District of Rhode Island
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Massachusetts Man Charged with Travelling in Interstate Commerce to Transport Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE, RI – A federal criminal complaint was filed in U.S. District Court in Providence today charging Fetahe Makonnen, 34, of Malden, Mass., with travelling in interstate commerce for the purpose of transporting child pornography, announced Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch; Colonel Ann C. Assumpico, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police; and Matthew J. Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations for New England.
It is alleged that Makonnen travelled from Massachusetts to Rhode Island on October 28, 2017, for the purpose of transporting digital storage devices containing hundreds of videos and images of child pornography.
According to an affidavit in support of a criminal complaint filed with the Court, it is alleged that in July 2017, Makonnen began communicating online with a member of the Rhode Island State Police Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. The conversation turned to a discussion about the sharing of child pornography. Makonnen did not communicate again with the ICAC Detective until September 16, 2017.
According to the affidavit, it is alleged that beginning on September 16, 2017, Makonnen began again to communicate with members of the ICAC Task Force through various methods, including by telephone, with discussions centered around his interests in the viewing of child pornography involving prepubescent minors between 1 year and 13 years of age. On October 27, 2017, Makonnen agreed to travel to Rhode Island the next day, expecting to meet with the person he had been communicating with and to view child pornography. He agreed to bring images and videos of child pornography with him. When they met the next day, it is alleged that Makonnen provided an undercover ICAC Task Force Detective with two thumb drives which the detective opened on his laptop computer. It is alleged both thumb drives contained images and videos depicting child pornography involving prepubescent children.
Makonnen was arrested on a Rhode Island state charge and ordered held on $10,000 surety bail.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case in federal court is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dulce Donovan.
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Central Falls Resident Pleads Guilty in Stolen ID, Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – Reynaldo Martinez, 25, of Central Falls, pleaded guilty today to federal charges relating to his participation in a scheme to use the stolen identity of numerous individuals to open retail store credit cards and lines of credits, which he used to purchase tens of thousands of dollars worth of goods in Rhode Island and Massachusetts.
Martinez pleaded guilty as charged in a superseding indictment returned on August 15, 2017, to four counts of aggravated identity theft, two counts of access fraud, and one count each of bank fraud, conspiracy to commit fraud, attempted access fraud, and interstate transportation of stolen goods.
Martinez’s guilty plea is announced by Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch and Brian Deck, Resident Agent in Charge of the United States Secret Service.
Appearing before U.S. District Court Judge John J. McConnell, Jr., Martinez admitted to the court that beginning as early as March 15, 2017, he used various sources, including internet websites, to obtain personal identification information of individuals, including their Social Security Numbers, dates of birth and addresses, after which he would have false, counterfeit government identifications manufactured bearing his photograph. Martinez admitted that he used the counterfeit identifications to secure credit to make purchases at various businesses including Sprint Cell Phone locations, Kohl's Department Store, Sak' s Fifth Avenue, Best Buy, Cardi' s Furniture, Raymour and Flanigan Furniture, and Home Depot. Martinez admitted that he used the stolen credit to make between $40,000 and $90,000 dollars in purchases, for which he had no intention of paying.
Martinez was first charged in this matter by way of a federal criminal complaint on May 17, 2017. He was arrested on May 24, 2017, and ordered detained in federal custody. Martinez is scheduled to be sentenced on January 25, 2018.
Bank fraud is punishable by up to 30 years imprisonment, $1,000,000 fine, and 5 years supervised release; conspiracy to commit access device fraud, attempted access device fraud, access devise fraud, and interstate transportation of goods are each punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment, $250,000 fine, and 3 years supervised release; and aggravated identity theft is punishable by 2 years imprisonment, $250,000 fine, and 3 years supervised release.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney William J. Ferland.
Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch acknowledges and thanks the Middletown, Warwick, Richmond and Central Falls, R.I., Police Departments; Rhode Island State Police; Mansfield and Seekonk, Mass, Police Departments; West Hartford and Hamden, Conn., Police Departments; and the Richardson, Texas, Police Department for their assistance in gathering and providing information to the United States Attorney’s Office in Rhode Island and the United States Secret Service New England Electronic Crimes Task Force during the course of the investigation.
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Brazilian National Sentenced to Prison, Ordered Deported for Inducing as Minor to Engage in Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – Rafael P. Leal, 39, a Brazilian national who most recently lived in Boston, Mass., was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Providence, R.I., to 235 months in federal prison and ordered deported upon completion of his term of incarceration for enticing a minor to engage in illicit sexual activity and traveling interstate to engage in illicit sexual conduct.
Leal was arrested by Bristol Police on October 22, 2016, after an officer on patrol discovered Leal attempting to engage in illicit sexual conduct with a 14 year-old girl in a parked vehicle at the Bristol Town Beach. Leal pleaded guilty on June 7, 2017.
Leal’s sentence, imposed by U.S. District Court Chief Judge William E. Smith, is announced by Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch, Bristol Police Chief Josue D. Canario, and Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division.
The U.S. Sentencing Guidelines range of imprisonment in this matter is 188-235 months. The government recommended the court impose a sentence of 241 months in prison.
An investigation by the Bristol Police Department, with the assistance of the FBI, determined that Leal and the victim began communicating through social media in June 2016. During continued contact through various social media platforms and other means of communication, Leal groomed the victim through emotional manipulation and gifts. He escalated the relationship from an online relationship to numerous sexual encounters, despite the victim expressing to Leal that she did not want a sexual relationship. The investigation determined that Leal controlled the victim’s activity by insisting that she not engage in social activities with others, particularly male friends, and that she keep their contact and relationship from her parents.
Leal continued to attempt to communicate with the victim in a manipulating manner after he was arrested and ordered detained in prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John P. McAdams.
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Two Indicted in Store Break-In, ATM Cash TheftRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE, RI – A federal grand jury in Providence today returned a four-count indictment charging two Albanian nationals from New York with allegedly conspiring to break into a Smithfield, R.I., Target department store in October by cutting a hole in the roof, prying open an ATM inside the store and stealing more than $14,000 in cash, and breaking through a wall inside the store to gain access to a pharmacy and attempting to steal more than $500 worth of controlled substances.
Smithfield Police Department officers responding to a burglary alarm allegedly located the men hiding inside air conditioning units on the roof of the building.
The indictment charges Epirot Krasniqi, 26, of Brooklyn, N.Y., and Liridon Gashi, 32, of Bronx, N.Y., with one count each of conspiracy to commit larceny from a financial institution, bank larceny, conspiracy to commit burglary involving controlled substances, and burglary involving controlled substances.
Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch, Smithfield Police Chief Richard P. St.Sauveur, Jr., and Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division announced the indictment.
According to the indictment, sometime after the store closed on October 9, 2017, and in the early morning hours of October 10, Krasniqi and Gashi, allegedly equipped with portable two-way radios and hand tools, cut through the roof of the store and used the tools to force open an ATM, and to forcibly break through the wall of a pharmacy inside the store and break open a locked container holding controlled substances.
It is alleged in the indictment that the pair stole approximately $14,720 from the ATM.
According to the indictment, it is alleged that the defendants fled from the store to the roof where they concealed themselves and items they had stolen inside air conditioning units. Krasniqi and Gashi were discovered and arrested by Smithfield Police Department officers who responded to an electronic burglary alarm and searched the premises. The defendants were initially charged in Rhode Island state court and released on bail.
Epirot Krasniqi was arrested today in New York by FBI agents on a federal arrest warrant issued by the U.S. District Court in Providence. He was ordered detained in federal custody during an initial appearance in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York.
A federal arrest warrant has been issued for Liridon Gashi.
An indictment is merely an allegation and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney William J. Ferland.
The matter was investigated by the Smithfield Police Department, with the assistance of the Rhode Island FBI Safe Streets Task Force.
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Record Amounts of Unwanted and Expired Pills Collected on Drug Take Back DayRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – Rhode Islanders joined Americans nationwide to do their part to reduce the opioid crisis by bringing the DEA nearly two tons - 3,825 pounds - of expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs to 149 collection points across the state on National Drug Take Back Day on October 28, 2017. That’s a fifty-percent increase over last year’s collection. Nationwide more than 4,200 local and tribal law enforcement partners collected a record-setting 912,305 pounds—456 tons—of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs for disposal at more than 5,300 collection sites. This brings the total amount of prescription drugs collected by DEA since the fall of 2010 to 9,015,668 pounds, or 4,508 tons.
Now in its 8th year, National Prescription Drug Take Back Day events continue to remove ever-higher amounts of opioids and other medicines from the nation’s homes, where they could be stolen and abused by family members and visitors, including children and teens. The DEA action comes just days after President Donald J. Trump announced the mobilization of his entire Administration to address drug addiction and opioid abuse by directing the declaration of a Nationwide Public Health Emergency to address the opioids crisis.
“In the midst of the worst drug crisis in American history, drug abuse prevention has never been more important,” said Attorney General Jeff Sessions. “And at the Department of Justice, it’s what we do every day. By taking dangerous drugs off of our streets, we keep addiction from spreading. One of the most important ways we do that is through the DEA’s semi-annual Prescription Drug Take Back Days. The latest Take Back day was the most successful yet, safely disposing of a record amounts of drugs. I have no doubt that will save lives. At a time like this, this event is having more of an impact than ever. I want to thank all of our local law enforcement partners who helped at all 5,300 collection sites to make this possible—and everyone who participated. They're helping us end this crisis one pill at a time.”
“More people start down the path of addiction through the misuse of opioid prescription drugs than any other substance. The abuse of these prescription drugs has fueled the nation’s opioid epidemic, which has led to the highest rate of overdose deaths this country has ever seen,” said Acting Administrator Robert W. Patterson. “This is a crisis that must be addressed from multiple angles. Educating the public and removing these medications from households across the Unites States prevents misuse where it often starts.”
This year, DEA worked with its tribal law enforcement partners to set up 115 collection sites on tribal lands. Opioid addiction impacts Native American communities just as it does all parts of American society. By partnering with FBI, BIA, and tribal law enforcement, the DEA was able to greatly expand tribal participation in the Take Back program. DEA remains committed to supporting public safety in American Indian and Alaska Native communities.
This initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. DEA launched its prescription drug take back program when both the Environmental Protection Agency and the Food and Drug Administration advised the public that their usual methods for disposing of unused medicines—flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash—posed potential safety and health hazards.
Helping people to dispose of potentially harmful prescription drugs is just one way DEA is working to reduce the addiction and overdose deaths plaguing this country due to opioid medications.
DEA’s next Prescription Drug Take Back Day is April 28, 2018.
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Pawtucket Resident Detained on ID Theft, Bank Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – A Pawtucket resident is detained in federal custody on charges he allegedly used stolen identities and falsified documents to open bank accounts and to secure bank financing for the lease or purchase of at least four new vehicles. Three of the vehicles allegedly ended up in the possession of the alleged leader of a fentanyl and cocaine distribution organization responsible for the distribution of hundreds of kilograms of the drugs in Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Vermont.
Donald Wicklund, 32, of Pawtucket, R.I., was arraigned today and ordered detained by U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Patricia A. Sullivan on an indictment charging him with five counts of aggravated identity theft, five counts of fraudulent use of a social security number, three counts of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and two counts of wire fraud.
The indictment and arraignment of Donald Wicklund are announced by Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch; Brian Deck, Resident Agent in Charge of the Providence Office of the U.S. Secret Service; and Scott E. Antolik, Special Agent in Charge of the Boston Field Office of the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General/Office of Investigations.
According to court documents and information provided to the court, it is alleged that between March 31 and May 24, 2017, Wicklund used stolen personal identifying information of others, including social security numbers belonging to at least two minor children, and fraudulent documents and addresses, to secure funding for the purchase or lease of new vehicles in Johnston, Warwick and Lincoln, R.I., and in Foxboro, Mass.
According to information provided to the court, three of the vehicles secured by Wicklund were later identified by law enforcement as having been in the possession or control of Ramon Delossantos, 24, of Cumberland, RI. In court papers, Delossantos has been identified as the alleged leader of a drug trafficking organization responsible for the distribution of hundreds of kilograms of fentanyl and cocaine in Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Vermont. The drug trafficking operation was recently broken up by law enforcement during “Operation Panamera.” To date, at least 25 individuals, including Delossantos, have been arrested and ordered detained in federal custody.
According to court documents, Wicklund allegedly used stolen identities, fraudulent documents and fraudulent addresses to purchase or lease two new cars, a new pick-up truck and a three-wheel motorcycle. One of the cars, the pick-up truck and the motorcycle were later identified by law enforcement as being in the possession or control of Delossantos. The motorcycle was later shipped to the Dominican Republic. One of the cars allegedly purchased by Wicklund was later found to be registered in Texas.
It is also alleged in court documents that Wicklund used stolen personal identifying information and fraudulent documents to obtain a bank account and debit card at a Rhode Island credit Union.
According to court documents, Wicklund’s alleged criminal conduct first came to law enforcement’s attention during an investigation of Reynaldo Martinez, 25 of Central Falls. On August 15, 2017, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Martinez with four counts of aggravated identity theft, two counts of access fraud, and one count each of bank fraud, conspiracy to commit fraud, attempted access fraud and interstate transportation of stolen goods. It is alleged that Martinez participated in a conspiracy to use stolen personal identifying information to open or attempt to open retail store credit cards and lines of credits used to purchase tens of thousands of dollars worth of goods and services in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. Martinez is currently detained in federal custody and is awaiting trial.
An indictment is merely an allegation and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The cases against Donald Wicklund and Reynaldo Martinez are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney William J. Ferland.
Donald Wicklund’s alleged criminal activity was investigated by the United States Secret Service and the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General/Office of Investigations.
Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch thanks the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Rhode Island State Police, and the Warwick, Providence and Pawtucket Police Departments for their assistance in the investigation of this case.
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Five Charged in Alleged Opioid Prescription, Healthcare Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – Five individuals have been charged by way of federal criminal complaints filed in U.S. District Court in Providence for their alleged participation in a conspiracy to create fraudulent prescriptions for opioid pills and, at times, unlawfully pay for the prescriptions with the use of medical insurance. It is alleged that often times the pills were distributed to others in return for cash payments.
Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch and Jeffrey Ebersole Resident Agent in Charge, Food and Drug Administration Office of Criminal Investigations (FDA-OCI) announced the filing of criminal complaints charging Robert Rose, 51, David Rose, 58, and Tammy Bonham, 53, of Providence, Victoria Coccia-Rose, 28, of Pawtucket, and Michael Slonski, 47 of Johnston, with conspiracy to unlawfully acquire or obtain possession of a controlled substance by fraud, to distribute a controlled substance, to commit healthcare fraud and to commit aggravated identity theft.
Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch said, “Earlier this week this office announced the arrest of more than two-dozen people who allegedly contributed to the addiction epidemic that is sweeping through Rhode Island by allegedly distributing hundreds of kilograms of fentanyl and cocaine. The arrests announced today highlight yet another scheme to profit from the addiction epidemic. Law enforcement on every level will continue to work together to identify, investigate, arrest and prosecute these traffickers and schemers.”
“Opioid addiction and the resulting overdoses and deaths are an enormous national crisis,” said Jeffrey J. Ebersole, Special Agent in Charge, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations’ New York Field Office. “Our office will continue to pursue and bring to justice those who distribute illegally obtained opioids from outside the legitimate supply chain and make them available to U.S. consumers.”
According to court documents, it is alleged that an investigation by members of the Rhode Island FDA-OIC task force determined that participants of the scheme manufactured fraudulent prescriptions utilizing the identities, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) identification numbers and signatures of medical practitioners without their consent. Prescriptions for varying amounts of oxycodone pills were written and presented to pharmacies by some members of the conspiracy and others working at the direction of the conspirators. It is alleged that the scheme often times included the fraudulent use of medical insurance to pay pharmacies for the illicit prescriptions. Most of the oxycodone pills gained with the use of fraudulent prescriptions were sold to others for distribution.
According to court documents, it is alleged that as part of the scheme, the alleged leader of the conspiracy, Robert Rose, paid for individuals’ identities, health care insurance information, and for various prescribing medical practitioners’ names and DEA numbers. Rose provided that information to another member of the conspiracy, along with special paper necessary to produce the fraudulent prescriptions. At times, it is alleged, Robert Rose ran the conspiracy while incarcerated at the Adult Correctional Institution.
Robert Rose made an initial appearance in U.S. District Court in Providence on Thursday and was released on unsecured bond. David Rose, Tammy Bonham and Michael Slonski made initial appearances in U.S. District Court on October 17, 2017, and were released on unsecured bond. Victoria Coccia-Rose made an initial appearance in U.S. District Court on October 18, 2017, and was released on unsecured bond.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dulce Donovan.
The matter was investigated by the Rhode Island Food and Drug Administration-Office of Criminal Investigations task force, with the assistance of Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General.
The Rhode Island Food and Drug Administration-Office of Criminal Investigations task force consists of investigators from FDA-OCI, Rhode Island State Police, East Providence Police, North Providence Police, Westerly Police, Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Postal Inspection Service and Homeland Security Investigations.
Additionally, Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch and Jeffrey Ebersole, Resident Agent in Charge of FDA-OCI, thank the Office of Program Integrity, Executive Office of Rhode Island Health and Human Services for their assistance during this investigation.
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Multi-State Fentanyl, Cocaine Trafficking Organization ShutdownRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – Twenty-three individuals have been charged in federal court in Providence, two individuals have been charged in state courts in Connecticut and Massachusetts, and federal arrest warrants have been issued for several more individuals in connection with a series of wide-sweeping investigations that to date have resulted in the seizure of at least 45 kilograms of suspected fentanyl, cocaine and marijuana. It is believed that hundreds of kilograms of fentanyl and cocaine were moved through Rhode Island and Massachusetts by the drug trafficking organization targeted in these investigations.
The first strike by law enforcement occurred when members of law enforcement interrupted the delivery of a kilogram of suspected fentanyl on February 14, 2017, allegedly supplied by a Rhode Island man, earmarked for delivery in Bridgewater, Mass. That investigation expanded to encompass a series of investigations that, to date, has involved at least 36 federal, state and local law enforcement agencies in six states and in the Dominican Republic.
At a press conference today, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Rhode Island Stephen G. Dambruch, Resident Agent in Charge of the Providence office of the Drug Enforcement Administration Sam Masiello, and Colonel Ann C. Assumpico, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police provided an overview of the investigations dubbed “Operation Panamera.”
During the course of the investigations, at least 23 kilograms of suspected fentanyl, 11kilograms of cocaine, 11 kilograms of marijuana and two kilograms of psilocybin mushrooms were seized. The seizures were made as the drugs moved through the U.S. Postal Service; during traffic stops, including a traffic stop in Fairfield, Conn., on September 30, 2017, where 5 kilograms of suspected fentanyl, ultimately headed to Rhode Island for distribution, were seized; and the execution of court authorized searches of residences, storage units and vehicles where, for example, 5 kilograms of suspected fentanyl were seized from a residence in Norton, Mass., on September 30, 2017.
Among the individuals arrested and detained in federal custody is Ramon Delossantos, 24, of Cumberland, R.I., a Dominican national identified in court papers as the alleged leader of the drug trafficking organization. It is alleged that Delossantos was the source of the kilogram of fentanyl seized on February 14, 2017, in Bridgewater, Mass. It is also alleged in court documents that at least 50 kilograms of fentanyl and cocaine were trafficked by Delossantos or by individuals associated with Delossantos. The investigation determined that Delossantos allegedly utilized multiple telephones to avoid law enforcement detection as he allegedly facilitated the distribution of narcotics in New England with the use of “runners.” It is alleged that the deliveries varied from small quantities for users to kilograms quantities at a time for large scale distributors. Delossantos’ alleged mode of transportation during the alleged drug trafficking operation was a 2010 Porche Panamera Turbo. Delossantos was arrested on October 2, 2017, and his Porche Panamera was seized by law enforcement.
According to court documents, Delossantos, who has strong ties to the Dominican Republic, was previously convicted in Massachusetts and Rhode Island state courts on drug trafficking and firearms charges. Most recently, Delossantos was convicted and sentenced to the Adult Correctional Institutions (ACI) in Rhode Island in December 2014 on firearms charges. An immigration detainer was lodged against Delossantos at that time by Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Delossantos was released from the ACI upon completion of his prison sentence in May 2016.
Also detained in federal custody are Rinaxo M. Rufino, 33, of Miramar, FL., and Gabriel Concepcion, 27, of Kissimmee, FL., on a federal indictment charging them with conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. They were arrested on August 26, 2017, and charged in connection with the seizure of more than 19 kilograms of cocaine shipped via the U.S. Postal Service from Puerto Rico to residences in Providence, Woonsocket and Central Falls. The packages were intercepted by U.S. Postal Inspectors. It is alleged in court documents that Rufino and Conception were associated with Delossantos.
“This cooperative effort is yet another example of the coordinated approach law enforcement employs to combat the scourge of illegal drug distribution, particularly the opioid epidemic that has hit RI and the entire country so hard during the last few years,” said Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch. “Drug overdoses are now the leading cause of death for Americans under the age of 50. Unfortunately, Rhode Island has not been immune to this crisis. In 2016, 336 Rhode Islanders died from an overdose, with 195 of those deaths involving fentanyl. To put that number in perspective, we had 29 homicides and 53 traffic fatalities in Rhode Island during that same period. So, when someone says drug dealing is not a violent crime, think of those numbers.”
“DEA is committed to investigating and dismantling large scale poly drug trafficking organizations like this one operating in Rhode Island,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Ferguson. “The Delossantos drug trafficking operation was allegedly responsible for distributing multi-kilogram quantities of fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine throughout Rhode Island and Massachusetts. DEA and our law enforcement partners will aggressively pursue any group that distributes these poisons. This investigation demonstrates the strength of collaborative law enforcement and our strong partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”
Colonel Ann C. Assumpico, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police and Director of the Department of Public Safety, said, “Rhode Islanders – and everyone throughout New England -- should be proud of the teamwork that went into this operation. Working together, we arrested more than two-dozen people. We seized 47 kilos of fentanyl, cocaine, marijuana and other illegal narcotics worth millions of dollars. We also saved lives. We can’t begin to imagine how many people could have died if we didn’t get those deadly drugs off our streets.”
Defendants being prosecuted in U.S. District Court in Providence are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul F. Daly, Jr., and William J. Ferland.
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Leader of Check Fraud Scheme Sentenced to 4 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – Taquala Wigginton, 21, of Providence, was sentenced on Friday to 48 months in federal prison for leading a check fraud scheme that defrauded several local banks, and for violating the terms of supervised release in relation to a previous federal conviction and court-imposed sentence for conspiracy to commit bank fraud.
At sentencing, U.S. District Court Chief Judge William E. Smith imposed a sentence of 24 months in federal prison on Wigginton’s most recent conviction on a charge of conspiracy to commit bank fraud. Wigginton pleaded guilty on July 28, 2017. Additionally, Chief Judge William E. Smith imposed a consecutive sentence of 24 months in prison for violating the terms of supervised release in relation to January 2015 conviction and original sentence imposed for conspiracy to commit bank fraud.
Both the government and the defense recommended to the court a sentence of 48 months incarceration. The U.S. Sentencing Guideline imprisonment range in the most recent case is 27-33 months.
Wigginton’s sentence is announced by Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch and Colonel Ann C. Assumpico, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police.
According to court documents and information presented to the court, in the most recent case, from at least October 2015 to late February 2017, Wigginton led a conspiracy to defraud several banks through the use of fraudulent and stolen checks. The stolen and fraudulent checks were deposited into actual bank accounts, and then the funds withdrawn. As part of the scheme, Wigginton recruited individuals who surrendered control of their bank accounts and PIN numbers to her. At least seven bank account holders were identified.
According to information presented to the Court, in addition to actual bank account owners, Wigginton recruited others to participate in the scheme, including through postings on Facebook. Among those recruited to assist Wigginton was a juvenile who, by his account, executed at least 50 such transactions.
As part of the investigation into Wigginton’s criminal conduct, on February 21, 2017, Rhode Island State Police arrested Wigginton and performed a consensual search of her Providence apartment. State Police detectives seized, among other things, 335 blank checks from a Habitat for Humanity bank account; several blank checks that could be used to produce bank checks; debit cards and ATM cards, and personal identifying information belonging to several individuals.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sandra R. Hebert.
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RI Doctor Admits to Healthcare Fraud, Accepting Kickbacks for Prescribing Highly Addictive Version of FentanylRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON — Dr. Jerrold N. Rosenberg, 63 of North Providence and Jamestown, R.I., the operator of a now-defunct pain management practice in Rhode Island, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Providence, R.I., today to conspiring to solicit and receive kickbacks in connection with his prescribing of the drug Subsys, a fast-acting, powerful, and highly-addictive version of the opioid drug Fentanyl that is administered as an under-the-tongue spray, and to committing healthcare fraud.
“Doctors who engage in healthcare fraud violate their oaths and put greed ahead of their patients,” said Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein. “The Department of Justice is relentless in pursuing healthcare fraudsters. Earlier this year we conducted the largest healthcare fraud takedown in American history, charging more than 400 defendants with $1.3 billion in fraud, much of it related to our country’s ongoing drug epidemic. Since then, Attorney General Sessions assigned a dozen experienced prosecutors to focus on opioid-related health care fraud. This conviction is another step toward our goals of saving taxpayer dollars and protecting the American people from deadly drugs.”
Subsys is manufactured by Arizona based company Insys Therapeutics, Inc. (“Insys”). This spray was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2012 exclusively for “the management of breakthrough cancer pain in . . . patients who are already receiving and who are already tolerant of opioid therapy for their underlying persistent cancer pain.” As a result, many insurance companies require a diagnosis of breakthrough cancer pain before approving coverage of the drug, which costs approximately $2,000 to over $16,000 for a thirty day supply.
Appearing before U.S. District Judge John J. McConnell, Jr., Rosenberg admitted to the Court that he participated in a healthcare fraud scheme in which he falsely and fraudulently indicated that his patients had breakthrough pain from cancer when they did not, in order to secure insurance approvals for prescriptions of Subsys. As an example, Rosenberg admitted that in 2012, as part of the scheme, he falsely claimed that one patient suffered from cancer pain from basal cell carcinoma. While the patient had in fact had a potential skin cancer lesion on his nose removed many years before, it had not recurred, and was wholly unrelated to his pain. Rosenberg admitted that, in total, the healthcare fraud scheme resulted in losses of over $750,000; in many cases, the cost of the drug was reimbursed, at least in part, by the Medicare program.
Rosenberg also admitted that, between 2012 and 2015, he conspired with Insys officials to receive kickbacks, in the form of purported speaker fees, from the manufacturer of the spray. Rosenberg admitted that he accepted these payments, which totaled over $188,000. In addition, according to court documents, Rosenberg’s son was a sales representative for Insys Therapeutics from June 2012 – September 2013 and made substantial amounts in commissions as a result of the defendant’s prescribing Subsys to his patients. Rosenberg admitted that the speaking fees he received from Insys were a significant motivating factor in his decision to prescribe Subsys to his patients.
Rosenberg’s guilty plea to healthcare fraud and conspiracy to receive kickbacks is announced by Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein; Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Rhode Island Stephen G. Dambruch; Phillip Coyne, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Boston Office of Inspector General for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS-OIG); and Rhode Island Attorney General Peter F. Kilmartin.
“These provider kickbacks pervert medical decision making and undermine the integrity of government health programs,” said Phillip Coyne, Special Agent in Charge for the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “We will aggressively work with both Federal and State Medicaid Fraud Control Unit law enforcement agencies to fight the opioid scourge.”
“Patients trusted Dr. Rosenberg to make medical decisions based on the best available treatment, not based on speaker fees, kickbacks and other financial incentives. He violated the law and his oath as a physician to do no harm when he placed greed over patient care, thinking little of the long-term consequences of patients taking this extremely powerful, highly-addictive opioid,” said Rhode Island Attorney General Peter F. Kilmartin. “Our office, working with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners, is committed to rooting out fraud and abuse in our healthcare system.”
Rosenberg is scheduled to be sentenced on January 16, 2018. The statutory maximum sentence with respect to the healthcare fraud scheme is up to 10 years imprisonment; a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment on the charge of conspiracy to accept kickbacks, followed by up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000.00 on each charge. Under the terms of a plea agreement filed with the Court, Rosenberg has agreed to the entry of a restitution order in the amount of $754,736.48.
The case is being prosecuted in the District of Rhode Island by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lee H. Vilker and Zachary A. Cunha.
The matter was investigated by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Rhode Island, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General and the Rhode Island Department of Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud and Patient Abuse Unit.###
West Warwick Man Admits to Possessing 7,000 Images and Videos of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – Joseph Seymour, 39, of West Warwick, pleaded guilty in federal court in Providence today to possession of child pornography.
Appearing before U.S. District Court Judge John J. McConnell, Jr., Seymour admitted to the Court that in July 2016, he was in possession of more than 7,000 digital images or videos of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Some of the images and videos depicted prepubescent minors under the age of 12 engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
Seymour’s guilty plea is announced by Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch; Shelly A. Binkowski, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division; and Colonel Ann C. Assumpico, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police.
According to court documents and information presented to the court, in July 2016, a Tempe, Arizona computer repair service notified the Tempe Police Department that they discovered images on a digital hard drive that appeared to be child pornography. The hard drive had been sent to the repair service via a Rhode Island-based manufacturer of electronic products. The Arizona company is often used by the Rhode Island-based manufacturer as a sub-contractor for computer repair services.
The Tempe Police Department reviewed some of the material on the hard drive, and, after determining that some of the contents they reviewed depicted child pornography, they contacted that Rhode Island State Police Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. The hard drive was transferred to the ICAC Task Force and then to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) for further examination. In addition to numerous documents and other files containing identifying information belonging to Joseph Seymour, a forensic examination by a USPIS Digital Evidence Unit revealed over 7,000 images of child pornography stored in more than 160 subfolders.
On December 21, 2016, USPIS agents and members of the ICAC Task Force arrested Seymour while executing a court authorized search of Seymour’s residence and seizing numerous computers and digital storage devices.
Seymour is scheduled to be sentenced on January 12, 2018. Possession of child pornography is punishable by up to 10 years in federal prison followed by 3 years supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ronald R. Gendron.
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Johnston Resident Admits to Trafficking Fentanyl, HeroinRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – Michael Persaud, 30, of Johnston, pleaded guilty in federal court in Providence on Monday to trafficking fentanyl and heroin. Persaud admitted to the Court that during a 4 ½-month period of time beginning in October 2016, he arranged for the sale and delivery of nearly 22 grams of fentanyl and 2 grams of heroin to an undercover police officer.
Law enforcement also seized an additional 44 grams of fentanyl from Persaud when they executed a court-authorized search of the Providence residence of the mother of one of Michael Persaud’s children.
Appearing before U.S. District Court Judge John J. McConnell, Jr., Persaud pleaded guilty to five counts of distribution of fentanyl, and one count each of possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl and distribution of heroin.
Michael Persaud’s guilty plea is announced by Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch; East Providence Police Chief Christopher Parella; and Michael J. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New England Field Division.
According to information presented to the Court, on October 27, 2016, an undercover East Providence police officer arranged for the purchase of what turned out to be 1.86 grams of heroin from Persaud, and between January 11 and March 13, 2017, the undercover officer arranged for what turned out to be five purchases of between 6.9 grams and 2.82 grams of fentanyl. In several instances, Persaud used other individuals to assist in the delivery of the drugs. In at least two such instances, Persaud was driven by his girlfriend and mother of three of his children to a designated meeting location to deliver fentanyl to the undercover officer.
On March 30, 2017, members of the East Providence Police Department, with the assistance of the RI DEA Drug Task Force, executed a court-authorized search of the Providence residence of the mother of one of Michael Persaud’s children, where they were directed to 44 grams of fentanyl Persaud had stashed at the residence.
Persaud, who is detained in federal custody, is scheduled to be sentenced on January 9, 2018.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ly T. Chin.
The Rhode Island DEA Drug Task Force, which investigated this matter, is comprised of law enforcement personnel from the DEA and Providence, East Providence, Central Falls, Woonsocket, West Warwick, Cranston, Pawtucket, Newport, South Kingstown, and Warwick Police Departments, and the Rhode Island State Police.
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DEA, Local and State Law Enforcement Set for Prescription Drug Takeback DayRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch is joining the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Rhode Island state and local law enforcement this Saturday, October 28, for DEA’s 14th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. The biannual event will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at thousands of collection sites around the country, including dozens here in Rhode Island. The event is an effort to rid homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs.
Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch strongly urges Rhode Islanders to take a few minutes on Saturday to safely dispose of unwanted and expired prescriptions. “Disposing of unwanted and sometimes dangerous prescription medication is a small but important step to ensure that unwanted or unused medications are safely removed from medicine cabinets and other storage areas in homes, and don’t end up in the hands of individuals who should not have access to them. Too often we hear about addiction problems that began with unused medications stored in homes that fall into the wrong hands.”
Last April Americans turned in 450 tons (900,000 pounds) of prescription drugs at almost 5,500 sites operated by the DEA and more than 4,200 of its state and local law enforcement partners. Overall, in its 13 previous Take Back events, DEA and its partners have taken in over 8.1 million pounds—more than 4,050 tons—of pills. The disposal service is free and anonymous, no questions asked. (The DEA cannot accept liquids, needles, or sharps, only pills or patches.)
Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 91 Americans die each day from an opioid overdose. Some painkiller abusers move on to heroin: Four out of five new heroin users started with painkillers.
Flushing medications down the toilet or throwing them in the trash pose potential safety and health hazards. This initiative addresses the public safety and public health issues that surround medications languishing in home cabinets, becoming highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse.
For more information or to locate a collection site near you, go the DEA Prescription Drug Take Back Day web site at https://takebackday.dea.gov/#collection-locator where you can search by zip code, city, or state.
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Connecticut Resident Sentenced for Defrauding Elderly Family and FriendsRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Robert Oathout, 37, of Hartford, Conn., was sentenced in U.S. District Court in Providence, R.I., on Monday to 63 months in prison for defrauding elderly family members and family friends of more than $447,000. According to court documents, Oathout told the victims that he needed to borrow the money to pay medical expenses in advance of his receipt of a one million dollar settlement payment as the result of a botched medical procedure performed on him at a Connecticut medical facility. Oathout told the victims that the medical facility would repay them upon payment of the settlement.
An investigation by the FBI determined that no such medical procedure was performed on Oathout and that he was not due any settlement payments from the medical facility.
Robert Oathout pleaded guilty on July 16, 2017, to eight counts of wire fraud.
At sentencing, U.S. District Court Chief Judge William E. Smith also ordered Oathout to serve 3 years supervised release upon completion of his term of incarceration and to pay restitution to the victims in the amount of $434,635.75. The U.S. Sentencing Guidelines range of imprisonment in this matter is 63-78 months. The government recommended the court impose a sentence of 63 months in incarceration.
Robert Oathout’s sentence is announced by Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch and Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Field Division.
According to information provided to the Court, as part of the scheme, between September 27, 2013, and December 22, 2015, Oathout induced his victims, all between the ages of 67 an 87 years, to transfer a total of $447,267.25 to him electronically. Electronic transfers of varying amounts were made to Oathout before, while and after he was a federal inmate at the Donald W. Wyatt Detention Center in Central Falls, R.I. Some of the funds were transferred into his and other inmates’ prison accounts while he was being detained on federal drug charges in an unrelated case brought against him by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut.
The fraud case in the District of Rhode Island was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sandra R. Hebert. The matter was investigated by the FBI.
Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch and Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Field Division, acknowledge and thank investigators at the Donald W. Wyatt Detention Center for their assistance in the investigation of this matter.
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W. Warwick Man Sentenced for Drug Trafficking, Bank FraudRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – Christian M. Domenech, 24, of West Warwick, was sentenced today to 36 months in federal prison for his participation in a conspiracy to traffic heroin, cocaine and crack cocaine, and for bank fraud.
Domenech pleaded guilty on July 14, 2017, to an indictment charging him with conspiracy to distribute heroin, three counts of distribution of heroin, 14 counts of distribution of crack cocaine, possession with the intent to distribute heroin, possession with the intent to distribute cocaine, possession with the intent to distribute crack cocaine and bank fraud.
At sentencing, U.S. District Court Chief Judge William E. Smith also ordered Domenech to serve 3 years supervised release upon completion of his prison term. The government and the defense recommended to the Court a sentence of 36 months of incarceration be imposed. The U.S. Sentencing Guideline imprisonment range in this matter is 41 to 51 months.
Domenech’s sentence is announced by Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch, Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division, and Colonel Ann C. Assumpico, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police.
Domenech, and a co-defendant in this matter, Robert Wilkins, 26, of West Warwick, were arrested on July 12, 2016, following a three-month FBI Safe Streets Task Force investigation into the defendants’ drug trafficking activities. Wilkins pleaded guilty on July 28, 2017, to conspiracy, trafficking heroin, cocaine and crack cocaine, and for bank fraud. He is scheduled to be sentenced on November 20, 2017.
According to information presented to the Court, in March 2016, the FBI Safe Streets Task Force developed information that Robert Wilkins was involved in the distribution of heroin and crack cocaine while on federal supervised release from a previous drug trafficking conviction and term of incarceration. The investigation included several purchases of between one gram and seven grams of crack cocaine and heroin for between $80 dollars and $350 dollars. Each transaction was monitored by law enforcement. Domenech was present for nearly all of the transactions.
Additionally, a Rhode Island State Police Financial Crimes Unit investigation determined that beginning in December 2015, the defendants created and deposited bogus checks into bank accounts each established, and withdrew some of those funds. According to information presented to the Court, Christian Domenech deposited a total of $10,000 in bogus checks and withdrew $2,000 in cash. Robert Wilkins deposited a total of $10,000 in bogus checks and withdrew a total of $2,099.55.
On July 12, 2016, FBI Safe Street Task Force agents, with the assistance of the West Warwick Police Department and the DEA, executed a court authorized search of the defendants’ Church Street, West Warwick residence. Varying quantities of cocaine, crack cocaine, and heroin was seized, along with approximately $800 in cash. Law enforcement also seized two vehicles.
The defendants have been detained since their arrest.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ronald R. Gendron.
The FBI Safe Street Tasks Force consists of members of the Providence, Cranston, Woonsocket and Central Falls Police Departments, Rhode Island State Police and investigators from the Rhode Island Department of Corrections.
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Massachusetts Resident Sentenced for Traveling Interstate to Engage in Sex with a MinorRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – David H. Bentz, 46, of Norwell, MA, was sentenced today to 24 months in federal prison, having admitted to traveling to Rhode Island in July 2016 with the intent of engaging in illicit sexual conduct with a person he believed to be a minor female.
At sentencing, U.S. District Court Chief Judge William E. Smith also ordered Bentz to serve 10 years supervised release upon completion of his term of incarceration. Bentz pleaded guilty on June 2, 2017, to traveling interstate for the purpose of engaging in illicit sexual conduct with a minor.
The U.S. Sentencing Guidelines range of imprisonment in this matter is 46-57 months. The government recommended the Court impose a sentence of 46 months in prison.
At the time of his guilty plea, Bentz admitted to the Court that on July 2, 2016, Bentz responded to an online posting and began a series of communications with a person he believed to be a 15-year-old female. The conversation then became sexually explicit. On July 6, 2016, Bentz arranged to meet with and engage in sexual activity with the 15-year-old.
When Bentz arrived at a pre-arranged location in Rhode Island, he was arrested by members of the Rhode State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
Bentz’s sentence is announced by Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch; Colonel Ann C. Assumpico, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police; and Matthew J. Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations for New England.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard B. Myrus.
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Convicted Felon Arraigned on Drug, Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – Scott Arnum, 28, of Providence, was arraigned and ordered detained on a 3-count indictment charging him with possession with the intent to distribute crack cocaine, felon in possession of a firearm, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, announced Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch, Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves, and Mickey Leadingham, Special Agent in Charge of the Boston Field Division of ATF.
The indictment was returned on October 5, 2017.
According to information presented to the Court, on September 18, 2017, a Pawtucket Police officer on patrol stopped a vehicle driven by Arnum for a traffic violation, after the driver stopped short of pulling out in front of a police cruiser while failing to use a turn signal. It is alleged the officer also smelled a strong odor of marijuana believed to be emanating from the vehicle.
According to information presented to the Court, as the officer approached the vehicle she allegedly noticed the driver making rapid movements inside the vehicle, and appeared nervous when the officer encountered him. The officer allegedly again detected a strong odor of marijuana emanating from the vehicle. Arnum complied with a request from the officer to exit the vehicle.
According to information presented to the court, Arnum was escorted to the rear of the vehicle where the officer allegedly discovered a large bag of marijuana, and four small packets and one larger packet of crack cocaine below the inside rear waistband of Arnum’s underwear. Another bag allegedly containing crack cocaine was located inside Arnum’s underwear. Another bag containing crack cocaine allegedly fell out of Arnum’s underwear after he was transported to the police station.
According to information presented to the court, an inventory of the vehicle conducted at the scene of Arnum’s arrest resulted in the seizure of a loaded 9mm pistol and two loaded 9mm magazines from the vehicle’s glovebox.
According to court records, Scott was previously convicted in federal court for possession of crack cocaine with the intent to distribute and being a felon in possession of a firearm. In December 2010, Arnum was sentenced to 84 months in federal prison to be followed by five years of supervised release.
An indictment is merely an allegation and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ronald R. Gendron .
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North Providence Resident Charged with Producing, Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – Francis Scott, 36, of North Providence, made an initial appearance in federal court in Providence today on a federal criminal complaint charging him with producing and possessing child pornography, announced Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch; Rhode Island Attorney General Peter F. Kilmartin; Providence Police Chief Hugh T. Clements, Jr.; and Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division.
Scott was ordered detained by U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Patricia A. Sullivan.
According to information presented to the Court, it is alleged that on February 14, 2017, Scott offered a juvenile female a ride to her Providence high school. Instead of driving her to the school, Scott allegedly drove to a parking lot behind a Providence building where he allegedly sexually assaulted the juvenile female while in his car. It is alleged that Scott video recorded the assault on his cell phone.
According to information presented to the court, it is alleged that after Scott attacked the young female, he drove her to a parking lot near the high school and dropped her off. The victim fled into the school and reported the attack.
According to information presented to the Court, Providence Police officers and detectives, including a detective assigned to the Providence Police Major Crimes Unit and Special Victims Unit, and who is a member of the FBI Child Exploitation Task Force, canvassed the area where the student was allegedly picked up and where the alleged attack took place. Over the next several days, piecing together information and evidence gathered from several locations, including video surveillance, investigators identified the vehicle allegedly used in the assault. The vehicle was traced back to Scott’s girlfriend. It was determined that Francis Scott was allegedly driving the vehicle the day of the assault.
Francis Scott was arrested by Providence Police on February 23, 2017, and charged in Rhode Island state court with kidnapping and second-degree sexual assault. The investigation into Scott’s alleged criminal activities continued after the arrest. Scott was subsequently indicted by a Rhode Island state grand jury on May 17, 2017, on one count each of kidnapping of a minor with intent to sexually assault, 2nd degree sexual assault, assault with dangerous weapon, 1st degree sexual assault , 2nd degree robbery and 3 counts of 2nd degree sexual assault. He was ordered detained at the Adult Correctional Institutions.
The Providence Police Department and the FBI continue to investigate the alleged criminal conduct of Francis Scott. Anyone with information concerning these alleged matters, or who believe they may have been a victim of Scott’s alleged criminal conduct, are urged to contact the Providence office of the FBI at (401) 272-8310.
The case against Francis Scott in federal court is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Denise M. Barton. Cases charges in Rhode Island Superior Court are being prosecuted by Rhode Island Special Assistant Attorney General Meghan McDonough.
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Former Police Officer Indicted, Arraigned on Obscenity ChargeRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – Matthew C. Riley, 50, of Narragansett, a former Narragansett Police Department K-9 Officer, was arraigned today in U.S. District Court in Providence on a federal grand jury indictment charging him with the transfer of obscene matter to a minor.
A plea of not guilty was entered before U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Patricia A. Sullivan. Riley was released on unsecured bond.
The indictment, returned on Thursday and unsealed today, is announced by Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch; Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division; and Colonel Ann C. Assumpico, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police.
According to information presented to the court, in June 2016, the parents of a juvenile female living in Nebraska reported to Nebraska State Patrol that they had information that their daughter had received sexually explicit online communications, including sexually explicit photographs, from a person who claimed to be a 29-year-old physical therapist from Boston. An investigation by Nebraska State Patrol linked the alleged communications to an Internet address at Matthew Riley’s Narragansett, Rhode Island residence and online accounts used by Riley. Among the materials allegedly retrieved by investigators was a sexually explicit photograph Riley allegedly took of himself and allegedly sent to the victim. Nebraska State Patrol provided this information to the FBI.
As a result of the information provided by the Nebraska State Patrol and additional information gathered by the FBI in Rhode Island, on May 31, 2017, a federal court authorized search of Riley’s residence, cell phones, digital storage devices, his personal vehicle and his assigned police cruiser was conducted by the FBI and Rhode Island State Police.
An indictment is merely an allegation and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The transfer of obscene matter to another individual who has not attained the age of 16 years punishable by statutory penalties of up to 10 years in federal prison, 3 years supervised release and a fine of $250,000.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Denise M. Barton.
Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch acknowledges and thanks the Nebraska State Patrol for their continued assistance investigating and preparing this matter for prosecution.
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Attorney General Jeff Sessions Announces Reinvigoration of Project Safe NeighborhoodsRead the Press Release
Today, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced several Department of Justice actions to reduce the rising tide of violent crime in America. Foremost of those actions is the reinvigoration of “Project Safe Neighborhoods,” a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
In announcing this recommitment to Project Safe Neighborhoods, the Attorney General issued a memo directing United States Attorneys to implement an enhanced violent crime reduction program that incorporates the lessons learned since Project Safe Neighborhoods launched in 2001.
In a statement on the program, the Attorney General said, "According to the FBI, the violent crime rate has risen by nearly seven percent over the past two years, and the homicide rate has risen by more than 20 percent. We cannot be complacent or hope that this is just an anomaly: we have a duty to take action.
“Fortunately, we have a President who understands that and has directed his administration to reduce crime. The Department of Justice today announces the foundation of our plan to reduce crime: prioritizing Project Safe Neighborhoods, a program that has been proven to work.
“Let me be clear – Project Safe Neighborhoods is not just one policy idea among many. This is the centerpiece of our crime reduction strategy.
“Taking what we have learned since the program began in 2001, we have updated it and enhanced it, emphasizing the role of our U.S. Attorneys, the promise of new technologies, and above all, partnership with local communities. With these changes, I believe that this program will be more effective than ever and help us fulfill our mission to make America safer."
The Attorney General also announced the following Department of Justice initiatives to help reduce violent crime:
Additional Assistant United States Attorney Positions to Focus on Violent Crime – The Department is allocating 40 prosecutors to approximately 20 United States Attorney’s Offices to focus on violent crime reduction.
More Cops on the Streets (COPS Hiring Grants) – As part of our continuing commitment to crime prevention efforts, increased community policing, and the preservation of vital law enforcement jobs, the Department will be awarding approximately $98 million in FY 2017 COPS Hiring Grants to state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies.
Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force’s (OCDETF) National Gang Strategic Initiative –The National Gang Strategic Initiative promotes creative enforcement strategies and best practices that will assist in developing investigations of violent criminal groups and gangs into enterprise-level OCDETF prosecutions. Under this initiative, OCDETF provides “seed money” to locally-focused gang investigations, giving state, local, and tribal investigators and prosecutors the resources and tools needed to identify connections between lower-level gangs and national-level drug trafficking organizations.
Critical Training and Technical Assistance to State and Local Partners –The Department has a vast array of training and technical assistance resources available to state, local and tribal law enforcement, victims groups, and others. To ensure that agencies in need of assistance are able to find the training and materials they need, OJP will make available a Violence Reduction Response Center to serve as a “hot line” to connect people to these resources.
Crime Gun Intelligence Centers (CGIC) – The Department has provided grant funding to support a comprehensive approach to identifying the most violent offenders in a jurisdiction, using new technologies such as gunshot detection systems combined with gun crime intelligence from NIBIN, eTrace, and investigative efforts. These FY 2017 grants were awarded to Phoenix, AZ, and Kansas City, MO.
Expand ATF’s NIBIN Urgent Trace Program – The Department will expand ATF’s NIBIN Urgent Trace Program nationwide by the end of the year. Through this program, any firearm submitted for tracing that is associated with a NIBIN “hit” (which means it can be linked to a shooting incident) will be designated an “urgent” trace and the requestor will get information back about the firearm’s first retail purchaser within 24 hours, instead of 5 to 6 business days.
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Providence Resident Admits to Arranging for Hundreds of Shipments of Cocaine from Puerto RicoRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – William Gonzalez, 50, of Providence, pleaded guilty in federal court in Providence today to criminal charges related to his participation in a conspiracy to ship more than 200 packages containing significant quantities of cocaine from Puerto Rico to Rhode Island.
Appearing before U.S. District Court Judge John J. McConnell, Jr, Gonzalez pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess one or more kilograms of cocaine with the intent to distribute and possession of one or more kilograms of cocaine with the intent to distribute.
William Gonzalez’s guilty plea is announced by Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch; Colonel Ann C. Assumpico, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police; and Shelly A. Binkowski, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division.
At the time of his guilty plea, Gonzalez admitted to the Court that beginning in January 2016, he traveled repeatedly to Puerto Rico for the purpose of purchasing large quantities of cocaine and arranging for the drugs to be shipped via the U.S. Postal Service to various addresses in Rhode Island. Gonzalez admitted to participating in a conspiracy in which he was responsible for at least 203 packages containing a minimum of 300 grams each being shipped from Puerto Rico to Rhode Island, for a total of 60,900 grams.
On August 31, 2016, Gonzalez was arrested by Rhode Island State Police and ordered detained at the Adult Correctional Institution. Appearing in federal court today, Gonzalez admitted to the Court that while incarcerated, he continued to direct other members of the conspiracy to continue to purchase cocaine in Puerto Rico and to mail the cocaine back to Rhode Island.
According to a plea agreement filed in this matter and accepted by the Court, at sentencing on December 20, 2017, the government and the defendant will recommend the Court impose a term of 72 months in federal prison. The federal prison sentence is to be served consecutive to a sentence of 25 years, 12 to serve imposed in Rhode Island state court on August 31, 2016, in an unrelated case. In that case, Gonzalez pleaded nolo to possession of cocaine with the intent to deliver.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney William J. Ferland.
The matter was investigated by the Rhode Island State Police and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service in Providence.
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Registered Sex Offender Pleads Guilty to Interstate Travel to Engage in Sex with a MinorRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – Robert F. Eccleston, 56, of Fairhaven, MA, pleaded guilty in federal court in Providence, R.I., on Thursday to traveling in interstate commerce to engage in sexual activity with a minor.
Eccleston, a registered sex offender, admitted to the Court that on July 12, 2016, he traveled from Massachusetts to East Providence, expecting to meet with and engage in illicit sexual activity with a 15-year-old boy he had been communicating with on the Internet.
Eccleston’s guilty plea to one count of interstate travel to engage in sexual activity with a minor is announced by Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch; Matthew J. Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) for New England; and Colonel Ann C. Assumpico, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police.
According to court documents and information presented to the Court, on July 7, 2016, Eccleston responded to an online Personals/Encounters posting and photograph of a male who claimed to be 18-years-old and single. The online posting was actually posted earlier that day by a Rhode Island State Police Detective assigned to the Rhode Island State Police Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) task force.
According to court documents and information presented to the Court, over the next several days, an HSI agent posing as the person who placed the online posting and Eccleston engaged in a series of Internet and email communications. The communications quickly became sexual in nature. The agent, posing as the person who placed the online posting, repeatedly told Eccleston that he was only 15-years-old, adding that he lived with his mother. As the communications continued, and believing that he was actually communicating with a 15-year-old, Eccleston asked for photographs of the boy, including an explicit nude photograph.
According to court documents and information presented to the Court, at Eccleston’s urging, the two agreed to meet in East Providence on July 12, 2016, to engage in sexual activity. Rhode Island State Police, HSI agents and ICAC Task Force members arrested Eccleston in the parking lot of an East Providence shopping plaza near the location he believed he was meeting the 15-year-old boy.
According to court records, Eccleston, a registered sex offender, was ordered to register as a sex offender following his conviction of raping a teenage boy in Massachusetts in 2006.
Eccleston has been detained in federal custody since his arrest on July 12, 2016. He is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Court Chief Judge William E. Smith on December 15, 2017.
Interstate travel to engage in sexual activity with a minor is punishable by statutory penalties of up to 60 years in federal prison; a term of supervised release of 5 years; a fine of up to $250,000; and a mandatory special assessment of $5,000.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dulce Donovan.
The Rhode Island Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force is comprised of law enforcement personnel from the Rhode Island State Police, Homeland Security Investigations, United States Postal Inspection Services, and the Warwick, Cranston, East Providence, Newport, Pawtucket, North Kingstown, Portsmouth, and Woonsocket Police Departments.
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Justice Dept. Settles Discrimination Lawsuit Against State of RI and Dept. of CorrectionsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Justice Department announced today that it has reached a settlement agreement with the State of Rhode Island (the State or Rhode Island) and the Rhode Island Department of Corrections (RIDOC) to resolve its lawsuit alleging that the defendants engaged in a pattern or practice of employment discrimination against African American and Hispanic applicants for entry-level correctional officer positions in violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII). Title VII is a federal law that prohibits employment discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin or religion.
In a joint motion filed yesterday in the U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island, the Justice Department and Rhode Island asked the court for provisional approval and entry of the settlement agreement. Under the agreement, the State will adopt and use Title VII-compliant selection device(s) to hire entry-level correctional officers. The settlement agreement further provides for the priority hire of 18 eligible African American claimants and 19 eligible Hispanic claimants who were screened out of the hiring process by the employment tests challenged by the United States. All eligible claimants for priority hire relief must meet the employer’s otherwise lawful hiring criteria. The settlement further provides for an interim hiring process to address the State’s immediate operational needs as well as a monetary relief fund of $450,000 to compensate eligible claimants who were affected by the practices challenged by the United States. The settlement agreement is subject to court approval and the parties have requested, jointly, that the court schedule a fairness hearing so that those persons affected by the settlement agreement are afforded an opportunity to comment on its terms.
The proposed settlement agreement, if approved by the court, will resolve the Title VII complaint filed by the Justice Department on February 10, 2014. In its complaint, the Justice Department alleged that RIDOC’s use of written and video examinations as part of its multi-step selection process unnecessarily screened out African American and Hispanic applicants from further consideration in the hiring process resulting in a disparate impact against these applicants without the requisite showing that the employment practice is job-related and consistent with business necessity.
“This Settlement Agreement is the product of negotiations between the United States and the State of Rhode Island and has resulted in the expansion of equal employment opportunities,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General John Gore of the Civil Rights Division. “The Justice Department is committed to enforcing Title VII to remove unlawful discriminatory barriers.”
The case was brought by Trial Attorneys David Reese, Kunti D. Salazar and Emily Given of the Civil Rights Division’s Employment Litigation Section. Additional information about Title VII and other federal employment laws is available on the Civil Rights Division’s website at www.justice.gov/crt.
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Two Plead Guilty to Trafficking Fentanyl Laced HeroinRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – Agustin Acevedo, 50, and Dismery Uceta, 43, of Providence, pleaded guilty in federal court in Providence today to trafficking a kilogram of fentanyl laced heroin to Rhode Island from New York. Acevedo and Uceta were arrested in April 2016 as they drove to Rhode Island after picking up a kilogram of heroin in the Bronx.
Appearing before U.S. District Court Judge John J. McConnell, Jr., Agustin Acevedo pleaded guilty to one count each of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute heroin, and possession with the intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin. Dismery Uceta pleaded guilty to one count each of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin and possession with intent to distribute heroin.
Acevedo and Uceta’s guilty pleas are announced by Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch; Michael J. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of DEA, Colonel Ann C. Assumpico, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police, and Warwick Police Chief Colonel Stephen M. McCartney.
According to court documents and information presented to the court, in March 2016, as part of an ongoing DEA drug trafficking investigation, DEA agents and members of the Rhode Island DEA Drug Task Force determined that on April 29, 2016, Acevedo rented a vehicle in Rhode Island, and that he and Uceta drove to the Bronx, New York. They drove back to Rhode Island early the next day. As the vehicle was returning to Rhode Island, DEA agents, who were conducting surveillance of the vehicle, reported to Rhode Island State Police that the vehicle was traveling on Route 95 at speeds of approximately 80 mph. A Rhode Island State Trooper stopped the vehicle on Route 95 between exits 5 and 6 for speeding.
A speeding citation was issued to the driver, Agustin Acevedo. During the traffic stop, the trooper observed a brick-like object wrapped in a plastic bag in plain view in an open handbag on the floor of the vehicle. The occupants of the vehicle consented to a search of the vehicle and Uceta to a search of the handbag. A State Police K-9 gave a positive alert to the area near where the handbag was located. A field test of the brick-like object tested positive for heroin. Acevedo and Uceta were detained by DEA agents who also responded to the traffic stop.
On May 3, 2016, a Warwick Police Department Detective received the kilogram of suspected heroin for further analysis. He later identified the left index finger impression of Acevedo on the outer side of the kilogram wrapping. Forensic testing at the New England Regional Laboratory for DEA revealed that the kilogram of heroin was laced with fentanyl and dipyrone (an analgesic).
Acevedo and Uceta have been detained in federal custody since their arrest. They are scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge John J. McConnell, Jr., on December 4, 2017.
At sentencing, Agustin Acevedo faces statutory sentences of 5 - 40 years imprisonment followed by 4 years to lifetime supervised release, and up to a $5,000,000 fine on each charge; Dismery Uceta, faces statutory sentences of up to 20 years imprisonment followed by at least 3 years supervised release, and a fine of up to $1,000,000 on each charge.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul F. Daly, Jr.
The Rhode Island DEA Drug Task Force is comprised of law enforcement personnel from the DEA, Rhode Island State Police, and the Providence, East Providence, Central Falls, Woonsocket, West Warwick, Cranston, Pawtucket, Newport, South Kingstown, and Warwick Police Departments.
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Pawtucket Resident Admits to Trafficking Cocaine, Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – General Jones, 31, of Pawtucket, pleaded guilty in federal court in Providence today to trafficking cocaine and crack cocaine, announced Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch, Mickey Leadingham, Special Agent in Charge of the Boston Field Division of ATF, and Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves.
Appearing before U.S. District Court Judge John J. McConnell, Jr., Jones pleaded guilty to two counts of distribution of 28 grams or more of crack cocaine, and one count each of possession with the intent to distribute cocaine and possession with the intent to distribute 28 grams or more of crack cocaine.
At the time of his guilty plea, Jones admitted to the Court that on at least five occasions between October 17, 2016, and March 2, 2017, he sold between 30 and 49.95 grams of cocaine to an individual assisting the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and an ATF task force in an investigation of Jones’ drug trafficking activities. On at least three of those occasions, Jones sold the individual between 24.99 and 47.54 grams of crack cocaine.
According to information presented to the court, on March 9, 2017, ATF agents, members of the ATF task force and Pawtucket Police executed court authorized search warrants at two residences under the control of Jones in Pawtucket. At one location, used by Jones for his drug trafficking activity, law enforcement seized 368.39 grams of cocaine, 92.16 grams of crack cocaine and $13,020 in cash proceeds from the sale of cocaine and crack cocaine. At the second location law enforcement seized $8,000 in cash, proceeds from his drug trafficking activity. Law enforcement also seized $606 from Jones’ person, proceeds from the sale of cocaine and crack cocaine.
General Jones has been detained in federal custody since his arrest on March 9, 2017. He is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge John J. McConnell, Jr., on December 4, 2017.
Distribution of 28 grams or more of crack cocaine and possession with the intent to distribute crack cocaine are punishable by statutory penalties of between 5- 40 years in federal prison to be followed by a minimum of 5 years supervised release. Possession with the intent to distribute cocaine is punishable by statutory penalties of up to 20 years in federal prison to be followed a minimum of 3 years supervised release.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Milind M. Shah.
The ATF task force is comprised of agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Rhode Island State Police, Rhode Island Department of Corrections Special Investigations Unit, and the Pawtucket and Providence Police Departments.
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Providence Man Indicted for Trafficking Heroin, Fentanyl, CocaineRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – A federal grand jury in Providence on Tuesday returned a four-count indictment charging Ronny B. Nova, a/k/a Benancio, 31, of Providence, with trafficking cocaine, heroin and fentanyl.
It is alleged in court documents that the seizure of substantial quantities of fentanyl, heroin and cocaine from a Cranston apartment in November 2015, and the seizure of 6 kilograms of fentanyl by Missouri State Police during a traffic stop of a rental truck headed for Rhode Island approximately three weeks ago have been tied to Nova’s alleged drug trafficking activities.
Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch and Michael J. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New England Field Division announce the indictment of Ronny B. Nova on one count each of possession with the intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, possession with the intent to distribute five hundred grams or more of cocaine, conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute fentanyl, attempt to possess with the intent to distribute fentanyl, and possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl.
According to court documents, it is alleged that on November 17, 2015, an investigation into Nova’s drug trafficking activities included the purchase of 2.5 grams of heroin from Nova. Three days later, members of the Rhode Island DEA Drug Task Force executed a federal court authorized search of a residence with ties to Nova. Law enforcement seized 2,269.3 grams of cocaine, 1,954.1 grams of heroin, 348.4 grams of fentanyl, and 268.2 grams of acetaminophen.
According to court documents, approximately three weeks ago, Missouri State Police executed a traffic stop of a rental truck, inside of which it is alleged that they discovered a box containing six kilograms of fentanyl. The driver was arrested, and the fentanyl and the truck were seized. When interviewed by Missouri State Police, the driver allegedly told troopers that he left Baldwin Park, California, on August 20 with the fentanyl, with instructions that he was to bring the truck to a pre-determined location in Warwick, Rhode Island.
According to court documents, the DEA obtained a similar rental truck in Rhode Island, and on August 23 an undercover law enforcement officer, posing as the truck driver arrested in Missouri, drove the truck to the same location the truck allegedly carrying the fentanyl was to have been brought. Law enforcement watched as a vehicle entered the area and the driver surveilled the truck without leaving his vehicle. Shortly after, the undercover officer posing as the person instructed to drive the truck containing the fentanyl to Warwick, received a call and was directed to a different parking lot nearby. When the truck arrived at the second location, the same vehicle arrived and the driver, later identified as Ronny Nova, exited the vehicle and began to approach the truck. As he did so, law enforcement moved in and surrounded him. Nova allegedly tried to flee on foot but was detained a short distance away.
An indictment is merely an allegation and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul F. Daly and William J. Ferland.
The Rhode Island DEA Drug Task Force is comprised of personnel from the DEA and Providence, East Providence, Central Falls, Woonsocket, West Warwick, Cranston, Pawtucket, Newport, South Kingstown, and Warwick Police Departments, and the Rhode Island State Police.
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Financial Consultant Pleads Guilty to Fraud, Theft of Pension FundsRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE, R.I. – John M. Hairabet, Jr., 45, a former business associate and office manager of New England Anesthesiologists, Inc., and president of Anesthesia Management Consultants, LLC, pleaded guilty in federal court in Providence today to charges that he embezzled more than $700,000 dollars from bank accounts belonging to the medical firm and to an employee 401(k) pension fund.
Hairabet’s guilty plea to six counts of wire fraud, one count of pension fund theft and two counts of money laundering is announced by Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch; Brian Deck, Resident Agent in Charge of the Providence Office of the U.S. Secret Service; Joel P. Garland, Special Agent in Charge, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation; and Susan A. Hensley, Regional Director, U.S. Department of Labor Employee Benefits Security Administration.
Appearing before U.S. District Court Judge John J. McConnell, Jr., Hairabet admitted to the court that between October 2007 and August 12, 2013, in his capacity as an independent contractor bookkeeper and office manager of New England Anesthesiologists, and through his management consulting firm, Anesthesia Management Consultants, he embezzled $587,218.36 from bank accounts belonging to New England Anesthesiologists. Hairabet also admitted that he embezzled $120,313 in employee elective deferrals that were to be deposited into an employee 401 (k) pension fund.
Hairabet is scheduled to be sentenced on November 30, 2017. Wire fraud is punishable by up to 20 years imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000; money laundering is punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the amount of criminally deprived property; pension theft is punishable by up to 5 years imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ronald R. Gendron and Richard W. Rose.
The matter was investigated by IRS Criminal Investigation, the U.S. Secret Service and the U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration.
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Registered Sex Offender Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography ChargeRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – Victor C. Radbill, 33, of Woonsocket, pleaded guilty in federal court in Providence today to possession of child pornography.
Appearing before U.S. District Court Judge John J. McConnell, Jr., Radbill, a registered sex offender on state probation for a previous conviction of possession of child pornography, admitted that he owned a digital media storage card which contained images and videos of child pornography found inside a clothes dryer at a Lincoln laundromat in October 2016.
Victor Radbill’s guilty plea is announced by Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch; Lincoln Police Chief Brian W. Sullivan; and Colonel Ann C. Assumpico, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police.
According to information presented to the court, on October 22, 2016, an SD card from a cell phone was found inside a dryer at a Manville laundromat. An individual at the laundromat viewed the contents of the SD card, discovered images of child pornography, and saw “selfies” of a person he recognized as a customer of the laundromat. An employee of the laundromat notified Lincoln Police. A Lincoln Police Department detective identified evidence in this matter, including a surveillance photograph which depicted Radbill in the laundromat on the afternoon the SD card was discovered. The matter was then referred to the Rhode Island State Police Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) task force.
A court authorized search of the SD card by detectives assigned to the ICAC task force revealed more than 500 images and 3 videos of child pornography, and “selfies” of Radbill. The investigation by the ICAC task force determined that the images were possessed by Radbill at the same time he was serving a sentence of five years probation on a state conviction of possession of child pornography. The forensic examination of the contents of the SD card revealed that the “selfies” of Radbill were taken on the same model cell phone Radbill admitted to owning.
Radbill was charged by way of a federal indictment on December 20, 2016. He was arraigned and ordered detained on December 28, 2016. According to court records, Radbill was convicted in Rhode Island state court on July 21, 2015, on a charge of possession of child pornography and sentenced to five years suspended with five years probation.
Radbill is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge John J. McConnell, Jr., on November 28, 2017. Radbill faces a statutory sentence of between 10 and 20 years in federal prison, up to lifetime supervision, a fine of up to $250,000, and, unless the Court finds the defendant indigent, a mandatory $5,000 special assessment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sandra R. Hebert and Denise M. Barton.
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Providence Resident Sentenced to Prison on 3rd Firearm ConvictionRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – Brandon M. Crumady, 30, of Providence, was sentenced today to 42 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch and Providence Police Chief Colonel Hugh T. Clements, Jr.
At sentencing, U.S. District Court Judge John J. McConnell, Jr., also ordered Crumady to serve 3 years supervised release upon completion of his term of incarceration. Crumady pleaded guilty on June 14, 2017. The government and the defense recommended the court impose a sentence of 42 months incarceration. The U.S. Sentencing Guideline imprisonment range in this matter is 41-51 months.
This case represents the third time Crumady has been charged and convicted of illegally possessing a firearm.
According to information presented to the court, on May 9, 2016, a Providence Police officer patrolling the area around a nightclub preparing to close for the evening came upon an occupied vehicle in a nearby parking lot. The officer illuminated the interior of the vehicle, and, as he did, he saw the front seat passenger reach into his waistband, remove a firearm and toss it onto the back seat. The officer recognized Brandon Crumady as the passenger in the vehicle. The officer was aware that Crumady had previously been convicted of a firearm offense.
The officer approached the vehicle with his service weapon drawn, and kept watch of the firearm and the occupants of the vehicle until additional officers arrived. Crumady was arrested and a loaded semi-automatic firearm was removed from the back seat.
According to court records, this case represents the third time Crumady has been convicted of illegally possessing a firearm. Previously, Crumady was convicted in Rhode Island state court in March 2007 for carrying a pistol without a license and felony possession of controlled substance offenses. He was sentenced to 4 months in prison followed by 56 months probation.
In a separate matter, Crumady was convicted in federal court on May 23, 2012, for being a felon in possession of a firearm. He was sentenced on August 17, 2012, to 37 imprisonment to be followed by 3 years supervised release. Crumady was on federal supervised release when he was arrested in this matter on May 9, 2016.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Gerard B. Sullivan.
The matter was investigated by the Providence Police Department, with the assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
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Westerly Resident Indicted for Receipt, Possession and Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – A federal grand jury in Providence today returned a three-count indictment charging Jonathan Breslin, 33, of Westerly, with receipt, possession and distribution of child pornography.
Breslin has been detained in federal custody since his arrest on August 11, 2017, following a court authorized search of his residence by agents from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and members of the Rhode Island State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, with the assistance of members of the Westerly and Warwick Police Departments. During the search, law enforcement seized of a computer, a digital media storage device and a cell phone allegedly containing child pornography.
The indictment of Breslin is announced by Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch; Matthew J. Etre, Special Agent in Charge of HSI for New England; Colonel Ann C. Assumpico, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police; Westerly Police Chief Richard G. Silva; and Warwick Police Chief Colonel Stephen M. McCartney.
According to court documents and information presented to the court at the time of Breslin’s initial appearance in U.S. District Court, it is alleged that in late March 2016, a law enforcement officer in Saskatchewan, Canada, arrested an individual in an unrelated matter. A search of a cell phone belonging to the individual resulted in the discovery of an online mobile chat application allegedly used to discuss and share child pornography images and videos to a network of users. A review by Saskatchewan law enforcement identified 78 unique users who allegedly shared and/or communicated about child pornography.
Information developed and records obtained by Canadian law enforcement through Canadian court orders were provided to HSI agents who, through further investigation, identified IP address in the United States that were allegedly used to participate in some of the conversations, and/or to upload and view child pornography. Among the IP address identified was one allegedly belonging to Breslin.
Further investigation by an HSI agent in Rhode Island included online chats between Breslin and the agent posing as an individual interested in discussing, viewing and sharing child pornography. It is alleged that Breslin discussed viewing, possessing and attempted production of child pornography.
An indictment is merely an allegation and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Possession of child pornography is punishable statutory penalties of up to 10 years in federal prison, a fine of $250,000 and lifetime supervised. Receiving and distribution of child pornography are each punishable by statutory penalties of 5-20 years in federal prison, a fine of $250,000 and lifetime supervised release.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John P. McAdams.
The Rhode Island ICAC Task Force is comprised of members of the Rhode Island State Police Computer Crimes Unit along with detectives from the Warwick, Cranston, Newport, East Providence Police, Pawtucket, North Kingstown, Portsmouth and Woonsocket Police Departments and agents from Homeland Security Investigations and United States Postal Inspection Services.
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Two Indicted in Seizure of 19 Kilos of Cocaine Set for Delivery in Rhode IslandRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – A federal grand jury in Providence today returned a two-count indictment charging two men from Florida with conspiring to traffic cocaine in connection with the seizure by law enforcement of more than 19 kilograms of cocaine allegedly shipped to Rhode Island from Puerto Rico.
Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch; Shelly A. Binkowski, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division; and Colonel Ann C. Assumpico, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police announce the indictment of Rinaxo M. Rufino, 33, of Miramar, FL., and Gabriel Concepcion, 27, of Kissimmee, FL., which charges them with conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine.
Additionally, Concepcion is charged with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
An investigation by U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) Inspectors and members of the Rhode Island State Police High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force resulted in the seizure of more than 19 kilograms of cocaine allegedly shipped from Puerto Rico to residences in Providence, Woonsocket and Central Falls. Rufino and Conception were arrested on August 26, 2017, and ordered detained in federal custody following initial appearances the next day in U.S. District Court in Providence.
According to court documents and information presented to the Court, beginning on August 7, 2017, USPIS Inspectors intercepted five shipments of cocaine in various sized packages allegedly shipped from Puerto Rico to addresses in Providence, Woonsocket and Central Falls. Each of the packages were addressed to individuals not associated with the address to which the packages were shipped. In each instance, a police K-9 detected the odor of narcotics in each package prior to delivery. The packages were seized by law enforcement.
Rinaxo M. Rufino was arrested at a Central Falls residence on August 26, moments after he allegedly took possession of a package that he believed contained approximately 3 kilograms of cocaine. Gabriel Concepcion was arrested moments later after he was stopped by a Rhode Island State Police trooper as he allegedly drove away from the area of the residence. A loaded firearm was allegedly located in Conception’s vehicle.
It is alleged in court documents that Rufino and Concepcion, who had been under law enforcement surveillance for some time, were seen surveilling the area of the Central Falls residence prior to and after the package was left on the doorstep of the residence by a U.S. Postal carrier. Prior to the delivery of the package, USPIS Inspectors had removed the cocaine.
Prior to the arrest of Rufino and Concepcion, USPIS Postal Inspectors took custody of packages allegedly containing cocaine earmarked for delivery to other residences in Providence, Central Falls and Woonsocket. In each instance, a police K-9 allegedly detected the odor of narcotics in each package.
- On August 4, USPIS Inspectors took possession of a package addressed to a residence in Providence, which allegedly containing 8.16 kilograms of cocaine.
- On August 10, USPIS Inspectors took possession of a package addressed to a residence in Woonsocket, which allegedly contained 1.2 kilograms of cocaine.
- On August 26, USPIS Inspectors took possession of a package addressed to a residence in Woonsocket, which allegedly contained 3.48 kilograms of cocaine.
- On August 26, USPIS Inspectors took possession of a package addressed to Central Falls residence, different from the residence where Rufino was arrested. The package allegedly contained 3.48 kilograms of cocaine.
According to court documents, the investigation began in April 2017, when a package mailed from Providence to Puerto Rico was intercepted by USPIS Inspectors after a police K-9 allegedly reacted positively for the presence of the odor of narcotics. Acting on a federal court authorized search warrant, postal inspectors opened the package and discovered $58,010 in cash.
An indictment is merely an allegation and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine is punishable by statutory penalties of 10 years to life in federal prison, a fine of $4,000,000 and lifetime supervised release. Possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime is punishable by statutory penalties of up to 5 years in federal prison, a fine of $250,000 and 3 years supervised release.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney William J. Ferland.
Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch acknowledges and thanks the Cranston Police Department and Rhode Island State Police K-9 Units for their assistance in this investigation.
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Three Indicted on Federal Bankruptcy ChargesRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – A federal grand jury in Providence today returned indictments charging three individuals with fraud on the U.S. Bankruptcy Court. It is alleged that the defendants provided false information under oath in order to conceal cash funds they controlled when petitioning the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for bankruptcy protection.
Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch; Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division; and William Harrington, U.S. Trustee for Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Maine, and New Hampshire, announce the indictment of Marcus A. Collier, 51, of Pawtucket, with one count each of concealment of bankruptcy assets, false statements under oath and false bankruptcy declaration, and, in a separate matter, the indictment of Danys Rivera, 47 and Diana Acevedo, 51, of Providence, with one count each of concealment of bankruptcy assets, false statements under oath and false bankruptcy declaration.
In the matter of Marcus Collier, it is alleged in the indictment that, in documents filed under oath with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, the defendant concealed $18,000 from the trustee charged with control of the debtor's property, and from the creditors and the United States Trustee.
In the matter of Diana Acevedo and Danys Rivera, an indictment alleges that the defendants failed to disclose and did conceal an insurance settlement of $61,064.43 from the trustee charged with control of the debtor's property, and from the creditors and the United States Trustee.
An indictment is merely an allegation and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Concealment of bankruptcy assets, false statements under oath and false bankruptcy declaration are each punishable by statutory penalties of up to 5 years in federal prison, a fine of $250,000 and 3 years supervised release.
The cases, investigated by the FBI with the assistance of the U.S. Trustee, are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Denise M. Barton.
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Dominican National Sentenced to Prison, Faces Deportation for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – Francisco Fernandez, a/k/a Joel Antonio Santana Arias, 44, a Dominican national who resided in Lawrence, Mass., was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Providence, R.I., to 46 months in federal prison for possessing with the intent to distribute nearly two kilograms of cocaine. The cocaine was discovered inside Fernandez’s vehicle by a Rhode Island State Police trooper during a traffic stop in February 2017.
At sentencing, U.S. District Court Judge John J. McConnell, Jr., also ordered Fernandez to serve 3 years supervised release upon completion of his prison term. At the conclusion of his term of incarceration, Fernandez will be turned over to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for deportation proceedings.
The U.S. Sentencing Guidelines range of imprisonment in this matter is 37- 46 months. The government recommended the court impose a sentence of 46 months in prison.
Fernandez pleaded guilty on June 19, 2017, to possession with the intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine.
According to information presented to the court, on February 11, 2017, during a traffic stop of Fernandez’s vehicle on I-95 in West Greenwich by a Rhode Island State Police trooper, it was determined that Fernandez did not have a valid driver’s license. As forms of identification, Fernandez provided a Dominican Republic passport and a vehicle registration under the name of Joel Antonio Santana Arias. A further check determined that the name Joel Antonio Santana Arias was an alias for Francisco Fernandez, and revealed an active arrest warrant out of Massachusetts for Fernandez. It was also discovered that Fernandez had mutilated his fingerprints.
After Fernandez was taken into custody, a search of Mr. Fernandez’s vehicle by Rhode Island State Police revealed nearly two kilograms of cocaine inside a backpack, which was located on the front passenger floorboard.
Francisco Fernandez’s sentence is announced by Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch; Colonel Ann C. Assumpico, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police; and Matthew J. Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations for New England.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ly T. Chin, with the assistance of Assistant U.S. Attorney Zechariah Chafee.
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Opening Doors to Possibilities of Federal EmploymentRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – The United States Attorney’s Office today announced that the Federal Interagency Reentry Council and the Office of Personnel Management has created three free online virtual training presentations that will offer step-by-step instruction for identifying and applying for Federal employment opportunities via www.USJOBS.GOV. The training, open to anyone interested in seeking Federal employment, may be of particular interest to individuals reentering to the community from prison.
Employment opportunities, housing and medical services are among the most important resources necessary to help ensure that an individual is a productive member of their community. For the past several years, the United States Attorney’s Office, working collaboratively with the federal and state judiciaries, government agencies and community-based organizations, have identified and promoted key resources and services available to individuals returning to the community, after having completed their term of incarceration.
Beginning on Wednesday, September 6, 2017, free online virtual training programs to help identify Federal job opportunities, preparing resumes and job interviewing skills will be available, accessible via any computer.
“Employment, housing and medical care help form the basic foundation for a person becoming a productive member of their community. These free online training programs offer a terrific opportunity for individuals returning to their community from prison to start to build that foundation. Individuals who return from prison and become productive members of their community are a key component to reducing recidivism and making our communities safer,” said Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch.
On Thursday, September 7 and on Wednesday, September 27, a 90-minute training session will be provided on searching for Federal jobs on www.USJOBS.GOV, creating your account and profile, managing your account, reviewing Job Opportunity Announcements (JOA), submitting your applications, and following up on your application status.
To register for either class, click one of the links below:
Thursday, September 7, 2017 @ 10:00am –11:30am https://www.eventbrite.com/e/navigating-usajobs-find-apply-sept-7th-tickets-31278538952
Wednesday, September 27, 2017 @ 10:00am –11:30am https://www.eventbrite.com/e/navigating-usajobs-find-apply-sept-27th-tickets-37011121260
On Wednesday, September 13 and again on September 25, training will be provided on a three-part process to assist applicants in writing their Federal resume. Participants will be shown a real JOA and walked through reviewing the JOA to determine qualifications and interest, identifying the important requirements and then tailoring their resumes with that JOA. Lastly, it will provide a quick overview of the resume builder on USAJOBS.GOV.
To register for either class, click one of the links below:
Wednesday, September 13, 2017 @ 10:00am –11:30pm https://writingyourfederalresumesept13morning.eventbrite.com
Monday, September 25, 2017 @ 3:00pm –4:30pm https://writingyourfederalresumesept25.eventbrite.com
On Wednesday, September 6 and on Monday, September 11, 2017, participants will receive training on the interview process. The training explains the types of interviews (structured/unstructured), different delivery methods, types of common questions, responding utilizing the S.T.A.R (Situation/Task, Action, Result) method and how to also prepare for an interview.
To register for either class, click one of the links below:
Wednesday, September 6, 2017 @ 3:00pm – 4:00pm
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/interview-techniques-tickets-31677107080
Monday, September 11, 2017 @ 3:00pm – 4:00pm https://www.eventbrite.com/e/interview-techniques-tickets-36998314956
Two Plead Guilty in Operation of Butane Hash Oil LabRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – Two men pleaded guilty today in federal court in Providence, admitting to their roles in the operation of a butane hash oil (BHO) manufacturing laboratory inside a former warehouse in Providence. Investigators believe that a March 9, 2015 fire, which destroyed the Kinsley Avenue warehouse, began in a room where the BHO lab was located.
Appearing before U.S. District Court Judge John J. McConnell, Jr., Christopher White, 51, of Warwick, pleaded guilty to endangering human life while illegally manufacturing a controlled substance. Graeme Marshall, 52, of Cranston, pleaded guilty to money laundering.
Christopher White and Graeme Marshall’s guilty pleas are announced by Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch; Mickey Leadingham, Special Agent in Charge of the Boston Field Division of Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Michael J. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New England Field Division; Providence Public Safety Commissioner Steven M. Pare; and Colonel Ann C. Assumpico, Rhode Island Public Safety Commissioner and Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police.
According to court documents and information presented to the court, White and Marshall operated Grosca, LLC, a company that leased the warehouse where White and Marshall operated a business that designed, produced and sold indoor equipment and supplies for indoor marijuana cultivation.
According to court documents, White and Marshall used a portion of the warehouse to operate a BHO lab, which, over a period of approximately two years, was used to manufacture over 1,000 grams of hash oil that was sold for between $15 and $30 per gram. Proceeds from the sale of hash oil were deposited into a Grosca, LLC, bank account, comingled with proceeds from the sale of equipment and other Grosca, LLC ventures. The transactions were designed to conceal the nature, source, ownership and control of the proceeds of the hash oil sales.
White and Marshall are scheduled to be sentenced on November 13, 2017.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sandra R. Hebert.
The matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Drug Enforcement Administration; Providence Police Department; Providence Fire Marshal’s Office; Rhode Island State Police; and the Rhode Island State Fire Marshal’s Office.
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Two Men Ordered Detained; 12 Kilograms of Cocaine SeizedRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – An investigation by U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) Inspectors and members of the Rhode Island State Police High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force has resulted in the seizure of more than 12 kilograms of cocaine allegedly shipped to Rhode Island from Puerto Rico, and the arrest and federal detention of two Florida men.
The two men, Rinaxo M. Rufino, 33, of Miramar, FL., and Gabriel Concepcion, 27, of Kissimmee, FL., arrested on August 26, 2017, were ordered detained in federal custody following initial appearances on Monday in U.S. District Court in Providence.
Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch; Shelly A. Binkowski, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division; and Colonel Ann C. Assumpico, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police announce the arrest and detention of Rufino and Concepcion on criminal complaints charging each with conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and possession with the intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. Additionally, Concepcion is charged with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Since August 7, 2017, USPIS Inspectors have intercepted three shipments of cocaine in various sized packages allegedly shipped from Puerto Rico to addresses in Providence, Woonsocket and Central Falls. Each of the packages were addressed to individuals not associated with the address to which the packages were shipped. In each instance, a police K-9 detected the odor of narcotics in each package prior to delivery. The packages were seized by law enforcement.
Rinaxo M. Rufino was arrested on August 26, moments after he allegedly took possession of a package he believed to contain approximately 3 kilograms of cocaine at a Central Falls residence. Gabriel Concepcion was arrested moments later after he was stopped by a Rhode Island State Police Trooper as he allegedly drove away from the area of the residence. A loaded firearm was allegedly located in Conception’s vehicle.
It is alleged in court documents that Rufino and Concepcion, who had been under law enforcement surveillance for some time, were seen surveilling the area of the Central Falls residence prior to and after the package was left on the doorstep of the residence by a U.S. Postal carrier. Prior to the delivery of the package, USPIS Inspectors had removed the cocaine.
Earlier in the investigation, USPIS Postal Inspectors in Providence took custody of packages allegedly containing cocaine, which were earmarked for delivery to residences in Providence and Woonsocket. In each instance, a police K-9 allegedly detected the odor of narcotics in each package.
On August 4, 2017, USPIS Inspectors took possession of a package addressed to a residence in Providence. The package allegedly contained 8.16 kilograms of cocaine. On August 10, USPIS Inspectors took possession of a package addressed to a residence in Woonsocket. The package allegedly contained 1.2 kilograms of cocaine.
According to court documents, the investigation began in April 2017, when a package mailed from Providence to Puerto Rico was intercepted by USPIS Inspectors after a police K-9 allegedly reacted positively for the presence of the odor of narcotics. Acting on a federal court authorized search warrant, postal inspectors opened the package and discovered $58,010 in cash.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney William J. Ferland.
Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch acknowledges and thanks the Cranston Police Department and Rhode Island State Police K-9 Units for their assistance in this investigation.
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Former Police Officer Pleads Guilty to Trafficking Steroids, Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – Evan Speck, 34, of Westerly, R.I., a former Charlestown, R.I., police officer, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Providence today to charges that he trafficked steroids and laundered the proceeds from his sales.
Appearing before U.S. District Court Chief Judge William E. Smith, Speck pleaded guilty to an information charging him with possession with the intent to distribute steroids, distribution of a misbranded drug, and money laundering.
Speck’s guilty plea is announced by Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch; Jeffrey Ebersole, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Office of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Office of Criminal Investigations; Joel P. Garland, Special Agent in Charge, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation; Shelly A. Binkowski, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division; and Matthew J. Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations for New England.
According to information presented to the Court, on March 20, 2017, federal investigators executed a court-authorized search of Speck’s residence, and encountered items associated with the receipt, packaging and resale of steroids and other performance enhancing drugs. The residence also contained numerous labels containing the name under which he sold steroids, TabMan Pharmaceuticals.
Investigators also seized various false identification documents, ledgers, and cash. The ledgers show that from approximately June 2015 to the date of the search, Speck received $536,000 from the sale of steroids and other drugs. Investigators also seized two firearms from Speck’s residence, and a loaded firearm found stashed in his vehicle.
According to information presented to the Court, Speck had been ordering Testosterone Cipionate from China since at least the beginning of 2015, repackaging the drug and selling it to his customers. At no time either upon receipt by the defendant nor after repackaging it under the name “TabMan Pharmaceuticals” did the testosterone contain labeling specifying directions for its use.
Speck conducted his drug transactions through third party, member only, and web based steroid boards to connect with potential customers. He communicated with his customers, many of whom were professional and amateur bodybuilders, and distributors of raw products utilizing encrypted emails and varying email addresses. He utilized text message software that would eliminate texts after they were read.
To conceal the movement of funds, Speck utilized various money remittance services, utilizing false names to conceal his identity as both the sender and recipient of tainted funds. Speck, his customers and distributors of raw product, utilized regularly changing intermediary nominees, domestically and abroad, to receive money remittances.
The defendant also used crypto-cyber currency, Bitcoin, to conceal both the purchase and sales of products.
According to court documents, Speck will forfeit to the government the three firearms and a total of $17,954 in cash seized during the court authorized search of his home; and will, based on his narcotics trafficking, as charged in the information, forfeit a sum of money equal to the total value of forfeitable assets, in the amount of $536,000.
Additionally, the government and Speck have agreed that for the purpose of calculating the appropriate sentencing guideline range, the defendant possessed a dangerous weapon in connection with drug trafficking and the defendant distributed an anabolic steroid to an athlete.
Speck is scheduled to be sentenced on November 3, 2017 by U.S. District Court Chief Judge William E. Smith.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Dulce Donovan and Mary E. Rogers, with the assistance of Assistant U.S. Attorney John P. McAdams.
The matter was investigated by the Rhode Island FDA Office of Criminal Investigations task force, IRS Criminal Investigation, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and Homeland Security Investigations.
The Rhode Island FDA Office of Criminal Investigations task force is comprised of agents and officers from the FDA, IRS, DEA, HSI, Rhode Island State Police and the East Providence, North Providence and Westerly Police Departments.
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Former Attleboro Police Sergeant Pleads Guilty to Attempting to Receive Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE –Richard F. Woodhead, 54, of South Attleboro, Mass., a former Attleboro police sergeant, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Providence today to an information charging him with attempted receipt of child pornography, announced Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch; Colonel Ann C. Assumpico, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police; and Matthew J. Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) for New England.
Woodhead was arrested on April 6, 2017, by HSI agents and members of the ICAC task force.
According to information presented to the Court, between September 22, 2016, and January 19, 2017, Woodhead posted an online advertisement entitled, “Perv on your daughter – m4m.” In this advertisement, the defendant requested to see nude pictures of people’s daughters. Woodhead posted this advertisement online multiple times between September 2016 and January 2017.
In January 2017, a Rhode Island State Police detective assigned to the ICAC task force discovered the “Perv on your daughter” advertisement. The detective responded to the advertisement in an undercover capacity, and communicated with Woodhead via email. The detective pretended to be the guardian of a young child. During these conversations, Woodhead requested a photograph of the child and described in explicit terms the types of sexual relations he wanted to have with the child.
On January 26, 2017, Woodhead agreed to continue the conversations via telephone. An HSI agent, acting in an undercover capacity as the guardian, had three conversations with Woodhead, all of which were recorded by law enforcement. During these telephone calls, the agent and the defendant discussed meeting so that Woodhead might engage in sexual relations with the child. During these conversations, Woodhead asked the agent to send him naked pictures of the child so that he could become sexually aroused.
On April 6, 2017, ICAC task force members and HSI agents executed a court-authorized search warrant at the defendant’s residence in South Attleboro. During that search, behind a wall in a secret compartment of a closet off of the master bedroom, a state police detective located a thumb drive and four discs, along with nylons, two bottles of acetone, and a picture of a school-aged female. One disc contained a video, which depicted prepubescent boys masturbating and engaging in sexual acts. The thumb drive contained nude photographs of minor teenage girls engaged in the lascivious exhibition of the genitals.
U.S. District Court Chief Judge William E. Smith, who accepted Woodhead’s guilty plea, is scheduled to sentence Woodhead on November 3, 2017.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sandra R. Hebert.
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Rhode Island Physicians Group Employee Indicted on Extortion ChargesRead the Press Release
Randy Lutz Indictment PROVIDENCE – Randy Lutz, 35, of Providence, a former employee of a non-profit physicians group located in Providence, R.I., was indicted by a federal grand jury on Tuesday on charges that he allegedly demanded $25,000 in extortion payments for the return of digital media devices onto which he downloaded and took home private patient data and employee data belonging to the physicians group, without the knowledge and authorization of the physicians group.It is alleged in the indictment that Lutz’s extortion demands were made in a series of emails, text messages and telephone calls to executives, board members and employees of the physicians group after his employment with the physicians group was terminated on May 3, 2017.
The indictment of Randy Lutz is announced by Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch and Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Boston Division.
On July 20, 2017, during an investigation by the FBI and the United States Attorney’s Office into this matter, FBI agents and FBI Task Force officers executed a court authorized search of Lutz’s residence. During the search, several thumb drives, a laptop computer and cell phone were seized. Some of the devices allegedly contained private patient data and employee data belonging to the physicians group.
According to information presented to the court, it is alleged that after the search of Lutz’s residence was completed and members of law enforcement left the residence, Lutz telephoned an officer of the physicians group and emailed a high-ranking officer at Lifespan to further discuss the matter.
An indictment is merely an allegation and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Lutz was charged in this matter by way of a federal criminal complaint on July 24, 2017.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Terrence P. Donnelly.
Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch and Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Boston Division acknowledge and thank the Providence Police Department for their assistance in the investigation of this matter.
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Pawtucket Resident Indicted on Heroin Trafficking, Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – A federal grand jury in Providence returned a 15-count indictment charging Leoner J. Leonardo, 21, of Pawtucket, with conspiracy, trafficking heroin, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number; and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
An investigation into Leonardo’s alleged drug trafficking activities was launched by the Pawtucket Police Department as the result of citizen complaints of alleged drug trafficking in the neighborhood in which Leonardo resided.
The indictment, returned on Tuesday, is announced by Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch; Pawtucket Acting Police Chief Tina Goncalves; Michael J. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) New England Field Division.; and Mickey D. Leadingham, Special Agent in Charge of the Boston Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
It is alleged that on at least 10 occasions between June 2 and July 7, 2017, during an investigation into Leonardo’s alleged drug trafficking activities, an undercover law enforcement officer made purchases of between 6.5 and .67 grams of heroin from Leonardo.
On July 11, 2017, Pawtucket Police along with task force officers from the DEA and ATF executed a court authorized search of Leonardo’s residence and seized nearly 19 grams of heroin, various items used in the packaging and distribution of heroin, $113 in cash, and a loaded .25 caliber hand gun with the safety lever off and the hammer cocked back ready to use. The serial number on the firearm had been obliterated.
According to court records, Leonardo has two previous convictions in Rhode Island state court for drug offenses.
An indictment is merely an allegation and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ronald R. Gendron.
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Cranston Resident Indicted, Detained on Firearms, Drug Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – Derek Plomaritis, 26, of Cranston, was ordered detained following his arraignment in U.S. District Court on Tuesday on a 5-count federal indictment charging him with making false statements to licensed firearms dealers and on Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) forms when purchasing a total of four firearms; being in possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes; being in possession of a firearm while being an unlawful user of a controlled substance; and possession with the intent to distribute marijuana.
During the November 2016 acquisition of a 9mm semi-automatic pistol and a 7.62 mm semi-automatic pistol from a federally licensed firearms dealer, and the January 2017 acquisition of a Glock 9mm semi-automatic pistol and a Beretta 9mm semi-automatic pistol from a second licensed firearms dealer, it is alleged that Plomaritis falsely answered a question on ATF forms about unlawful use of marijuana, narcotics or any other controlled substance.
The indictment and arraignment of Plomaritis are announced by Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch; Cranston Police Chief Colonel Michael J. Winquist; and Mickey Leadingham, Special Agent in Charge of the Boston Field Division of ATF.
According to information presented to the court, on June 6, 2017, an ATF agent contacted Plomaritis to meet and discuss his purchase of the firearms. Plomaritis agreed to meet at the ATF office to speak with the agent, and said that he was on his way. He failed to appear. Rather, a Cranston Police detective assisting ATF with the investigation observed Plomaritis leaving the area of his residence, speeding and running stop signs in a Mercedes. A short time later, Plomaritis was observed by the same detective on a motorbike, speeding and running stop signs before returning to the driveway of his residence. The detective followed behind and identified himself in the driveway of Plomaritis’ residence. Plomaritis tried to leave on the motorbike, but was blocked by the detective.
The detective allegedly detected an odor of marijuana on and around Plomaritis. It is alleged that the detective discovered marijuana and one of the firearms purchased by Plomaritis inside a backpack carried by Plomaritis. The detective also smelled marijuana coming from the residence and observed from the basement window of the residence, a marijuana grow. A search of Plomaritis’ residence with Plomaritis’ consent allegedly resulted in the seizure of 13 adult marijuana plants, 24 seedlings, and more than 700 grams of marijuana in plastic bags stashed in attic space above a hallway closet. The three other firearms purchased by Plomaritis, along with approximately 11 magazines and a substantial amount of ammunition, were also seized from the residence. One of the two loaded firearms found inside the residence was found on a dining room chair feet away from a child’s high chair.
An indictment is merely an allegation and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ly T. Chin.
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Central Falls Residents Indicted in Alleged Fraud, Stolen ID SchemeRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – A federal grand jury in Providence on Tuesday returned a 10-count superseding indictment charging Reynaldo Martinez, 25, of Central Falls, with participating in a conspiracy to use stolen personal identifying information to open or attempt to open retail store credit cards and lines of credits used to purchase tens of thousands of dollars worth of goods and services in Rhode Island and Massachusetts.
Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch and Brian Deck, Resident Agent in Charge of the United States Secret Service, announced the indictment, which charges Martinez with four counts of aggravated identity theft, two counts of access fraud, and one count each of bank fraud, conspiracy to commit fraud, attempted access fraud and interstate transportation of stolen goods.
According to court documents, it is alleged that for nearly one year beginning in June 2016, Martinez used stolen identities, fraudulent driver’s licenses and fraudulent ID cards to open or attempt to open retail store credit cards and lines of credit in stores in Rhode Island and Massachusetts to purchase or attempt to purchase among other items electronic goods, iPhones, clothing and furniture, and to pay for approximately $14,000 in auto repairs. According to court documents, it is alleged that the stolen identities and personal information belonged to individuals from at least nine states.
The investigation into this alleged conspiracy is continuing.
Reynaldo Martinez was first charged in this matter by way of a criminal complaint on May 17, 2017. He was arrested on May 24 and ordered detained in federal custody. A federal grand jury returned an indictment in this matter on June 20. The grand jury returned a superseding indictment on Tuesday. Martinez remains detained in federal custody.
An indictment is merely an allegation and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney William J. Ferland.
Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch acknowledges and thanks the Middletown, Warwick, Richmond and Central Falls, R.I., Police Departments; Rhode Island State Police; Mansfield and Seekonk, Mass, Police Departments; West Hartford and Hamden, Conn., Police Departments; and the Richardson, Texas, Police Department for their assistance in gathering and providing information to the United States Attorney’s Office in Rhode Island and the United States Secret Service New England Electronic Crimes Task Force.
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Providence Plan Finance Director Sentenced for Embezzling $742,190Read the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – Charles F. Denno, 67, of East Providence, a former finance director for the Providence Plan, was sentenced today to 33 months in federal prison for devising and executing a scheme in which he fraudulently converted $742,190.69 of Providence Plan funds for his personal use.
The Providence Plan is a non-profit educational entity, which receives federal, state and private grant funds, including funds from the United States Department of Education and the Bloomberg Family Foundation. These grant funds are to be used to support educational and other programs for adults and children in Rhode Island. Annually, the federal grant funds awarded to the Providence Plan totaled in excess of four million dollars.
At sentencing, U.S. District Court Chief Judge William E. Smith also ordered Denno to serve 3 years supervised release and to perform 100 hours of community service upon completion of his term of incarceration. Denno was ordered to pay $630,000 restitution to The Providence Plan. He pleaded guilty on March 22, 2017, to wire fraud.
The Federal Sentencing Guidelines range of imprisonment in this matter is 33 – 41 months. The government recommended the court impose a sentence of 33 months in prison.
Denno’s sentence is announced by Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch; Colonel Ann C. Assumpico, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police; Thomas Utz, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Education Office of Inspector General; and Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division.
At the time of his guilty plea, Denno admitted to the court that from November 2012 through July 2016, he used his authority to cause the U.S. Department of Education and the Bloomberg Family foundation to deposit funds into Providence Plan bank accounts, and then fraudulently converted funds to his own accounts and personal use. Denno admitted that he fraudulently prepared and issued Providence Plan checks made payable to CMG Enterprises, an entity he owned. The payments issued to CMG and deposited into a CMG bank account were not authorized and contained a forgery of the authorized check signing official at the Providence Plan. Denno subsequently made multiple withdrawals from the CMG bank account in various forms, including credit card payments, check payments and ATM cash withdrawals at Twin River Casino.
The matter, prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John P. McAdams, was investigated by the Rhode Island State Police Gaming Enforcement Unit, the U.S. Department of Education Office of Inspector General, and the FBI.
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Westerly Resident Detained on Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – Jonathan Breslin, 32, of Westerly, was ordered detained in federal custody following his initial appearance in federal court in Providence today before U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Patricia A. Sullivan on a criminal complaint charging him with receiving and distributing child pornography; possessing and accessing with intent to view child pornography; transfer of obscene material to a minor via interstate commerce; and attempted production of child pornography.
Breslin was arrested earlier today following a federal court authorized search of his Westerly residence, and the seizure of a computer, a digital media storage device, and a cell phone allegedly containing child pornography. The search was conducted by agents from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and members of the Rhode Island State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, with the assistance of members of the Westerly and Warwick Police Departments.
Breslin’s arrest, initial appearance in U.S. District Court and detention are announced by Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch; Matthew J. Etre, Special Agent in Charge of HSI for New England; Colonel Ann C. Assumpico, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police; Westerly Police Chief Richard G. Silva; and Warwick Police Chief Colonel Stephen M. McCartney.
According to court documents, it is alleged that in late March 2016, a law enforcement officer in Saskatchewan, Canada, arrested an individual in an unrelated matter. A search of a cell phone belonging to the individual resulted in the discovery of an online mobile chat application allegedly used to discuss and share child pornography images and videos to a network of users. A review by Saskatchewan law enforcement identified 78 unique users who allegedly shared and/or communicated about child pornography.
Information developed and records obtained by Canadian law enforcement through Canadian court orders were provided to HSI agents who, through further investigation, identified IP address in the United States that were allegedly used to participate in some of the conversations, and/or to upload and view child pornography. Among the IP address identified was one allegedly belonging to Breslin.
Further investigation by an HSI agent in Rhode Island included online chats between Breslin and the agent posing as an individual interested in discussing, viewing and sharing child pornography. It is alleged that Breslin discussed viewing, possessing and attempted production of child pornography.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John P. McAdams.
The Rhode Island ICAC Task Force is comprised of members of the Rhode Island State Police Computer Crimes Unit along with detectives from the Warwick, Cranston, Newport, East Providence Police, Pawtucket, North Kingstown, Portsmouth and Woonsocket Police Departments and agents from Homeland Security Investigations and United States Postal Inspection Services.
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Registered Sex Offender Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison on Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – Ryan J. Lebrun, 24, of Pawtucket, was sentenced today to 180 months (15 years) in federal prison for possessing and distributing child pornography. According to court records, Lebrun, a registered sex offender, was previously convicted in Rhode Island state court in two unrelated child pornography cases.
At sentencing, U.S. District Judge John J. McConnell, Jr., also ordered Lebrun to serve 10 years supervised upon completion of his prison term. Lebrun pleaded guilty on February 14, 2017, to two counts of distribution of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography.
The U.S. Sentencing Guidelines range of imprisonment in this matter is 180-188 months. The government recommended the court impose a sentence of 180 months in prison.
Lebrun’s sentence is announced by Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch; Matthew J. Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) for New England; Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division; and Colonel Ann C. Assumpico, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police.
According to court records and information presented to the court, in June 2015, while conducting an investigation into the sharing of child pornography, German law enforcement accepted an online solicitation on a Peer to Peer (P2P) file sharing program from an individual later identified as Ryan Lebrun. German authorities were able to access Lebrun’s files and library from which they downloaded several files of child pornography.
In September 2015, HSI in Rhode Island was notified by HSI Cyber Crimes Center via Interpol, Wiesbaden, Germany, of Lebrun’s online activities. HSI agents in Rhode Island viewed Lebrun’s files and library, and identified approximately 21 images and 3 videos of child pornography.
In October 2015, it was learned that the FBI was also investigating Lebrun’s activities on the P2P file sharing program. The FBI also downloaded images of child pornography from Lebrun’s files and engaged in online chats with Lebrun.
Additionally, in October 2015, the Rhode Island State Police Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) task force received information from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children regarding a Google email account that contained child pornography. The email account, which also contained an image of Lebrun, was determined by Rhode Island State Police to belong to Lebrun.
On November 9, 2015, HSI, FBI and a Rhode Island State Trooper assigned to the ICAC executed a court authorized search warrant at Lebrun’s Pawtucket residence. The search resulted in the seizure of, among other things, numerous electronic devices and digital storage cards. A forensic examination of the devices and storage cards identified more than 200 videos and 90 images of child pornography.
According to court records, Lebrun, a registered sex offender, was twice convicted in Rhode Island state court on child pornography charges. On April 16, 2011, Lebrun was arrested by the Warwick Police Department and charged with possession of child pornography. He pleaded guilty and on November 10, 2011, he was sentenced to 3 years of probation. On April 17, 2013, Lebrun was arrested by Rhode Island State Police and charged with possession and transfer of child pornography. He pleaded guilty and on November 20, 2013, was sentenced to 5 years of incarceration with 2 years to serve.
Lebrun has been detained in federal custody since his arrest on November 10, 2015.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Gerard B. Sullivan.
Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch acknowledges and thanks the Warwick Police Department for their assistance in the investigation of this matter.
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Providence Resident Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Sex Trafficking 14-Year-Old Group Home ResidentRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Paul Monteiro, a/k/a Peezy, 32, of Providence, was sentenced today to 144 months (12 years) in federal prison for transporting a 14-year-old Rhode Island girl to New Jersey for the purpose of engaging in commercial sexual activity.
Monteiro and the minor female were located in a hotel room in Franklin Township, New Jersey, on April 6, 2015, by agents and officers from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the FBI and Franklin Township police, five months after she was reported missing from a group home in Rhode Island.
At sentencing, U.S. District Court Chief Judge William E. Smith also ordered Monteiro to serve 5 years supervised release upon completion of his term of incarceration. The court deferred ruling on restitution to the victim to a later date. Monteiro pleaded guilty on October 6, 2016, to sex trafficking of a child.
The mandatory minimum sentence in this matter is 120 months imprisonment. The U.S. Sentencing Guidelines range of imprisonment in this matter is 151-188 months. The government recommended the court impose a sentence of 188 months in prison.
Monteiro’s sentence is announced by Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch; Colonel Ann C. Assumpico, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police; Matthew J. Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) for New England; and Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division.
In March 23, 2015, Rhode Island State Police detectives received information from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children of a report of a juvenile female from Rhode Island who had allegedly been sexually molested by an adult male she met on Facebook. The investigation determined that the victim was a 14-year-old girl reported missing on November 20, 2014, from a group home in Rhode Island.
According to court documents, on April 6, 2015, Rhode Island State Police tracked a cell phone in the possession of the missing teenager to Franklin Township, New Jersey. Agents from HSI and the FBI, and police officers from Franklin Township located the missing girl and Paul Monteiro in a hotel room in Franklin Township. Monteiro was arrested by Franklin Township police on New Jersey state charges and detained.
As a result of information provided to investigators by the victim, an HSI agent located a Backpage.com advertisement depicting the young girl and a solicitation for male companionship. The girl later confirmed for investigators that she was the person in the picture and that Monteiro arranged for her to participate in sex acts with at least two individuals who responded to the advertisement.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John P. McAdams.
The United States Attorney’s Office acknowledges and thanks the Somerset County, New Jersey, Prosecutor’s Office for their assistance in ensuring the quick return of Paul Monteiro to Rhode Island for prosecution in U.S. District Court in Providence.
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Massachusetts Resident Detained on Meth Trafficking ChargeRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – Gregory Lee, 48, of Provincetown, MA, was ordered detained in federal custody following an initial appearance today in U.S. District Court in Providence on a criminal complaint charging him with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Lee was arrested by Warwick Police on Saturday after they allegedly seized more than 230 grams of methamphetamine from his vehicle.
According to an affidavit in support of a criminal complaint, it is alleged that Warwick Police received a call Saturday morning reporting that an individual was passed out in a vehicle parked in a retail store parking lot. After several attempts, an officer was able to roust Lee, who appeared nervous and then began to look around his vehicle, under his body and legs, and grab various items within the vehicle. An officer ordered Lee to exit the vehicle.
According to the affidavit, after Lee exited the vehicle, at least twice he allegedly attempted to the shield the interior of the vehicle from police. After allegedly denying he was in possession of any illegal narcotics, Lee agreed to allow the officers to search his vehicle. It is alleged in the affidavit that inside a backpack located on the front seat of the vehicle officers seized two large plastic bags, which tested positive for methamphetamine. The bags of methamphetamine weighed 115.9 and 115.6 grams respectively.
Lee’s arrest and detention are announced by Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch and Warwick Police Chief Colonel Stephen M. McCartney.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ly T. Chin.
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Westerly Resident to Plead Guilty to Trafficking Steroids, Money Laundering ChargesRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – According to signed documents filed today in U.S. District Court in Providence, Evan Speck, 34, of Charlestown, has agreed to plead guilty to an information charging him with possession with the intent to distribute steroids, distribution of a misbranded drug, and money laundering.
According to a plea agreement filed in this matter, in addition to pleading guilty to possession with the intent to distribute steroids, distribution of a misbranded drug, and money laundering, Speck will forfeit to the government 3 firearms and a total of $17,954 in cash seized during a court authorized search executed on March 20, 2017, during the investigation into this matter; and will, based on his narcotics trafficking, as charged in the information, forfeit a sum of money equal to the total value of forfeitable assets, in the amount of $536,000.
According to court documents, the government and Speck have agreed that for the purpose of calculating the appropriate sentencing guideline range, the amount of steroids relevant to count one of the information is the equivalent of 79.99 kilograms of marijuana; the defendant possessed a dangerous weapon in connection with drug trafficking; and the defendant distributed an anabolic steroid to an athlete.
An information is merely an allegation and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Today’s court filings are announced by Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch; Jeffrey Ebersole, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Office of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Office of Criminal Investigations; Joel P. Garland, Special Agent in Charge, Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Criminal Investigation; Shelly A. Binkowski, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division; and Matthew J. Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) for New England.
Possession with the intent to distribute steroids is punishable by statutory penalties up to 10 years imprisonment, a fine of $500,000, and a term of supervised release of 3 years. Distribution of a misbranded drug is punishable by statutory penalties up to 3 years imprisonment, a fine of $250,000, and a term of supervised release of 1 year. Money laundering is punishable by statutory penalties of up to 20 years imprisonment, a fine of $500,00, and a term of supervised release of 3 years.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Dulce Donovan and Mary E. Rogers.
The matter was investigated by the Rhode Island FDA Office of Criminal Investigations Task Force, IRS Criminal Investigation, U.S. Postal Inspection Service and Homeland Security Investigations.
The Rhode Island FDA Office of Criminal Investigations Task Force is comprised of agents and officers from the FDA, IRS, DEA, HSI, Rhode Island State Police and the East Providence, North Providence and Westerly Police Departments.
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2nd West Warwick Resident Pleads Guilty to Drug Trafficking, Bank Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – Robert Wilkins, 26, of West Warwick pleaded guilty today to federal heroin, cocaine and crack cocaine trafficking charges, announced Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch; Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division; and Colonel Ann C. Assumpico, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police.
Appearing before U.S. District Court Chief Judge William E. Smith, Wilkins pleaded guilty to one count each of conspiracy to deliver heroin, possession with the intent to deliver heroin, conspiracy to deliver 28 grams or more of cocaine base, possession with the intent to deliver cocaine base, possession with the intent to deliver cocaine, three counts of delivery of heroin, fifteen counts of delivery of cocaine base, and one count of bank fraud.
A codefendant in this matter, Christian M. Domenech, 23, of West Warwick, pleaded guilty on July 14, 2017, before U.S. District Court Chief Judge William E. Smith, to one count each of conspiracy to deliver heroin, possession with the intent to distribute heroin, possession with the intent to distribute cocaine, possession with the intent to distribute cocaine base, three counts of distribution of heroin, fifteen counts of delivery of cocaine base, and one count of bank fraud.
According to court documents and information presented to the court, a three-month investigation by the FBI Safe Streets Task Force into the defendants’ drug trafficking activity included numerous purchases from the defendants of between one gram and seven grams of crack cocaine and heroin for between $80 dollars and $350 dollars. Each transaction was monitored by law enforcement.
Additionally, a Rhode Island State Police Financial Crimes Unit investigation determined that beginning in December 2015, the defendants created and deposited bogus checks into bank accounts each established, and withdrew some of those funds. The investigation determined that Christian Domenech deposited a total of $10,000 in bogus checks and withdrew $2,000 in cash. Robert Wilkins deposited a total of $10,000 in bogus checks and withdrew a total of $2,099.55.
On July 12, 2016, FBI Safe Street Task Force agents, with the assistance of the West Warwick Police Department and the DEA, executed a court authorized search of the defendants’ West Warwick residence. Varying quantities of cocaine, crack cocaine, and heroin was seized, along with approximately $800 in cash. Law enforcement also seized two vehicles.
Robert Wilkins and Christian Domenech, who have been detained in federal custody since their arrest, are scheduled to be sentenced on October 20, 2017.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ronald R. Gendron.
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Attleboro, Mass., Resident to Plead Guilty to Child Pornography ChargeRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – According to documents filed in U.S. District Court in Providence, Richard F. Woodhead, 54, of South Attleboro, Mass., has agreed to plead guilty to an information charging him with attempted receipt of child pornography, announced Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch; Colonel Ann C. Assumpico, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police; and Matthew J. Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) for New England.
Woodhead was arrested on April 6, 2017, by Homeland Security Investigation agents and members of the Rhode Island State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force following a court authorized search of his residence.
According to court documents, Woodhead and the government agree to the facts that he used a computer to store and view material involving a prepubescent minor or a minor who has not attained the age of 12; the offense involved between 10 but less than 150 images; and that he caused, transported, permitted or sought a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing child pornography.
Attempted receipt of child pornography is punishable by statutory penalties of between 5-20 years imprisonment followed by a term of up to lifetime supervised, and a fine of $250,000.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sandra R. Hebert.
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