,000 in 2019. In fact, Lindsay did not own a business, had spent most of 2019 incarcerated in federal prison, and applied for the loan while in a Bureau of Prisons residential reentry center in Florida. Based on his false statements, Lindsay’s application was approved by the SBA for a $75,000 loan, which was disbursed to a banking account in his name in Enid, Oklahoma in June 2020.
On January 10, 2024, Lindsay pleaded guilty to the Indictment, and admitted he provided false information to defraud the SBA.
At the sentencing hearing yesterday, U.S. District Judge Joe Heaton sentenced Lindsay to serve 36 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. Judge Heaton also ordered Lindsay to pay $75,000 in restitution to the SBA. In announcing his sentence, Judge Heaton noted that Lindsay committed his offense while still in federal custody on a prior conviction for armed robbery. Judge Heaton further noted that Lindsay had conspired in additional fraudulent COVID relief loan applications—totaling more than $400,000—and in doing so, took advantage of a “genuine public health emergency.”
This case is the result of an investigation by the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee (PRAC). The PRAC was established to promote transparency and facilitate coordinated oversight of the federal government’s COVID-19 pandemic response. The PRAC’s 20-member Inspectors General identify major risks that cross program and agency boundaries to detect fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement in the more than $5 trillion in COVID-19 spending, including spending via the Paycheck Protection Program and EIDL program. The PRAC’s Pandemic Analytics Center of Excellence applies the latest advances in analytic and forensic technologies to help OIGs and law enforcement pursue data-driven pandemic relief fraud investigations.
Assistant U.S. Attorney D.H. Dilbeck prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Three Individuals Sentenced for Massive $88M Business Telephone System Software License Piracy SchemeRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Three individuals have been sentenced for participating in an international scheme involving the sale of tens of thousands of pirated business telephone system software licenses with a retail value of over $88 million.
Raymond Bradley “Brad” Pearce, 48, of Tuttle, Oklahoma, a computer system administrator, was sentenced yesterday to four years in prison and ordered to forfeit $4 million. In June, Dusti O. Pearce, 46, also of Tuttle, was sentenced to one year and a day in prison and ordered to forfeit $4 million. In July, Jason M. Hines, 44, of Caldwell, New Jersey, was sentenced to one year and six months in prison and an additional 18 months of home confinement, and ordered to forfeit $2 million. In addition, the three defendants have agreed to pay restitution—specifically, $17 million for Brad Pearce, $10 million for Dusti Pearce, and more than $5 million for Hines. The court will hold a separate restitution hearing in a few weeks to determine the details of the restitution order.
According to court documents, Brad and Dusti Pearce conspired with Hines to commit wire fraud in a scheme that involved generating and then selling unauthorized Avaya Direct International (ADI) software licenses. The ADI software licenses were used to unlock features and functionalities of a popular telephone system product called “IP Office” used by thousands of companies around the world. The ADI software licensing system has since been decommissioned.
Avaya Holdings Corporation, a multinational business communications company headquartered in California, sold IP Office to many midsize and small businesses in the United States and abroad. To unlock features and functionalities of IP Office, such as voicemail or telephones, customers had to purchase software licenses generated by Avaya from an authorized Avaya distributor or reseller. Avaya used software license keys to control access to Avaya’s copyright-protected software and to ensure that only customers who paid for the software could use it. Moreover, Avaya required that each software license on an IP Office system be associated with a proprietary memory card with a unique serial number that the end user had to keep in its possession to use the licenses.
Brad Pearce, a long-time customer service employee at Avaya, used his system administrator privileges to generate tens of thousands of ADI software license keys that he sold to Hines and other customers, who in turn sold them to resellers and end users around the world. The retail value of each Avaya software license ranged from under $100 to thousands of dollars. Brad Pearce also employed his system administrator privileges to hijack the accounts of former Avaya employees to generate additional ADI software license keys. Pearce concealed the fraud scheme for many years by using these privileges to alter information about the accounts, which helped hide his creation of unauthorized license keys. Dusti Pearce handled accounting for the illegal business.
Hines operated Direct Business Services International (DBSI), formerly known as Dedicated Business Systems International, a New Jersey-based business communications systems provider and a de-authorized Avaya reseller. He bought ADI software license keys from Brad and Dusti Pearce and then sold them to resellers and end users around the world for significantly below the wholesale price. Hines was by far the Pearces’ largest customer and significantly influenced how the scheme operated. Hines was one of the biggest users of the ADI license system in the world.
Altogether, the Pearces and Hines reaped millions of dollars from the scheme. To hide the nature and source of the money, the Pearces funneled their illegal gains through a PayPal account created under a false name to multiple bank accounts, and then transferred the money to investment and bank accounts. They also purchased large quantities of gold bullion and other valuable items.
In July 2023, Hines pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud. In September 2023, the Pearces also pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester for the Western District of Oklahoma; and Acting Special Agent in Charge Jason Kaplan of the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office made the announcement.
The FBI Oklahoma City Field Office investigated the case.
Senior Litigation Counsel Julia E. Barry for the Western District of Oklahoma and Senior Counsel Matthew A. Lamberti of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section prosecuted the case.
Three Individuals Sentenced for Massive $88M Business Telephone System Software License Piracy SchemeRead the Press Release
Three individuals have been sentenced for participating in an international scheme involving the sale of tens of thousands of pirated business telephone system software licenses with a retail value of over $88 million.
Raymond Bradley “Brad” Pearce, 48, of Tuttle, Oklahoma, a computer system administrator, was sentenced yesterday to four years in prison and ordered to forfeit $4 million. In June, Dusti O. Pearce, 46, also of Tuttle, was sentenced to one year and a day in prison and ordered to forfeit $4 million. In July, Jason M. Hines, 44, of Caldwell, New Jersey, was sentenced to one year and six months in prison and an additional 18 months of home confinement, and ordered to forfeit $2 million. In addition, the three defendants have agreed to pay restitution—specifically, $17 million for Brad Pearce, $10 million for Dusti Pearce, and more than $5 million for Hines. The court will hold a separate restitution hearing in a few weeks to determine the details of the restitution order.
According to court documents, Brad and Dusti Pearce conspired with Hines to commit wire fraud in a scheme that involved generating and then selling unauthorized Avaya Direct International (ADI) software licenses. The ADI software licenses were used to unlock features and functionalities of a popular telephone system product called “IP Office” used by thousands of companies around the world. The ADI software licensing system has since been decommissioned.
Avaya Holdings Corporation, a multinational business communications company headquartered in California, sold IP Office to many midsize and small businesses in the United States and abroad. To unlock features and functionalities of IP Office, such as voicemail or telephones, customers had to purchase software licenses generated by Avaya from an authorized Avaya distributor or reseller. Avaya used software license keys to control access to Avaya’s copyright-protected software and to ensure that only customers who paid for the software could use it. Moreover, Avaya required that each software license on an IP Office system be associated with a proprietary memory card with a unique serial number that the end user had to keep in its possession to use the licenses.
Brad Pearce, a long-time customer service employee at Avaya, used his system administrator privileges to generate tens of thousands of ADI software license keys that he sold to Hines and other customers, who in turn sold them to resellers and end users around the world. The retail value of each Avaya software license ranged from under $100 to thousands of dollars. Brad Pearce also employed his system administrator privileges to hijack the accounts of former Avaya employees to generate additional ADI software license keys. Pearce concealed the fraud scheme for many years by using these privileges to alter information about the accounts, which helped hide his creation of unauthorized license keys. Dusti Pearce handled accounting for the illegal business.
Hines operated Direct Business Services International (DBSI), formerly known as Dedicated Business Systems International, a New Jersey-based business communications systems provider and a de-authorized Avaya reseller. He bought ADI software license keys from Brad and Dusti Pearce and then sold them to resellers and end users around the world for significantly below the wholesale price. Hines was by far the Pearces’ largest customer and significantly influenced how the scheme operated. Hines was one of the biggest users of the ADI license system in the world.
Altogether, the Pearces and Hines reaped millions of dollars from the scheme. To hide the nature and source of the money, the Pearces funneled their illegal gains through a PayPal account created under a false name to multiple bank accounts, and then transferred the money to investment and bank accounts. They also purchased large quantities of gold bullion and other valuable items.
In July 2023, Hines pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud. In September 2023, the Pearces also pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester for the Western District of Oklahoma; and Acting Special Agent in Charge Jason Kaplan of the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office made the announcement.
The FBI Oklahoma City Field Office investigated the case.
Senior Counsel Matthew A. Lamberti of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section and Senior Litigation Counsel Julia E. Barry for the Western District of Oklahoma prosecuted the case.
Oklahoma Doctor Convicted after Stealing Controlled Substances from HospitalRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – A federal jury has convicted John Nedza, 35, of Edmond, of 18 counts of obtaining a controlled substance by deceit or subterfuge, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On September 19, 2023, a federal grand jury charged Nedza with 18 counts of obtaining a controlled substance by deceit or subterfuge. On July 11, a federal jury found Dr. Nedza guilty on all counts.
Dr. Nedza worked as a contract anesthesiologist at an Oklahoma City based hospital through March 2022. Testimony presented at trial indicated that Dr. Nedza had exploited his role at the hospital to divert controlled substances, including fentanyl, ketamine, dilaudid, and midazolam, over a long period of time. Evidence presented at trial proved that, on at least six different occasions in early March 2022, Dr. Nedza pulled out large amounts of controlled substances by claiming the drugs were for patient surgeries. However, Dr. Nedza was not scheduled to perform—and did not perform—those surgeries. Instead, he claimed to dispose of the drugs, but kept them for his own personal purposes.
Following his conviction, Nedza faces up to four years in federal prison per count for a total possible sentence of 72 years in federal prison.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas B. Snyder and Elizabeth M. Bagwell are prosecuting the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Oklahoma City Man Sentenced to Serve 25 Years in Federal Prison for Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – LAMMON RUSSELL BLONNER, 27, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve 300 months in federal prison for his role in a conspiracy to traffic over 46 pounds of fentanyl-laced pills, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
According to an affidavit in a previously filed criminal complaint, in July 2023, law enforcement intercepted a shipment of fentanyl-laced pills which was en-route to Oklahoma City. Authorities coordinated a controlled delivery with fake “fentanyl pills,” which were picked up by an individual and taken to an Oklahoma City residence. When law enforcement knocked on the door, Blonner attempted to flee out of a back window of the home before he was arrested. At the residence, law enforcement found fentanyl pills, methamphetamine, cocaine, and four firearms.
According to public record, while in custody, Blonner harassed, threatened, and lied to police officers. Public record also reflects that Blonner has a previous felony conviction for robbery with a dangerous weapon in Oklahoma County District Court case number CF-2013-7880. Blonner had been out of prison less than a year when he was arrested in this case.
On August 16, 2023, a federal grand jury returned an eight-count Indictment against Blonner, charging him with drug conspiracy, possession of methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl with intent to distribute, possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime, being a felon in possession of firearms, maintaining a drug-involved premises, and possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute where a minor is present.
On October 5, 2023, Blonner pleaded guilty to Counts 1 & 6 of the Indictment, and admitted to conspiring with others to distribute fentanyl, and to possessing a firearm despite his previous felony conviction.
At the sentencing hearing on July 18, 2024, U.S. District Judge Jodi W. Dishman sentenced Blonner to serve 300 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. In announcing the sentence, Judge Dishman noted Blonner’s serious criminal history and the fact that he began trafficking fentanyl less than one year after his release from state prison.
This case is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Travis Leverett prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Oklahoma City Man Sentenced to Serve 15 Years in Federal Prison following Two Armed Robberies in Two DaysRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – ZACHARY SCOTT, JR., 33, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve 180 months in federal prison for carrying out two armed robberies, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On October 3, 2023, a federal grand jury returned a three-count Indictment against Scott, charging him with two counts of interference with commerce by robbery, and one count of using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. According to public record, in August 2023, Scott attempted two armed robberies in the span of two days. In both robberies, Scott threatened employees with his firearm, telling one such employee he would kill them if they didn’t give him cash from the register. Scott was arrested by Oklahoma City Police on August 16, 2023, and officers located a loaded handgun in the vehicle he was driving.
On December 1, 2023, Scott pleaded guilty to the two counts of interference with commerce by robbery, and admitted he carried out the robberies by force using a firearm.
At the sentencing hearing on July 16, 2024, U.S. District Judge Jodi W. Dishman sentenced Scott to serve 180 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In announcing the sentence, Judge Dishman noted that Scott had committed the robberies just a couple months after discharging a sentence for similar offenses of robbery with a dangerous weapon, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, and kidnapping in Oklahoma County District Court case number CF-14-8050.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Gridley prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Lawton Man Sentenced to Serve 11 Years in Federal Prison for Possession of Drugs and FirearmRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – SKYLER LEE PASLEY, 35, of Lawton, has been sentenced to serve 132 months in federal prison for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and illegal possession of a firearm after a previous felony conviction, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On September 6, 2023, Pasley was charged by Superseding Information with possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and with being a felon in possession of a firearm. An affidavit in previously filed criminal complaint alleges that on September 15, 2022, officers with the Lawton Police Department observed a vehicle driving recklessly. A state-certified K-9 was deployed during a traffic stop on the vehicle and alerted to the presence of drugs inside. During a subsequent search of his person, Pasley, the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle, was found to have a firearm in his waistband, methamphetamine in his sock, and various other drugs, including cocaine and fentanyl, wrapped in his hair.
Public record reflects that Pasley has a previous felony conviction for embezzlement in Comanche County District Court case number CF-2006-609. He was also convicted of possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, three counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm, interference with commerce by robbery, and carrying and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence in Western District of Oklahoma District Court case number CR-08-289-R.
On September 15, 2023, Pasley pleaded guilty to the Superseding Information, admitting to possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and to possessing a firearm despite his felony convictions.
At the sentencing hearing on July 17, 2024, Chief U.S. District Judge Timothy D. DeGiusti sentenced Pasley to serve 132 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. In announcing the sentence, the Court noted the need to deter similar conduct and to protect the public.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Lawton Police Department. Assistant U.S Attorney Danielle M. Connolly prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Four People Sentenced to Serve 25 Years in Federal Prison Collectively after More Than 120 Pounds of Methamphetamine is Recovered from VehicleRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – CHRISTOPHER WARREN DAVIS, 45, of Springfield, Illinois, has been sentenced to serve 180 months in federal prison for his part in trafficking more than one hundred pounds of methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On February 21, 2023, a federal grand jury returned a two-count Indictment against Davis and three other co-defendants, charging them with a drug conspiracy and with possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. According to public record, on February 5, 2023, members of the Oklahoma City Police Department’s Criminal Oklahoma Interdiction of Central Oklahoma (CITCO) unit stopped two vehicles, both registered out of state and traveling together in a suspicious manner, and located approximately 123 pounds of methamphetamine in one of the vehicles.
On August 9, 2023, Davis pleaded guilty to Count 2 of the Indictment and admitted to possessing 500 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute.
At the sentencing hearing on July 18, 2024, Chief U.S. District Judge Timothy D. DeGiusti sentenced Davis to serve 180 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release.
The three other defendants charged in this case also pled guilty to possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and have been sentenced as follows:
- Kanesha L. Gladney, 28, was sentenced to serve 24 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release.
- Tatyanna Marie Johnson, 26, was sentenced to serve 24 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release.
- Anthony Allison, 42, was sentenced to serve 72 months in federal prison, followed by four years of supervised release.
This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office, the Oklahoma City Police Department, and the Oklahoma City Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Danielle M. Connolly and Travis Leverett prosecuted the case.Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Assault with a Deadly Weapon in Indian Country leads to 40-Month Sentence in Federal Prison for Stephens County ManRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – KADEN SANNER RODEN, 25, of Duncan, has been sentenced to serve 40 months in federal prison for an assault with a dangerous weapon in Indian country, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On November 7, 2023, a federal grand jury charged Roden with assault with a dangerous weapon. According to public record, in March 2023, Roden was involved in an argument with another individual over an alleged debt that was owed. When the victim attempted to drive away, Roden shot at the victim’s vehicle several times, striking the driver’s side of the car once. The victim was not injured.
This case is in federal court because Roden is a member of the Choctaw Nation and the crime took place within the boundaries of the Chickasaw Nation.
On January 8, 2024, Roden pleaded guilty, and admitted to firing multiple shots at a vehicle being driven by the victim.
At the sentencing hearing on July 12, 2024, U.S. District Judge Stephen P. Friot sentenced Roden to serve 40 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In announcing his sentence, Judge Friot noted that the circumstances in this case were particularly dangerous and could have resulted in significantly increased harm.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Chickasaw Lighthorse Police Department, in collaboration with the Chickasaw Nation Office of Tribal Justice Administration. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Kaleigh Blackwell and Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiffany Edgmon prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Armed Robbery of Mail Carrier Lands Two Men in Federal Prison for More Than 12 Years CombinedRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY –TARYAN NABOND PRINCE-SADLER, 20, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve 120 months in federal prison for the armed robbery of a U.S. mail carrier and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On May 16, 2023, Prince-Sadler was charged by Indictment with two counts of armed robbery of mail, money, or other property of the United States, two counts of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, two counts of unauthorized possession of a postal key, one count of possession of stolen mail, and one count of theft of mail. Prince-Sadler’s co-defendant, Rijae Varnell Luster, 23, was charged with aiding and abetting armed robbery of property of the United States.
According to public record, between August 2022 and March 2023, four separate United States postal carriers reported being robbed while delivering mail. On two of the occasions, once in Edmond (February 1, 2023) and once in Stillwater (March 4, 2023), the suspect pointed a firearm at the carrier, and then forcefully took the carrier’s “Arrow Key,” which opens postal boxes. During the Stillwater robbery, surveillance cameras spotted a white vehicle following the mail carrier before and after the robbery. An investigation of this vehicle led authorities to Luster, who has admitted to the court he drove Prince-Sadler to the Stillwater location to carry out the robbery.
In the early hours of April 17, 2023, United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) Inspectors tracked Prince-Sadler to a post office in Edmond and observed him unlocking mailboxes, removing U.S. mail, and placing the mail in a trash bag before attempting to get away. USPIS Inspectors immediately arrested Prince-Sadler and discovered a firearm, binoculars, stolen mail, and the Arrow Key from the February 1, 2023, armed postal robbery inside his vehicle.
USPIS has identified at least 505 victims of Prince-Sadler and Luster’s mail theft, and over $500,000 in actual losses associated with the stolen mail.
On October 16, 2023, Prince-Sadler pleaded guilty to a two-count Superseding Information. As part of his plea, Prince-Sadler admitted to forcefully taking a United States Arrow Key from a U.S. mail carrier, putting the carrier’s life in jeopardy by using a firearm, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
At the sentencing hearing on July 17, 2024, U.S. District Judge Timothy D. DeGiusti sentenced Prince-Sadler to serve 120 months in federal prison, followed by four years of supervised release. In announcing his sentence, Judge DeGiusti noted the serious nature of the crime. On June 25, 2024, Luster was sentenced to serve 30 months in federal prison, followed by four years of supervised release, for aiding and abetting armed robbery of mail, money, or other property of the United States.
This case is the result of an investigation by the USPIS. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Wilson D. McGarry and Danielle London prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Elk City Man Sentenced to Serve 40 Years in Federal Prison for Production and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – TIMOTHY STEVEN BLAYLOCK, JR., 38, of Elk City, has been sentenced to serve 480 months in federal prison for producing child pornography and possession of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On November 17, 2023, Blaylock was charged with production of child pornography involving two victims and possession of child pornography. According to public record, in July 2023, an undercover FBI agent began communicating with Blaylock via a mobile messaging service. The agent purported to be the mother of a 12-year-old girl, to whom Blaylock made several sexually explicit comments. The affidavit alleges the conversation continued for several days, during which Blaylock shared several videos with the agent depicting himself sexually abusing minors. Blaylock was arrested on July 28, 2023.
After his arrest, the FBI determined that Blaylock had produced child pornography with two children using his cell phone. Blaylock also downloaded other child pornography via the Internet and possessed it on his cell phone.
On November 27, 2023, Blaylock pleaded guilty and admitted to sexually abusing two minors multiple times, which he filmed using his cell phone between March of 2021 and July of 2023, and to possessing other child pornography on his cell phone.
At the sentencing hearing on July 15, 2024, U.S. District Judge David L. Russell sentenced Blaylock to serve 480 months in federal prison, followed by supervised release for life. In announcing his sentence, Judge Russell described Blaylock’s actions as “unforgiveable,” and added that the “world needs to know you pay a price” for this kind of criminal conduct.
This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office, FBI New Orleans Field Office, and Elk City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Hale prosecuted the case.
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 public filings for additional information.
Former Owner of Oklahoma Oil and Gas Services Provider Charged with Bank FraudRead the Press Release
Indictment Alleges More Than $2,000,000 Worth of Losses for Bank
OKLAHOMA CITY – Today, a federal grand jury indictment was unsealed charging RYAN BLOOM, 34, of Oklahoma City, with bank fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
Between February and September 2023, Bloom was owner and manager of Pathfinder HDD, LLC, which provided boring and drilling related services to oil and gas and public utility companies, and constructed fiber optic communications lines for telecommunications companies. Pathfinder had a bank account with Valliance Bank during this time. According to the Indictment, in February 2023, Bloom executed an agreement with Valliance, in which Pathfinder was provided a line of credit from the bank secured by its accounts receivable. It is alleged that Bloom regularly submitted to Valliance invoices and other information regarding what he represented to be Pathfinder’s valid accounts receivable when, in truth, most of the invoices were false and fraudulent. It is further alleged that Valliance relied on Bloom’s false representations and purchased nearly $3,000,000 of Pathfinder’s purported accounts receivable. Then, in August 2023, Pathfinder declared bankruptcy. After the bankruptcy was filed, the Indictment alleges Valliance learned that at least $2,300,000 worth of purported accounts receivable were fraudulent.
If found guilty, Bloom faces up to 30 years in federal prison, and a fine of up to $1,000,000. The public is reminded this charge is merely an allegation, and that the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney D.H. Dilbeck is prosecuting the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Oklahoma City Man who Shot Police Officer Responding to Domestic Call Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY –JOEL KEENAN LEWIS, 67, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve the statutory maximum, 120 months, in prison for being a drug user in possession of a firearm, with credit for time served in state custody, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
According to public record, on January 23, 2021, an officer with the Oklahoma City Police Department responded to Lewis’s home on a domestic call. Moments after the officer arrived, Lewis exited the home, pointed a pistol directly at the officer’s chest, and fired it at point-blank range at the officer. The officer was hit in both the chest and hand. The officer sustained minor injuries, in large part due to the safety armor beneath his uniform.
On August 1, 2023, a federal grand jury charged Lewis—who had a long history of marijuana use—with being a drug user in possession of a firearm. On October 23, 2023, Lewis pleaded guilty and admitted to using marijuana in January of 2021, despite not having a medical marijuana card, and to possessing firearms during this same time.
At the sentencing hearing on July 8, 2024, U.S. District Judge Stephen P. Friot sentenced Lewis to serve the statutory maximum, 120 months, in confinement, with credit for time served in a related conviction for shooting with intent to kill in Oklahoma County District Court case CF-2021-401. Judge Friot also ordered Lewis to serve three years of supervised release upon his release from federal prison. In announcing the sentence, Judge Friot noted the dangerous combination of chronic drug abuse and firearms and the risk that combination poses to the community.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jacquelyn M. Hutzell and David McCrary prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Illegal Possession of Firearm and Meth Lands Norman Man in Federal Prison for 25 YearsRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – DUSTIN LANCE POWELL, 48, of Norman, has been sentenced to serve 300 months in federal prison for illegal possession of a firearm after a previous felony conviction and possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On May 3, 2023, a federal grand jury returned a four-count Indictment against Powell, charging him with being a felon in possession of a firearm, possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime. According to public record, in March 2023, Powell was found to be possessing several firearms, as well as over 500 grams of methamphetamine and over 40 grams of fentanyl.
On November 28, 2023, Powell pleaded guilty and admitted to illegally possessing a firearm after his previous felony convictions and illegally possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute the substance.
On June 28, 2024, U.S. District Judge Patrick R. Wyrick sentenced Powell to serve 300 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. In announcing the sentence, Judge Wyrick noted his possession of ten firearms in this case, including a Heavy Counter Assault Rifle, as well as the extent and nature of Powell’s criminal history.
Public record further reflects that Powell has several previous felony convictions, including attempting to elude a police officer in Grady County District Court case number CF-2004-41, unlawful possession of a firearm and possession of paraphernalia in Cleveland County District Court case number CF-200-338, and malicious injury to property in Cleveland County District Court case number CF-2007-955.
This case is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and the Norman Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Gridley prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
National Health Care Fraud Enforcement Action Results in 193 Defendants Charged and over $2.75 Billion in False ClaimsRead the Press Release
Three Defendants Charged in the Western District of Oklahoma
OKLAHOMA CITY – U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester has announced criminal charges against three defendants in connection with the Justice Department’s 2024 National Health Care Fraud Enforcement Action. Descriptions of each case involved in the enforcement action are available on the Department’s website here.
“It does not matter if you are a trafficker in a drug cartel or a corporate executive or medical professional employed by a health care company, if you profit from the unlawful distribution of controlled substances, you will be held accountable,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “The Justice Department will bring to justice criminals who defraud Americans, steal from taxpayer-funded programs, and put people in danger for the sake of profits.”
“We must protect these federal programs which provide vital funding to our society’s most vulnerable,” said United States Attorney Robert J. Troester. “Today’s nationwide announcement is further proof of the Department of Justice’s ongoing commitment to protect Americans from those who seek to exploit government programs for personal gain.”
“We will not tolerate fraud that preys on patients who need and deserve high quality health care,” said the Honorable Christi A. Grimm, the Department of Health and Human Services Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “The hard work of the HHS-OIG team and our outstanding law enforcement partners makes today’s action possible. We must protect taxpayer dollars and keep Americans safe from harms to their health, privacy, and financial well-being.”
The charges are part of a strategically coordinated, two-week nationwide law enforcement action that resulted in criminal charges against 193 defendants for their alleged participation in health care fraud and opioid abuse schemes that resulted in the submission of over $2.75 billion in alleged false billings. As part of this national initiative, the following individuals have been charged in the Western District of Oklahoma:
- Dr. Dustin York, 39, and Vincent Carter, 39, both of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, were charged by indictment with health care fraud and conspiracy to pay kickbacks in connection with the delivery of DME. According to the indictment, York, a licensed chiropractor, and Carter, his business partner, operated Discover DME, a DME supplier. Through Discover DME, York and Carter are alleged to have purchased doctors’ orders, paid kickbacks to obtain referrals through telemarketing companies, and then submitted false and fraudulent claims to Medicare based on those doctors’ orders and referrals. In total, the defendants caused Discover DME to submit to a federal health care program false and fraudulent claims for DME totaling over $4.8 million. Discover DME was paid over $1.1 million as a result of the false and fraudulent claims. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas Snyder and D.H. Dilbeck of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Oklahoma.
- Priscilla Orange, age 66, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, was charged by indictment with obstruction of a federal audit, federal program theft, and making false statements to the Small Business Administration. As alleged in the indictment Orange operated a daycare provider in Oklahoma City that primarily served low-income children. Orange applied on behalf of her business for federal funds from programs administered by the Departments of Agriculture and Health and Human Services, as well as the Small Business Administration, and received approximately $494,000, but she subsequently misspent the money on impermissible personal expenses. The indictment further alleges that Orange obstructed a federal audit of her use of certain of the funds. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney D.H. Dilbeck of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Oklahoma.
NOTE: A complaint, information, or indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The Western District of Oklahoma cases are the result of investigations by the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, and the United States Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General.
Supreme Court's Rahimi Decision Important for Local Domestic Violence Initiative – Operation 922Read the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Today, the Supreme Court in United States v. Rahimi upheld the constitutionality of the federal statute prohibiting individuals subject to a domestic violence restraining order from possessing a firearm or ammunition. This law is a critical tool in our ongoing violent crime initiative – Operation 922. In 2018, the Western District of Oklahoma launched Operation 922 as the local implementation of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a Department of Justice program to reduce violent crime. The specific strategy is to reduce gun violence by targeting the subject matter of domestic violence.
“The Supreme Court’s decision today is vital to our office’s ongoing commitment to address domestic violence through enforcement of federal firearms laws,” said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. “We cannot have safe neighborhoods without first having safe homes. By bringing the power of federal prosecution to hold domestic abusers accountable, particularly when they possess a firearm, we are protecting the lives of women and children in abusive relationships, and the police officers who respond to domestic calls.”
Domestic abusers are found in all neighborhoods, regardless of race, ethnicity, socio-economic status, educational level, employment status, or geographic area. When domestic violence escalates to involving firearms, the threat to physical safety increases significantly for the intimate partner, child of a partner, and law enforcement officers responding to domestic calls. Operation 922 prioritizes prosecutions of repeat domestic abusers and particularly violent offenders in domestic settings who violate federal law (primarily firearms offenses). It brings law enforcement, prosecutors, and non-profit entities together with common purpose and clear direction – to protect victims of domestic violence and hold abusers accountable.
Since Operation 922 was launched in 2018, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Oklahoma has charged 338 individuals with federal offenses stemming from domestic violence. To date, 321 have already been determined guilty through trial or plea, and 291 have already been sentenced to an average of more than 74 months in federal prison. Cases have originated in 26 different counties in the Western District of Oklahoma.
Oklahoma City Man Sentenced to Serve Nine Years in Federal Prison for Role in Major Black-Market Marijuana OperationRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – BRANDON YE, 43, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve 108 months in federal prison for possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On May 3, 2024, a federal grand jury returned a four-count Indictment against Ye and several other co-defendants, charging them for their roles in a major black-market marijuana drug trafficking organization (DTO). According to public record, in December 2022, agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics (OBN), and Oklahoma City Police Department officers, were investigating reports of a separate DTO when they observed what appeared to be an ‘Amazon’ delivery van pull up to a suspected drug stash house. Agents witnessed several individuals load the van with large, full trash bags. The van’s registration led authorities to a business address in Oklahoma City owned by Ye, followed by a home owned by Ye, where authorities observed what was later determined to be a fake Amazon van parked in the driveway.
An affidavit in a previously filed criminal complaint further alleges that Ye, working with the co-defendants and others, would pick up trash bags containing vacuum-sealed packages of marijuana from licensed marijuana grows across Oklahoma, and deliver the bags to a stash house operated by Ye in Oklahoma City. From there, the marijuana was repackaged into cardboard boxes and would be moved to two warehouses owned by Ye, to be picked up by a semi-truck, and transported to the east coast. It’s estimated that, between June 2022 and March 2023, Ye helped ship approximately 28 tons of marijuana out of the state of Oklahoma.
On September 11, 2023, Ye pleaded guilty to a two-count Superseding Information, and admitted to knowingly possessing marijuana with the intent to distribute, and to possessing a firearm while distributing that marijuana illegally.
At the sentencing hearing on June 20, 2024, U.S. District Judge Scott L. Palk sentenced Ye to serve 108 months in federal prison. In announcing the sentence, Judge Palk specifically noted the vast amount of marijuana transported by Ye during his clandestine operation.
This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office, the OBN, and OCPD. It is also a 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 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. Attorney Wilson D. McGarry is prosecuting the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Illegal Firearm Possession by Convicted Felon Lands Oklahoma City Man in Federal Prison for Eight YearsRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – DONALD EDWARD HILL, JR., 24, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve 96 months in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm after a previous felony conviction, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On August 9, 2023, Hill was charged by Information with being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to an affidavit in a previously filed criminal complaint, in March 2023, an arrest warrant was issued for Hill in Oklahoma County District Court related to a shooting incident. When law enforcement executed a search warrant at the Edmond apartment where Hill was arrested, they located a pistol in a pair of Hill’s pants.
According to public record, Hill has multiple prior felony convictions, including assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, discharging a firearm into a dwelling, and possession of a firearm after juvenile adjudication, all in Oklahoma County District Court case number CF-2017-6085; placing bodily fluids upon a government employee in Oklahoma County District Court case number CF-2018-1014; and possession of a firearm after juvenile adjudication in Oklahoma County District Court case number CF-2019-543.
On September 11, 2023, Hill pleaded guilty, and admitted he possessed the firearm, despite knowing he was prohibited from doing so because of his felony convictions.
At the sentencing hearing on June 18, 2024, U.S. District Judge Jodi W. Dishman sentenced Hill to serve 96 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In announcing the sentence, the Court noted Hill’s extensive criminal history and his lack of respect for the law, as well as the need to protect the public from further crimes committed by the defendant.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Danielle M. Connolly prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. For more information about PSN, please visit https://justice.gov/psn and https://justice.gov/usao-wdok.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Former Bank Senior Vice President Pleads Guilty to Bank FraudRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – JOHN PADILLA, 44, of Lawton, has pleaded guilty to bank fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On May 7, 2024, Padilla was charged by Information with bank fraud. According to the Information, between February 2013 and December 2019, Padilla served as senior vice president and commercial loan officer for a federally insured bank located in Lawton. During that time, Padilla executed a scheme in which he recruited borrowers to apply for loans, many of which were not creditworthy and were in fact Padilla’s friends and associates. Padilla told the borrowers he would use the loan proceeds to invest in his real estate ventures, and that he would pay the borrowers a percentage of the profit.
The Information further alleges that Padilla would use most of the loan proceeds to support his gambling habit, while also using proceeds to make payments toward prior loans issued as part of the scheme. In all, Padilla’s actions cost the bank more than $1,000,000.
On June 17, 2024, Padilla pleaded guilty, and admitted to recruiting an associate to apply for a loan, knowing the proceeds were for his own personal use. At sentencing, Padilla faces up to 30 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation – Office of Inspector General, and the Federal Housing Finance Agency – Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Brown is prosecuting the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Indian-National Pleads Guilty to Sexually Extorting Minors through Social MediaRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – SAI KUMAR KURREMULA, 31, an Indian-national living in Edmond on an immigrant VISA, has pleaded guilty to sexual exploitation of three children and transportation of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On April 22, 2024, Kurremula was charged by Information with sexual exploitation of children and transportation of child pornography. According to an affidavit filed in support of a criminal complaint, in October 2023, the FBI began investigating an account on the social media messaging app, Snapchat, involving a user who was sexually exploiting minor girls. The Internet Protocol address used to create the account led federal authorities to Kurremula. Public documents allege Kurremula had sexually exploited multiple minors through Snapchat, often posing as a 13-15-year-old boy to gain the trust of his victims. When the victims refused his requests, Kurremula would manipulate, threaten, and extort his victims to produce even more child pornography.
On June 18, 2020, Kurremula pleaded guilty and admitted to sexually exploiting three minor victims and to knowingly transporting images of child pornography. Specifically, Kurremula admitted that, to ensure the minor victims complied, he: threatened Jane Doe #1 that he would drive to her house and show her parents sexually explicit images of her; threatened Jane Doe #2 that he would come to her house and shoot her family; and threatened Jane Doe #3 that he would publicly post sexually explicit images and videos of her.
At sentencing, Kurremula faces not less than 15 years in federal prison and up to 50 years in federal prison, a term of supervised release of not less than five years and up to life, and fines up to $250,000, special assessments of up to $55,100 on Count 1, and up to $40,100 on Count 2, as well as a restitution order to the victims.
This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Joynes is prosecuting the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Oklahoma City Father and Son Convicted of Illegal Firearms PossessionRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – A federal jury has convicted NICOIS MEGALE SMITH, 40, of Oklahoma City, with illegally possessing a firearm after a previous felony conviction, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On August 16, 2023, a federal grand jury returned a three-count Indictment, charging Nicois with two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm, and his father, ALBERT SMITH, JR., 62, with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
On June 12, 2024, a federal jury found Nicois guilty on one of his two counts following a two-day trial. Evidenced at trial established that on May 21, 2023, officers with the Oklahoma City Police Department were investigating an unrelated crime, which happened near Nicois’s home. In the course of their investigation, officers searched Nicois’s home pursuant to a court approved search warrant and found a loaded pistol in a bedroom. Evidence presented at trial connected Nicois to that pistol.
On June 10, 2024, Albert pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm in early May 2023, and he admitted to possessing a pistol that he had reason to believe had been stolen.
At sentencing, Nicois and Albert each face up to 15 years in federal prison and up to three years of supervised release.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel Gridley, Elizabeth M. Bagwell, and Travis Leverett are prosecuting the case.
This case is also part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a Department of Justice program to reduce violent crime. 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.
Oklahoma City Man Pleads Guilty to Attempting to Impede Federal Tax LawsRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – KEVIN LANE BIERIG, of Oklahoma City, has pleaded guilty to corruptly endeavoring to obstruct or impede the due administration of the federal tax laws, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On April 4, 2024, a federal grand jury returned a four-count Indictment against Bierig, charging him with one count of corruptly endeavoring to obstruct or impede the due administration of the federal tax laws and three counts of failing to file a tax return. According to the Indictment, Bierig has not filed a tax return since at least 2005, despite being required to do so based on his level of income. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) initiated enforcement action in 2013, which included the collection of levied funds from Bierig’s paychecks.
Court documents allege that beginning in 2017, Bierig, knowing of the IRS enforcement actions, forged the signature of an IRS revenue officer onto IRS forms, including an IRS Installment Agreement and an IRS Release of Levy, in an attempt to have levied funds paid to himself rather than be sent to the IRS.
On June 13, 2024, Bierig pleaded guilty to Count 1 of the Indictment. As part of his plea, Bierig admitted that he has earned substantial income since 2004, yet has not filed a federal tax return since that year. He further admitted that he knew the IRS had been investigating him since at least 2017, and that the IRS was attempting to collect the delinquent taxes. He admitted he forged official IRS forms and sent the fraudulent forms to his billing company in an effort to have the frozen funds sent to himself instead of the IRS.
At sentencing, Bierig faces to up three years in federal prison, and a fine of up to $250,000.
This case is the result of an investigation by IRS Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Brown prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Canadian Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Obtain Personal Protective Equipment and Event Tickets Through Wire FraudRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – ROBERT VINNIK, 29, of Ontario, Canada, has pleaded guilty for his role in a conspiracy to commit wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On June 15, 2021, a federal grand jury returned a 10-count Superseding Indictment against Vinnik and four other co-defendants, all of Canada, charging the group with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and Vinnik and co-defendant, Steven Mesrop, 32, with aggravated identity theft.
According to the Superseding Indictment, Vinnik and his associates operated a scheme to use stolen credit card and identity information to induce businesses to provide goods and services, such as event tickets and personal protective equipment, to resell for a profit. At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is alleged that the conspirators began targeting U.S.-based businesses selling goods that were scarce due to the pandemic. The conspirators allegedly used stolen credit card information to purchase items such as nitrile gloves, masks, and gowns and to resell them to third parties. The Superseding Indictment alleges that the conspirators operated the scheme from Canada, the Dominican Republic, Spain, Greece, and Dubai. It further alleges that the conspirators targeted sports teams and event venues throughout the United States and Canada, including Madison Square Garden in New York City.
According to the Superseding Indictment, Vinnik and his associates used 21 different alias email accounts and information from 52 stolen credit cards to purchase over 1,800 tickets to Oklahoma State University athletic events between November 2019 and January 2020. In March 2020, the conspirators allegedly used stolen credit card information to purchase approximately $18,000 worth of toilet paper from a paper supply company in Oklahoma City.
On June 14, 2024, Vinnik pleaded guilty to Count One of the Superseding Indictment, and admitted that he voluntarily conspired with others to use stolen credit card and identity information to purchase goods and services such as event tickets and personal protective equipment, which he and his conspirators agreed to sell to third parties for a profit. At sentencing, Vinnik faces up to 20 years in federal prison, and a fine of up to $250,000.
Other defendants in the case have been sentenced as follows:
- Steven Mesrop has been sentenced to serve 80 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
- Dijon Cornelius Shepard, 30, has been sentenced to serve 20 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for conspiracy to commit an offense against the United States.
- Mirna Mahrous Habib, 27, has been sentenced to serve four months in federal prison, followed by one year of supervised release, for conspiracy to commit wire fraud
- Karin Treister, 27, has been ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $30,000, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office, Homeland Security Investigations New York’s El Dorado Task Force, the New York City Police Department, and the Irvine (California) Police Department, with assistance from Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorney Julia E. Barry is prosecuting the case.
Reference is made to public filings for further information.
Former Yukon Resident Turned International Fugitive Arrested in the United Kingdom more than 13 Years After Jury ConvictionRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Today, U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester announced that MEHRAN KORANKI, 63, formerly of Yukon, has been extradited from the United Kingdom to the United States. In late 2010, Koranki fled the United States following his criminal conviction at trial on mail fraud and money laundering charges.
On February 2, 2010, a federal grand jury returned a 53-count Indictment against Koranki, charging him with numerous counts of mail fraud and money laundering. Between February 2005 and March 2006, Koranki owned and controlled two Oklahoma City companies which maintained, repaired, and sold computer networking components. The companies had extended warranty agreements with Nortel Networks, which allowed the businesses to receive replacements for broken or defective parts.
In November 2010, evidence presented at a jury trial indicated that Koranki’s businesses received hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of equipment through the warranty agreement, which they then sold for a profit, in a direct violation of the agreement. After four days of testimony, the jury found Koranki guilty of 48 counts of mail fraud and two counts of money laundering.
After the jury returned the guilty verdicts, and prior to Koranki’s sentencing hearing, he fled the United States. In January 2011, Koranki sent a letter to the court that read in part, “I sincerely regret to inform you I am no longer in the United States and will not be attending the sentencing hearing.” Koranki has been a fugitive since that time.
On September 30, 2013, U.S. District Judge Timothy D. DeGiusti sentenced Koranki in absentia to serve 156 months in federal prison and ordered him to pay $6,010,157.90 in restitution. Click here to read the original press release on the 2013 sentencing.
In November 2015, the United States submitted to United Kingdom government officials an official request to extradite Koranki. On February 5, 2024, Koranki was arrested pursuant to an INTERPOL Red Notice, after traveling on a flight from Doha, Qatar, to Manchester, United Kingdom.
Koranki subsequently consented to extradition, and, on June 3, 2024, the U.S. Marshal’s Service transported Koranki from the United Kingdom to the United States.
“Those who seek to evade justice will eventually be apprehended and held accountable for their crimes” said U.S. Attorney Troester. “I commend the work done by the U.S. Marshals Service, the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, and United Kingdom authorities for their tireless efforts to bring this matter to a close.”
“No matter how far you run, or how long you hide, the U.S. Marshals Service will exhaust all available resources in returning international fugitives to face justice in the United States,” said United States Marshal Johnny L. Kuhlman. “The arrest and extradition of this defendant is further proof of the U.S. Marshals ongoing commitment to locating fugitives around the world. The bottom line is … we never stop looking.”
Today’s announcement is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the IRS Criminal Investigation. The Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs and U.S. Marshals Service provided substantial assistance to secure Koranki’s arrest and extradition from the United Kingdom. The United States thanks United Kingdom law enforcement authorities for their valuable assistance with Koranki’s arrest and extradition. Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott E. Williams prosecuted the case for the United States. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Wilson D. McGarry and Stan J. West assisted with Koranki’s extradition.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Man Sentenced to Serve Four Years in Federal Prison for Domestic Assault in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Today, GARY MANILE HARRIS, 39, of Oklahoma City, was sentenced to serve 48 months in federal prison for domestic assault by a habitual offender in Indian country, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On February 8, 2024, a federal grand jury returned a two-count Indictment charging Harris with domestic assault by a habitual offender and domestic assault by strangulation. According to the Indictment, on November 10, 2023, Harris placed a woman with whom he was living in a chokehold and physically abused her, including by dragging her across the floor.
This case is in federal court because Harris is a member of the Chickasaw Nation and the crime occurred within the boundaries of the Chickasaw Nation.
On April 3, 2024, Harris pleaded guilty to Count 1, admitted he assaulted the victim, and acknowledged his previous domestic abuse charges.
At the sentencing hearing today, U.S. District Judge David L. Russell sentenced Harris to serve 48 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In sentencing Harris, Judge Russell considered Harris’s drug use and the need for his sentence to protect the public. Judge Russell also noted Harris’s extensive record of victim’s protective order violations and violent crime. Public record reflects that Harris holds prior felony convictions for domestic assault with a dangerous weapon and domestic abuse in Cleveland County District Court case number CF-2020-7, and domestic violence by strangulation in Oklahoma County District Court case number CF-2007-3387.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Chickasaw Lighthorse Police Department. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Kaleigh Blackwell and Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Hale prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
U.S. Attorney's Office Announces Updates in Four Child Exploitation CasesRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – This week, MICHAEL RIOS, 42, and JIMMY RAY PIERCE, 68, pleaded guilty to child pornography related charges; RONNIE GENE HAZELWOOD, 44, pleaded guilty to failing to register as a sex offender after a felony conviction on possession of child pornography; and KRISTIAN FERNANDEZ, 20, was charged with receipt and possession of material containing child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
This announcement reflects the latest in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Oklahoma’s ongoing commitment to aggressively pursue cases involving the sexual exploitation of minors and defendants who fail to comply with sex offender registration requirements.
The updates in the cases are as follows:
- Michael Rios, of Oklahoma City, pleaded guilty to possession and distribution of child pornography on June 3, 2024. According to affidavit filed in support of a criminal complaint, Rios utilized an online encrypted messaging service to share child pornography. After executing a court authorized federal search warrant, FBI agents discovered a large library of child pornography on Rios’s phone. At sentencing, Rios faces no less than five years and up to 40 years in federal prison. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiffany Edgmon is prosecuting the case.
- Jimmy Ray Pierce, of Elgin, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty to possession of material containing child pornography on June 6, 2024. According to an affidavit filed in support of a criminal complaint, in January 2024, Pierce uploaded child pornography to Facebook. While executing a court authorized search warrant, law enforcement located on his cell phone multiple videos and images depicting child pornography. At sentencing, Pierce faces up to 20 years in federal prison. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan Ganz is prosecuting the case.
- Ronnie Gene Hazelwood, of Tulsa and Oklahoma City, pleaded guilty to failing to register as a sex offender on June 3, 2024. According to public record, Hazelwood was previously convicted of possession of child pornography and failing to register as a sex offender in the Northern District of Oklahoma, case number 15-CR-049. These convictions required Hazelwood to register as a sex offender, but he failed to do so while residing in the Western District of Oklahoma. Hazelwood faces up to 10 years in federal prison at sentencing. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan Ganz is prosecuting the case.
- ** Kristian Fernandez, of Fort Sill, Oklahoma, was charged with one count of receipt of child pornography and one count of possession of material containing child pornography by a federal grand jury on June 4, 2024. If found guilty on the receipt count, Fernandez faces not less than five years and up to 20 years in federal prison. If found guilty on the possession count, he faces up to 20 years in federal prison. On each count, he faces a term of supervised release of no less than five years and up to life. Assistant U.S. Attorney Bow Bottomly is prosecuting the case.
** The public is reminded that these charges are merely allegations, and that the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
These cases are the result of investigations by the FBI Oklahoma Field Office, Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Marshals Service, the Department of the Army—Criminal Investigation Division, the Tornado Alley Child Exploitation Task Force, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, and the Oklahoma City Police Department.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Possession of Machinegun Conversion Device Lands Oklahoma City Man in Federal Prison for Two YearsRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – ANTHONY DEWAYNE TAYLOR, 20, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve 24 months in federal prison for unlawful possession of a machinegun, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On September 5, 2023, a federal grand jury charged Taylor with unlawful possession of a machinegun. According to an affidavit filed in support of a criminal complaint, on April 6, 2023, Bethany Police Department officers pulled Taylor over for a traffic violation. When asked to provide a license and vehicle registration, Taylor handed the officer a learner’s permit that had been cut in half. During a subsequent search of the vehicle, law enforcement located under the driver’s seat a handgun that had been modified with a conversion device. This conversion device is commonly known as a “switch,” which converts a semi-automatic weapon into a fully automatic machinegun. Taylor also attempted to flee on foot during the traffic stop but, after a brief pursuit, was apprehended and arrested.
On December 12, 2023, Taylor pleaded guilty, admitting that he possessed the “switch” and knew that it turned the firearm into a fully automatic machinegun.
At the sentencing hearing on June 6, 2024, U.S. District Judge Timothy D. DeGiusti sentenced Taylor to serve 24 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In announcing his sentence, Judge DeGiusti noted the seriousness of Taylor’s actions and the danger posed by conversion devices.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Bethany Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Danielle M. Connolly prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. This case is also part of “Project Switch Off,” the Western District of Oklahoma’s local implementation of PSN. “Project Switch Off” targets illegal machinegun conversion devices to address the significant danger these illegal devices present and to remove them from our streets. For more information about PSN, please visit https://justice.gov/psn and https://justice.gov/usao-wdok.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Norman Man to Serve Five Years in Federal Prison for Illegal Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – ANDREW LINTON SAWYERS, 60, of Norman, has been sentenced to serve 60 months in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm after a prior felony conviction, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On August 16, 2023, a federal grand jury charged Sawyers with being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to the public record, on October 30, 2022, Norman Police Department (NPD) officers responded to a welfare check at an apartment, where they learned that Sawyers had pointed a pistol at his girlfriend. Although Sawyers had left the residence before authorities arrived, he was arrested a short time later by NPD officers, who found a pistol in his waistband. At that time, Sawyers had been previously convicted of multiple felonies, including Florida convictions for armed home invasion and kidnapping, and Oklahoma convictions for possession of firearms after a felony conviction and endangering others while eluding or attempting to elude a police officer.
On October 23, 2023, Sawyers pleaded guilty to illegally possessing the firearm, despite his criminal record.
At Sawyers’ sentencing hearing on June 3, 2024, U.S. District Judge Patrick R. Wyrick sentenced Sawyers to serve 60 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In announcing his sentence, Judge Wyrick noted the circumstances of the offense and Sawyers’ criminal history. At sentencing, the government also introduced evidence that, in July 2023, Sawyers had threatened to kill a state prosecutor.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Norman Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary E. Walters prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a Department of Justice program to reduce violent crime. In October 2017, the Department announced the reinvigoration of PSN 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,” the Western District of Oklahoma’s implementation of PSN, which prioritizes prosecution of federal crimes connected to domestic violence. For more information about PSN, please visit https://justice.gov/psn and https://justice.gov/usao-wdok.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Federal Inmate Sentenced to Serve Four Additional Years in Federal Prison after Assaulting a Federal Corrections OfficerRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – REYES LUIS HOLGUIN, 31, of Phoenix, Arizona, has been sentenced to serve an additional 48 months in federal prison for assaulting a federal corrections officer, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
According to public record, in August 2023, Holguin was an inmate at the Federal Transfer Center in Oklahoma City, when he entered a federal corrections officer’s office without permission. Holguin slammed the door shut and told the officer, “You are not leaving the office.” Holguin then assaulted the officer before quickly being subdued by the same officer. The officer sustained minor injuries. As a result of this incident, on November 7, 2023, a federal grand jury charged Holguin with assault on a federal officer involving physical contact.
On February 1, 2024, Holguin pleaded guilty, and admitted to physically assaulting the federal corrections officer.
At the sentencing hearing on June 5, 2024, U.S. District Judge Bernard M. Jones sentenced Holguin to serve 48 months in federal prison to be served after his existing sentence—a 10-year sentence for distribution of fentanyl in the United States District Court for the District of Arizona—followed by three years of supervised release. In announcing the sentence, the Court noted the serious nature of Holguin’s assault on the officer, his criminal history, and the need to deter Holguin and other federal inmates from engaging in similar conduct.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Prisons Special Investigative Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Bow Bottomly prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.