District of South Carolina
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Ladson Man Pleads Guilty to Distribution of Fentanyl Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
Charleston, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Robert Bryan Mansfield, age 61, of Ladson, South Carolina, entered a guilty plea in federal court in Charleston, to distribution of fentanyl resulting in death. United States District Judge David C. Norton, of Charleston, accepted the guilty plea and will impose sentence after he has reviewed the presentence report which will be prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that on February 2, 2017, Special Agents with ICE-Homeland Security Investigations seized over a kilogram of fentanyl that had been shipped from Hong Kong and was destined for Mansfield at his residence in Ladson. Special Agents with ICE-Homeland Security Investigations in Charleston obtained and executed a search warrant at Mansfield’s residence and recovered over 100 grams of fentanyl, numerous other controlled substances, and items associated with the distribution and trafficking of narcotics. That same day, Postal Inspectors with the United States Postal Inspection Service also recovered 10 packages of fentanyl that Mansfield attempted to mail to various locations across the United States.
During the investigation into Mansfield, Special Agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration were able to identify Mansfield as the source of fentanyl that led to one individual’s overdose death in December 2016. Further investigation showed that Mansfield used the “dark web” to purchase fentanyl and other controlled substances from sources in Hong Kong and other foreign locations. He then sold fentanyl and other controlled substances through the “dark web” and used the United States Postal Service to ship packages to customers throughout the country.
U.S. Attorney Drake stated that Mansfield faces a mandatory minimum of twenty years imprisonment and a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
The case was investigated by agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration, ICE-Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Summerville Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Nick Bianchi of the Charleston office is prosecuting the case.
#####
Federal Grand Jury IndictmentsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that a Federal Grand Jury in Greenville, South Carolina, returned Indictments against the following:
North Carolina Resident Indicted on Uttering a Forged Security. Rhonda F. Greer, age 54, of Shelby, North Carolina was charged in a one-count indictment. Rhonda F. Greer was charged with Uttering a Forged Security, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 513(a). The maximum penalty Greer could receive is 10 years imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000. The case was investigated by agents of the United States Postal Inspection Service and is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney William J. Watkins, Jr. of the Greenville office for prosecution.
Woman Indicted on Immigration Document Fraud Charge. Martha A. Zambrano Soriano, age 37, was charged in a one-count indictment with possession of a forged/counterfeit immigration document, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1546(a). The maximum penalty Soriano could face is a fine of $250,000.00 and/or imprisonment of 10 years. This case was investigated by ICE-Homeland Security Investigations and is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Wells of the Greenville office.
The United States Attorney stated that all charges in these indictments are merely accusations and that all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
#####
Columbia Man Sentenced for Failing to Register as Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Kerwin Eugene Brown, age 39, of Columbia, was sentenced to three years in jail for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, § 2250(a). Chief United States District Judge Terry L. Wooten, of Columbia, presided.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that on April 12, 2005, Brown pled guilty to Assault and Battery of a High and Aggravated Nature in the Richland County Court of General Sessions. During the plea colloquy, the judge required that Brown register as a sex offender. He was then sentenced to eight years in prison.
Brown moved to New York in 2013 and came to the attention of the FBI for unrelated activities. Agents determined that Brown had been living in New York for at least six months and had not registered as a sex offender.
When FBI agents interviewed Brown on November 11, 2016, Brown indicated he moved to New York to pursue a music career. He was living in the Trinidadian community in Queens and Brooklyn and was working construction and carpentry. He acknowledged registering as a sex offender in April 2010 and through 2013, but he stopped when he moved to New York.
The case was investigated by agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Winston David Holliday, Jr. of the Columbia office prosecuted the case.
#####
Sumter Men Plead to Firearm and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated that Brandon Leroid Cummings, age 27, and Brandon Christopher Craft, age 30, both of Sumter, pled guilty in federal court to various firearm and drug charges. Cummings pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute and distribution of heroin and cocaine base (commonly known as “crack cocaine”) and conspiracy to use/carry/possess a firearm during a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C) and Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(o). Craft pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and conspiracy to use/carry/possess a firearm during a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(o). Chief United States District Judge Terry L. Wooten, of Columbia, accepted the guilty pleas and will impose sentence after he has reviewed the presentence reports, which will be prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
Evidence presented in court during the guilty plea hearing established that May 17, 2017, Cummings distributed crack cocaine and four baggies of heroin to a confidential informant and undercover officer in exchange for $400. The transaction, which occurred in Sumter, was recorded on audio/video. Thereafter, on May 25, 2017, Cummings made arrangements to sell a firearm and heroin to the confidential informant in exchange for $800. When Cummings arrived to meet the confidential informant and the undercover officer, he was accompanied by Craft. Cummings provided the confidential informant what he said was heroin. Craft produced a Taurus .38 caliber revolver from a bag hidden in his waistband and gave it to the confidential informant. The investigation revealed that the firearm had been reported as stolen. Additionally, the heroin sold by Cummings on this occasion, while packaged like the previously sold heroin, was found to be cocaine during a laboratory analysis.
Cummings faces an enhanced penalty on the drug charge in light of prior state convictions for possession with intent to distribute marijuana, possession of crack cocaine (2 counts), and possession schedule I/schedule II controlled substance 2nd offense. Craft is prohibited under federal law from possessing a firearm based upon his prior state convictions for burglary 2nd degree (3 counts), possession of crack cocaine, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, assault and battery 2nd degree, and forgery.
Cummings and Craft each face a maximum of 20 years imprisonment, a fine of $250,000, and a term of supervised release of not more than 3 years on the conspiracy to use/carry/possess a firearm during a drug trafficking crime charge. Additionally, Cummings faces a maximum of 30 years imprisonment, a fine of $2,000,000 and a term of supervised release of at least 6 years on the drug charge. Finally, on the felon in possession charge, Craft faces a maximum of 10 years imprisonment, a fine of $250,000, and not more than 3 years of supervised release.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Sumter County Sheriff’s Department and was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state and local Project CeaseFire initiative, which aggressively prosecutes firearm cases. Assistant United States Attorney Stacey D. Haynes of the Columbia office handled the case.
#####
Two Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Fraud and Impersonating Immigration OfficialsRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina---- United States Attorney Beth Drake announced today that Michael Ruiz, age 53, and James Mondell, age 55, both of Greenville, South Carolina, were sentenced by Senior United States District Judge Henry M. Herlong, Jr. Ruiz was sentenced to a term of incarceration of 160 months to be followed by 3 years of Supervised Release. He was additionally ordered to pay $54,894.00 in restitution. Mondell was sentenced to a term of incarceration of 40 months to be followed by 3 years of Supervised Release. He was additionally ordered to pay $3,000.00 in restitution.
Both defendants entered pleas of guilty on September 20, 2017. The facts, presented at the guilty plea hearing by Assistant United States Attorney David C. Stephens, established that Ruiz devised a scheme in which he pretended to be an Immigration Official and offered to take care of illegal aliens’ immigration problems in exchange for a fee. A number of aliens agreed to pay Ruiz such fees for his services. Ruiz did absolutely nothing for these aliens, however, he demanded more and more money ultimately threatening to have them deported if he did not receive further payments. Additionally, Ruiz told one alien that he could have his family in Guatemala enter the United States and gain legal status in exchange for a fee. This led to numerous international telephone calls which are the basis for the wire fraud charges. Mondell played a lesser role in the offense. Ruiz would have Mondell with him when he met with the aliens and due to Mondell’s size his presence alone served to intimidate the victims. Additionally, Mondell was involved in handling the payments which were often in the form of money orders which Mondell would cash for Ruiz.
United States Attorney Drake further stated that in addition each defendant received a further term of incarceration due to the fact that their offenses had been committed while they were already on Supervised Release for other crimes. Ruiz received 24 months to be served consecutively to the 160 months referenced above. Mondell received 27 months to be served consecutively to the 40 months referenced above.
This case was investigated by agents of ICE-Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney David Stephens, of the Greenville office, prosecuted the case.
#####
Illegal Alien Sentenced to 15 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Olvin Humberto Matute-Lopez, a/k/a “Humberto Lopez-Barralaga,” a/k/a “Fernando Dolero-Juarez,” a/k/a “Juan Carlos Matute,” a/k/a “Juan Lopez,” a/k/a “Humberto Lopez,” age 36, of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, was sentenced in federal court in Florence, South Carolina, for Illegal Re-entry into the United States after Deportation. United States District Judge Bryan Harwell, of Florence, sentenced Matute-Lopez to 15 months in federal prison with 1 year of supervised release to follow.
Evidence presented at the guilty plea hearing established that on May 13, 2017, Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE-ERO) Officers in Charleston, SC, discovered that Olvin Humberto Matute-Lopez, a native and citizen of Honduras, had been arrested by the Horry County Police Department for Driving Under the Influence and other traffic violations. In 2008, Matute-Lopez was deported from the United States back to Honduras. A records check revealed that Matute-Lopez had not received permission to enter, re-enter, or remain in the United States.
The case was investigated by agents of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE-ERO) and the Horry County Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Hummel of the Florence office prosecuted the case.
#####
Greenwood Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Victor G. Dearing, age 35, of Greenwood, pled guilty in federal court in Anderson, to possession of a firearm by a felon, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g). United States District Judge Timothy M. Cain, of Anderson, accepted the plea and will impose sentence after he has reviewed the presentence report which will be prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that on May 25, 2017, Greenwood City police officers received a tip that there was a subject with a gun selling heroin on Marion Avenue. They went to investigate and saw Dearing in the immediate area. They approached Dearing to speak with him and he ran. The officers pursued him and noticed that he appeared to being reaching for something inside his coat pocket. Dearing eventually got tangled in briars and underbrush as he tried to escape in the woods. The officers detained him and discovered that Dearing had a 9 mm handgun and ammunition as well as marijuana and 8.8 grams of heroin.
Ms. Drake stated the maximum penalty Dearing can receive is a fine of $250,000 and/or imprisonment for 10 years, three years of supervised release, plus a special assessment of $100.
The case was investigated by agents of the Greenwood City Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Bill Watkins of the Greenville office handled the case.
#####
Greenville Felon Pleads Guilty to Multiple Armed Robberies Outside of Upstate HotelRead the Press Release
Greenville, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated that Dominique Romando Turner, age 24, of Greenville, South Carolina, entered a guilty plea in federal court to “Conspiracy to Carry a Firearm During a Crime of Violence,” a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(o); “Felon in Possession of Firearm,” in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g); “Conspiracy to Commit Hobbs Act Robbery,” in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1951(a); “Hobbs Act Robbery,” in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1951(a); and “Possessing a Firearm During a Crime of Violence,” in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c). United States District Judge Timothy M. Cain of Anderson accepted the guilty plea and will impose sentence after he has reviewed the presentence report, which will be prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that on April 23, 2016, Turner conspired with Trevis Bland, a/k/a/ “HellRell,” and another co-conspirator to rob a prostitute he solicited from backpage.com with a Technicorp .22 caliber revolver outside an Upstate hotel. Turner set up the date with the victim and met her at the car. The co-conspirators pointed a gun at the victim, forced her out of the car, and took her money. Bland carjacked the victim’s car.
Again, on April 27, 2016, Turner and Bland robbed three victims at gunpoint outside of the same hotel. One individual was hit on the back of the head with a hard object, and the co-conspirators took their money. The co-conspirators drove away in a truck. The getaway truck was recovered, and many of the victims’ items were found. The firearm had initially belonged to Turner, but Turner sold it to Bland. Both Turner and Bland have prior felony convictions that prohibited them from possessing firearms. Bland previously pled guilty before Judge Cain to conspiracy, armed robberies, carjacking, brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon involving these facts.
Mrs. Drake stated the maximum penalty for these offenses is life imprisonment, and a fine of $250,000. The case was investigated by agents of ATF, the Greenville Police Department, the Greenville County Sheriff's Office, and the Easley Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Jamie Lea Schoen of the Greenville USAO is prosecuting the case.
#####
Federal Grand Jury IndictmentsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that a Federal Grand Jury in Columbia, South Carolina, returned an Indictment against the following:
Lancaster Man and Woman Indicted on Federal Firearm Charges. Brandon Shane Polston, age 32, Austin Lee Ritter, age 23, and Kimberly Denise Cannon, age 39, all of Lancaster, were charged in a 3-count indictment with being felons in possession of firearms, possession of machineguns, and possession of machineguns and a destructive device not registered to them under the National Firearm Act, all in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2, 922(g)(1), 922(o) and Title 26, United States Code, Sections 5841, 5861(d), and 5871. Each of the charges carries a maximum of 10 years’ imprisonment, a fine of $250,000, and a term of supervised release of not more than 3 years. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the Lancaster Police Department, and the South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) and is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Stacey D. Haynes of the Columbia office for prosecution.
The United States Attorney stated that all charges in this indictment are merely accusations and that all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
#####
Federal Grand Jury IndictmentsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that on December 19, 2017, a Federal Grand Jury in Florence, South Carolina, returned an Indictment against the following:
Myrtle Beach Man Indicted for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. Scott Borrowman, age 49, of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, was charged in a single-count indictment with failure to register as a sex offender, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2250(a). The maximum penalty Borrowman could receive is ten years imprisonment and a fine of $250,000.00. The case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service. The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney A. Bradley Parham of the Florence office for prosecution.
Florence Man Indicted for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. Tayquan Taylor, age 22, of Florence, South Carolina, was charged in a single-count indictment with failure to register as a sex offender, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2250(a). The maximum penalty Taylor could receive is ten years imprisonment and a fine of $250,000.00. The case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service. The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney A. Bradley Parham of the Florence office for prosecution.
Horry County Man Indicted for Illegal Reentry into the U.S. after Deportation. Juan Jose Mejia-Contador, age 23, of Horry County, South Carolina, was charged in a single-count indictment with illegal reentry into the US after deportation, a violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a). The maximum penalty Mejia-Contador could receive is two years imprisonment and a fine of $250,000.00. The case was investigated by Immigration and Custom Enforcement-Enforcement Removal Operations. The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney A. Bradley Parham of the Florence office for prosecution.
Hartsville Man Indicted on Gun and Drug charges. Tyrez Lavor Johnson, age 29, of Hartsville, South Carolina, was charged in a 5 count indictment with felon in possession of a firearm, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1) and possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, a violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 841(a)(1). The maximum penalty Johnson could receive is 20 years imprisonment and a fine of $250,000.00. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Christopher D. Taylor of the Florence office for prosecution.
The United States Attorney stated that all charges in this Indictment are merely accusations and that the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
#####
Member of Cowboys Gang in South Carolina Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for RICO ConspiracyRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The last indicted member of the Cowboys gang, a violent street gang that originated in “Eastside” area of Walterboro, South Carolina, was sentenced today to 20 years in prison in federal court in Charleston, South Carolina.
Acting Assistant Attorney General John P. Cronan of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; Special Agent in Charge C.J. Hyman of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Charlotte, North Carolina Field Division; Solicitor Duffie Stone of the 14th Judicial Circuit; Solicitor David Pascoe of the First Circuit; Sheriff R.A. Strickland of the Colleton County, South Carolina Sheriff’s Office; Chief Wade Marvin of the Walterboro, South Carolina Police Department; Sheriff Al Cannon Jr. of the Charleston County, South Carolina Sheriff’s Office; Sheriff L. C. Knight of the Dorchester County, South Carolina Sheriff’s Office; Chief Jon Rogers of the Summerville, South Carolina Police Department; Director Jerry Adger of the South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services; and Chief Mark Keel of the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division made the announcement.
Dashawn Trevell Brown, aka TOB and Shawny, 24, of Walterboro, South Carolina, was sentenced to 240 months in prison by U.S. District Court Judge David C. Norton. Judge Norton sentenced Brown to three years of supervised release following his prison sentence, and restitution for victims injured as a result of his criminal activity.
According to the plea agreement, Brown was a member of the Cowboys gang, a violent street gang that originated in the “Eastside” area of Walterboro, South Carolina. Members of the Cowboys show their allegiance by wearing red, white, and blue clothing, and carrying rags in these colors, including depictions of the American flag. Further, members of the Cowboys greet each other and show their membership in the gang using a set of hand-signs intended to evoke the shape of a “b.” This hand sign also shows an affiliation with the “Bloods” gang. Members of the Cowboys also show allegiance to the gang by having the words “Cowboy(s)” or “GMC” tattooed to some part of their body. The Cowboys gang was also, for a time, aligned with another violent street gang called the “Wildboys,” that originated out of the Green Pond area of Walterboro. In addition to sharing a common interest in posting threats, firearms, large amounts of cash, and what purported to be narcotics on Facebook and YouTube, Cowboys and Wildboys shared common enemies. These shared interests resulted in shootings, aimed at rival gang members, which left innocent by-standers seriously injured.
Brown was sentenced for his role in four shootings committed on behalf of his membership as a Cowboys. On May 12, 2011, after an encounter with an individual believed to be a member of a rival gang, Brown fired shots at the victim. The shooting occurred because of an on-going dispute between the Cowboys and the rival gang. Brown was identified by witnesses to the shooting. As a result of this, a retaliatory shooting occurred on May 14, 2011, during which, another innocent bystsander was shot and seriously injured. Brown was also identified as having fired shots during this incident.
Second, Brown was sentenced for his role in a June 30, 2013 shooting in the Druid Hills areas of Walterboro. Brown, who was in a vehicle occupied by two other members of the Cowboys, participated in a drive-by shooting of individuals believed to be members of a rival gang. Brown, who fired shots resulting in injuries to the victim’s arm, days later encountered the victim and told him, “I should have killed you.”
Third, Brown was sentenced for his role in the July 14, 2013 shooting at the Starlite Lounge in St. George. Brown, and other members of the Cowboys, attended a party at the lounge while dressed in Cowboys colors, including displays of red, white, and blue bandanas. While members of the Cowboys were on stage, members of the Cowboys exchanged words with a patron. After they believed they were disrespected by the patron, members of the Cowboys left the club and waited outside. As individuals began to leave the club, Brown and at least four other members of the Cowboys fired guns toward those coming out of the club. As a result of the shooting, at least three victims were shot and injured.
Lastly, Brown was sentenced for his role in a Nov. 6, 2015 attempted murder. Brown, along with co-defendants Khiry Broughton and Quintin Fishburne, attended a drag race outside of Walterboro. After bets were placed, Broughton questioned the results of the race and demanded the winnings, which were held by one of the race drivers. Broughton decided to rob the winner of the race and in so doing retrieved a backpack containing firearms from Fishburne’s vehicle. Broughton provided the firearms to Brown and other members of the Cowboys. After the winner refused to provide the money, the winner and another innocent bystander were shot and severely injured. After the shooting occurred, Fishburne, who transported Brown and Broughton, drove Brown and Broughton from the scene to avoid apprehension by the police.
Khiry Broughton, Clyde Naquan Hampton, Matthew Rashuan Jones, William Lamont Cox, Bryant Jameek Davis, Zaquann Ernest Hampton, Christopher Sean Brown, and Quintin Fishburne were all sentenced in November for their roles in criminal activity related to the Cowboys.
In August, Attorney General Jeff Sessions delivered remarks to the 2017 Gangs Across the Carolinas Training Symposium in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Since the beginning of this year, the Department of Justice has secured more than 1,260 convictions against gang members.
The case was investigated by the ATF Charleston, in partnership with the Walterboro Police Department; Colleton County Sheriff’s Office; Charleston County Sheriff’s Office; Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office; Summerville Police Department; Fourteenth Judicial Circuit Solicitor’s Office; First Judicial Circuit Solicitor’s Office; South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services; and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division.
The case was prosecuted by Trial Attorney Leshia Lee-Dixon of the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tameaka A. Legette from the Fourteenth Judicial Circuit Solicitor’s Office, Bluffton, South Carolina.
# # # # #
Upstate Residents Plead Guilty to Mail Theft ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that John P. Garrett, age 35, of Simpsonville, and Benjamin G. Eller, age 30, of Simpsonville, pled guilty in federal court in Anderson, to a conspiracy to commit mail theft, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371. United States District Judge Timothy M. Cain, of Anderson, accepted the plea and will impose sentence after he has reviewed the presentence report which will be prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that the defendants stole mail in and around Greenville County in an effort to obtain bank account numbers, routing numbers, and identification information. Once in possession of this material they would create counterfeit checks and negotiate them to obtain money for methamphetamine.
Defendants often stole automobiles in order to steal mail and pass checks. This was done so that the tag would not come back to them if law enforcement or a citizen spotted them. Hundreds of pieces of stolen mail were recovered in this case along with checks already altered and made payable to defendants.
Ms. Drake stated the maximum penalty defendants can receive is a fine of $250,000 and/or imprisonment for 5 years, plus a special assessment of $100.
The case was investigated by agents of the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Bill Watkins of the Greenville office handled the case.
#####
Union Man Pleads Guilty to Possession with the Intent to DistributeRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Cornelius C. Crawford., age 31, of Union, pled guilty in federal court in Anderson, to possession with the intent to distribute cocaine, a violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 841. United States District Judge Timothy M. Cain, of Anderson, accepted the plea and will impose sentence after he has reviewed the presentence report which will be prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that on October 13, 2016, Officer Montjoy with the Jonesville Police Department observed a car failing to maintain lane and a passenger in the car with no seatbelt. Based on these violations, he initiated a traffic stop. When the car stopped, Crawford (who was the passenger) jumped out carrying a green and orange bag and made a run for it. Officer Montjoy chased him. After a chase, Crawford pulled out a .22 caliber Ruger, turned, and pointed it at the officer. Montjoy ordered him over and over to drop the gun and get on the ground. On the tenth or so command, Crawford finally got to the ground, and tried to bury the gun and a bag of cocaine next to him. Once backup arrived, officers placed Crawford under arrest. In the orange bag, the officer located a set of digital scales, five baggies of cocaine, and .22 caliber bullets.
Ms. Drake stated the maximum penalty this defendant can receive is a fine of $2,000,000 and/or imprisonment for 30 years, six years of supervised release, plus a special assessment of $100.
The case was investigated by agents of the Jonesville Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Bill Watkins of the Greenville office handled the case.
#####
Myrtle Beach Man Sentenced to 132 Months in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that James Coppers McKee, Jr., age 45, of Myrtle Beach, was sentenced in Florence yesterday to 132 months imprisonment followed by a three-year term of supervised release. On July 24, 2017, McKee entered a guilty plea in federal court to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of methamphetamine. United States District Judge R. Bryan Harwell, of Florence, imposed the sentence.
The evidence presented at the guilty plea hearing and sentencing hearing established that, as part of an extensive investigation into methamphetamine distribution in the Horry County, a team of law enforcement from multiple agencies learned that McKee was a possible methamphetamine distributor. In 2014 and 2015, agents made three controlled buys of methamphetamine from McKee. McKee was also identified as being in possession of multi-ounce quantities of methamphetamine during the conspiracy.
The case was investigated by agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in Florence, the Fifteenth Circuit Drug Enforcement Unit (DEU), the Florence County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO), and the Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office (RCSO) in Conyers, Georgia. Assistant United States Attorney Christopher D. Taylor of the Florence office handled the case.
#####
Mount Pleasant Woman Sentenced to 6 Months Imprisonment for Tax ChargeRead the Press Release
Charleston, South Carolina---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated that Cynthia Cave, age 45, of Mount Pleasant, was sentenced in federal court in Charleston for three counts of Filing False Tax Returns, in violation of 26 U.S.C. § 7206(1). United States District Judge Richard Mark Gergel, of Charleston, sentenced Cave to 6 months imprisonment followed by 6 months home detention.
Evidence presented at the change of plea and sentencing hearing established that Cave intentionally filed false tax returns for three separate tax years knowing that they did not accurately reflect her income. Specifically, Cave admitted that in 2010, she stated that her total income was $92,700, when in fact, her actual income was at least $148,262; in 2011, she stated that her total income was $99,975, when in fact her total income was at least $168,578; and in 2012, she stated that her total income was $95,400, when in fact her total income was at least $195,726.
Under the terms of a plea agreement reached between Cave and the Government, Cave agreed to pay Dr. Tom Funcik, her former employer, $130,000 to settle claims that she took excess compensation. Cave also agreed to pay restitution to the Government in the amount of $105,276 reflecting the tax loss to the Government.
The case was investigated by agents of the IRS and FBI. Assistant United States Attorneys Matt Austin and Winston Holliday prosecuted the case.
#####
Greenville Man Pleads Guilty to Child Porn ChargesRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Micah R. Vickery, age 37, of Greenville, pled guilty in federal court in Anderson, to possession of child pornography, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2252A. United States District Judge Timothy M. Cain, of Anderson, accepted the plea and will impose sentence after he has reviewed the presentence report which will be prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that law enforcement conducted a proactive investigation involving a file-sharing network used by individuals with an interest in child pornography. An undercover officer downloaded a video that Vickery had available for sharing.
A federal search warrant was obtained and executed. Electronic devices were seized and law enforcement found 900 images of child pornography. Vickery admitted to having a problem with all sorts of pornography and admitted to searching for and downloading child pornography. Agents found images of children under the age of 18, and some prepubescent, engaged in the lascivious display of the genitals and sexual activity.
Ms. Drake stated the maximum penalty Vickery can receive is a fine of $250,000 and/or imprisonment for 20 years, supervised release of up to life, plus a special assessment of $100.
The case was investigated by agents with ICE - Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Bill Watkins of the Greenville office handled 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 Attorneys’ 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.
#####
Three Galivants Ferry Men Sentenced in Federal Court for Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Ephifanio Castillo-Pacheco, age 44, Isidro Camacho-Castillo, age 20, and Samuel Zepeda-Gonzalez, age 60, all of Galivants Ferry, SC, were sentenced today in federal court in Florence, South Carolina. United States District Judge Bryan Harwell sentenced Castillo-Pacheco to 74 months imprisonment, Camacho-Castillo to 108 months imprisonment, and Zepeda-Gonzalez to 51 months. Judge Harwell also ordered the forfeiture to the government of $177,989.00 seized from the defendants.
The evidence presented at the guilty plea hearing established that on March 8, 2017, during the execution of a federal search warrant, agents seized cocaine, multiple firearms, and a large amount of cash from a residence in Galivants Ferry, South Carolina. During the search, Camacho-Castillo was in one of the bedrooms along with a loaded Glock .380 caliber pistol, a loaded Kassnar Imports 9mm pistol, and approximately 45 grams of cocaine. In the bedroom belonging to Castillo-Pacheco, agents found approximately 14 grams of cocaine, 9mm and .380 caliber ammunition. Castillo-Pacheco and Zepeda-Gonzalez were both located in the living room where they were counting $177,989.00 in cash. Agents learned that Zepeda-Gonzalez had been paid to transport the cash to an unknown individual in McAllen, Texas.
The case was investigated by agents of ICE-Homeland Security Investigations with the assistance of the Myrtle Beach Police Department, the Horry County Police Department, the South Carolina Highway Patrol and SLED. Assistant United States Attorney A. Bradley Parham of the Florence office handled the case.
#####
Federal Grand Jury IndictmentsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that a Federal Grand Jury in Greenville, South Carolina, returned Indictments against the following:
Spartanburg Man Indicted on Federal Gun Charge. Jhaquan M. Brown, age 28, of Spartanburg, South Carolina, was charged in a one-count indictment with possession of a firearm and ammunition by a prohibited person, violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1). The maximum penalty Brown could face is a fine of $250,000.00 and/or imprisonment of 10 years. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Explosives, and Firearms and is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Wells of the Greenville office.
Spartanburg Man Indicted on Federal Gun Charge. Rosean Cerome Kelly, age 26, of Spartanburg, South Carolina, was charged in a two-count superseding indictment with possession of a firearm and ammunition by a prohibited person, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1). The maximum penalty Kelly could face is a fine of $250,000.00 and/or imprisonment of 10 years. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Wells of the Greenville office.
Easley Resident Indicted on Possession and Distribution of Child Pornography. William F. Haynes, age 60, of Easley, South Carolina was charged in a 2-count indictment. William F. Haynes was charged with Possession of Child Pornography, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252A(a)(5)(B) and 2252A(b)(2), and Distribution of Child Pornography, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2252(a)(2). The maximum penalty Haynes could receive is 20 years imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000. The case was investigated by agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney William J. Watkins, Jr. of the Greenville office for prosecution.
This case is being brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ 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.
The United States Attorney stated that all charges in these indictments are merely accusations and that all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
#####
Charlotte Man Found Guilty of Credit Card Fraud and Weapons PossessionRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina - United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Lonnie Eugene Hames, age 28, of Charlotte, North Carolina, was found guilty after jury trial of conspiracy to commit credit card fraud in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1029(b)(2) and of being a felon in possession of a firearm in violation of Title 18, United States Code Section 922(g)(1). According to testimony presented during the trial, Hames and his co-defendant were responsible for the theft of a federal officer’s service weapon and credit cards from a vehicle in Rock Hill, South Carolina. Agents tracked the pair by following their use of the stolen credit cards to businesses in Charlotte, North Carolina. When apprehended, Hames and his co-defendant were found with the stolen firearm and other fraudulent credit cards.
Sentencing in the case has not yet been scheduled, but Hames faces a maximum penalty of ten years of imprisonment and a fine of $250,000. The case was investigated by Special Agents with the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Protective Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney T. DeWayne Pearson of the Columbia office.
#####
Anderson Felon Sentenced for Drug, Gun, and Counterfeit Money ChargesRead the Press Release
Anderson, South Carolina---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Michael Donyell Robinson, age 35, of Anderson, South Carolina was sentenced in federal court for “Conspiracy to Sell Counterfeit Federal Reserve Notes,” in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 371, and “Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime,” in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c). United States District Judge Timothy M. Cain of Anderson sentenced Robinson to 78 months imprisonment.
Evidence presented at the change of plea and sentencing hearings established that on November 17, 2015, a deputy from the Abbeville County Sheriff’s Office pulled over a car driven by Tempest Campbell for a traffic violation. The officer found that Campbell’s license was expired and the passenger, Michael Robinson, was wanted on warrants out of North Carolina. When asked why Robinson appeared nervous, Robinson handed the deputy a bag containing $9,760 in counterfeit currency and two plastic bags containing MDMA and methamphetamine. Inside Campbell’s purse, officers located a G.P.C. model 10, .22 caliber pistol with one round in the chamber. Campbell stated that Robinson had shoved the gun in her purse when they saw the Abbeville patrol car’s blue lights. Robinson had two matching .22 caliber bullets on him and additional cocaine, crack, and a digital scale around his seat. Robinson has prior felony convictions, which prohibited him from possessing a firearm. Further investigation revealed that Campbell and Robinson had previously sold counterfeit to a third party. Robinson has remained in custody since his arrest. Campbell previously pled guilty to the counterfeiting conspiracy.
The case was investigated by agents of the United States Secret Service, ATF, and the Abbeville Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Jamie Lea Schoen of the Greenville office prosecuted the case.
#####
Jury Finds Georgia Man Guilty of Conspiracy to Pass Stolen Treasury Checks and False StatementsRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Colby L. Simmons, age 35, of Lithia Springs, Georgia, was found guilty by a jury in federal court in Anderson, for his involvement in a conspiracy to pass Treasury checks of the United States bearing falsely made or forged endorsements, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, and making false statements to federal authorities, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001. United States District Judge Timothy M. Cain, of Anderson, presided over the trial and will impose sentence after he has reviewed the presentence report which will be prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
Evidence presented at the trial established that there was a multistate conspiracy, beginning in or about June 2013, to steal Treasury checks and cash them. The checks belonged to disabled veterans, retired federal employees, and current federal employees. Several victims appeared at trial and testified about having automobiles repossessed, no money for Christmas gifts, and loss of homes because of the thefts.
The investigation focused on Simmons beginning in June 2014 during a car stop on I-85. Greenville County deputies stopped Simmons and found a Treasury check that did not belong to Simmons and $10,000 in proceeds from the cashing of Treasury checks. On top of the check recovered there was written the driver’s license number of Brandy D. Page, a co-conspirator from Cowpens, South Carolina, who has pled guilty and is awaiting sentencing. The check was sent to the laboratory and it came back as having on it the fingerprints belonging to Joshua A. Martin, a co-conspirator from Spartanburg, South Carolina, who has pled guilty and is awaiting sentencing. Martin and Page arrested some months after the stop of Simmons’ vehicle and confessed to their involvement.
In December 2014, Wal-Mart in Boiling Springs reported that it was the victim of approximately $200,000 in reclamations related to the cashing of Treasury checks. Three cashiers were interviewed and several picked Page out of a line up as a person who cashes multiple Treasury checks in the store. Cashiers also identified Josh Martin as cashing multiple Treasury checks.
In January 2015, the Greer Wal-Mart reported approximately $75,000 in reclamations related to the cashing of Treasury checks. On many of these checks there were written Page’s driver’s license number and date of birth. Others had Martin’s driver’s license number and date of birth. The store also had on file fake power of attorney forms that Page and Martin had used to cash the checks.
Investigation revealed that Page and Martin began cashing checks for Simmons in the summer of 2013. During the initial meeting with Simmons, Page received three to four (3-4) checks. There were many more meetings in which checks were provided to Page and Martin and proceeds from the cashing of the checks were given to Simmons. Simmons brought Treasury checks to Page approximately one to two times per month for at least eighteen (18) months.
Ms. Drake stated the maximum penalty Simmons can receive on both charges is a fine of $250,000 and/or imprisonment for 5 years, plus a special assessment of $100.
The case was investigated by agents of the Greer Police Department, the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office, the Internal Revenue Service, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Department of Homeland Security, Office of Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Bill Watkins of the Greenville office handled the case.
#####
Saluda Felon Sentenced to 71 Months Imprisonment for Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
Greenville, South Carolina---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated that Zebedee Cleo Adams, age 37, of Saluda, South Carolina was sentenced yesterday afternoon in federal court in Greenville for Felon in Possession of a Firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g). United States District Judge Bruce Howe Hendricks of Charleston sentenced Adams to 71 months imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release.
Evidence presented at the change of plea and sentencing hearing established that on September 5, 2015, the Saluda Police Department attempted to stop Adams for speeding. Adams drove his vehicle at high speeds through a neighborhood. Adams was apprehended when he wrecked his car into a ditch. Adams was arrested, and had a loaded Beretta .32 caliber pistol in his pocket. Adams had prior felony convictions for which he had not received a pardon and was prohibited from carrying a firearm.
The case was investigated by agents of the ATF and Saluda Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Jamie Lea Schoen of the Greenville office prosecuted the case.
#####
Longs Man Pleads Guilty to Gun and Drug and Charges in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Quavon Melik Bellamy, age 22, of Longs, SC, pled guilty in federal court in Florence to Possession of a Stolen Firearm and Ammunition and Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana. United States District Judge Bryan Harwell, of Florence, heard the plea and will impose sentence after he has reviewed the presentence report which will be prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
The evidence presented at the guilty plea hearing established that on February 14, 2017, law enforcement responded to a call about a man with a gun. The female 911 caller provided officers with Bellamy’s name and a vehicle tag number. Officers ran the tag and identified the address on the vehicle’s registration. Officers responded to the address and located the vehicle in the front yard. When the officers arrived at the residence, Bellamy exited the house and officers informed him of the victim’s report. Bellamy stated that he ran into the victim and they had “words,” but he denied possessing or presenting a firearm. Officers confirmed the vehicle was registered to Bellamy and inquired about firearms in the vehicle. Bellamy responded there were no firearms in the vehicle and gave consent to a search of the vehicle. Upon opening the vehicle door, the officer immediately smelled marijuana. Officers searched the vehicle and located a black purse on the back seat that contained two glass jars of marijuana and a scale. Officers also found a Springfield Armory 9mm handgun on the rear floorboard, fully loaded with fifteen rounds of ammunition including one in the chamber. After being advised of his rights and agreeing to speak with law enforcement, Bellamy initially claimed he did not know anything about the firearm, only later to admit it was his and that he presented it to the victim. After running the firearm’s serial number through dispatch, officers confirmed that the firearm was stolen.
US Attorney Drake stated that Bellamy faces a maximum penalty ten years in federal prison. The case was investigated by agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Horry County Police Department, the Horry County Sheriff’s Office, and the South Carolina Highway Patrol. Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Hummel of the Florence office handled the case.
#####
Former North Charleston, South Carolina, Police Officer Michael Slager Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Federal Civil Rights OffenseRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Former North Charleston, South Carolina, Police Department (NCPD) Officer Michael Slager, 36, was sentenced to 20 years in prison today for his commission of a federal civil rights offense during his fatal shooting of Walter Scott, Jr. on April 4, 2015. This sentence resulted from the Court’s determinations that Slager’s actions in shooting Mr. Scott constituted second-degree murder, and his subsequent conduct constituted obstruction of justice as defined by federal sentencing guidelines.
Attorney General Jeff Sessions, Acting Assistant Attorney General John Gore of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, U.S. Attorney Beth Drake of the District of South Carolina, Special Agent in Charge Alphonse “Jody” Norris of the FBI’s Columbia Division, Solicitor Scarlett A. Wilson of the Ninth Judicial Circuit, and Chief Mark Keel of the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) announced today’s sentence by U.S. District Judge David C. Norton.
According to documents filed in connection with the guilty plea entered on May 2, 2017, Michael Slager, while acting as an NCPD Officer, willfully used deadly force on Walter Scott even though it was objectively unreasonable under the circumstances. Slager had stopped Scott’s vehicle after observing that a brake light was not working. During the stop, Scott fled on foot and Slager pursued him. During the foot chase, Slager deployed his Taser and Scott fell to the ground. Scott managed to get off of the ground and again run away. Scott was unarmed and running away when Scott fired eight shots at him from his department-issued firearm. Five shots hit Scott, with all of the bullets entering from behind. Scott died as a result of the injuries from Slager’s gunshots.
“Law enforcement officers have the noble calling to serve and protect,” Attorney General Sessions said. “Officers who violate anyone’s rights also violate their oaths of honor, and they tarnish the names of the vast majority of officers, who do incredible work. Those who enforce our laws must also abide by them—and this Department of Justice will hold accountable anyone who violates the civil rights of our fellow Americans. On behalf of the Department of Justice, I want to offer my condolences to the Scott family and loved ones.”
“This state, this nation, owe a tremendous thanks to the Scott family for their commitment to see this case through,” said U.S. Attorney Drake. “Their grace, their commitment are a lesson for us all. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, with the support of the FBI, conducted a thorough investigation that enabled us to build an excessive force case against former officer Michael Slager. I am so proud of the work put into this case by the dedicated law enforcement, victim advocates and trial teams at the state and federal level.”“When a law enforcement officer—who swears an oath to protect and serve—violates the civil rights of an individual, it erodes the public’s trust in the entire law enforcement community,” said Special Agent in Charge Norris. “The FBI will always respond to these acts and support our state and local partners, like the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), as we all strive to ensure the perpetrator meets justice. The excellent work of SLED, the United States Attorney’s Office, and the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice in bringing this matter to a close is to be commended.”
The federal case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nathan Williams and Alyssa Richardson of the District of South Carolina, Special Litigation Counsel Jared Fishman, and Trial Attorney Rose Gibson of the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice. The case was investigated by the FBI’s Columbia Division and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. The state case is being prosecuted by Scarlett A. Wilson and the Office of the Solicitor of the Ninth Judicial Circuit.
# # #
"Real Time": Greenville Man Sentenced to 100 Months in Federal Prison for Gun and Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
Greenville, South Carolina---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Justin Bailey Rhodes, age 27, of Greenville, South Carolina was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Greenville for Possessing a Firearm In Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c). United States District Judge Bruce Howe Hendricks, of Charleston, sentenced Rhodes to 100 months imprisonment and 5 years of supervised release.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that on March 25, 2016, South Carolina Department of Probation and Parole were conducting a home visit on parolee Justin Bailey Rhodes at his residence. Officers searched Rhodes apartment and found bags of marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and a Bersa Model Thunder .380 caliber semi-automatic pistol loaded with four rounds of ammunition. A trace was conducted on the firearm, which was found to have been stolen. Rhodes was arrested and has remained in custody since.
Rhodes’s case was expedited for federal prosecution pursuant to Operation “Real Time.” The goal of this program is to identify individuals for federal prosecution with significant criminal histories who continue to actively possess firearms in the Upstate community. “Real Time” is a working collaboration between local, state, and federal law enforcement as well as state and federal prosecutors.
The case was investigated by agents of the ATF, South Carolina Department of Probation and Parole, and Greenville Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Jamie Lea Schoen of the Greenville office prosecuted the case.
#####
Orangeburg Man Indicted on Federal Firearms ChargeRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina------Eugene Jonathan James, age 19, of Orangeburg, was charged in a 2-count indictment with being a felon in possession of a firearm and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number, all in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 922(k). The felon in possession charge carries a maximum of 10 years’ imprisonment, a fine of $250,000, and a term of supervised release of not more than 3 years. The obliterated serial number charge carries a maximum of 5 years’ imprisonment, a fine of $250,000, and a term of supervised release of not more than 3 years.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the Cayce Department of Public Safety, the Columbia Police Department, and the South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) and is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Stacey D. Haynes of the Columbia office for prosecution.
The United States Attorney stated that all charges in indictments are merely accusations and that all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
#####
Sex Trafficker Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Greenville, South Carolina---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Alandis Patterson, a/k/a “Vino,” age 33, of Greenville, South Carolina was sentenced in federal court in Greenville for conspiracy to commit sex trafficking by means of force and threats of force, in violation of Title 18, U.S.C. § 1594(c). United States District Judge Bruce Howe Hendricks of Charleston sentenced Patterson to 240 months imprisonment, followed by a Life term of supervised release, and $50,000 in restitution to the victim.
Evidence presented at the change of plea and sentencing hearings established that Patterson exploited an 18 year old girl, getting her hooked on cocaine and heroin, and beating her on an almost a daily basis to force her to have sex with numerous “Johns” a night from 2013 through the late fall of 2015. Patterson would beat the victim when he believed she wanted to leave, when she did not make enough money, or if he believed she was taking any of the money because 100% of the prostitution proceeds went to him. While Patterson did not use heroin himself, rather he used the drug to control the victim, making her “into a slave” for him. Patterson discussed the tactic with another pimp, explaining that girls were easier to control when they were addicted to drugs. The victim was finally able to break free from the defendant when he went to jail for a short time on unrelated charges, and she was able to withdraw from heroin. When the defendant got out of jail, shortly thereafter, she told him that she was leaving him for the last time. On that day, Patterson beat and choked the victim so severely she had to be treated in the hospital for bruises and swelling to her head and body and a possible concussion.
Ms. Drake stated, “The first step to eradicating human trafficking is to hold the traffickers accountable. While the defendant in this case threatened the victim by telling her his name, ‘VINO,’ stood for ‘Vengeance Is Never Over,’ the sentence in this case sends a clear message to the contrary: ‘the Violence Is Now Over.’ Those who traffic in sex need to take notice that our office, along with our federal and state law enforcement partners, will continue to aggressively investigate and prosecute all those who operate in this destructive field.”
The case was investigated by agents of the FBI, ATF, City of Spartanburg Police Department, Greenville County Sheriff’s Office, and Charleston County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Jamie Lea Schoen and Carrie Fisher Sherard of the Greenville office prosecuted the case.
#####
Lugoff Man Pleads Guilty to Defrauding N.Y. Retirement SystemRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Joseph F. Grossmann, age 68, of Lugoff, South Carolina, pled guilty to Bank Larceny, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, § 2113(b), and was sentenced to probation for three years, including one year of home confinement. Grossmann was also ordered to pay $130,624 in restitution to the New York State Employees’ Retirement System. Magistrate Judge Paige J. Gossett presided at the hearing.
Evidence presented during the change of plea established that between 2010 and 2015, Grossmann collected retirement benefits for his sister, a former New York state employee, even though she had died. In total, he received approximately $130,624 over five years, none of which he was entitled to.
The case was originally prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office in the Southern District of New York. The case was transferred to South Carolina to accommodate the defendant’s health and living circumstances. Assistant United States Attorney Winston David Holliday, Jr., of the Columbia office handled today’s guilty plea and sentencing.
#####
Anderson Tax Preparer Guilty of FraudRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina –------- United States Attorney, Beth Drake, announced today that Shirley Carson, age 49, of Anderson, South Carolina, pled guilty as charged to a twenty count Indictment charging her with filing false income tax returns with the Internal Revenue Service. The plea was accepted by United States District Court Judge Bruce H. Hendricks sitting in Greenville, South Carolina. Judge Hendricks will sentence Carson at a later date.
The facts presented at the guilty plea established that Carson operated a small business doing income tax returns out of her home in the Anderson area. Carson developed a reputation as being able to obtain significant tax refunds for lower income clients. For tax years 2012 and 2013, Carson prepared the 19 fraudulent returns which comprise Counts 2-20 of the Indictment. In these returns Carson was able to generate large refunds by falsely stating that the taxpayers had dependents who did not exist and medical or mortgage expense which had not been paid. Additionally, as charged in Count One of the Indictment, Carson filed a false return for herself in which she used counterfeit W-2 forms to make it appear that she had paid taxes through withholdings which she had not, which caused a refund to which she was not entitled.
United States Attorney Drake stated that the case was investigated by agents of the Criminal Investigative Division of the Internal Revenue Service and prosecuted by Assistant United State Attorney David C. Stephens of the Greenville office.
#####
Wellford Woman Pleads Guilty to Forging PrescriptionsRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Felicia L. Prysock, age 41, of Wellford, South Carolina, pled guilty to Aggravated Identity Theft, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, § 1028A; and, Obtaining a Controlled Substance by Fraud, a violation of Title 21, United States Code, § 843(a)(3). Chief Judge Terry L. Wooten presided at the hearing and will sentence Prysock on February 27, 2018.
Evidence presented at the change of plea established that Prysock filled ten different prescriptions forged in the names of her children and had Medicaid pay for them. The conduct occurred between July 2016 and April 2017. The investigation revealed that these prescriptions were for Schedule II opioids, such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, and Adderall.
U.S. Attorney Drake stated the statutorily mandated penalty faced by Prysock for a violation of Title 18, United States Code, § 1028A is imprisonment for two years, with a potential fine up to $250,000. The maximum penalty for a violation of Title 21, United States Code, § 843(a)(3) is four years in prison and a fine of $250,000.
The United States Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General, along with the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Winston David Holliday, Jr., of the Columbia office is prosecuting the case.
#####
Conway Chiropractors Indicted for Health Care Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that John Andrew Pienkos II, age 46, of Little River, and Alexander Tomovski, age 49, of Murrells Inlet, both of whom practiced in Conway, were charged in a one-count Indictment by a Grand Jury in Florence for Conspiracy to Commit Health Care Fraud, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, § 1349.
Ms. Drake stated the penalty faced by the Defendants for a violation of Title 18, United States Code, § 1349 is imprisonment for ten years, with a potential fine up to $250,000.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and United States Postal Service investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Winston David Holliday, Jr., of the Columbia office is prosecuting the case.
The United States Attorney stated that all charges in the indictment are merely accusations and that all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
#####
Co-Conspirator Sentenced to 157 Months for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
Greenville, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Miguel Angel Urieta-Jaimes, age 42, of Atlanta, Georgia, was sentenced in federal court in Anderson, for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 841, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c). United States District Judge Timothy M. Cain, of Anderson, sentenced Urieta-Jaimes to 157 months imprisonment and four years of supervised release.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that Urieta-Jaimes conspired with others throughout 2015, in Atlanta, Georgia and Anderson County, South Carolina, to distribute significant quantities of methamphetamine. Urieta-Jaimes coordinated deliveries to individuals in Anderson County and was eventually arrested, in November 2015; at the time, he was found in possession of various controlled substances, including methamphetamine, and a firearm.
The case was investigated by ICE - Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney D. Josev Brewer of the Greenville office handled the case.
#####
North Carolina Man Pleads to Being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition Stemming from Mall StandoffRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated that James Jacob Parrish, Jr., age 26, of Fayetteville, North Carolina, pled guilty in federal court to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1). Chief United States District Judge Terry L. Wooten accepted the guilty plea and will impose sentence after he has reviewed the presentence report, which will be prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
Evidence presented in court established that at approximately 8:00pm on Sunday, March 26, 2017, deputies with the Richland County Sheriff’s Department (“RCSD”) were dispatched to an alarm and shots-fired call at Columbia Mall on Two Notch Road. The mall was closed at that time. Deputies located a vehicle registered to Parrish parked in the median of the mall parking lot with a flat front tire and noticed bullet holes in the glass door of the Sears Automotive Department with spent 9mm shell casings lying on the sidewalk in front of the door. Upon making entry into the Sears Automotive Department, deputies noticed an interior glass door had been shot out as well.
The RCSD’s Special Response Team (“SRT”) responded to the scene and ultimately located Parrish barricaded inside an interior room. SRT tried to negotiate with Parrish to surrender peacefully and during the negotiations, Parrish made threats to shoot the officers. After unsuccessful negotiations, SRT made entry into the room and encountered Parrish pointing a loaded Kahr 9mm handgun at them. SRT was able to safely apprehend Parrish and placed him under arrest. Parrish was transported to a local hospital for medical treatment for a foot injury he sustained when he fell through a ceiling while trying to escape detection. While at the hospital, Parrish attempted to take a handgun from a deputy.
Parrish is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms and ammunition based upon his prior North Carolina state convictions for carrying a concealed firearm (2002), possession of stolen goods (2003), possession of cocaine (2003), sell of cocaine (2003), possession with intent to distribute counterfeit currency (2003), second degree murder, second degree kidnapping, attempted robbery with a deadly weapon, and sell of cocaine (2005). Parrish had been released from a North Carolina prison in 2015.
Parrish 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.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the RCSD and was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state and local Project CeaseFire initiative, which aggressively prosecutes firearm cases. Assistant United States Attorney Stacey D. Haynes of the Columbia office handled the case.
#####
Greenville Man Guilty of Twenty Seven Counts of Making False Claims for Payment to the United StatesRead the Press Release
Greenville, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake announced today that Myron Anvil “Mac” McCall, age 59, of Greenville, South Carolina, was found guilty as charged by a jury in federal court in Greenville, South Carolina, of an indictment listing twenty seven (27) counts of violations of Title 18, United States Code, Section 287. Specifically, each count of the indictment charged that McCall had filed a false tax return for another person. The trial was presided over by United States District Judge Bruce H. Hendricks who will sentence Mr. McCall at a later date.
Testimony at trial showed that McCall had worked with over 80 prison inmates and, using their names and Social Security numbers, had prepared false income tax returns for them and sought to obtain fraudulent refunds from the government totaling approximately $500,000. The scheme was discovered when an incriminating letter from Mr. McCall to an inmate in an Arkansas state prison was intercepted. The letter led to the involvement of Internal Revenue Service investigators who stopped the scheme. However, almost $300,000 in fraudulent refunds had already been sent out.
The case was investigated and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Maxwell Cauthen and David C. Stephens of the Greenville Office. U.S. Attorney Drake commends the Internal Revenue Service for its diligence and hard work in investigating and assisting in the prosecution of Mr. McCall.
#####
Gaffney Man Sentenced in Federal Court on Charges of Using Explosive DevicesRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated that Jeffrey Dean Daily, age 45, of Gaffney, was sentenced in federal court in Anderson on charges of using an explosive device to damage a building, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 844(i). United States District Judge Timothy M. Cain imposed a sentence of 60 months, followed by three years of supervised release with restitution.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing earlier this year established that, on October 1, 2014, Daily used an explosive device to damage the Chesnee Car Wash, and on July 6, 2015, he used an explosive device to damage the Oasis Car Wash in Gaffney. On July 17, 2015, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Daily’s residence and found components like those used in the two explosions at the carwashes. Agents also recovered an intact homemade explosive device located in Daily’s truck.
The Chesnee Police Department, Gaffney Police Department, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, SLED, Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office, along with agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Max Cauthen in the Greenville U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case.
#####
Local, State, and Federal Law Enforcement Continue Partnership with the Community with Second Greenville Safe Neighborhoods eventRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake announced today that Greenville Safe Neighborhoods held its second notification meeting Monday evening in Greenville. Led by Chief Ken Miller and the Greenville Police Department, GPD launched Greenville Safe Neighborhoods in March, holding the inaugural meeting on March 27, with the stakeholders, partners, as well as the first round of participating individuals, all of whom are currently on state probation. Additional core partners in the program include the 13th Circuit Solicitor’s Office, the South Carolina Probation, Parole, and Pardon Services, New Mind Health and Care, Inc., and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Greenville Safe Neighborhoods is a unified, proactive police and community collaboration that engages, educates and empowers repeat serious offenders to obtain assistance, change behavior, make healthy life choices or suffer consequences of unified police/prosecutorial focus and priority. Predicated on the work of Professor David M. Kennedy of the John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York, this focused-deterrence model aligns intervention and prosecutorial resources to create an appropriate mix of legal and ethical pressure to change offender behavior, reduce recidivism and severity, and reduce victimization. The Greenville Police Department has been working with its core partners for several months in planning, developing and resourcing the pilot program.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office serves as a partner in similar iterations across the state, to include Aiken Safe Communities, Hartsville Safe Communities, Ceasefire Columbia, and most recently, Home Front--the focused-deterrence model focusing on domestic violence in Spartanburg County.
The Greenville Safe Neighborhoods initiative identifies participants based upon their present and past criminal conduct. Participants attend a meeting with local, state and federal law enforcement officials and prosecutors as well as with service providers, family and affected community members. In the meeting, participants have meaningful access to a host of services or contacts to help them address physical or psychological needs.
GPD Chief Ken Miller, who anchored the meeting on Monday evening, brought the program’s core partners together to make this initiative a reality. “The Greenville Police Department is committed to working with our community and our program participants and stakeholders to keep our streets and neighborhoods safe.”
During the meeting, the participants observed the unified commitment to this effort between law enforcement and the community. The goal the stakeholders hope to achieve is engaging a participant to address his or her needs, make meaningful strides, and avoid re-offending, thereby making the Greenville community safer. Also underscored during the meeting--the commitment between all levels of law enforcement and prosecution. Should a participant disregard this opportunity and re-offend, new offenses will be identified in “real time” and they will be brought to justice swiftly--in state court or federal court.
Solicitor Walt Wilkins has dedicated prosecutors to this effort and will be working closely with federal prosecutors in the U.S. Attorney’s Office. “We are excited about this partnership and the promise that Greenville Safe Neighborhoods holds for effective communication between the community and local, state, and federal law enforcement.”
U.S. Attorney Drake thanked Chief Miller, Solicitor Wilkins, and the other agencies for their leadership and for bringing the stakeholders together. “These South Carolinians have some important choices to make in terms of changing their path in life. The resources and community commitment are there.”#####
Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty to Gun Charge in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Bobby Eric Spates, age 26, of Florence, pled guilty in federal court in Florence to Felon in Possession of a Firearm. United States District Judge Bryan Harwell, of Florence, accepted the plea and will impose sentence after he has reviewed the presentence report which will be prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
The evidence presented at the guilty plea hearing established that on March 31, 2017, members of the Florence Police Department (FPD) responded to a 911 call regarding a pedestrian pointing a gun at a motorist on West Evans Street in Florence. Based on the description of the armed pedestrian received from the motorist, FPD made contact with the pedestrian, identified as Spates, detained him in handcuffs, and asked Spates if he had any weapons on him. Spates responded he had a gun in his pants pocket. The officer proceeded to pat-down Spates and felt what appeared to him to be a gun in Spates’ right front pants pocket. The officer then removed a loaded Phoenix Arms .22 caliber pistol. The officer advised Spates of his Miranda warnings and advised Spates he was under arrest. The officer next secured a box of .22 caliber ammunition from the same pocket where the firearm was located. Prior to his possession of the firearm, Spates had been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year.
Ms. Drake stated the defendant faces a maximum penalty of ten years imprisonment. The case was investigated by the Florence Police Department and the ATF. Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Hummel of the Florence office handled the case.
#####
Two Sentenced to Prison for Embezzling from St. Paul’s Fire DepartmentRead the Press Release
Charleston, South Carolina --- United States Attorney Beth Drake announced today that Doc McNeil Matthews, 48, of Hollywood, South Carolina, and Mary Jo Thomas-Delaney, 68, of Summerville, South Carolina, were sentenced to prison for their roles in a scheme to embezzle funds from the St. Paul’s Fire District. Matthews was sentenced to 33 months imprisonment and Thomas-Delaney was sentenced to 14 months imprisonment. Both sentences included three years of supervised release, to follow the respective terms of imprisonment. United States District Court Judge Richard Gergel imposed the sentences.
Matthews and Thomas-Delaney were convicted following a jury trial in July, 2017. Evidence at trial proved that from December, 2010, through August, 2012, Matthews and Thomas-Delaney, along with others, embezzled approximately $215,000.00 from the St. Paul’s Fire District. The group utilized a FEMA grant that had been awarded to the Fire District. Thomas-Delaney was responsible for administering the grant, while Matthews was the St. Paul’s Fire Chief at the time. The grant contained funds for grant administration, which was inflated without any authority, then the inflated amounts were shared amongst the defendants, resulting in a total loss of $183,375.00.
The conviction is the result of an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigations. The case was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charleston.
#####
Attorney General Sessions Announces $98 Million to Hire Community Policing OfficersRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON — Attorney General Jeff Sessions today announced $98,495,397 in grant funding through the Department of Justice’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) COPS Hiring Program (CHP). The Attorney General announced funding awards to 179 law enforcement agencies across the nation, which allows those agencies to hire 802 additional full-time law enforcement officers.
“Cities and states that cooperate with federal law enforcement make all of us safer by helping remove dangerous criminals from our communities,” said Attorney General Jeff Sessions. “Today, the Justice Department announced that 80 percent of this year’s COPS Hiring Program grantees have agreed to cooperate with federal immigration authorities in their detention facilities. I applaud their commitment to the rule of law and to ending violent crime, including violent crime stemming from illegal immigration. I continue to encourage every jurisdiction in America to collaborate with federal law enforcement and help us make this country safer.”
Beth Drake, U.S. Attorney for the District of South Carolina, applauded the Department’s continued dedication to fighting violent crime at the local level and securing communities across South Carolina. “The COPS grants will result in the hiring of additional officers in Berkeley County, Myrtle Beach, and Spartanburg. Protecting our communities against violent criminals is paramount and we look forward to continuing these efforts and working closely with our state and local law enforcement partners.”
The Berkeley County Sheriff’s Department was awarded $1,000,000 for eight new officers. The City of Myrtle Beach was awarded $1,250,000 in grant funding for the hiring of ten new officers. The Spartanburg Department of Public Safety received $244,409 which will provide for the hiring of two new officers.
CHP provides grant funding directly to state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies to support hiring additional law enforcement officers for three years to address specific crime problems through community policing strategies.
In September, the Justice Department announced additional priority consideration criteria for FY2017 COPS Office grants. Applicants were notified that their application would receive additional points in the application scoring process by certifying their willingness to cooperate with federal immigration authorities within their detention facilities. Cooperation may include providing access to detention facilities for an interview of aliens in the jurisdiction’s custody and providing advance notice of an alien’s release from custody upon request. Eighty percent of the awarded agencies received additional points based on their certifications of willingness to cooperate with federal immigration authorities.
The COPS Office awards grants to hire community policing officers, develop and test innovative policing strategies, and provide training and technical assistance to community members, local government leaders, and all levels of law enforcement. Since 1994, the COPS Office has invested more than $14 billion to help advance community policing.
#####
5 Elm Street Piru Bloods Gang Members Indicted for Conspiracy to Murder a Witness of the State of South CarolinaRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina------U.S. Attorney Beth Drake announced today that Brian Willie Benson Lewis, age 23, of Bishopville, South Carolina, Demetrius Jamal Cummings, age 24, of Greenville, South Carolina, Zanadro Miltaliano Neal, age 33, of Greenville, South Carolina, Darius Jacoby Brown, age 28, of Piedmont, South Carolina, and Antonio Williamson, age 30, of Florence, South Carolina, were charged in a four-count indictment with conspiracy to attempt to murder a witness of the State of South Carolina, in aid of racketeering activity, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1959(a)(5); conspiracy to assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering activity, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1959(a)(6); and conspiracy to possess a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(o).
It is alleged in the indictment that all five individuals are members of the Elm Street Piru Bloods. Cummings was also charged with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c). All five defendants were arraigned today in federal court. The maximum penalty Lewis, Neal, Brown, and Williamson could face is a fine of $250,000.00 and/or imprisonment for 20 years. The maximum penalty Cummings could face is a fine of $250,000.00 and/or imprisonment for Life. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joe Brewer of the Greenville office.
The United States Attorney stated that all charges in these indictments are merely accusations and that all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
#####
Three Galivants Ferry Men Plead Guilty in Federal Court to Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Ephifanio Castillo-Pacheco, age 44, Isidro Camacho-Castillo, age 20, and Samuel Zepeda-Gonzalez, age 60, all of Galivants Ferry, SC, pled guilty in federal court in Florence, South Carolina. Castillo-Pacheco, Camacho-Castillo and Zepeda-Gonzalez pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine, a violation of Title 21, United States Code, §841(a)(1). Camacho-Castillo also pled guilty to possession of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, §924(c). United States District Judge Bryan Harwell of Florence accepted the pleas and will impose sentences after he has reviewed the presentence reports, which will be prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
The evidence presented at the guilty plea hearing established that on March 8, 2017, during the execution of a federal search warrant, agents seized cocaine, multiple firearms and a large amount of cash from a residence in Galivants Ferry, South Carolina. During the search Camacho-Castillo was in one of the bedrooms along with a loaded Glock .380 caliber pistol, a loaded Kassnar Imports 9mm pistol and approximately 45 grams of cocaine. In the bedroom belonging to Castillo-Pacheco, agents found approximately 14 grams of cocaine, and 9mm and .380 caliber ammunition. Castillo-Pacheco and Zepeda-Gonzalez were both located in the living room where they were counting $177,989.00 in cash. Agents learned that Zepeda-Gonzalez had been paid to transport the cash to an unknown individual in McAllen, Texas.
Ms. Drake stated the maximum penalty Castillo-Pacheco and Zepeda-Gonzalez can receive is imprisonment for 20 years and a fine of $1,000,000.00 The maximum penalty Camacho-Castillo can receive is imprisonment for life and a fine of $1,000,000.00.
The case was investigated by agents of ICE-Homeland Security Investigations with the assistance of the Myrtle Beach Police Department, the Horry County Police Department, the South Carolina Highway Patrol and SLED. Assistant United States Attorney A. Bradley Parham of the Florence office handled the case.
#####
Man Sentenced on Federal Drug Conspiracy ChargeRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated that Enrique Garcia Burgos, age 45, of Myrtle Beach, was sentenced in federal court to 85 months imprisonment followed by a three-year term of supervised release. On July 25, 2017, Burgos entered a guilty plea in federal court in Florence, South Carolina, to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of heroin and cocaine in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 846. United States District Judge R. Bryan Harwell of Florence imposed the sentence.
This case was part of an extensive investigation conducted by a team of law enforcement agencies into the sale of heroin and other illegal drugs in the Horry County, South Carolina, area. During the investigation, Burgos, and a co-defendant, Asuncion Arguello, were identified as possible heroin distributors in the Myrtle Beach area. Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing and sentencing hearing established that agents made a controlled purchase of heroin from Arguello in January 2016. Several months later, based on additional information learned during the investigation, agents stopped a vehicle occupied by Burgos and Arguello on Interstate 20 in Florence County. Agents searched the vehicle and located a loaded firearm, over 1 kilogram of heroin, and nearly 500 grams of cocaine.
The case was investigated by agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Fifteenth Circuit Drug Enforcement Unit , and the Florence County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Christopher D. Taylor of the Florence office prosecuted the case.
#####
Man Sentenced for Making False Statements on Passport ApplicationRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated that Roderick Randy England was sentenced, to be imprisoned to 18 months in federal prison followed by three years supervised release, in federal court in Florence, South Carolina, by United States District Judge R. Bryan Harwell. England previously pled guilty to making a false application on a passport application which is a violation of Title 18 U.S.C. 1542.
Evidence presented at the guilty plea and other hearings established that England, a citizen of Jamaica, previously served a prison sentence in Florida after being convicted on charges of making a false claim of citizenship with the intent to obtain a state benefit. England was also sentenced to a one year term of supervised release which required him to report to United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings when he was released from custody. However, England failed to report upon his release. Instead, England applied for a passport at the Post Office in Longs, South Carolina, on February 21, 2013, using a false name and the birth certificate of a citizen of the U.S. Virgin Islands. England was later arrested in Tacoma, Washington, and charged with driving under the influence, resisting arrest, and escape. England was then transported back to South Carolina to face federal charges.
Agents of the United States Department of State, Diplomatic Security Service, investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Bill Day of the Columbia office prosecuted the case.
#####
Federal Grand Jury IndictmentsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that a Federal Grand Jury in Greenville, South Carolina, returned Indictments against the following:
Husband and Wife Indicted on Conspiracy and VISA Fraud. Michael A. Rawson, age 48, of Anderson, South Carolina, and Brenda Rawson, age 47, of Bluffton, South Carolina, were charged in a two-count indictment. Both were charged with Conspiracy, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, and VISA Fraud, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1546(a). The maximum penalty that both could receive is 10 years imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000. The case was investigated by agents of ICE-Homeland Security Investigations and is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney William J. Watkins, Jr. of the Greenville office for prosecution.
Spartanburg Man and Jonesville Woman Indicted on Federal Drug Charges. Tromone L. Hall, age 37, of Spartanburg, South Carolina, and Jennifer N. Allen, age 34, of Jonesville, South Carolina, were charged in a two-count indictment with possession with the intent to distribute and distribution of methamphetamine, a violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 846. The maximum penalty they could face is a fine of $10,000,000.00 and/or Life imprisonment. The case was investigated by agents of ICE-Homeland Security Investigations and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joe Brewer of the Greenville office.
Spartanburg Man Indicted on Federal Gun Charge. Phillip James Childers, age 26, of Spartanburg, South Carolina, was charged in a one-count indictment with possession of a firearm and ammunition by a prohibited person, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1). The maximum penalty Childers could face is a fine of $250,000.00 and/or imprisonment of 10 years. This case was investigated by agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Wells of the Greenville office.
Four Aliens Arrested and Charged with Illegal Re-Entry into the United States. Gilberto Netro Castillo, age 37, Bernardino Mendoza-Ruiz, age 23, Salomon Arreola-Martinez, age 34, and Vicente Salazar-Rodriguez, age 27, are each charged in a one count indictment with illegal re-entry into the United States, a violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326. The maximum penalty each could face is a fine of $250,000.00 and/or imprisonment of 2 years. The cases were investigated by agents of the ICE - Homeland Security Investigations and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Max Cauthen of the Greenville Office.
The United States Attorney stated that all charges in these indictments are merely accusations and that all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
#####
Aiken Women, Georgia Prisoner Indicted for Phone ScamRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Jay Byron Wright, age 41, of the Calhoun State Prison in Morgan, Georgia, Christine Wright, age 24, of Windsor, South Carolina, and Barbara Lynn Clayton, age 43, also of Windsor, were charged in a one-count Indictment by a Grand Jury in Columbia for Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, § 1349.
Ms. Drake stated the penalty faced by the Defendants for a violation of Title 18, United States Code, § 1349 is imprisonment for ten years, with a potential fine up to $250,000.
The Deschutes County (Oregon) Sheriff’s Office and SLED (South Carolina) investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Winston David Holliday, Jr., of the Columbia office is prosecuting the case.
The United States Attorney stated that all charges in the indictment are merely accusations and that all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
#####
Wildboys Gang Member Sentenced to Prison for Violent Crime in Aid of Racketeering and Related Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
Washington – A member of the Wildboys gang was sentenced today to 20 years in prison in federal court in Charleston, South Carolina, after being found guilty by a federal jury for his role in the attempted murder of a rival gang member.
The announcement was made by Acting Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Blanco of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; Special Agent in Charge C.J. Hyman of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Charlotte, North Carolina Field Division; Solicitor Duffie Stone of the 14th Judicial Circuit; Solicitor David Pascoe of the First Circuit; Sheriff R.A. Strickland of the Colleton County, South Carolina Sheriff’s Office; Chief Wade Marvin of the Walterboro, South Carolina Police Department; Sheriff Al Cannon, Jr. of the Charleston County, South Carolina Sheriff’s Office; Sheriff L. C. Knight of the Dorchester County, South Carolina Sheriff’s Office; Chief Jon Rogers of the Summerville, South Carolina Police Department; Director Jerry Adger of the South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services; and Chief Mark Keel of the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division.
Devin Brown aka “Deno Badazz,” 23, of Green Pond, South Carolina, was sentenced to 240 months in prison, including a 10 year mandatory minimum consecutive sentence by U.S. District Court Judge Richard M. Gergel, for use of a firearm during a crime of violence. In addition, Brown was ordered to serve a term of three years of supervised release, and to pay the cost of the victim’s medical care.
According to evidence presented at trial, Brown was a member of the Wildboys, a violent street gang from the Green Pond area of Walterboro, South Carolina. At trial, prosecutors presented evidence that showed that beginning as early as 2012, Brown and other Wildboys gang members engaged in racketeering activity, including the April 7, 2015, attempted murder of a rival gang member in a drive-by shooting involving assault-type firearms. An innocent bystander inside the home was shot and injured, the evidence showed.
Four individuals have previously pleaded guilty to their involvement in the Wildboys gang. In June 2017, U.S. District Judge Richard M. Gergel of the District of South Carolina sentenced Wildboys members and associates Kelvin Mitchell, Damien Robinson, and Brian Manigo for their roles in gang-related racketeering activities. In August 2017, Wildboys member Joshua Manigault, aka “J-Rizzle,” was sentenced for his role in gang-related activities.
This case was investigated by the ATF Charleston, South Carolina Office, in partnership with the Walterboro Police Department; Colleton County Sheriff’s Office; Charleston County Sheriff’s Office; Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office; Summerville Police Department; Fourteenth Judicial Circuit Solicitor’s Office; First Judicial Circuit Solicitor’s Office; South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services; and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division.
The case was prosecuted by Trial Attorney Leshia Lee-Dixon of the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tameaka A. Legette from the Fourteenth Judicial Circuit Solicitor’s Office, Bluffton, South Carolina.
#####
Midlands Man Sentenced in Federal Court for Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Michael Jones, age 59, formerly of Irmo, South Carolina has been sentenced in federal court in Columbia, for felon in possession of a firearm, a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1). United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis of Columbia sentenced Jones to 21 months incarceration followed by three years of supervised release.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that on July 8, 2015, the Irmo Police Department responded to a domestic dispute. Upon arriving at the scene, a woman informed the officers that her husband, Jones, was trying to cut her grandson. The younger male, who was standing on the front stoop of the house, informed the officers that his grandfather was trying to cut him with a piece of glass. They told the officers that Jones was in the back bedroom. Through the open front door, the officers repeatedly asked Jones to come outside, to which there was no response. The officers entered the home through a side door. They saw a closed doorway at the end of the hallway. Again, the officers repeatedly asked Jones to come out of the room, which Jones refused.
Other officers arrived and Jones partially opened the door with the left side of his body concealed by the door. From his position, one officer was able to see that Jones had a rifle with a brown stock and a black barrel in his hand, with his finger on the trigger guard. The officer deployed his Taser hitting Jones who fell to the floor, but was able to stand up and pointed the gun at the officers. The officers fired their weapons and Jones was struck multiple times.
Upon entering the room, the officers located a .22 caliber Remington rifle loaded with .22 caliber ammunition lying next to Jones. At the time of this incident, Jones had been previously convicted of two counts of common law robbery, which prevented him from possessing a firearm.
The case was investigated by agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Irmo Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney William K. Witherspoon of the Columbia office is prosecuting the case. This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state and local Project CeaseFire initiative, which aggressively prosecutes firearm cases.
#####
13 Defendants Charged Federally in Beaufort Area Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Charleston, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that 13 individuals have been charged with conspiring to possess with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841 and 846. Those individuals are as follows:
Demetrius Dwayne Swinton, a/k/a “Million Dolla Meat”, age 30, of Pooler, Georgia
Liz Ashante Christopher, age 30, of Suwanee, Georgia
Christopher Johnson, a/k/a “Unc”, age 48, of Ridgeland, SC
Travis Wiggins, a/k/a “Trap”, age 26, of Ridgeland, SC
Derrick Edwards, a/k/a “Markie”, age 24 of Ridgeland, SC
Johnita Anderson, a/k/a “Goat”, age 35 of Hardeeville, SC
David Grober, a/k/a “JY”, age 35, of Beaufort, SC
Boston Brown, age 30, of Bluffton, SC
Samuel Jones, age 34, of Beaufort, SC
Ernest Tyrone Fields, a/k/a “Fly”, age 37, of Hilton Head, SC
Devin Swinton, age 27, of Ridgeland, SC
Ryan Walters, age 31, of Hilton Head, SC
Terrance Wallace, a/k/a “Bird”- age 31, of Hilton Head, SCIn addition to the conspiracy charge, Demetrius Swinton has been charged with engaging in a continuing criminal enterprise in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 848. Ryan Walters and Terrance Wallace also face additional drug charges, while Boston Brown faces additional firearms charges and Travis Wiggins and Derrick Edwards face additional drug and firearms charges.
As part of the investigation, on November 15, 2017, the DEA Charleston Resident Office, the Tampa District Office, Savannah Resident Office, Atlanta Field Division, ICE - Homeland Security Investigations, Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Beaufort County Sheriff's Office, Hampton County Sheriff's Office, South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, South Carolina Highway Patrol, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives executed eleven (11) simultaneous search warrants and arrested ten defendants located in Beaufort and Jasper, South Carolina; Suwanee, Pooler, and Savannah, Georgia; and Tampa, Florida.
During the course of the investigation into this drug trafficking organization, agents have seized over $45,000, 37 firearms, over 45 kilograms of cocaine, over 1 kilogram grams of crack cocaine, 100 grams of heroin, 129 grams of MDMA and 1 pound of marijuana, as well as 5 vehicles used by the drug trafficking organization. The maximum penalty each defendant could receive is life imprisonment and a maximum fine of $10,000,000.
United States Attorney Drake stated, “The indictment and arrests of these defendants is the result of a lengthy investigation aimed at removing those responsible for pushing large quantities of drugs into our communities, often while armed with deadly weapons. We will continue to move forward with this investigation and prosecution and do all we can to give the people of South Carolina a safe place to live.”
Daniel R. Salter, the Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division stated, “Today’s law enforcement operations are a credit to the multitude of law enforcement agencies who have been working to dismantle this drug trafficking organization. The actions taken thus far will hopefully bring stability and safety to the communities in which the organization has operated. This effort would not have been successful without the high-level of cooperation between our federal, state and local law enforcement counterparts.”
The case was investigated by agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), ICE - Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, the Hampton County Sheriff’s Office and the 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office and is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Nick Bianchi of the Charleston office and Special Assistant United States Attorney Carra Henderson of the 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office for prosecution.
The United States Attorney stated that all charges in this Indictment are merely accusations and that all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
#####
Florence Woman Sentenced in Federal Court on Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Crystal Lynn Norris, age 27, of Florence, SC, was sentenced today in federal court in Florence, South Carolina, for Conspiracy to Manufacture and Pass Forged and Counterfeited Securities, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, § 371. United States District Judge Bryan Harwell, of Florence, sentenced Norris to 16 months imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release.
The evidence presented at the guilty plea hearing established that during the period from November through December of 2016, Norris was involved in a conspiracy to manufacture and pass forged and counterfeited securities (checks) of organizations. Norris and another person stole mail from mailboxes at various residences in Florence and Darlington Counties, looking for checks within the mail. Norris would then either alter or forge the stolen checks by substituting herself as the payee or would use genuine bank account and routing numbers from the stolen checks to make counterfeit checks. Norris then went to banks in Florence and Easley to present the forged and counterfeited checks for payment.
The case was investigated by agents of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service with the assistance of the Florence County Sheriff’s Office, the Florence Police Department, and the Easley Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney A. Bradley Parham of the Florence office prosecuted the case.
#####
Federal Grand Jury IndictmentsRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina----United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that a Federal Grand Jury in Charleston, South Carolina, returned Indictment(s) against the following:
Former Town of Kiawah Officials Indicted for Wire Fraud. Tumiko Rucker, age 42, of Johns Island, S.C., and Harrison Kenneth Gunnells, age 59, of Mount Pleasant, S.C., were charged in a 1-count Indictment with Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1349 and 1344. The maximum penalty that Rucker and Gunnells could receive is 20 years imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000. The case was investigated by agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Rhett DeHart of the Charleston office for prosecution.
Georgia Man Indicted for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender and Possession of a Gun by a Convicted Felon. Mariel Watson, age 28, of Columbus, Georgia, was charged in a 2-count Indictment with Failure to Register as a Sex Offender and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2250 and 922. The maximum penalty that Watson could receive is 10 years imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000. The case was investigated by agents of the U.S. Marshals Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Rhett DeHart of the Charleston office for prosecution.
Man Indicted for Immigration Offense. Luis Rivera-Perez, age 34, of Mexico, was charged with the Illegal Reentry of a Felon, a violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326. The maximum penalty that Rivera-Perez could receive is 10 years imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000. The case was investigated by agents of the ICE - Homeland Security Investigations and is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Rhett DeHart of the Charleston office for prosecution.
Man Indicted for Immigration Offense. Cesar Antonio Zepahua-Rodriguez, age 33, of Mexico, was charged with the Illegal Reentry of a Felon, a violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326. The maximum penalty that Zepahua-Rodriguez could receive is 10 years imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000. The case was investigated by agents of the ICE - Homeland Security Investigations and is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Rhett DeHart of the Charleston office for prosecution.
The United States Attorney stated that all charges in indictments are merely accusations and that all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
#####