District of South Carolina
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Utah Real Estate Developer Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud and Tax Fraud involving Daufuskie Island ResortRead the Press Release
Charleston, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney Rhett DeHart announced today that James Thomas Bramlette, 42, of Salt Lake City, Utah, pled guilty to Wire Fraud and Tax Fraud in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1343 and 26 U.S. § 7202, before United States District Judge Richard M. Gergel. Bramlette will be sentenced at a later date.
The following evidence was presented at the guilty plea: this investigation involved Melrose Report on Daufuskie Island, S.C. Bramlette was a real estate developer in Salt Lake City, Utah. In 2011, he borrowed $17.5 million from a Dutch investor to purchase the resort out of bankruptcy. This loan was a short-term bridge loan with high interest rates. Bramlette did not put any of his own money into the purchase. Bramlette thought he could resale the resort soon after the sale, but his attempts to refinance or sell the resort failed repeatedly throughout the case.
In addition to the Dutch loan, Bramlette and a co-defendant raised more than $10 million from individual investors by issuing promissory notes with high interest rates. The promissory notes were not secured by the resort. Most of the investors resided in the West.
The investment in the resort was difficult from the start. Bramlette could not make the mortgage payments to the Dutch lender, which led to a $27 million foreclosure judgment in 2014. Bramlette lost further control of the resort in October 2014 when he pledged ownership of the property to secure a separate $700,000 loan, which he later defaulted on.
Bramlette and his co-defendant struggled every month to raise money from new investors to pay the Dutch lender not to foreclose, to pay previous investors, and to pay employees, utilities, and taxes at the resort. From 2013 through 2017, Bramlette repeatedly told investors that the resort was on the cusp of being refinanced by a private equity firm. While several firms considered investing in the resort, none of these deals came to fruition.
After he lost control of Melrose Resort in late 2014, Bramlette was allowed to remain as manager of the resort due to his operational knowledge of the property. Part of his duties as manager included paying the property taxes for Melrose Resort.
Concerning the wire fraud charge, in September 2016, Melrose Resort owed $502,759 in past due property taxes to the Beaufort County Treasurer’s Office. As a result of this tax delinquency, the Beaufort County Treasurer’s Office notified Bramlette that Melrose Resort would be auctioned at a tax sale if the property taxes were not paid.
On September 20, 2016, an employee of Bramlette emailed this notice and stated that “we have a week from this Friday, September 30th, 2016 to pay these taxes, which total $502,759.40 or the properties go up for sale on Monday, October 3, 2016.”
It was part of the scheme to defraud that, in order to prevent the resort from being sold at this tax sale, Bramlette created a fake wire receipt that falsely represented that Melrose Resort had wired $502,759 to the Beaufort County Treasurer’s Office to pay the property taxes. In reality, Melrose Resort had only $121.07 in its bank account at this time, and these funds were not wired as Bramlette represented.
It was further part of the scheme that Bramlette emailed the fraudulent wire receipt to one of his employees, and he caused this employee to send the fraudulent wire receipt to the Beaufort County Treasurer’s Office, in order to have Melrose Resort removed from the tax sale. After receiving the fraudulent wire receipt, the Beaufort County Treasurer’s Office removed Melrose Resort from the tax sale.
As to tax fraud charge, Bramlette was required to collect and pay over federal payroll taxes from the wages of all employees at Melrose Resort. Bramlette collected payroll taxes from the Melrose employees, but he failed to turn over these taxes to the IRS. In total, Bramlette collected but failed to turn over to the IRS approximately $1 million in payroll taxes.
In addition to the fraud above, Bramlette used at least $1.8 million from investors for personal use, which was not disclosed to investors. Bramlette lived a lavish lifestyle, and he spent money on himself even when he failed to pay employees, vendors, and subcontractors. The accountant at his company urged Bramlette to draw a salary and not use investor money for personal use. Bramlette ignored this advice and failed to report this income to the IRS or even file income tax returns.
This case was prosecuted by Acting United States Attorney Rhett DeHart. It was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service, and the Securities and Exchange Commission in Los Angeles.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office Announces Agreement Securing Westinghouse’s Cooperation in the V.C. Summer Criminal Investigation and Payment of $21.25 Million for Low Income Ratepayer ReliefRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina---- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart announced today that his office has reached a $21.25 million cooperation agreement with Westinghouse Electric Company, amidst the ongoing investigation of criminal misconduct surrounding the failed construction of two new nuclear units at the V.C. Summer nuclear plant.
According to the agreement, Westinghouse agrees to cooperate fully and completely with the V.C. Summer criminal investigation until the conclusion of all related criminal prosecutions involving former Westinghouse officials. Federal charges are pending against former Westinghouse manager Carl Churchman and former Westinghouse Senior Vice President for New Plants and Major Projects Jeffrey A. Benjamin. Benjamin will be arraigned in federal court on August 31, 2021.
The agreement further specifies that Westinghouse will contribute an initial $5 million within 30 days to the South Carolina Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program to help certain ratepayers affected by the project’s failure. A final payment of $16.25 million would be paid by Westinghouse on or before July 1, 2022.
Westinghouse has produced more than three million pages of documents, data, and correspondences to federal investigators; made employee witnesses available for interviews; and provided extensive debriefing sessions on the process and facts developed during the course of the company’s internal investigations related to the project.
Following abandonment of the proposed new nuclear units, Westinghouse was acquired by Brookfield Business Partners. The company has since removed, reassigned, or re-trained Westinghouse senior management; elected new members to the Board of Directors; restructured and re-trained the company’s finance organization; established a global financial controls function; implemented new controls over financial reporting; revised and adopted a global ethics code; elected independent directors for its audit committee; established a corporate controller position; and implemented a new whistleblower program to provide employees with the ability to raise concerns without fear of retaliation.
In addition, Westinghouse – through its former parent company Toshiba – has satisfied $2.168 billion in settlement payments related to the V.C. Summer project, including $1.032 billion to SCANA, $976 million to Santee Cooper, and $160 million to pay various contractor liens.
“Our office continues to seek justice for the victims of the V.C. Summer Project failure,” said Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart. “Westinghouse’s cooperation is vital to our ongoing efforts to hold accountable the individuals most responsible for this debacle. More than $21 million in new low-income ratepayer relief is a strong sign of our commitment to assist those most affected.”
This agreement is the latest development in the ongoing multi-year joint investigation by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office, and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division.
Assistant United States Attorneys Winston Holliday, Brook Andrews, Emily Limehouse, and Jason Peavy are prosecuting the case, along with Special Assistant United States Attorney John O’Halloran.
The South Carolina Attorney General’s Office and Westinghouse have reached a similar cooperation agreement. South Carolina Deputy Attorney General Donald J. Zelenka, Senior Assistant Deputy S. Creighton Waters, and Assistant Attorney David Fernandez have been representing the State of South Carolina.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office Issues Statement Following the Court of Appeals Decision to Uphold Dylan Roof VerdictRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina---- Following the decision by the United States Court of Appeals to uphold the conviction of Dylan Roof – the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of South Carolina issued the following statement, attributed to Criminal Chief Nathan Williams, who served as one of the lead prosecutors on the case:
“The Mother Emmanuel AME Church massacre committed by the hate-filled murderer Dylan Roof is one of the worst events in not only South Carolina’s history but also our nation’s history,” said Assistant U.S. Attorney and Criminal Chief Nathan Williams. “Our office is grateful for the decision of the court, a decision that ensures, as the Court stated, that ‘the harshest penalty a just society can impose’ is indeed imposed. Moreover, our office is grateful that justice will be served for the victims, survivors and their families.”
The Court of Appeals decision read in part:
“Dylann Roof murdered African Americans at their church, during their Bible-study and worship. They had welcomed him. He slaughtered them. He did so with the express intent of terrorizing not just his immediate victims at the historically important Mother Emanuel Church, but as many similar people as would hear of the mass murder. He used the internet to plan his attack and, using his crimes as a catalyst, intended to foment racial division and strife across America. He wanted the widest possible publicity for his atrocities, and, to that end, he purposefully left one person alive in the church “to tell the story.” (J.A. at 5017.) When apprehended, he frankly confessed, with barely a hint of remorse.
No cold record or careful parsing of statutes and precedents can capture the full horror of what Roof did. His crimes qualify him for the harshest penalty that a just society can impose. We have reached that conclusion not as a product of emotion but through a thorough analytical process, which we have endeavored to detail here. In this, we have followed the example of the trial judge, who managed this difficult case with skill and compassion for all concerned, including Roof himself. For the reasons given, we will affirm.”
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Charleston Rioter Who Livestreamed Looting and Firing Gun Sentenced to 24 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Charleston, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart announced today that Orlando Shalrocko King, 32, of North Charleston, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to unlawful travel to incite destructive riots in downtown Charleston on May 30, 2020, as well as a possession of a firearm by a prohibited felon.
“Last summer’s riots were a dark day in Charleston’s history,” said Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart. “Prison time is appropriate in this case and sends a message that this behavior will not be tolerated in South Carolina.”
Information presented to the court established that, during a large riot following the death of George Floyd, numerous suspects including King forced entry into the College Market store in downtown Charleston. The looters stole approximately $80,000 in store merchandise and shattered the store windows.
King filmed, narrated, and livestreamed the looting on his Facebook page. At one point of the video, King yelled, “We’re in the corner store! Stealing sh*t!” In another part of the video, King announced that he was searching the store for Angry Orchard. The video showed that, after stealing a 6-pack of Angry Orchard hard cider, King left the store and stated, “We just broke into the corner store and I got my Angry Orchard, ya’ll know I love my sh*t.”
Evidence presented to the court further showed that, just after midnight on April 25, 2020, North Charleston Police officers were attempting to locate a firearm that was discarded during a vehicle pursuit. While officers were canvassing the area of Read Street for the gun, they were advised of a disturbance that possibly involved a firearm. During the investigation of the disturbance, officers encountered King, whom they recognized from a Facebook live video he posted showing him firing a gun outside a driver’s side car window.
King continually frequented the area on several occasions, while the officers were attempting to locate the missing firearm. When officers contacted King, he became uncooperative and attempted to get away. Officers noticed an item in King’s jacket pocket that appeared to be the shape of a grip of a handgun. King was then placed in handcuffs, and a Sig Sauer 9mm caliber pistol with an extended magazine with 27 rounds of ammunition was recovered.
A National Crime Information Center (NCIC) inquiry revealed that the recovered gun was reported stolen. Further, it was discovered that the defendant was prohibited from possessing a gun due to a 2008-Armed Robbery conviction.
United States District Judge Richard M. Gergel sentenced King to 24 months imprisonment to be followed by 36 months of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
King is the fourth of six defendants to be sentenced on federal charges stemming from participation of actions including arson, inciting riots, and other civil disorder in Columbia and Charleston on May 30 and 31, 2020.
The case was investigated by the FBI, ATF, Charleston Police Department, North Charleston Police Department, and South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED). Numerous other local police departments and Solicitors’ Offices across the states have also assisted in the investigations of civil unrest in May 2020.
Assistant United States Attorneys Emily Limehouse and Nathan Williams prosecuted the case.
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Top Westinghouse Nuclear Executive Charged with Conspiracy, Fraud in 16-Count Federal IndictmentRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney for the District of South Carolina M. Rhett DeHart announced today that a Federal Grand Jury has charged former Westinghouse Electric Company Senior Vice President Jeffrey A. Benjamin for his role in failing to truthfully report information regarding construction of new nuclear units at the V.C. Summer nuclear plant.
Benjamin, who served as Senior Vice President for New Plants and Major Projects and directly supervised all new nuclear projects worldwide for Westinghouse during the V.C. Summer project, is charged in a federal indictment with sixteen felony counts including conspiracy, wire fraud, securities fraud, and causing a publicly-traded company to keep a false record.
The charges Benjamin faces carry a maximum of twenty years imprisonment and a $5,000,000 fine.
The indictment alleges that Benjamin was personally involved in communications between Westinghouse and its owners, SCANA and Santee Cooper, regarding the status of the V.C. Summer project.
The indictment further alleges that, throughout 2016 and into 2017, when Westinghouse had direct control over the construction and schedule of the project, Benjamin received information that the V.C. Summer units were materially behind schedule and over budget. Nevertheless, at various times from September 2016 through March 2017, the indictment alleges that Benjamin assured the owners that the units would be completed on schedule and took active steps to conceal from the owners damaging information about the project schedule. During this time period, the owners paid Westinghouse over $600,000,000 to construct the two V.C. Summer units, both of which were ultimately abandoned.
“Our commitment to investigate and prosecute the V.C. Summer nuclear debacle has never wavered,” said Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart. “While the indictment – and the allegations contained within – speak for itself, it is further proof of our commitment to seek justice for South Carolina ratepayers and all others affected by the V.C. Summer project failure.”
“This indictment with its attendant allegations and charges is another step toward justice for all those responsible for the V.C. Summer nuclear plant fiasco,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Susan Ferensic. “The FBI has devoted substantial resources to investigating this matter and will continue to work with the United States Attorney’s Office, the South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division, and the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office to find facts and prove criminal conduct.”
Benjamin is the fourth individual to be charged in the ongoing federal investigation, stemming from the exhaustive and multi-year joint investigation by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office, and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. Former SCANA Chief Executive Officer Kevin Marsh, former SCANA Executive Vice President Stephen Byrne, and former Westinghouse Vice President Carl Churchman have all pleaded guilty to federal felony charges for their roles in the matter.
Assistant United States Attorneys Winston Holliday, Brook Andrews, Emily Limehouse, and Jason Peavy along with Special Assistant United States Attorney John O'Halloran, a lawyer with the Securities and Exchange Commission, are prosecuting the case.
Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart stated that all charges against the defendant are merely accusations and that the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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34-Count Federal Indictment Charges 12 Defendants in Alleged Drug Trafficking Conspiracy out of Anderson CountyRead the Press Release
Greenville, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett Dehart announced today that, on Thursday, August 12, 2021, a joint team of 130 federal, state, and local law enforcement officers simultaneously executed 20 federal search warrants and arrested 12 individuals charged in a 34-count federal indictment for their roles in a drug trafficking organization that operated primarily out of Anderson County.
During the operation, presumed to be the largest operation of its kind ever in Anderson County, agents located approximately 15 kilograms of cocaine, with a street value of approximately $500,000; 5 ounces of heroin; 18 pounds of marijuana; 10 guns; hundreds of rounds of ammunition; $245,000 in cash; and 3 cars.
“Organized crime – particularly that involving drug and guns – presents our communities with serious challenges,” said Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart. “Fortunately, our office, along with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, does not rest in our efforts to dismantle such organizations and bring them to justice. While the charges in this case speak for themselves, our commitment to stopping violent drug gangs will never waver.”
“Citizens of Anderson County should feel safer knowing that these alleged poly-drug traffickers have been removed from their community,” said the Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division Robert J. Murphy. “These defendants have been charged with distributing a variety of illegal drugs, and while doing so, protecting their ill-gotten gain with weapons. This investigation was a success because DEA and its law enforcement partners presented a united front to protect and serve the communities in which we live.”
“Public safety strategies and successes start with collaboration among our law enforcement agencies,” stated ATF Special Agent in Charge Vince Pallozzi. “Removing violent criminals from the community, disrupting major drug trades, and retrieving numerous firearms from very dangerous individuals are proven ways to have a major impact on bringing back safety and security to neighborhoods.”
“The commitment shown by our Detectives and Deputies assigned to our Special Investigations Division, working in concert with our Federal, State and local partners speaks volumes,” said Anderson County Sheriff Chad McBride. “The entire Division poured effort into this investigation for an extended period of time. That effort, along with our strong commitment to the DEA Greenville Resident Office’s HIDTA Task Force, resulted in the successful seizure of a large quantity of illegal drugs and firearms that were bound for the streets of Anderson County. We take pride in the results of this investigation.”
“Our employees have worked countless hours on this case, including nights and weekends and spending time away from their families,” said City of Anderson Police Chief James Stewart. “This case has made a difference in our community, and getting these dangerous drugs off the street will make a major impact. We appreciate the partnership on the task force and cooperation that we have with the DEA office.”
The 34-count indictment charges the defendants with various drug trafficking and firearms-related offenses that include: drug trafficking conspiracy; possession with intent to distribute cocaine, crack cocaine, and marijuana; distribution of methamphetamine, cocaine, and crack cocaine; maintaining a stash house; felon in possession of firearm and ammunition; and possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.
The following defendants are in custody:
- Dillinger Maston Bolden, a/k/a “Nuke,” 40, of Anderson
- Roosevelt Lavar Cousar, 44, of Anderson
- Terrance Antonio Martin, a/k/a “Buck,” 34, of Anderson
- Kadarrius Ahmad Brownlee, a/k/a “Quan,” 23, of Anderson
- Daiquon Jermaine Smith, 26, of Spartanburg
- Desmond Laquan Muller, 32, of Columbia
- Terrance Jarel Goss, 32 of Anderson
- Darius Tyvone Sadler, 29, of Anderson
- Christopher Reese Bell, 36, of Anderson
- Renardo Lakeith Reed, 38, of Anderson
- Montez Obrien Hatten, 32, of Anderson
- Elysia Nicole Scott, 32, of Anderson
- Tyrone Terrell Dubose, 51, of Anderson (charged in a separate, but related criminal complaint).
Three other individuals were arrested on various state charges.
Agents with the Greenville Resident Office of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) led the investigation with the support and significant participation from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office, the City of Anderson Police Department, the United States Marshals Service, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), the South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services, the 10th Circuit Solicitor’s Office, the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Abbeville County Sheriff’s Office.
This investigation is an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Assistant United States Attorneys Sloan P. Ellis and Brandi B. Hinton are prosecuting the case.
Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart stated that all charges against these defendants are merely accusations and that all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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North Carolina Man and Woman Charged with Child Sex Trafficking in Myrtle Beach AreaRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart, announced today that Johnny Thomas, 34, of Durham, NC, and Becca Mills, 25, of Whispering Pines, NC, have been charged in a criminal complaint for their roles in alleged child sex trafficking and coercion and enticement of minors in the Myrtle Beach area of South Carolina.
According to Court records, Thomas and Mills posted commercial sex ads for minors and took the minors to locations in Fayetteville, NC, and Myrtle Beach, where the minors engaged in commercial sexual encounters with other individuals. Mills also participated in many of the sexual encounters, and Thomas engaged in sexual acts with one of the minors on at least two occasions in Fayetteville, NC, and Myrtle Beach.
Court records also reflect that Mills told one of the minors that if the minor did what she was told, Thomas would not hurt her. According to the complaint, Thomas told one of the minors numerous times that if she did not perform commercial sex acts, he would sell her to someone worse who would chain her up to a bed, shoot her full of heroin, and do bad things to her such as slice off her toes and body parts.
Both Defendants face a maximum penalty of life.
The case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Rockingham Police Department, and the Myrtle Beach Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Derek A. Shoemake and Lauren Hummel and Special Assistant United States Attorney Scott Hixson are prosecuting the case. The case was originally prosecuted by the Solicitor’s Office for the Fifteenth Judicial Circuit, and will be federally prosecuted as part of a collaborative effort by federal and state partners in the Myrtle Beach area to combat sex trafficking and child exploitation.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Acting United States Attorney DeHart stated that all charges in criminal complaints are merely accusations and that all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
If you or someone you know may have information relevant to this investigation, please call the HSI Tipline at 1-866-347-3423.
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Columbia Man Receives Maximum Federal Prison Sentence for Firearm and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart announced that Eric Jahann Nixon, 39, of Columbia, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison on firearm and drug charges, after having been convicted following a three-day trial in April. Nixon was convicted on being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, as well as possession of crack cocaine.
Evidence presented in court showed that at approximately 7pm on Friday, October 16, 2020, Columbia Police Department officers responded to Wash City Laundromat off Broad River Road after receiving a number of 911 calls about a man brandishing a firearm and assaulting a 65-year-old female attendant at the laundromat.
At the scene, officers were approached by witnesses who provided a detailed description of the man and also provided officers with a cellphone video taken of him during the incident. A screenshot of the man from that cellphone video was distributed to other officers who were canvassing the area in search of him. A short time later, an officer encountered the man, identified as Eric Jahann Nixon, walking nearby and placed him in investigative detention. During a lawful pat-down search of Nixon, officers recovered a loaded Hi-Point .380 caliber handgun in the man’s waistband of his shorts. A further search revealed a pill bottle containing a baggie of 3 grams of crack cocaine and a razor blade.
Surveillance video from the Laundromat confirmed that Nixon was the man who pulled a handgun from his waistband and assaulted the laundromat attendant, as well as pointed the firearm at others in the parking lot.
Nixon is a felon and prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition under federal law based upon prior state and federal convictions. Nixon’s prior adult convictions include: possession of a stolen motor vehicle (1998 in Lexington County), conspiracy to commit money laundering (2005 federal conviction in Columbia), assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature (2005 in Lexington County), throwing bodily fluid on correctional officer (2005 in Lexington County), indecent exposure to adult while in the Federal Bureau of Prisons in West Virginia (2010 federal conviction), forgery (2013 in Lexington County), distribution of crack cocaine near a school (2016 in Richland County), driving under the influence, (2016 in Calhoun County), and unlawful carrying of a pistol, stemming from a shooting outside of a Waffle House (2018 in Richland County).
During the sentencing hearing, in addition to hearing a summary of Nixon’s prior criminal history since age 12, the court was presented evidence showing that, since being in custody on these charges, Nixon had accumulated dozens of disciplinary violations within the local detention center, including possessing a handmade weapon and threatening correctional officers. On one occasion, Nixon told a female correctional officer, “Bitch, when you write me up, I’m going to know your whole name. I will shoot your head off, blow your brains out. I will have your whole family dead by tonight, you better ask about me. Bitch, I’m important.” On another occasion, Nixon told a correctional officer that he has beat all his cases and that he will beat this one and google her to blow her head off and kill her kids. The court was also presented evidence outlining the numerous disciplinary violations Nixon accumulated while in federal prison on an earlier federal conviction.
Senior United States District Judge Cameron McGowan Currie sentenced Nixon to the maximum of 120 months imprisonment on the firearm charge and the maximum of 24 months on the possession of crack cocaine charge, with those sentences to be served concurrently with one another. Once Nixon is released from prison, he will be on federal supervised release for 3 years. There is no parole in the federal system. In pronouncing the sentence, the Court noted that Nixon had a “significant criminal history” and his conduct has been “out of control and inappropriate” in prison, the local detention center, and in the courtroom.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Columbia Police Department.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey D. Haynes, as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.
PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
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Charleston Hotel Employees Charged in 21-Count Federal Indictment for Wire FraudRead the Press Release
Charleston, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart stated today that a Federal Grand Jury has returned a 21-count indictment charging Star Barkley, 39, of Ladson, and Audrina Lincoln, 30, of Charleston, for wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
The indictment alleges that, from at least September 2017 through June 2019, while employees at the Days Inn hotel on Meeting Street in downtown Charleston, Barkley and Lincoln conspired to devise a scheme to defraud and obtain money by means of false and fraudulent pretenses. Namely, the indictment alleges that Barkley and Lincoln would re-open guests accounts that were checked out and with zero balances, typically one to four months after the stay, and adjust various revenues posted to the account during the stay. These revenue adjustments would result in a credit balance on the account. To check-out and close the account, the remaining credit balance would have to be issued to some method of payment.
The indictment further alleges that Barkley and Lincoln would refund the credit balances to debit cards and bank accounts they controlled as well as debit cards and bank accounts of other parties who would transfer money back to the defendants. Additionally, the indictment alleges that Barkley and Lincoln would provide false guest satisfaction complaints and other false representations in the hotel electronic database to justify the revenue adjustments.
It is alleged in the indictment that, at a minimum, $153,000 was unlawfully obtained in the scheme.
Barkley and Lincoln face up to 20 years of imprisonment on the charges.
The case is being investigated by the United States Secret Service and the City of Charleston Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Allessandra E. Stewart is prosecuting the case.
Acting United States Attorney DeHart stated that all charges in indictments are merely accusations and that all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Federal Bureau of Prisons Inmate Sentenced to More Than 21 Years for Murder-for-Hire Plot against Assistant United States AttorneyRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina---- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart announced today that Richard Gilbert, a Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) inmate, has been sentenced to more than 21 years in federal prison for a murder-for-hire and retaliation plot against an Assistant United States Attorney and a confidential informant.
Evidence presented in the court showed that Gilbert was serving time at a federal prison in Edgefield for trafficking methamphetamine in Bowling Green, Kentucky, when he sought to hire a hitman to kill the federal prosecutor and a key witness from his Kentucky case. Using a contraband cell phone in prison, Gilbert communicated with an undercover task force officer with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) who was posing as a hitman. Following multiple recorded phone calls, Gilbert sent the undercover officer a $2,000 check from his prison canteen account as a down payment for the retaliatory murder-for-hire. Masking the true purpose of this payment, Gilbert attempted to mislead BOP officials by misrepresenting the payment as being for an “investment firm.”
Evidence presented also showed that Gilbert drew maps of where he believed the witness from Kentucky lived and provided directions to the undercover officer, posing as the hitman, on how to avoid detection by nearby surveillance cameras. The evidence also showed how Gilbert planned to use income from two of his rental properties to facilitate the attempted murder-for-hire and retaliation plot. He also planned to use the value of his ownership stake in other land to pay for the murder of the federal prosecutor from Kentucky.
United States District Judge Henry M. Herlong, Jr. sentenced Gilbert to serve 262 months in federal prison, consecutive to the 130-month sentence for which he was already in federal prison, to be followed by 60 months of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the FBI and the BOP Special Investigative Services Team and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Justin Holloway and Will Jordan.
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Columbia Gang Member Pleads Guilty in Federal Court to Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart, announced today that Kevin Shacqile Roney, a/k/a “Kevo,” a/k/a “Valentine Roney,” 26, of Columbia, pleaded guilty in federal court to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
Evidence presented to the court showed that at approximately 1:15am on August 18, 2019, officers in the Five Points area of Columbia, observed an individual, later identified as Roney, stash something underneath bushes adjacent to a parking lot. Officers discovered that the item was a loaded 9mm handgun. Therefore, officers set up surveillance and arrested Roney when he returned to retrieve the firearm an hour later. Roney, a gang member, admitted to placing the firearm underneath the bushes.
Roney is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition based upon his prior felony convictions. Roney has prior state convictions for unlawful carrying of a weapon, burglary 3rd degree, and assault and battery 2nd degree.
Roney faces of maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000. United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis accepted the guilty plea and will sentence Roney after receiving and reviewing a sentencing report prepared by the United States Probation Office.
The charges against Roney were the result of an investigation by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Columbia Police Department, as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.
Assistant United States Attorney Stacey D. Haynes is prosecuting the case.
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Two Hartsville Men Sentenced to 12.5 Years in Federal Prison for Meth DistributionRead the Press Release
Florence, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart announced today that Chazoid Cenetell Rogers, 42, and Oyarmma Robinson, 42, both of Hartsville, were sentenced to more than twelve years in federal prison, after pleading guilty to their roles in possessing with the intent to distribute and distributing methamphetamine.
Evidence presented to the Court showed that, in the Spring and Summer of 2019, law enforcement conducted a series of controlled buys of methamphetamine from Rogers and/or Robinson. Rogers participated in five sales of methamphetamine over a three-month period, for a total of 209 grams of methamphetamine. Robinson participated in two sales of methamphetamine in one month, for a total of 111 grams of methamphetamine.
United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon sentenced Rogers and Robinson to 150 months in federal prison, to be followed by a five-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Chesterfield County Sheriff’s Office, the Darlington County Sheriff’s Office, and the Hartsville Police Department.
Assistant United States Attorney Katherine Flynn prosecuted the case.
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Gang Member Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart announced today that Raekwon Cortez Ford, 24, of Columbia, pleaded guilty in federal court to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
Evidence presented to the court showed that, in late November 2019, several automobiles were broken into and various items stolen, including an iPhone. One of the victims of the break-ins was able to track their iPhone to a residence in Columbia and notified the Columbia Police Department. Officers responded to the residence and found a number of individuals in the yard, including Ford. Ford, a gang member, was placed under arrest on outstanding warrants and was found to be in possession of the stolen iPhone.
Officers then obtained a search warrant for Ford’s residence, which they executed on December 4, 2019. Within the residence, officers located Ford, who had been released on state bond from the earlier arrest, and found a loaded Ruger .45 caliber handgun concealed in an air vent in Ford’s bedroom. An analysis showed Ford’s DNA on the firearm and that the firearm had been reported stolen from an earlier auto break-in in Columbia in December 2018. A ballistics analysis through the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) revealed that the firearm had been used in four separate shooting incidents in Richland and Lexington Counties from June through August 2019.
NIBIN is the only national network that allows for the capture and comparison of ballistic evidence to aid in solving and preventing violent crimes involving firearms. NIBIN is a proven investigative and intelligence tool that can link firearms from multiple crime scenes, allowing law enforcement to quickly disrupt shooting cycles. More information on NIBIN can be found at: https://www.atf.gov/firearms/national-integrated-ballistic-information-network-nibin.
Ford is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition based upon his prior felony convictions. Ford has prior state convictions for unlawful carrying of a weapon, possession of a stolen weapon, breach of peace of an aggravated nature, and breach of trust.
Ford faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000. United States District Judge J. Michelle Childs accepted the guilty plea and will sentence him after receiving and reviewing a sentencing report prepared by the United States Probation Office.
The charges against Ford were the result of an investigation by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Columbia Police Department, as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.
Assistant United States Attorney Stacey D. Haynes of the Columbia office is prosecuting the case.
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Columbia Man Pleads Guilty to Being a Felon in PossessionRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart announced that Leonard Earl Mitchell, 30, of Columbia, has entered a guilty plea in federal court to being a felon in possession of ammunition. United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis accepted the guilty plea and will impose sentence after she has reviewed the presentence report prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
Evidence presented in court established that, on May 23, 2020, after receiving reports of shots fired on Two Notch Road, officers from the City of Columbia Police Department located nine 9mm spent shell casings in a business’ parking lot. While reviewing the surveillance footage, the officers saw that an unknown person discharged two rounds in the direction of Mitchell, as he was exiting the business. Realizing that he was being shot at, Mitchell sought cover near a car in the parking lot, then retrieved a 9mm firearm off his person and discharged 10 rounds at a car traveling northbound on Two Notch Road. After the shooting incident, Mitchell fled from the parking lot.
A City of Columbia police officer was able to identify Mitchell as the person involved in the shooting from a prior encounter with him, as well as from Mitchell’s distinctive facial tattoos.
On June 4, 2020, Mitchell was arrested in his home on other warrants. At the time of his arrest, he had a 9mm pistol on his person that ballistically matched the 9 shell casings found in the business parking lot.
Mitchell has previously been convicted of several felony offenses including Failure to Stop for Blue Lights and Siren, Assault and Battery of a High and Aggravated Nature, Assault and Battery 2nd Degree, Distribution of Marijuana, Assault and Battery, 1st Degree, Possession of Methamphetamine/Cocaine, and Carrying or Concealing Weapon by Inmates. As such, Mitchell is prohibited from possessing a firearm and/or ammunition.
The maximum penalty for a felon in possession of ammunition is imprisonment for 10 years and/or a fine of $250,000.
The case was investigated by agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the City of Columbia Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney William K. Witherspoon is prosecuting the case, as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project CeaseFire initiative, which aggressively prosecutes firearm cases.
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SCDC Inmate Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart stated that Kenneth Bryant Evans, a/k/a “Country,” 38, of Aiken County, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and heroin.
Evidence presented at his change of plea hearing and sentencing established that the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Aiken County Sheriff’s Department initiated an investigation into the narcotics distribution activities of Evans and Eddie Brockington, both state prison inmates. Evans is an inmate in the South Carolina Department of Corrections after pleading guilty to trafficking methamphetamine in 2016 and receiving a 16-year sentence. Brockington is an inmate in the Georgia Department of Corrections who has plead guilty and is awaiting sentencing.
Through controlled purchases and other investigative techniques, agents learned that Evans and Brockington used contraband cellphones, Facebook Messenger and other social media postings to have their co-defendants purchase, transport, and distribute large amounts of methamphetamine and/or heroin. Evans was responsible for distributing more than 97 kilograms of methamphetamine and 3.5 kilograms of heroin throughout South Carolina while incarcerated in SCDC. The drugs were primarily sourced from Atlanta and were transported into South Carolina by various members of his organization and then sold to customers.
United States District Judge J. Michelle Childs, who had accepted Evans’ guilty plea, imposed a sentence of 240 months incarceration, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, and a special assessment of $100. Evans will begin serving his federal sentence after he is released from the South Carolina Department of Corrections in February 2030.
The case was investigated by agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration and Aiken County Sheriff's Office. Assistant United States Attorney William K. Witherspoon prosecuted the case.
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Georgia Man Sentenced to More Than 5 Years in Federal Prison for Role in Trafficking Meth in South CarolinaRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart announced today that Rondedrick Robinson, 26, of Decatur, Georgia, was sentenced to more than five years in federal prison, after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Evidence presented to the Court showed that, on February 25, 2020, officers from the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office made a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Robinson. In a subsequent search of the vehicle, law enforcement located nearly 10 kilograms of methamphetamine. Further investigation revealed Robinson had been paid to deliver the narcotics from the Atlanta area to South Carolina.
Senior United States District Judge Joseph F. Anderson, Jr. sentenced Robinson to 70 months in federal prison, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
Assistant United States Attorney Katherine Flynn prosecuted the case.
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Two Columbia Men Sentenced to Multi-Year Prison Terms for Role in Sale of Cocaine Base to Undercover Law Enforcement OfficerRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart announced today that two Columbia men were sentenced to federal prison after pleading guilty to aiding and abetting the possession with intent to distribute and distribution of cocaine base. Jamil Shamond Brennan, 26, of Columbia, was sentenced to more than 9 years in prison. Tevin Brosia, 27, of Columbia, was sentenced to more than 11 years in prison.
Evidence presented to the Court showed that Brennan and Brosia helped facilitate the sale of cocaine base, commonly known as crack cocaine, to an undercover law enforcement officer who was posing as a drug buyer. On February 25, 2020, the undercover officer made a controlled purchase of 25.7 grams of crack cocaine outside a residence in Columbia. Brennan supplied the crack cocaine sold; Brosia was the middleman for the sale.
Senior United States District Judge Cameron McGowan Currie sentenced Brennan to 110 months in federal prison and sentenced Brosia to 140 months in federal prison. Both Brosia and Brennan’s prison terms will be followed by a six-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Richland County Sheriff’s Department, and the Columbia Police Department.
Assistant United States Attorney Katherine Flynn prosecuted the case.
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Six Additional Defendants Arrested in Joint State/Federal Investigation into 35-Member Interstate Cocaine Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett Dehart announced today that a joint team of dozens of federal, state, and local law enforcement officers, led by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), arrested six individuals who have been charged in federal court for their roles in an interstate drug trafficking organization that operated out of Myrtle Beach, Conway, Florence, and New York City.
This is the second round of indictments in Operation New Optix, which began with the related indictment of 26 alleged drug traffickers in December 2020. Of the 35 defendants currently indicted, four remain at large and 22 have already pled guilty. This multi-year operation specifically targeted members of this drug trafficking organization based on their interstate importation of large quantities of cocaine and crack cocaine into South Carolina from the New York area, and their use of firearms in furtherance of their drug trafficking crimes. During this week’s arrests, agents seized approximately $272,546 in suspected drug proceeds, five vehicles, 11 firearms, more than 4.5 kilograms of suspected cocaine, more than 450 grams of suspected crack cocaine, and additional amounts of suspected fentanyl, heroin, marijuana, and other drugs.
The following defendants were arrested this week:
- Jovan Steven GRAVES, a/k/a “Pablo,” 34, of Brooklyn, New York, is charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine. This charge carries a potential penalty of 10 years to Life imprisonment.
- Sean Lewis ADAMS, a/k/a “Lou,” 39, of Longs, is charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine. This charge carries a potential penalty of 10 years to Life imprisonment.
- Arthur Lee BUSBEE, JR., a/k/a “Bubba Jaws,” 39, of Conway, is charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. This charge carries a potential penalty of 5 to 40 years imprisonment.
- Deondray Azell AZELL STANFIELD, a/k/a “Rich Black,” 43, of Myrtle Beach, is charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. This charge carries a potential penalty of 5 to 40 years imprisonment.
- Brodus Bernard GREGG, 68, of Conway, is charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. This charge carries a potential penalty of 5 to 40 years imprisonment.
- Dayvon Chadmar BEASE, a/k/a “T-Nochi,” 37, of Conway, is charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. This charge carries a potential penalty of 5 to 40 years imprisonment.
The following defendants who were charged in the first round of this investigation have pled guilty:
- Shackeel COLEMAN, 29, of Myrtle Beach, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine. This charge carries a potential penalty of 10 years to Life imprisonment.
- Harry BELLAMY, 41, of Myrtle Beach, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine, 28 grams of cocaine base, and a quantity of marijuana. This charge carries a potential penalty of 10 years to Life imprisonment.
- Steven JEFFCOAT, 30, of Myrtle Beach, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine and 28 grams of cocaine base. This charge carries a potential penalty of 10 years to Life imprisonment.
- Lenard HEMINGWAY, 53, of Myrtle Beach, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. This charge carries a potential penalty of 5 to 40 years imprisonment.
- Yenitza COLEMAN, 27, of Myrtle Beach, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. This charge carries a potential penalty of 5 to 40 years imprisonment.
- Jasamine MITCHELL, 32, of Conway, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. This charge carries a potential penalty of 5 to 40 years imprisonment.
- Bradley ADAMS, 26, of Myrtle Beach, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. This charge carries a potential penalty of 5 to 40 years imprisonment.
- Timothy MCCRAY, 31, of Conway, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 28 grams of cocaine base and a quantity of cocaine. This charge carries a potential penalty of 5 to 40 years imprisonment
- Brandon PRAWL, 35, of Conway, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and 28 grams of more of cocaine base. This charge carries a potential penalty of 5 to 40 years imprisonment.
- Henry BOYD, 39, of Conway, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 28 grams of more of cocaine base and a quantity of cocaine. This charge carries a potential penalty of 5 to 40 years imprisonment.
- Timothy LEE, 27, of Myrtle Beach, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 28 grams of more of cocaine base. This charge carries a potential penalty of 5 to 40 years imprisonment.
- Jacqueline STRICKLAND, 59, of Conway, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. This charge carries a potential penalty of 5 to 40 years imprisonment.
- Venson STRICKLAND, 29, of Myrtle Beach, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 28 grams of more of cocaine base and a quantity of cocaine. This charge carries a potential penalty of 5 to 40 years imprisonment.
- James GRAHAM, 30, of Conway, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute a quantity of cocaine. This charge carries a potential penalty of up to 20 years imprisonment.
- Alonzo Lee PIERCE, 37, of Galivants Ferry, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 28 grams of more of cocaine base and a quantity of cocaine. This charge carries a potential penalty of 5 to 40 years imprisonment.
- Gary JACKSON, 30, of Myrtle Beach, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. This charge carries a potential penalty of 5 to 40 years imprisonment.
- Alton BROWN, 41, of Florence, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute a quantity of cocaine and a quantity of cocaine base. This charge carries a potential penalty of up to 20 years imprisonment.
- Joshua DARBY, 32, of Murrells Inlet, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute a quantity of cocaine and a quantity of cocaine base. This charge carries a potential penalty of up to 20 years imprisonment.
- Travis ROGERS, 40, of Conway, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 28 grams of more of cocaine base. This charge carries a potential penalty of 5 to 40 years imprisonment.
- Kevin LINNEN, 33, of Myrtle Beach, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute a quantity of cocaine. This charge carries a potential penalty of up to 20 years imprisonment.
- Mario WILLIAMS, 41, of Florence, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute a quantity of cocaine and a quantity of marijuana. This charge carries a potential penalty of up to 20 years imprisonment.
- Robert HOOKER, 40, of Myrtle Beach, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute a quantity of cocaine. This charge carries a potential penalty of up to 20 years imprisonment.
The following defendants from the first round are in custody pending trial or plea:
- Quentin SMITH, 29, of Conway, is charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 28 grams of more of cocaine base. This charge carries a potential penalty of 5 to 40 years imprisonment. He is also charged with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime which carries a potential penalty of 5 years consecutive to any other penalty imposed.
- Kimo FELTON, 41, of Conway, is charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine. This charge carries a potential penalty of 10 years to Life imprisonment.
- Curtis MCARTHUR, 35, of Longs, is charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute a quantity of cocaine. This charge carries a potential penalty of up to 20 years imprisonment.
Operation New Optix is the latest in a series of joint federal/state investigations targeting violent crime in Myrtle Beach and Horry County. In 2017, Operation Silver Sunset targeted 29 associates of the Billy Bloods street gang, a subset of the United Blood Nation. In 2018, Operation Rise and Shine targeted 33 associates of G-Shine/SMG, another subset of the Bloods. In 2020, Operation Broken Branch targeted 31 members of a drug trafficking organization in the Cedar Branch area of Horry County. The recent arrests mark the latest, but not the last, joint investigation targeting violent crime in this area.
Agents with the DEA’s Florence Resident Office led the investigation, with significant participation from the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), United States Marshal Service, Myrtle Beach Police Department, Horry County Police Department, North Myrtle Beach Police Department, Florence County Sheriff’s Office – Special Operations Group, Georgetown County Sheriff’s Office, 15th Circuit Drug Enforcement Unit, Conway Police Department, and Horry County Sherriff’s Office.
“As this office has made clear time and again, violent criminals will find no safe harbor in South Carolina,” said Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart. “Because of the work of our federal, state, and local partners, we have obtained more than 100 convictions and been able to dismantle violent gangs across the Pee Dee Region.”
“These convicted notorious gang-related drug dealers distributed poison to the community and caused fear through means of violence and intimidation,” said the Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division Robert J. Murphy. “Step by step, the government disrupted and dismantled this once-thriving criminal network. This case has been successful because of spirited level of cooperation between DEA and its law enforcement counterparts.”
“Thank you to everyone involved for preparing and prosecuting these cases,” said Myrtle Beach Police Chief Amy Prock. “Our community is safer because of their hard work and dedication.”
Assistant United States Attorney Everett McMillian, Lead Task Force Attorney for the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), is prosecuting the case in coordination with the 15th Circuit Solicitor’s Office. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
All defendants who have not pled are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Three Sentenced in Bank Fraud of Government Housing Assistance ProgramRead the Press Release
Greenville, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart announced today that three South Carolinians have been sentenced by a federal judge after pleading guilty to bank fraud charges in schemes that defrauded the federal government’s Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP).
Marvette Thompson Easterling, 54, of Gaffney; Keylon Wright, 40, of Simpsonville; and Joshua David Armato, 37, of Georgia; admitted that they knowingly defrauded a program established to help homeowners at risk of mortgage loan default and foreclosure of thousands of dollars.
U.S. District Judge Bruce Howe Hendricks ordered each defendant to a sentence of time served followed by five years of supervised release and the repayment of the stolen funds for the felony charges.
“Stealing from the federal government, particularly from programs that help the least fortunate in America, will not be tolerated,” said Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart. “Our office appreciates the investigative work of the Special Inspector General for TARP (SIGTARP) and will continue to work with SIGTARP to protect American tax dollars.”
“With today’s sentencing, SIGTARP and the United States Attorney’s Office have brought justice for defendants who defraud and steal from the Hardest Hit Fund, a federal program that helps unemployed homeowners stay in their home,” said Special Inspector General Christy Goldsmith Romero. “Easterling, Wright, and Armato separately lied to get thousands of federal dollars for mortgage assistance, concealing that they did not live in the house and concealing rental income. Now they are convicted of fraud and must repay the stolen funds.”
Evidence presented in court showed that through false and fraudulent pretenses, representations, and promises, Easterling obtained funds from SC Housing, a federally funded mortgage payment assistance program that provided eligible homeowners with temporary mortgage assistance so that they could avoid foreclosure and stay in their homes. Easterling concealed and failed to notify SC Housing of monthly rental income she received for the property as well as the non-owner-occupied status of the property in order to receive and use federal funds to which she was not eligible.
Additional evidence presented in court further showed that Wright executed a similar scheme for a property in Mauldin, while Armato executed a similar scheme for a property in Simpsonville. Wright and Armato concealed and failed to notify SC Housing of the non-owner occupied statuses of their properties and the rental of the properties to unrelated third parties in order to receive and use federal funds to which they were not eligible.
The cases were investigated by Special Inspector General for TARP (SIGTARP), an independent law enforcement agency used to investigate fraud, waste, and abuse related to the TARP bailout.
Assistant United States Attorney Winston Marosek prosecuted the cases.
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Upstate Man Sentenced to More Than 22 Years in Federal Prison for Gun and Drug Charges after Plotting to Kill a Cooperating WitnessRead the Press Release
Greenville, South Carolina---- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart stated today that Lazarus Floyd, 44, of Taylors, has been sentenced to more than 22 years in federal prison, after pleading guilty to multiple drug trafficking and firearm-related offenses.
Evidence presented in court showed that, on January 29, 2019, while executing a search warrant at Floyd’s residence in Woodruff, law enforcement officers found 2,579 grams of methamphetamine, 1,197 grams of heroin, 1,600 grams of marijuana, and $15,255 in cash. Additionally, officers discovered numerous items of drug trafficking paraphernalia including a pill press, digital scales, cutting agents, and packaging material, as well as 12 pistols, seven rifles, and two shotguns.
Evidence presented in court also showed that Floyd attempted to hire a hitman to kill a witness and that witness’s attorney because the witness was thought to be cooperating with law enforcement. That plot was uncovered; and, through the quick action of the FBI, DEA, United States Marshals Service, and their local law enforcement partners, no one was harmed.
“More often than not, drug trafficking, guns and violence are intertwined,” said Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart. “This sentence highlights our office’s commitment to ensuring our community is protected from violent criminals and the powerful work of our local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies that not only thwarted a murder plot but also helped to ensure justice was served.”
"Today's sentence is a major step in making South Carolina safe," said FBI Special Agent in Charge Susan Ferensic. "A major drug trafficker, who possessed a large number of firearms to support his enterprise, also threatened our criminal justice system itself by plotting to kill a witness and legal counsel. To keep our communities safe, witnesses need to know they can report critical information to law enforcement and they will be protected. This investigation and sentence demonstrates the FBI's commitment to that principle."
United States District Judge Timothy M. Cain sentenced Floyd to 270 months imprisonment to be followed by 120 months of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division and the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant United States Attorneys Sloan P. Ellis and Brandi B. Hinton prosecuted the case.
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Multi-State, Multi-Agency Investigation Results in Four Federally Charged in Child Sex Trafficking and Child Exploitation CaseRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart announced today that four individuals have been charged by a federal grand jury in a 13-count indictment for their respective roles in alleged child sex trafficking, production of child pornography, and coercion and enticement of a minor. The case involves activity spanning from Arizona to South Carolina, and victims from the Pee Dee and Midlands regions of South Carolina.
Specifically, Hart William Grow, 25, of Surprise, Arizona, has been charged with conspiracy to sexually traffic a minor, sexual trafficking of minor, conspiracy to produce child pornography and to coerce and entice a minor, four counts of production of child pornography involving two victims, four counts of coercion and enticement of a minor involving two victims, and possession of child pornography.
Theodore Woolings Bye, III, 36, of Myrtle Beach, has been charged with conspiracy to sexually traffic a minor, sexual trafficking of minor, conspiracy to produce child pornography and to coerce and entice a minor, two counts of production of child pornography, two counts of coercion and enticement of a minor, and possession of child pornography.
Sanadin Mohamed Elrayes, 28, of Surfside Beach, and Charles Joseph Spillane, 44, of Myrtle Beach, have both been charged with conspiracy to produce child pornography and to coerce and entice a minor.
The indictment alleges that, since at least April 2020, Grow and Bye conspired to recruit, entice, harbor, transport, provide, obtain, maintain, patronize, and solicit a minor victim in South Carolina to engage in a commercial sex act.
The record in the case alleges that Grow, from his home in Arizona and through the internet, misrepresented to various minors across the country that he was also a minor and was interested in a relationship. In this case, Grow allegedly claimed to a minor victim that he was a 17-year-old female named “Hannah” living in Columbia, South Carolina.
Using this false persona and promising love and affection, Grow groomed the minor victim to fall in love with “Hannah.” It was then, the indictment alleges, that Grow abused his position of trust with the minor victim to enter into a sexual dominant/submissive relationship, to hold absolute power and control over the victim, and to employ bondage/discipline, domination/submission, and sadism/masochism (“BDSM”) techniques. Threatening the minor victim if the victim did not obey his BDSM rules, Grow required the victim to engage in often-violent sexual acts with adult men that the victim did not otherwise wish to engage with.
According to Court records, Grow used message boards and social media to make his minor victim available to adult males for sexual encounters in exchange for the men sending visual depictions of the sexual encounters to him. Specifically, Grow required the adult males to produce, or assist in the production of, a visual depiction of the often-violent sexual acts. One such male, according to the indictment, was Bye.
The indictment alleges that Bye, with the direction and logistical assistance of Grow, not only participated in the sexual acts with the victim but also made the victim available for sex on numerous occasions to other men. According to the indictment, Bye would transport the victim to various locations in and around Myrtle Beach for commercial sex acts and would use internet message boards, social media, and text messages to make the victim available to other adult males for sexual encounters. The minor victim’s availability for the sexual encounters was predicated on the agreement with the adult males to produce and send visual depictions of the acts to Grow.
The indictment further alleges that Elrayes and Spillane responded to Bye’s internet postings and, after communicating with Bye via social media and text messages, engaged in sexually explicit conduct with the minor for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of the acts. According to the indictment, the visual depictions with Elrayes were created at a hotel in Surfside Beach, and the visual depictions with Spillane were created at his Myrtle Beach home.
The indictment also alleges that in early 2021, after Grow had trafficked the first minor victim, he began communicating with a second minor victim in South Carolina. According to Court records, Grow coerced the second minor into producing visual depictions of sexually explicit conduct until shortly before his arrest in Arizona.
According to Court records, the defendants used social media applications, including Snapchat, Wattpad, and Kik to communicate with the victims and with each other. Grow used screen names, including “hgliese” and “hanners,” and aliases, including “Terry” and “Hannah,” when allegedly communicating with his victims.
Grow and Bye face a maximum penalty of life, and Elrayes and Spillane face a maximum penalty of five years. All defendants are currently detained.
“While this indictment speaks for itself, human trafficking and child exploitation are vile crimes, and this office will swiftly and aggressively prosecute those who prey upon minors,” said Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart. “Our ability to address these cases hinges on the great work of our federal, state, and local partners. We also ask parents to be vigilant and to pay attention to your children’s online and social media activity. No demographic is immune from this type of crime, and no family with a computer or a phone is out of reach from these types of predators.”
“The victimization and exploitation of children is a major threat to our community and something we must all work to eradicate,” said Special Agent in Charge Special Agent in Charge Ronnie Martinez, who oversees Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) operations in North Carolina and South Carolina. “HSI is committed to identifying and safeguarding victims of human trafficking and child exploitation and will aggressively pursue offenders and ensure justice is served.”
“Human trafficking and child exploitation is real, and it is happening in South Carolina,” said South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) Chief Mark Keel. “We have and will continue to work in collaboration with our local and federal partners to rescue those being victimized and bring justice to those who profit from the misery of others.”
The case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), the Horry County Sheriff’s Office, and the Myrtle Beach Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Derek A. Shoemake and Amy Bower are prosecuting the case.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Acting United States Attorney DeHart stated that all charges in indictments are merely accusations and that all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
If you or someone you know may have information relevant to this investigation, please call the HSI Tipline at 1-866-347-3423.
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Repeat Offender from Mount Pleasant Sentenced to More Than 10 Years in Federal Prison for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Charleston, South Carolina---- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart stated today that Zachary Scott Fasola, 33, of Mount Pleasant, was sentenced to more than ten years in federal prison for possession of child pornography, marking the second federal conviction and sentence for possession of child pornography for Fasola, with his first being in 2016.
Evidence presented in court showed that, on May 16, 2018, the South Carolina Attorney General's Office Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) section received a CyberTipline Report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which had been notified by Facebook of alleged criminal activity on their servers related to a particular email address.
On January 24, 2019, law enforcement executed a search warrant at the residence associated with the email address, which was Fasola’s residence. At the residence, Fasola admitted to downloading child pornography from the internet. Law enforcement seized multiple electronic devices, on which 24 videos and 140 images of child pornography were found, including depictions of prepubescent children engaged in sexual activity with adults.
United States District Judge Richard M. Gergel of Charleston sentenced Fasola to 121 months imprisonment and lifetime supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Judge Gergel also ordered Fasola to pay special assessments of $100 and $5,000.
The case was investigated by agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Dean H. Secor prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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Edisto Island Man who Livestreamed with Handgun before Violent Charleston Riots Sentenced to 24 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Charleston, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart announced today that Kelsey Donnel Jackson, 28, of Edisto Island, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to maliciously damaging a police vehicle by means of fire during violent and destructive riots in downtown Charleston on May 30, 2020.
Evidence presented in court showed that, while traveling to the protests, Jackson streamed a video of himself on Facebook live in which he held a handgun, racked the slide on the handgun, and pointed the handgun at the screen of his phone. While holding the handgun on multiple occasions, Jackson is heard on the live stream making the following statements: “F*ck the police,” “let a cop run up and get done up,” “we’re liable to f*ck the police up right now,” and “you about to get hit” when he thought he was being pulled over by a police officer.
Evidence presented to the court further showed that Jackson travelled throughout the city, vandalizing businesses and public property, assaulting two civilians, and attempting to light a Charleston Police cruiser on fire.
Jackson is the third of six defendants to be sentenced on federal charges stemming from participation of actions including arson, inciting riots, and other civil disorder in Columbia and Charleston on May 30 and 31, 2020.
“While the United States Attorney’s Office will always protect the First Amendment rights of South Carolinians, we will not allow violence and destruction to go unpunished,” said Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart. “We stand committed with our local, state and federal partners to protect the citizens of South Carolina, and we commend the tremendous effort made by detectives and crime analysts from the Charleston Police Department to not only identify those responsible for the violence and destruction last summer but also to document evidence and quickly apprehend them. As was expressed in court, today’s sentencing will hopefully be a deterrent for violent agitators committing crimes like this in the future.”
“The Charleston Police Department once again applauds the successful resolution of this criminal case and the ongoing support displayed by the United States Attorney’s Office regarding this incident,” said Charleston Police Chief Luther Reynolds. “While the Charleston Police Department will always support our citizen’s right to peaceful protest, we will never condone violent or destructive acts that endanger our citizens or damage property. More work remains to be accomplished as we continue investigating and prosecuting those violent offenders responsible for the significant destruction of property, assault on our citizens and attack on our officers. We will not rest until justice is accomplished for all impacted by those criminal acts.”
United States District Judge Richard M. Gergel sentenced Jackson to 24 months imprisonment to be followed by 36 months of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the FBI, ATF, Charleston Police Department, and South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED). Numerous other local police departments and Solicitors’ Offices across the state have also assisted in the investigations of civil unrest in May 2020.
Assistant United States Attorneys Emily Limehouse and Nathan Williams prosecuted the case.
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Charleston Rioter Sentenced to 18 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Charleston, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart announced today that Abraham Jenkins, 26, of Charleston, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to civil disorders related to the violence and destruction in downtown Charleston on May 30, 2020.
Jenkins is the second of six defendants to be sentenced on federal charges stemming from participation of actions including arson, inciting riots, and other civil disorder in Columbia and Charleston on May 30 and 31, 2020.
“The United States Attorney’s Office will always protect the First Amendment rights of South Carolinians,” said Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart. “However, when peaceful protests turn into violence and destruction, the violent agitators committing crimes will be brought to justice.”
“To protect our right to peacefully protest, the FBI will continue to investigate individuals that engage in criminal conduct that causes personal injury and property destruction as part of a riot,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Susan Ferensic. “We are grateful for the work done by the ATF, Charleston Police Department and South Carolina Law Enforcement Division that helped bring this offender to justice.”
“The Charleston Police Department applauds the successful resolution of this criminal case and the support the displayed by the United States Attorney’s Office regarding this incident,” said Charleston Police Chief Luther Reynolds. “While the Charleston Police Department will always support our citizen’s right to peaceful protest, we will never condone violent or destructive acts that endanger our citizens or damage property. More work remains to be accomplished as we continue investigating and prosecuting those violent offenders responsible for the significant destruction of property, assault on our citizens and attack on our officers. We will not rest until justice is accomplished for all impacted by those criminal acts.”
“The Mount Pleasant Police Department appreciates the investigation in this matter and feels the process worked out in the interest of justice,” read in part a statement from the Mount Pleasant Police Department. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement and community partners to ensure our citizens rights, safety, and property are protected.”
Evidence presented in court showed that Jenkins stood on top of a Town of Mount Pleasant Police vehicle, damaging it; sprayed a fire extinguisher at police officers who were patrolling Charleston on two separate occasions; and threw a water bottle at a patrolling officer. Jenkins also took a burning t-shirt and threw it through a broken back window of a Charleston Police cruiser, causing damage to the cruiser.
United States District Judge Richard M. Gergel sentenced Jenkins to 18 imprisonment to be followed by 36 months of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the FBI, ATF, Charleston Police Department, and South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED). Numerous other local police departments and Solicitors’ Offices across the states have also assisted in the investigations of civil unrest in May 2020.
Assistant United States Attorneys Emily Limehouse and Nathan Williams prosecuted the case.
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Moncks Corner Man Who Shot at Berkeley County Deputy and Pointed a Gun at U.S. Marshals Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Charleston, South Carolina ––– Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart announced today that Ricky DeWayne Johnson, 35, of Moncks Corner, has been sentenced to 30 years in federal prison, after pleading guilty to assaulting two members of the United States Marshal’s Fugitive Task Force and unlawfully possessing a firearm.
“Anyone foolish enough to point a gun at federal law enforcement yet fortunate enough to survive should know that they will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law,” said Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart. “Our law enforcement officers – local, state, and federal – put their lives on the line each day to protect and serve the public. Our office will never tolerate criminals threatening or shooting at our brave men and women in uniform.”
Evidence presented in court showed that, just after 2:00 AM on March 22, 2018, a deputy with the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office attempted to stop a truck for traffic violations. While the truck initially slowed and pulled into a gas station parking lot, it quickly pulled out and led the deputy on a high-speed chase into a residential subdivision. The driver of the vehicle, later identified as Johnson, made a U-turn in a neighborhood and fired a .45 caliber pistol at the pursuing deputy. Johnson continued driving until he made an abrupt stop, where he pointed the handgun at the deputy who had exited his vehicle and had drawn his weapon. When the deputy took cover, Johnson sped off and made his way to a cul-de-sac in the neighborhood, where he exited the vehicle and ran from the deputy.
Upon searching the truck, which had been stolen, deputies located inside a spent casing for a .45 caliber round and a .22 caliber handgun. Another spent casing was discovered nearby in the street. After deputies established a search perimeter, they learned that a van had been stolen around where the suspect had fled on foot. Hours later, two members of the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force located Johnson in downtown Summerville, activated blue lights, and pulled up behind Johnson in an attempt to apprehend him. Johnson attempted to flee and, during the ensuing foot chase, pulled a handgun from his jacket and pointed it at the pursuing Marshals. The Marshals opened fire at Johnson and brought him down. Investigators recovered a .45 caliber handgun loaded with 4 rounds of ammunition from Johnson who was treated for a gunshot wound in a local hospital and taken into custody.
Federal law prohibits Johnson from possessing firearms and ammunition, as he was previously convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment of more than one year. Johnson’s criminal history includes prior convictions for second degree burglary in 2009 and 2010, grand larceny in 2009 and 2013, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine in 2014, financial transaction card theft in 2009, breaking into motor vehicles in 2010, and failure to stop for blue lights in 2014 and 2015.
United States District Court Judge Margaret B. Seymour sentenced Johnson to the statutory maximum of 30 years in federal prison, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms & Explosives (ATF), the United States Marshals, the South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division (SLED), and the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office. The Ninth Circuit Solicitor’s Office worked with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to secure Johnson’s plea.
Assistant United States Attorney Chris Schoen prosecuted the case.
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Four Indicted for Wire Fraud, Mail Fraud and Money Laundering in International Telemarketing Scheme Targeting SeniorsRead the Press Release
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina ––– Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart stated today that a Federal Grand Jury has returned a 13-count indictment charging four in the Myrtle Beach area for an alleged international telemarketing scheme targeting seniors.
Fabian Gray, a/k/a Mike Taylor, 29; Avia Reid, 29; Khalelah Powell, 20; and Romaine Gordon, 29, all of Myrtle Beach, have been charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, mail fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering.
The indictment alleges that, since June 2015, the four defendants knowingly, willfully, and intentionally conspired to defraud victims by use of telemarketing. Namely, it is alleged that the defendants and their co-conspirators falsely informed more than 100 victims, most of them elderly, that the victims had won large awards of money and then convinced the victims that they had to pay fees in advance in order to receive their awards.
The indictment further alleges that the defendants and their co-conspirators sent communications purported to be from a genuine sweepstakes company, financial institutions, and even federal agencies that discussed the purported cash awards, designed to hide the true nature of the conspiracy and to convince victims of the authenticity of the winnings and fees. The defendants then allegedly instructed how and whom the bogus fees and taxes were to be sent. After receiving the victims’ money through prepaid cards, money orders, cash, personal checks and wire transfers, the defendants in turn wire transferred and carried to co-conspirators in Jamaica and elsewhere.
It is alleged in the indictment that at least $665,000 was stolen in the scheme.
The maximum penalty the defendants could receive per count is 20 years imprisonment and a fine of $250,000. Because the indictment alleges that the defendants targeted victims over the age of 55, the defendants face an enhanced penalty of up to 10 additional years for the first 12 counts of the indictment.
All defendants are currently detained pending trial. During the detention hearing of several of the defendants, information was presented to the court that the defendants are all originally from Jamaica and that at least two of the defendants are in the United States without legal status.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Assistant United States Attorney Derek Shoemake is prosecuting the case.
Acting United States Attorney DeHart stated that all charges in indictments are merely accusations and that all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Columbia Career Offender Sentenced to More Than 12 Years in Federal Prison on Gun and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart announced today that Anthony Earl Baxter, 37, of Columbia, was sentenced to more than 12 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition, as well as possession with the intent to distribute cocaine and methamphetamine.
Evidence presented in court showed that on November 7, 2019, the Richland County Sheriff’s Department was dispatched on a call for service related to a domestic assault with a firearm. The victim advised deputies that the suspect fled the scene, and deputies observed the suspect vehicle being driven by Baxter leaving the area. When the deputies tried to pull Baxter over, he pulled off the road and began a high speed car chase that reached over 90 MPH, with Baxter weaving in and out of traffic, driving into oncoming lanes of traffic, and jumping a center medium curb.
Baxter took marked patrol cars with lights and sirens activated on a car chase through business and residential areas of Columbia. The car chase ended with Baxter crashing his vehicle and then attempting to flee by foot with a backpack in hand onto a residential property. Deputies detained Baxter and discovered in the backpack: two 9mm handguns and ammunition, four digital scales, U.S. currency, cocaine and methamphetamine.
Federal law prohibits Baxter from possessing firearms and ammunition based on multiple prior felony convictions. Baxter’s prior convictions include for drug charges in 2004, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2012 and 2013; a weapons charge in 2004; and a criminal domestic violence charge in 2007. Due to his multiple controlled substance convictions, Baxter was considered a career offender within the meaning of the federal sentencing guidelines.
United States District Court Judge J. Michelle Childs sentenced Baxter to 151 months in federal prison, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Richland County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant United States Attorney Elliott B. Daniels prosecuted the case.
The case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
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Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart Urges Public to Protect Seniors from Internet Crimes, After South Carolinians over 60 Years Old Lost More Than $10 Million in 2020 to CybercriminalsRead the Press Release
Charleston, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart announced today that, according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s 2020 Elder Fraud Report, 1,350 South Carolinians aged 60 or over fell victim to cyber scammers. The report states that these South Carolinians reported losses of nearly $10 million in 2020.
Across the nation, there was over $1 billion in losses by victims aged 60 or over, representing 28% of all losses reported to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center. The average dollar loss by those aged 60 or over nationwide was $9,175.
Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart urges the public to be vigilant of these crimes and to help older family members, so they do not become the next victim of elder fraud scams.
“Criminals often prey on those they believe are most susceptible to their schemes,” said Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart. “Unfortunately, this means our elder neighbors are highly targeted by exploitative cybercriminals. It is critical that all South Carolinians, particularly those over the age of 60, be vigilant of such crimes and that, when and where able, family members assist in protecting their elders to prevent them from falling victim to such crimes. Know that the investigative work of the FBI and the prosecutorial efforts of the elder fraud division in our office will not end until such predatory cybercrimes come to a halt.”
The release of the annual report from the FBI comes in coordination with the annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, in which the entire Department of Justice echoes voices around the world condemning elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
According to the annual report from the FBI, the most common scams against seniors in 2020 were extortion, non-payment/non-delivery, tech support fraud, and identity theft. Some of these crimes stemmed from the new use of digital purchasing of goods during the pandemic.
“Just as many seniors take extra precautions to protect themselves from physical crimes – be it through constant knowledge of what is going on outside their homes or by consistently keeping doors blocked, the same effort should be made to protect themselves from online scams,” said Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart. “Should one fall victim to these crimes or any other targeting seniors, they should immediately report it to the FBI and the Department of Justice’s National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-FRAUD-11.”
Any victim of cybercrimes can contact the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov.
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The full 2020 Elder Fraud Report from the FBI can be found at: https://www.ic3.gov/Media/PDF/AnnualReport/2020_IC3ElderFraudReport.pdf.
Man Convicted of Abusive Sexual Conduct Aboard an Airplane Sentenced to Statutory Maximum Federal Prison TermRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, SC – Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of South Carolina M. Rhett DeHart, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina William T. Stetzer and FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert R. Wells announced that Siva K. Durbesula, 29, of India, who was convicted by jury of abusive sexual contact aboard an airplane, was sentenced to the statutory maximum federal prison term of two years for the offense.
According to filed court documents, witness testimony, and evidence presented at trial, on June 23, 2019, Durbesula was a passenger aboard a flight from Chicago O’Hare to Myrtle Beach. Over the course of the flight, Durbesula sexually assaulted a 22-year-old female who was seated next to him. As the victim testified at trial, Durbesula pulled her toward him and groped her repeatedly midflight. Court records show that after the flight crew moved Durbesula away from the victim, Durbesula asked to return to his previous seat so he could speak to the victim again.
During trial, prosecutors also presented the testimony of a second victim, who testified that on March 21, 2019 – approximately three months prior to the assault on the airplane – Durbesula pinned her into the corner on a New York City subway train and groped her. The victim was able to video record Durbesula’s exiting the train, which assisted the New York Police Department to identify Durbesula and charge him. Those charges were still pending when Durbesula sexually assaulted the victim on the airplane that resulted in federal charges.
The case was originally indicted in the District of South Carolina and was later transferred to the Western District of North Carolina. In handing out the statutory maximum prison term for the offense, Chief U.S. District Judge Martin Reidinger noted that Durbesula’s repeated sexual misconduct over a short period of time required the maximum statutory punishment to promote respect for the law. In addition to the prison term imposed, Judge Reidinger ordered Durbesula to serve 10 years of supervised release and to pay a $5,000 assessment.
Durbesula is currently in federal custody. He will be transferred to the custody of the federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.
In making the announcement, Acting U.S. Attorneys DeHart and Stetzer commended the FBI and the Horry County Police Department for their investigation of the case and thanked Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) for their invaluable assistance.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Derek A. Shoemake of the District of South Carolina and Don Gast of the Western District of North Carolina prosecuted the case.
Former Florence County Sheriff’s Lieutenant Sentenced to Just over a Year in Federal Prison after Joint Investigation into Public Corruption and Illegal GamblingRead the Press Release
FLORENCE, SC --- Acting U.S. Attorney M. Rhett DeHart announced today that former Florence County Sheriff’s Lieutenant Mark Edward Fuleihan, 49, of Florence, was sentenced to just over a year in federal prison as the result of an extensive joint federal and state investigation into public corruption and illegal gambling operations in the Pee Dee region. Fuleihan, who previously pleaded guilty for operating an illegal gambling business, is one of nine defendants to be charged in the case and is among eight defendants who have pleaded guilty for their role in the illegal operation.
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) began the operation years ago after a request from the Florence County Sheriff’s Office. The investigation specifically focused on allegations that a senior law enforcement official was obstructing the ability of SLED and others to monitor illegal gambling operations by, among other things, informing those gambling operators about planned law enforcement activity. The case led to SLED’s arrest of Fuleihan on April 2, 2020, on a South Carolina State Grand Jury arrest warrant for a state Ethics Act bribery charge, followed by South Carolina State Grand Jury indictments for misconduct in office and Ethics Act bribery charges on May 14, 2020. Federal charges for obstruction of justice were filed on June 30, 2020, and a federal grand jury indicted Fuleihan on October 20, 2020, for operating an illegal gambling business, conspiracy to obstruct enforcement of state criminal law, and obstruction of an official proceeding. Then-Florence County Interim Sheriff William Barnes dismissed Fuleihan, who had served as a Florence County Sheriff’s Deputy since 1995, from his position just before his arrest by SLED.
“We trust our law enforcement officers to protect society and stand against wrongdoing,” said Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart. “When an officer violates that trust, it is imperative that we hold them accountable. I commend our state and federal partners for doing just that in this case. This team was able to dismantle a criminal organization that was bolstered by a crooked cop and to send that officer to prison.”
“We greatly appreciate the work of our federal, state, and local partners in this joint investigation, which involved the US Attorney’s Office, HSI, SLED, the Florence County Sheriff’s Office, and the Attorney General’s State Grand Jury Division,” South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson said. “It is our goal to successfully synch and pool the resources of all the various jurisdictions to best achieve justice for South Carolinians,” he added.
“A law enforcement officer’s badge and gun are not only symbols of trust and professionalism, but they are also tools that should be used for protecting the public, not enabling criminal activity,” said Special Agent in Charge Ronnie Martinez, who oversees HSI operations in North and South Carolina. “Corruption in law enforcement undermines the public’s trust and makes all of our jobs harder.”
“When a law enforcement officer breaks the law, it tarnishes the entire profession, and we lose the respect of the communities we serve” said SLED Chief Mark Keel. “SLED is committed to continuing our work with our federal, state, and local partners to ensure that we have professional accountable law enforcement in South Carolina.”
Evidence presented to the court showed that since at least July 2014, the defendants operated illegal gambling houses throughout Florence and Williamsburg. The gambling organization allowed individuals to play illegal gambling machines, collected monies from those individuals playing, and payed out winnings to those individuals. Approximately $1,000,000 in cash was deposited into the accounts of at least two members of the gambling organization.
The evidence showed that Fuleihan was essential to the ability of the gambling operation to operate. Fuleihan used his former position as a senior officer with the Florence County Sheriff’s Office to uncover details about the joint federal and state investigation into the illegal gambling operation, which included calling SLED officials and requesting to be informed about any upcoming operations related to gambling enforcement. Fuleihan would share this information with members of the illegal gambling operation, and the members would use it to evade law enforcement operations and to destroy potentially relevant evidence. Fuleihan was recorded on several calls with at least one member of the gambling operation discussing pending federal search warrants, potential wiretaps, and law enforcement raids. At least one member of the illegal gambling operation explained how Fuleihan would sell previously seized gambling machines back to members of the illegal gambling operation.
Chief U.S. District Judge R. Bryan Harwell sentenced Fuleihan to twelve months and one day in federal prison, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. The South Carolina State Grand Jury charges remain pending at this time.
The following co-defendants in the case have pled guilty and been sentenced to terms of probation or house arrest: Timothy Dane Keefe, 39, of Lake City; Thyrone Eaddy, 54, of Lake City; Cliff Cantey, 62, of Lake City; Kenneth Moore, 64, of Salters; George Dollard, 70, of Lake City; and Leroy Barbour 51, of Florence. Co-defendant Sheryl Kirby, 52, of Lake City, has pleaded guilty and is awaiting sentencing. Co-defendant Dale Smith, 64, of Lake City, has been charged but has not entered a plea in the case or otherwise been convicted.
The case was investigated by HSI, SLED, the Florence County Sheriff’s Office, and the South Carolina State Grand Jury. Assistant United States Attorney Derek A. Shoemake prosecuted the federal case. State Grand Jury Division Chief Attorney S. Creighton Waters and Assistant Attorney General Johnny Ellis James, Jr. are prosecuting the case for the South Carolina State Grand Jury.
Westinghouse Director During Nuclear Debacle Pleads Guilty in Federal Court to Making False Statement to FBIRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart announced today that Carl Dean Churchman, a former Westinghouse Electric Corporation Vice President and the Project Director of the V.C. Summer Nuclear project, pled guilty today in federal court to making a false statement to an FBI agent during the investigation of the failed nuclear project at the V.C. Summer site.
“This guilty plea shows that the investigation into the V.C. Summer nuclear debacle did not end with the former SCANA executives,” said Acting United States Attorney DeHart. “We are committed to seeing this case through and holding all individual and corporate wrongdoers accountable.”
“Today’s plea highlights the FBI’s determination to conduct a comprehensive investigation that yields the truth,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Susan Ferensic. “We will continue to ask important questions and identify all involved in this failed nuclear project.”
As evidence presented to the court showed, Churchman was interviewed by FBI Special Agent Aaron Hawkins in May 2019. During the interview, Agent Hawkins asked Churchman several questions about Westinghouse’s reporting of V.C. Summer’s completion dates to SCANA and Santee Cooper (“the owners”) in early 2017.
Churchman told Agent Hawkins that Westinghouse’s executives did not consult him prior to reporting the completion dates to the owners. Churchman claimed that he did not know the dates before they were reported and that he did not know who made the decision to report the dates to the owners.
However, emails and other documents obtained during the investigation of the failed nuclear project at the V.C. Summer site revealed that Churchman lied to Agent Hawkins during the May 2019 interview. An internal Westinghouse email chain establishes that Churchman received and discussed the dates in early 2017.
Additionally, detailed notes from an early 2017 meeting with Westinghouse executives by SCANA’s Executive Vice President Steve Byrne revealed that Churchman reported the completion dates to SCANA on February 14, 2017, directly contradicting the statements Churchman made to Agent Hawkins.
On May 19, 2021, Churchman sat down for another interview with the FBI. At the beginning of the interview, Churchman acknowledged that his previous statements were untrue.
Today’s plea is the third stemming from the investigation of the failed nuclear project. Byrne previously pled guilty to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, and former SCANA Chief Executive Officer and former Chairman of its Board of Directors Kevin Marsh pled guilty in federal court to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud.
Today’s plea also follows a previously announced agreement with Dominion Energy that will, over time, provide at least four billion dollars of South Carolina ratepayer relief; and it follows a previously announced settlement by SCANA and SCE&G on a Securities and Exchange Commission lawsuit charging them with defrauding investors by making false and misleading statements about the nuclear plant expansion that was ultimately abandoned.
In the plea agreement, Churchman agrees to cooperate fully with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. He also agrees to testify fully and truthfully before any grand juries until the investigation and prosecution in the criminal acts that occurred in relation to the failed V.C. Summer Nuclear plant expansion are complete.
On the federal charge, Churchman faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, supervised release of up to 3 years, and a $100 special assessment.
United States District Judge Mary G. Lewis accepted the guilty plea and will sentence Churchman after receiving and reviewing a sentencing report prepared by the United States Probation Office.
Assistant United States Attorneys Jim May, Brook Andrews, Winston Holliday, Emily Limehouse, and Jason Peavy along with Special Assistant United States Attorney John O’Halloran, a lawyer with the Securities and Exchange Commission, prosecuted the case.
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Myrtle Beach Businesses, Owners, and Managers Indicted on Federal Charges for Visa Fraud, Money Laundering, and Wire Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
MYRTLE BEACH, SC --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart announced today that a Federal Grand Jury has returned a multi-count indictment charging several Myrtle Beach businesses, business owners, and business managers with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, money laundering, and visa fraud. Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart is also calling for the public’s assistance to identify additional victims to the conspiracy.
The indictment alleges that Raja Imran Younas – the registered agent, president, and chief executive of Grandeur Management, Inc; the registered agent and Chief Financial Officer of Premier Laundry and Linen Supply LLC; the registered agent of Cenet USA LLC; and a 50% interest member of Hospitality Service Group LLC; Syed Rehan Naqvi, the registered agent and organizer of Rida Naqvi LLC; Jessica Voight, an employee of Grandeur Management; Hospitality Service Group LLC and the aforementioned businesses devised a scheme to defraud workers outside the United States to work for the defendants. It is alleged that the conspirators not only submitted false and fraudulent visa petitions but also mispresented the positions, duties, rates of pay, working conditions, and living conditions to collect unauthorized and improper fees from aliens seeking H-2B nonimmigrant visas.
According to the indictment, the conspirators would and did use separate accounts in order to pay employees differently based on their current nonimmigration or alien status in the United States. It is also alleged that, despite promising the workers full-time work, the conspirators provided less than full-time work and consistently paid the workers less than the amount states in the workers’ contracts and in the applications the defendants submitted to the United States Department of Labor and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
The indictment further alleges that part of the conspiracy is the misrepresentation that the conspirators maintain an established international cultural exchange program designed, on the whole, to exhibit or explain the attitude, customs, history, heritage, philosophy, traditions, and/or other cultural attributes (arts, literature, language) of the participant’s country of nationality in order to obtain authorization to sponsor Q-1 visas; when, in fact, once the nonimmigrant employees arrived in the United States, they were placed by their visa sponsors into inward facing housekeeping jobs, with no real opportunities for cultural exchange.
According to the indictment – Younas and Naqvi signed petitions for alien workers containing material misrepresentations; Voight and others conducted interviews with the alien workers over the internet and instructed them on how to wire unlawful visa fees charged by the conspirators; and collected the unlawful fees. The indictment further alleges that Hospitality Service Group, Rida Naqvi, Grandeur Management, Cenet, USA and Premier Laundry and Linen Supply did not provide the hours and wages promised to the workers in their contracts or represented in their applications to the Department of Labor and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigrations Services. Hospitality Service Group is also charged with petitioning for individuals who never worked for the company.
The maximum penalty the defendants could receive is twenty years imprisonment.
“Our nation’s visa system is an asset that provides much-needed resources to our communities and valuable opportunities to foreign workers,” said Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart. “Those in South Carolina who exploit the system and its workers will be brought to justice by our office, while we rescue and restore victims in the process.”
“While the allegations in the indictment speak for themselves, our office is seeking the public’s assistance to identify all potential victims,” continued Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart. “If you and/or someone you know may have been victimized by the defendants’ alleged scheme, please contact our coordinated support services at [email protected].”
“The Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) is committed to protecting the integrity of H-2B, B-2, and Q-1 visas, and all U.S. visas and travel documents that assist U.S. companies to legally employ foreign workers,” said DSS Special Agent in Charge Edwin Guard of the Washington Field Office. “This case is the result of working with the U.S. Department of Justice and our other law enforcement partners to interdict visa and passport crimes and stop criminals from reaping illegal income by exploiting U.S. visas, passports, and foreign workers.”
“The Myrtle Beach Police Department, along with our community, remain committed to holding persons who victimize anyone here in Myrtle Beach accountable for their crimes,” said Myrtle Beach Police Chief Amy Prock. “This case and these arrests demonstrate our commitment and the partnerships we have with our federal law enforcement colleagues. We are here to help and will always stand up for those who need us.”
The case was investigated by special agents of the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) and the Myrtle Beach Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Carrie Fisher Sherard is prosecuting the case.
Acting United States Attorney DeHart stated that all charges in indictments are merely accusations and that all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office to Join Department of State and Myrtle Beach PD for Press Conference Tomorrow, June 10, at 2:30 PM in Myrtle BeachRead the Press Release
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart announced today that a press conference will be held tomorrow – June 10, 2021 – at 2:30 p.m., at the Warren S. Gall Police Annex at 3340 Mustang Street, Myrtle Beach SC 29577.
Represented at the press conference will be the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Carolina, the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service (DSS), and the Myrtle Beach Police Department.
WHEN: Tomorrow – Thursday, June 10 – at 2:30 p.m.
WHERE: Warren S. Gall Police Annex
3340 Mustang Street
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 29577
NOTE: Press inquiries regarding logistics should be directed to Michael Mule’, 843-327-0882. Members of the media wishing to attend the remarks should begin gathering outside the Warren S. Gall Police Annex at 2 p.m., 30 minutes in advance.
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Westinghouse Director During Nuclear Debacle to Plead Guilty Thursday to Making False Statement to Federal AuthorityRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart announced that Carl Dean Churchman, Former Westinghouse Electric Corporation Vice President and Project Director of the V.C. Summer Nuclear project, is scheduled to plead guilty on Thursday, June 10, in federal court to making a false statement to an FBI agent during the investigation of the failed nuclear project at the V.C. Summer site. The hearing is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. at the Matthew J. Perry Federal Courthouse, 901 Richland Street, Columbia, before the Honorable Mary Geiger Lewis.
Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart will be available for media questions after the hearing.
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Convicted Felon Indicted on Federal Charges of Possession of Firearm, Fentanyl, Meth, Heroin, CocaineRead the Press Release
Charleston, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart stated today that a Federal Grand Jury has returned a five-count indictment charging Jonathan Xavier Miller, 37, of Blythewood, for drug possession and possession of a firearm as a convicted felon.
The indictment alleges that, in February 2019, Miller knowingly, intentionally, and unlawfully possessed with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture containing meth, cocaine, and crack cocaine. It further alleges that, in July 2019, Miller possessed with the intent to distribute crack cocaine. The indictment also alleges that, in November 2019, Miller possessed with the intent to distribute a substance containing meth, fentanyl and heroin, as well as possessing a 9mm handgun in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Miller is prohibited to possess a firearm due to prior felony convictions. Prior convictions of Miller include that for strong armed robbery, criminal domestic violence, drug possession, and gun possession.
Miller is facing up to life imprisonment on one of the federal charges.
The case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Richland County Sheriff’s Department and the Irmo Police Department.
Acting United States Attorney DeHart stated that all charges in indictments are merely accusations and that all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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South Carolina Inmate Sentenced to Federal Prison for Role in Military Sextortion SchemeRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart announced today that Wendell Wilkins, 32, of Spartanburg, was sentenced to 66 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to money laundering, for his role in a scheme to extort and defraud military members that was operated out of the South Carolina Department of Corrections (SCDC).
Evidence presented to the court showed that, while serving a 12-year sentence in SCDC for attempted armed robbery and using smartphones smuggled into prison, Wilkins joined internet dating sites, posed as young women thereon, and began communicating with military members. Posing as young women and targeting military members, Wilkins sent nude photographs of young females to the military members and solicited nude photographs and other personal information in exchange. Wilkins, and others acting at his direction, then posed as the father of the young woman, claiming that the young woman was underage and that the military member was in possession of child pornography. Wilkins and others then threatened to have the military members arrested or dishonorably discharged unless they paid money.
Due to this extortion, service members transferred funds via Western Union and MoneyGram to Wilkins’ associates at Wilkins’ direction. From February 2016 through January 2018, Wilkins received at least $74,000.00 in extorted funds, which investigators traced to at least 25 military victims.
Wilkins was one of numerous inmates at SCDC prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in South Carolina for participating in this scheme to extort military members. In total, more than 300 military members throughout the United States were victims of the scheme, and the amount of loss exceeded $350,000. Several military members committed suicide after falling victim to this extortion scheme.
United States District Judge David C. Norton sentenced Wilkins to 66 months in federal prison and 36 months of supervised release to be served after Wilkins completes his 12-year state prison sentence. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS), Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Criminal Investigation, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Air Force Office of Special Investigations, U.S. Army Criminal Investigations Command (CID), United States Marshals Service, South Carolina Department of Corrections, and South Carolina Law Enforcement Division.
Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart prosecuted the case.
“Nothing good comes from smartphones in prison,” said Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart. “Inmates use them to commit even more crimes while behind bars. We hope this prosecution helps state officials eliminate and disable contraband phones in prison.”
“Mr. Wilkins deserves to be held fully accountable for his role in this reprehensible scheme to deceive and defraud our nation’s service members,” said NCIS Carolinas Field Office Special Agent in Charge Sean Devinny. “This sentencing should serve as a warning that NCIS and our law enforcement partners will use every resource available to ensure these criminal networks are destroyed. I would like to sincerely thank our partners for their continued dedication and assistance in keeping our service members safe.”
“Mr. Wilkins knowingly used deceit and trickery to prey on those who serve our nation. It’s unconscionable to think that the defendant perpetuated this years-long financial scam against servicemembers while already in prison for other criminal activity,” said Mona Passmore, Acting Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Charlotte Field Office. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to unravel this and other complex financial and money laundering schemes where individuals attempt to conceal the true source of their income and use the internet to mask their true identity. This additional federal felony conviction and federal prison term should have a strong deterrent effect against any other criminal activity Mr. Wilkins and others might consider pursuing.”
“The Defense Criminal Investigative Service stands committed to aggressively pursue and investigate organized criminals who target our service members and undermine their combat readiness and well-being,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher Dillard, DCIS Mid-Atlantic Field Office. “We hope this case demonstrates the resolve of DCIS and our law enforcement partners to uphold the integrity of the Department of Defense and protect our Warfighters.”
“The Office of Special Investigations (OSI) is committed to being a vital investigative agency aimed at finding the truth, thwarting all threats, and promoting unfailing justice for the Department of the Air Force, Department of Defense, and nation," said Special Agent in Charge Craig Hotaling, OSI Detachment 310, Joint Base Charleston, SC. "We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to protect the personnel of the United States Air Force and Space Force."
"This case highlights the outstanding partnerships of OSI with our fellow law enforcement agencies to protect Department of Defense personnel," said Colonel Tamara Henderson, Commander, OSI Region 3, Scott AFB, IL. "OSI will continue to identify, exploit and neutralize criminal threats targeting the Department of the Air Force, Space Force, and the Department of Defense."
“Unfortunately, these scams are common,” said Edward LaBarge, director of the Major Cybercrime Unit, U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command (CID). “CID special agents will continue to aggressively pursue criminals who target our warfighters and their families in these types of schemes regardless of where they are in the world.”
“This is another example of how dangerous it is for inmates to have illegal cell phones,” said Bryan Stirling, Director of the S.C. Department of Corrections. “States need the ability to jam cell phone signals inside prisons so we can keep inmates from continuing their illegal activities.”
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Mount Pleasant Man Sentenced to 9 Years in Federal Prison for Series of Fraud SchemesRead the Press Release
Charleston, South Carolina –– Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett Dehart announced today that Cameron Banks, a/k/a “Reggie Staggers”, a/k/a “Roy Hamilton,” 36, of Mount Pleasant, was sentenced to nine years in federal prison for wire fraud, bank fraud, mail fraud, and health care fraud schemes.
Evidence presented to the Court established that Banks began his schemes in 2013, when he submitted a falsified loan application to obtain a 2014 Bentley Sedan for $212,034.000. Thereafter, while employed by Dr. Cornelius J. Beck, Banks ran a loan program in which he stole Dr. Beck’s identity and submitted falsified loan applications on behalf of patients to obtain dental work. To obtain these loans, Banks created fraudulent loan documents using Dr. Beck’s forged signature. While the funds were supposed to be used for dental procedures, few people received any dental work. Banks transferred most of the funds into his personal bank accounts for his own use.
Further evidence outlined another fraudulent scheme, beginning in 2015 and continuing into 2018, in which Banks submitted requests to the Department of Transportation to receive numbers to operate commercial vehicles. The requests contained false information and withheld information Banks was required to disclose, namely his relationship with other entities licensed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
While Banks was on bond for the conduct outlined above, investigators uncovered a third fraudulent scheme in which Banks operated a Ponzi scheme. Investors believed they were investing in the operation of commercial trucking business. Under the lease agreements, Banks would provide the truck, the driver, and the insurance, and in exchange, investors were promised a majority of the profits. In reality, Banks spent the investment funds on personal expenses, including car leases, jewelry, and travel. To keep the scheme going, Banks mailed investors checks that represented a portion of the funds to which they were entitled and created false expense documents to explain the lack of profits. There were at least 32 victims of this scheme, many of which experienced substantial financial hardship after investing their life savings.
Evidence presented during the hearing outlined that Banks’ criminal record of stealing peoples’ identities and submitting false documents began at a young age. Banks’ criminal history evinces a lifetime of undeterred forgery, theft, and deception. Banks has prior convictions for forgery, fraudulent checks, bank fraud, financial identity fraud, financial transaction card theft, tax evasion, and numerous instances of probation violations.
United States District Judge David C. Norton sentenced Banks to 108 months imprisonment, followed by a three-year term of supervised release.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service, the United States Department of Transportation Office of the Inspector General, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, and the South Carolina Department of Revenue.
Assistant United States Attorneys Emily Limehouse and Jason Peavy prosecuted the case.
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Former Federal Correctional Institution Employee Indicted for Mail Fraud and Theft of Government FundsRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ––– Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart stated today that a Federal Grand Jury has returned a seven-count indictment charging Jonathan Kent Owens – a former employee of the Federal Correction Institution, Edgefield (FCI Edgefield) – for mail fraud and theft of government funds.
Owens, 39, of North Augusta, is charged with five counts of mail fraud, one count of theft of government property, and one count of theft of government funds.
The indictment alleges that, over a five-year period and through his employment as an Information Technology Specialist at FCI Edgefield, Owens falsely reported and disguised the purchases of over $21,000 worth of certain items to appear as legitimate purchases for FCI Edgefield that were not. Alleged items purchased for personal benefit include a truck suspension lift kit, sunglasses, wading boots, shoes, and clothing.
The indictment further alleges that Owens misreported his time and attendance records to receive payment of approximately 120 hours of overtime for which he was not entitled.
The maximum penalty Owens could receive per count is twenty years imprisonment and a fine of $250,000.
The case was investigated by the Department of Justice’s Office of the Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Winston Marosek is prosecuting the case.
Acting United States Attorney DeHart stated that all charges in indictments are merely accusations and that all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Acting U.S. Attorney M. Rhett DeHart Recognizes National Police Week and Honors Officers Lost in Past YearRead the Press Release
Charleston, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart announced that the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Carolina will be honoring the 10 South Carolina law enforcement officers and three law enforcement K9s lost in the line of duty in 2020, while also recognizing the daily sacrifices made by all law enforcement officers, during National Police Week, observed from Sunday, May 9 through Saturday, May 15, 2021.
“Law enforcement officers and their families sacrifice greatly to protect and serve our communities,” said Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart. “Unfortunately, in the past year, South Carolina has suffered from the ultimate sacrifices made by officers across the state. We will always remember their sacrifices and honor their legacies.”
This year marks the 59th annual National Police Week that celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country and recognizes their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Based on data shared by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 93 law enforcement officers died nationwide in line-of-duty incidents in 2020. The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2021 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read at a public vigil at 8:00 pm (EDT) on Thursday, May 13, 2021. A live stream of the vigil can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
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Summerville Tax Return Preparer Indicted for Preparing False Income Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
Charleston, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart stated today that a Federal Grand Jury has returned a 17-count indictment charging Earl Wayne Ravenell, 46, of Summerville, for preparing false income tax returns.
Ravenell is charged with 16 counts of willfully aiding and assisting in the preparation of false and fraudulent tax returns and one count of making and subscribing a false tax return. The maximum penalty Ravenell could receive per count is three years imprisonment and a fine of $250,000.
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service. Assistant United States Attorney Dean H. Secor is prosecuting the case.
Acting United States Attorney DeHart stated that all charges in indictments are merely accusations and that all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Federal Indictment Returned in Kidnapping and Carjacking Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart stated today that a Federal Grand Jury in Columbia returned a multiple-count indictment in connection with a kidnapping and carjacking that started in Horry County, continued into North Carolina, and culminated in a murder in Marion County.
Dominique Devonah Brand, 29, of Marion, was charged in a three-count indictment with kidnapping resulting in death, carjacking resulting in death, and use of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence resulting in death of a person in such a manner to constitute murder. Brand could receive a sentence of up to life without the possibility of parole or death on all counts.
The indictment alleges that on or about March 28, 2021, Brand entered the home of Mary Ann Elvington in Nichols, South Carolina, and kidnapped her. The indictment further alleges that Brand forced Elvington to drive him in her 2012 Buick Lacrosse to Lake Waccamaw, North Carolina, and then back to Lakeview, South Carolina. There, according to the indictment, Brand forced Elvington into the back seat of the vehicle and he drove away with her in it. It is alleged that, shortly thereafter, Brand shot and killed Elvington behind an abandoned grocery store at the Zion Crossroads in Marion County. Brand then drove the vehicle to a wooded area behind a nightclub in Marion, South Carolina, and abandoned it, according to the indictment.
Brand will be arraigned by a United States Magistrate Judge at the McMillan Federal Courthouse in Florence, South Carolina, in the coming weeks. He is currently in custody on related state charges in Marion County.
The case was investigated by a joint team consisting of the Horry County Police Department, Marion County Sherriff’s Office, Dillon County Sherriff’s Office, Myrtle Beach City Police Department, Lakeview Police Department, and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Pee Dee Safe Streets Gang Task Force is also assisting in the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Everett E. McMillian and Special Assistant United States Attorney Scott Hixson are prosecuting the federal case in close coordination with the 15th and 12th Circuit Solicitors’ Offices.
“While the indictment in this specific case speaks for itself, brazen violence, particularly against the elderly, will always be met with a strong, unified effort by law enforcement to bring the victims justice,” said Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart. “We will never waver in our work to stop violent crime in South Carolina.”
Acting United States Attorney DeHart stated that all charges in indictments are merely accusations and that all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Federal Indictment Returned in Bishopville Post Office and City Hall ArsonRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart announced today that a Federal Grand Jury in Columbia returned a multiple-count indictment in connection with the destruction of Bishopville’s Post Office and damage to Bishopville’s City Hall.
Jeffrey Albert Scott, 61, of Bishopville, was charged in a five-count indictment with three counts of malicious damage to a building by means of fire and two counts of destruction of letter boxes and mail.
The indictment alleges that on or about January 19, 2017, Scott set fire to the Bishopville Post Office, also damaging the mail boxes inside. The indictment further alleges that on or about October 17, 2020, just a few years later, Scott again set fire to the Bishopville Post Office, as well as Bishopville City Hall. The fire destroyed the Post Office, including the mail within.
Scott, who has pleaded not guilty on all five charges, was arraigned Tuesday by a United States Magistrate Judge in Columbia. He is currently detained pending trial and is in custody on related state charges in Sumter County.
The case was investigated by a joint team of the United States Postal Inspection Service; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; South Carolina Law Enforcement Division; the Bishopville Police Department, and the Lee County Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Derek A. Shoemake is prosecuting the case.
Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart stated that all charges in the indictment are merely accusations and that the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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United States Attorney’s Office Announces 18th Annual Project Safe Neighborhoods Logo Contest WinnersRead the Press Release
Charleston, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart announced today the winners of the United States Attorney’s Office’s 18th Annual Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Logo Contest, which was open to all South Carolina grade school students.
The theme of this year’s contest was “Preventing Gun Violence in Our Schools.” Judges sought logos that demonstrated a successful collaboration between schools, communities, and law enforcement to reflect (1) warning signs that students should be looking for related to gun violence; (2) resources to help students who have concerns about gun violence; and (3) general messages to prevent gun violence in South Carolina schools.
“Stopping gun violence, particularly in our schools, is imperative,” said Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart. “This year’s contest is one way to enhance the necessary dialogues in our schools to end gun violence and ensure school safety. The United States Attorney’s Office thanks all students, teachers, and schools that participated in the contest and congratulates this year’s winners.”
The overall winning logo will be used in publications distributed statewide and displayed on the United States Attorney’s Office website. The winner from each grade division and overall winner are named below:
Winner 9th-12th grade Division/ OVERALL WINNER
Alyssa Earnhardt, C.A. Johnson High School
Columbia, SC
Winner 6th-8th grade Division
Jasmine Lucas, William J. Clark Middle School
Orangeburg, SC
Winner 3rd-5th grade Division
Sanjana Kumar, Fairfield Magnet School
Winnsboro, SC
Winner K-2nd grade Division
I’Yanna Bryant, Wilder’s Elementary School
Sumter, SC
The winning entries were chosen by a select group of young leaders at the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice who act as role models for the other youth throughout the entire department. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Officers’ Association Foundation will provide $50.00 awards to each division winner; and the overall winner, Alyssa Earnhardt, a student at C. A. Johnson High School in Columbia, will receive an additional $50.00 award. All students who participated will receive a Certificate of Appreciation for their submissions.
The annual logo contest is a long-running part of the district’s PSN program and an important prevention initiative that has proven to be an effective way to engage our students in meaningful conversation about preventing gun crimes amongst our young people and ensuring a safe learning atmosphere for our children. PSN focuses on reducing violent crime in our communities through prevention, enforcement, and reentry initiatives.
View this year’s winning submissions and learn more about the contest at http://www.justice.gov/usao/sc/programs/logowinners.html.
Two Armed Criminals Convicted in Separate Trials on Same Day Before Same JudgeRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE, South Carolina – Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart announced today that the United States Attorney’s Office secured two guilty verdicts in two separate cases, on the same day, in the same courtroom, and before the same judge. Specifically, separate federal juries convicted Zavien Lenoy Canada, 38, and Kendrick Omar Cobb, 31, both of Greenville, each for being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
On Monday morning, the jury trial for Canada began and continued into Tuesday morning. When the Canada jury started deliberations Tuesday, the jury trial for Cobb began. When the Canada jury reached its guilty verdict on Tuesday afternoon, the court paused the Cobb trial to enter the Canada verdict. The court then resumed the Cobb trial, and the jury found Cobb guilty later Tuesday evening.
According to court documents and evidence presented at Canada’s trial, on January 31, 2020, Canada was the passenger in a vehicle pulled over for a suspended license plate. Canada was wanted by the United States Marshals for absconding federal supervised release. Shortly upon exiting the vehicle, Canada fled on foot before being apprehended by officers of the City of Greenville Police Department. During the search of the vehicle, police found a .45 caliber pistol and a magazine loaded with .45 caliber ammunition. Canada was arrested at the scene and taken into custody. Correction officers at the Greenville County Detention Center recovered 3.55 grams of crack cocaine in Canada’s pants.
According to court documents and evidence presented at Cobb’s trial, on the afternoon of March 25, 2018, deputies with the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office conducted a search warrant at Cobb’s residence and recovered a loaded 9mm pistol under the mattress of a bed. Cobb later admitted that the gun was his.
Due to their criminal histories, both Canada and Cobb are prohibited from possessing a gun or ammunition.
Senior United States District Judge Henry M. Herlong, Jr. presided over both trials and will sentence Canada and Cobb after receiving and reviewing pre-sentence reports prepared by the United States Probation Office. Canada likely faces at least fifteen years in federal prison, and Cobb faces up to ten years in federal prison. During the trial, the court took numerous safety measures in light of the pandemic. Large, plexiglass shields separated the jurors, the movement of attorneys about the courtroom was limited, and attorneys and witnesses wore masks unless they were speaking.
“Having two trial teams argue two separate cases in the same courtroom and getting verdicts on the same day is likely a first in this district,” said Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart. “I commend the work of those trial teams and thank the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and our law enforcement partners for their work in bringing these armed criminals to justice, especially during a pandemic. I also want to acknowledge the efforts of the presiding judge, who went to great lengths to ensure the safety of the jurors, lawyers, witnesses, and others involved in the case. These verdicts show that this office will do whatever it takes to keep the people of South Carolina safe.”
“This is a double win for our law enforcement partners and for public safety,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Vince Pallozzi. “These were very productive, collaborative investigations and each of these convictions takes a very dangerous offender off our streets.”
The ATF is investigating both cases with the assistance of the City of Greenville Police Department in Canada’s case and the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office in Cobb’s case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Justin Holloway and Ben Garner are prosecuting the Canada case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Max Cauthen is prosecuting the Cobb case.
The cases are being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Former Bookkeeper Pleads Guilty in Federal Court to Embezzling More Than $1,000,000 from Charleston Real Estate CompanyRead the Press Release
Charleston, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett Dehart announced today that Karen Rhett, 58, of Mount Pleasant, pled guilty to federal charges involving the embezzlement of over $1,000,000 from Simmons Realty Company and its owners, while Rhett served as the Charleston real estate company’s bookkeeper.Evidence presented in court showed that, from the mid-1990s, Rhett managed and controlled the finances, payroll, and tax preparation for Simmons Realty and all related entities. During the course of her employment, Rhett engaged in a complex embezzlement scheme – starting by falsifying the business ledgers to move money to her personal accounts and evolving into augmenting her salary, stealing directly from other employee’s paychecks, and stealing from the other Simmons Realty related entities.
According to a review by the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of bank records, checks, and other financial documents, including the hard drive Rhett used during the course of her employment, Rhett stole more than $1 million from Simmons Realty Company, its owners, and related entities. On the hard drive, agents recovered detailed spreadsheets Rhett maintained regarding the amount of money she was stealing, where the money came from, and how she falsified the business ledgers.
In addition to the money stolen with the embezzlement scheme, evidence presented showed that Rhett never reported the income on her taxes and failed to pay more than $380,000 in taxes during the course of the scheme.
Rhett faces a statutory maximum of 20 years in prison on the charges and potential financial penalties. With the guilty plea, Rhett has also agreed to forfeit over $640,000.
The case was investigated by the FBI and the IRS. Assistant United States Attorney Emily Limehouse is prosecuting the case.
United States Attorney’s Office Commemorates National Crime Victims’ Rights WeekRead the Press Release
Charleston, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart announced today that the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Carolina and the Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime is joining communities nationwide in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, an annual celebration of victims’ rights, protections and services. This year’s observance takes place April 18-24 and features the theme, “Support Victims. Build Trust. Engage Communities.”
“A very important part of the U.S. Attorney’s Office is working hand-in-hand with victims of crime, supporting their needs and protecting their rights, while ensuring justice is served for them,” said Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart. “As the theme of this year’s National Crime Victims’ Rights Week highlights, successes in our office come from, in part, the partnership with not only other law enforcement agencies but also with the public. Particularly during this week, we celebrate those in our community who, though victims of crime, remain engaged and stand firm in partnership with law enforcement to ensure justice is realized.”
“Advocacy through community engagement is key to fully serving victims,” said Clarissa Whaley, the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Victim Services Manager. “While we seek the public’s involvement throughout the year, we especially encourage community partners during National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. Be it through education initiatives or advanced training opportunities, the community has the ability to make a major impact on supporting victims and seeking justice.”
This year marks the 40th annual observance of Victims’ Rights Week, proclaimed first in 1981 by President Ronald Reagan to put crime victims' rights, needs and concerns in a prominent spot on the American agenda. President Reagan’s establishment of the President’s Task Force on Victims of Crime laid the groundwork for a national network of services and legal safeguards for crime victims.
Today, the Office for Victims of Crime, part of the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs, supports more than 7,000 local victim assistance programs and victim compensation programs in every state and U.S. territory. In South Carolina, the U.S. Attorney’s Office works not only with its federal partners but also its state partners including the South Carolina State Human Trafficking Task Force, the South Carolina Victims Assistance Network, and the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office of Crime Victims’ Compensation to provide essential services to victims, victim compensation, and many other resources.
Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of South Carolina provided over 9,000 victim services, including 200 community events, in 2020.
“The last year has undoubtedly been challenging,” said Office for Victims of Crimes Acting Director Katherine Darke Schmitt. “Victims were often isolated from family, friends, and support systems, and victim service providers grappled with strained resources and formidable barriers to victim outreach and care. So I am particularly proud to once again celebrate the accomplishments of the victims’ rights movement, and to honor the strength and resiliency of victims and service providers.”
“This year’s theme—Support Victims. Build Trust. Engage Communities.—emphasizes the importance of leveraging community support to help victims of crime,” continued Acting Director Schmitt. “Criminal justice and victim service professionals, businesses, healthcare providers, educators, policymakers, houses of worship, and a host of other social and civic groups can work together to ensure that survivors of crime receive the holistic services and support they need. This not only helps the individual heal, but it also improves community safety and wellbeing. In recognition of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, we invite you to join us in renewing your commitment to respond to crime and violence by helping victims find not only support, recovery, and justice, but also a sense of hope for their future.”
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U.S. Attorney’s Office and FBI Warns Lowcountry and Pee Dee Residents of Telephone Scammers Impersonating Law EnforcementRead the Press Release
Charleston, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart and Federal Bureau of Investigations Special Agent in Charge Susan Ferensic announced today that South Carolinians, particularly those in the Lowcountry and Pee Dee Region, should be on alert for scammers impersonating law enforcement to steal money and identities of victims.
It has been recently reported that callers will “spoof,” or fake their phone numbers, so the calls appear to come from a local police department. They will also provide information like the names of actual law enforcement officers and badge numbers. These scammers sometimes research professional and personal information of the victim, on social media or other open-information sources, to gain trust or make their schemes more believable.
When trust is established, the scammers will attempt to collect money with prepaid debit cards like GreenDot MoneyPak or gift cards to rectify whatever situation the victims are told they are in – such as failing to report for jury duty, failure to appear as an expert witness to a court hearing, or other offenses. The scammers then stay on the phone with the victim, while the victim is instructed to purchase and until the victim provides the prepaid debit card to satisfy the fine.
Although these types of scams have historically targeted the elderly, the recent iteration has primarily focused on professionals, including threatening professionals with the loss of their professional credentials in addition to the identity and monetary theft.
“The best defense to these scams is knowledge and vigilance,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Ferensic. “Citizens should understand law enforcement will not demand payment of money by way of phone call or email. Suspicious solicitations of this type should be reported to the police or IC3.GOV, a web site maintained by the FBI. We will continue to investigate these complaints and track down the perpetrators.”
To avoid falling victim to such crimes and to help prevent further fraud of this type, Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart offers the following tips:
- Make your social media accounts private and only accept requests and messages from people you know.
- Be wary of answering phone calls from unrecognizable numbers.
- Call, on another phone, the number that you were called from to confirm the legitimacy of the caller and reason for the call.
- Know that a police department or law enforcement officer will never solicit money – particularly through gift cards – from the public.
- Never give your personal information, including banking information – to someone over the phone.
- Do not send money to people or organizations that you do not personally know and trust.
- If you receive a call that appears to be government impersonation fraud, disconnect without providing any personal information and without adhering to the caller’s instructions
- Contact your local police department immediately to report the fraud by calling 911.
- Submit complaints to the FBI at ic3.gov and the Federal Trade Commission, which collects fraud reports nationwide, at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
- Warn family, friends, and associates about the scam, so they can be on high alert.
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Gaffney Man Who Attempted to Murder SC Highway Patrolman Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett Dehart announced today that William Bernard Wright, a/k/a “Willie” Wright, a/k/a “Quentin Mitchell,” 28, of Gaffney has been sentenced to more than eight years in federal prison, bringing resolution to federal and state criminal cases against Wright for the shooting of a South Carolina Highway Patrolman in 2019.
On Tuesday, April 13, 2021, United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis sentenced Wright to 98 months in federal prison, to be followed by the statutory maximum of 36 months of court-ordered supervision, following a conviction for felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Wright’s 98-month federal sentence represents the statutory maximum of 10 years with credit for 22 months’ time served on the state sentence for the same conduct, as provided for in the federal sentencing guidelines.
On December 9, 2020, Wright was sentenced to 35 years in state prison, following convictions in the state court system on four charges: attempted murder, possession of a weapon during a violent crime, possession of a weapon by a convicted violent felon, and failure to stop for blue lights.
Wright will serve the federal sentence concurrent to the state sentence.
“Law enforcement officers risk their lives daily to protect and serve our communities,” said Acting U.S. Attorney DeHart. “We will bring the full force of justice against anyone who attempts to take the life of a law enforcement officer in South Carolina. The resolution in these cases could not have been possible without the incredible partnership between the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the 16th Circuit Solicitor’s Office, ATF, SLED, and South Carolina Highway Patrol.”
“This case highlights the dangers our dedicated men and women in law enforcement face every day, and we are grateful for the collaborative process that helps bring to justice those responsible for such senseless crimes,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Vince Pallozzi. “We applaud Trooper Wise’s bravery and recovery.”
”This officer-involved shooting underscores the sacrifice of serving and the dangers our law enforcement face on the job each day,” said Colonel Chris Williamson, Commander of the South Carolina Highway Patrol. “The South Carolina Highway Patrol commends the decisive and brave actions of Trooper Paul Wise when he was fired upon during this incident. The department is grateful to the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the 16th Circuit Solicitor’s Office for their commitment to seeing justice served in this case.”
Evidence presented to the U.S. District Court showed that on June 2, 2019, Wright was in possession of a FN Herstal, model Five-Seven, semi-automatic pistol and 5.7 x 28mm ammunition at a time he was prohibited under federal law from possessing a firearm or ammunition based on numerous prior felony convictions. At approximately 8:00 PM on that day, Trooper Paul Wise with the South Carolina Highway Patrol was on routine patrol in York County when he observed Wright operating a vehicle without a seatbelt. When Trooper Wise attempted to initiate a traffic stop, Wright fled and failed to stop for blue lights. Wright took the trooper on a car chase before bringing his car to a stop at the end a dead of a road. Wright then exited his vehicle, drew the firearm, pointed it at close range towards the patrolman’s front windshield. Wright then discharged at least 12 rounds at Trooper Wise. Trooper Wise was struck in his ballistic vest in the chest area and sustained other injuries to the right side of his neck. As Wright began to flee, Trooper Wise exited his vehicle, returned fire, striking Wright, ordered Wright to the ground, and then called for backup.
Evidence presented also indicated Wright had numerous convictions prior to the shooting of Trooper Wise, to include pointing and presenting a firearm (2007); assault and battery (2008); discharging a firearm within city limits and unlawful carry of a pistol (2008); resisting arrest (2011); attempted murder, attempted armed robbery, and criminal conspiracy (2013); and assault and battery – second degree (2017). Evidence presented in court indicated Wright had only been out of custody from a prior conviction for about 10 months, and that he had a history of criminal acts or misconduct while in custody and while on supervision.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) and the South Carolina Highway Patrol. Assistant United States Attorney Elliott B. Daniels prosecuted the federal case. Deputy Solicitor Willy Thompson prosecuted the state case.
The case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
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Mullins Man Sentenced to over Six Years in Federal Prison on Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
Florence, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart announced today that Robert Anton Warren, 26, of Mullins, was sentenced to over six years in federal prison after pleading guilty to possessing a firearm and ammunition as a felon.
Evidence presented to the court showed that on October 13, 2019, a sergeant with the Mullins Police Department was patrolling the area of Academy Street in Mullins when he saw a car that had no tag lights on the license plate. The sergeant initiated a traffic stop and made contact with the driver, who only had a beginner’s permit and had no licensed driver in the car. The sergeant also noticed that the expiration date on the tag was incorrect and appeared to have been altered. The sergeant issued the driver citations and asked the driver and passenger, Robert Warren, to step out of the car. Because the car was not registered, the sergeant proceeded with having the car towed. During an inventory of the car, the sergeant located an extended magazine with seven rounds of 9mm ammunition under the passenger seat where Warren had been sitting. The sergeant conducted a pat-down of Warren for weapons but did not locate any. Another officer who had arrived on scene to assist attempted to detain Warren, and Warren ran. After Warren ran, officers located a 9mm handgun in the grass in a nearby ditch. The firearm had one round in the chamber. Warren is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition based on his prior convictions for strong arm robbery and possession of a stolen pistol.
Chief United States District Judge R. Bryan Harwell sentenced Warren to 78 months in federal prison, to be followed by 36 months of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Mullins Police Department, and the Marion County Combined Drug Unit. Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Hummel prosecuted the case.
The case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
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Columbia Man Convicted at Trial of Being a Felon in Possession of a Loaded Firearm and Possession of Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney M. Rhett DeHart. announced that Eric Jahann Nixon, 39, of Columbia, was convicted Friday by a jury following a three-day trial in federal court in Columbia. Nixon was convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, as well as possession of crack cocaine.
Evidence presented in court showed that at approximately 7:00 PM on Friday, October 16, 2020, Columbia Police Department officers responded to Wash City Laundromat off Broad River Road after receiving a number of 911 calls about a man brandishing a firearm and assaulting a 65-year-old female attendant at the laundromat. At the scene, officers were approached by witnesses who provided a detailed description of the man and also provided officers with a cellphone video taken of him during the incident. A screenshot of the man from that cellphone video was distributed to other officers who were canvassing the area in search of him. A short time later, an officer encountered the man walking nearby and placed him in investigative detention. During a lawful pat-down search of the man, officers recovered a loaded Hi-Point .380 caliber handgun in the man’s waistband of his shorts. A further search revealed a pill bottle containing a baggie of 3 grams of crack cocaine and a razor blade. The man was later identified as Eric Jahann Nixon. Surveillance video from the Laundromat confirmed that Nixon was the man who pulled a handgun from his waistband and assaulted the laundromat attendant.
Nixon is a felon and prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition under federal law based upon prior state and federal convictions. Nixon’s prior convictions include: possession of a stolen motor vehicle (1998, Lexington County), conspiracy to commit money laundering (2005, federal conviction in Columbia), assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature (2005, Lexington County), throwing bodily fluid on correctional officer (2005, Lexington County), indecent exposure to adult (2010, federal conviction in West Virginia), forgery (2013, Lexington County), distribution of crack cocaine near a school (2016, Richland County), and unlawful carrying of a firearm (2018, Richland County).
Nixon faces a maximum of 10 years imprisonment, a fine of $250,000, and 3 years of supervised release on the felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition charge. Due to a prior felony drug offense, Nixon faces a minimum 15 days to maximum of 2 years imprisonment and a fine of $2,500 on the possession of crack cocaine charge.
Senior United States District Judge Cameron McGowan Currie of Columbia presided over the trial and will impose sentence after she has reviewed the presentence report, which will be prepared by the United States Probation Office. According to court filings, the sentencing is scheduled for July 13, 2021.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Columbia Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey D. Haynes. Witnesses at trial also included representatives from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), the South Carolina Department of Corrections (SCDC), the South Carolina Department of Probation, Pardon, & Parole Services, the Lexington County Clerk of Court’s Office, the United States Probation Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
The case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
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