District of South Carolina
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Two Men Indicted on Federal Charges in $45 Million Mortgage Fraud ConspiraceRead the Press Release
Contact Person: First Assistant U.S. Attorney Beth Drake (803) 929-3000
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles announced today an indictment charging George L. Turner, Jr., 41, of Ladson, South Carolina and Clayton G. Wickersham, age 34, of Summerville, South Carolina, with Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud, Wire Fraud, and Bank Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1349. Turner and Wickersham are each facing a maximum of 30 years imprisonment and/or a $1,000,000 fine and 5 years of supervised release.
The indictment stems from an ongoing investigation into allegations the defendants were involved in a mortgage fraud conspiracy based out of real estate and mortgage businesses located in Summerville. The indictment alleges the scheme involved more than 70 properties, approximately $45 million of mortgage loans, and a loss of more than $23 million suffered by financial institutions. The indictment further alleges that the properties were located in Charleston, Johns Island, Ladson, Mount Pleasant, Summerville, Edisto Island, St. Helena Island, Garden City, Murrells Inlet, Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Lake Keowee, and Tybee Island, Georgia.
Three other defendants previously pleaded guilty in connection with the scheme and are awaiting sentencing. Scott M. Wickersham, 36, of Summerville, pleaded guilty to one count of Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud, Wire Fraud, and Bank Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1349, and two counts of Willfully Making and Subscribing a False Tax Return, in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Section 7206(1). Steven F. Weiss, 66, of Virginia, and Kelly Martin, 34, of Moncks Corner, each pleaded guilty to one count of Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud, Wire Fraud, and Bank Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371.
The Indictment is the result of an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI). Assistant United States Attorney Dean H. Secor of the Charleston office is prosecuting the case.
Mr. Nettles stated that the charges in this Indictment are merely accusations and that the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Two Men Charged with Wire FraudRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Beth Drake (803) 929-3000
Columbia, South Carolina---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles announced the indictment of Aaron Vennefron of Hamilton, Ohio and Phillip Thompson of Augusta, Georgia for conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and theft of government funds. The indictment alleges that the two conspired to defraud the government by creating fraudulent invoices for payment of what appeared to be goods needed for work at the Mixed Oxide Fuel Fabrication Facility at the Savanah River Sight. The indictment further alleges that no goods were ever received and that Vennefron and Thompson received over $4,000,000.00 in payments based on the fraudulent invoices.
The case was investigated by Special Agents with the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney John Potterfield is prosecuting the case.
The United States Attorney stated that the charges alleged in the Indictment are merely accusations and that all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Four Orangeburg Men Charged with Illegal Trapping and Killing of Hawks at South Carolina PlantationRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Eric Klumb (843) 727-4381
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney William N. Nettles stated today that four Orangeburg men, Charles Williams, age 65, John Dantzler, age 66, Jimmie Aiken, age 56, and Alejandro Renteria Noyola, age 56, have been charged in federal court in Columbia, South Carolina, with the unlawful trapping and killing of migratory birds at Willcreek Plantation, a 1,790-acre tract of land in Orangeburg County owned by Willcreek LLC. Charles Williams, the registered agent for Willcreek LLC, was charged with 7 counts of killing Red-tailed or Cooper’s Hawks during 2013 and 2014; the remaining defendants were each named in a single count. This crime is a violation of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act under Title 16, United States Code, Section 703, and carries a maximum prison term of six months and a fine of up to $15,000, or both, for each count of conviction.
The case was investigated by agents of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service Office of Law Enforcement and the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. The investigation began in November of 2013 based on a tip from the DNR Operation Game Thief Hotline and culminated with the execution of a search warrant at Willcreek Plantation on February 21, 2014. During the course of the investigation, agents seized more than thirty raptor carcasses from Willcreek Plantation.
Assistant United States Attorney Eric Klumb of the Charleston office is prosecuting the case.
The United States Attorney stated that the charges are merely accusations and that all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
#####Pee Dee Area Men Charged in Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Contact Person: First Assistant U.S. Attorney Beth Drake (803) 929-3000
Columbia, South Carolina------United States Attorney Bill Nettles stated that nine individuals were charged in a 22-count indictment returned by the Florence Division Grand Jury for conspiring to distribute cocaine, cocaine base and heroin in the Pee Dee area of South Carolina [including Darlington, Florence and Williamsburg counties] in violation of Title 21, United States Code Section 846. This case originated with an investigation into the illegal activities of neighborhood street gangs in Hartsville, SC. Those recently indicted and arrested as part of this coordinated local, state and federal investigation were Otis Craig Dollard; Patrick O’Neal Hines, a/k/a “Bam”; Keith Huggins, a/k/a “Little Keith”; Justin Martin Jackson, a/k/a “Juiceman”; Benjamin Unique McCoy a/k/a “Paypa”; Chavis Vantay McCray, a/k/a “Chavo Manifoe”; Anthony James Pressley, a/k/a “Styler”; Roderick Scott, a/k/a “Bucket” and Tavares Lamore Wingate, a/k/a “Black.”
During the arrest and search warrants executed as part of this coordinated effort, law enforcement seized over a kilogram of cocaine, five ounces of cocaine base, cash and three firearms that were used as part of this drug trafficking network.
These arrests follow months of intense investigation and evidence collection by local, state and federal law enforcement partners that focused on concerns about violence, gangs and substantial drug trafficking in the Pee Dee area. Assisting in the investigation and apprehension operation included members of the FBI, SLED, Fifteenth Circuit Drug Enforcement Unit, Darlington County Sheriff’s Office Drug Unit, Florence County Sheriff’s Office, Florence Police Department, Sumter County Sheriff’s Office, Sumter Police Department, Williamsburg County Sheriff’s Office and the South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole and Pardons Services.
The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Christopher D. Taylor. 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.
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Notice of Press ConferenceRead the Press Release
Contact Person: First Assistant U.S. Attorney Beth Drake (803) 929-3000
COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA -- United States Attorney Bill Nettles and Fourteenth Circuit Solicitor Duffie Stone will hold a press conference Thursday, December 10, 2015, at the Fourteenth Circuit Solicitor’s Office to announce a new partnership between the Fourteenth Circuit Solicitor’s Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office aimed at taking armed career criminals off the streets.
WHEN: Thursday, December 10, 2015 TIME: 10:00 a.m. WHERE:Fourteenth Circuit Solicitor's Office
39 Sheridan Park Circle, Ste. 2
Bluffton, SC 29910NOTE: Press inquiries regarding logistics should be directed to Erinn McGuire at 843-255-5911. All media must present government-issued photo id (such as a driver’s license). All media should be in place 20 minutes prior to start. Parking will be available in front of the Solicitor’s Office.
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The District of South Carolina U.S. Attorney’s Office Collects $7,089,479.89 in Civil and Criminal Actions for U.S. Taxpayers in Fiscal Year 2015 and another $41,807,765 in civil matters worked with other Justice Department ComponentsRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Bill Nettles (803) 929-3000
Columbia, South Carolina- U.S. Attorney Bill Nettles announced today that the District of South Carolina collected $7,089,479.89 in criminal and civil actions in Fiscal Year 2015. Of this amount, $4,436,041.94 was collected in criminal actions and $2,653,437.95 was collected in civil actions.
Additionally, the District of South Carolina worked with other U.S. Attorney’s Offices and components of the Department of Justice to collect an additional $41,807,765.09 in cases pursued jointly with these offices. This entire amount was collected in civil actions.
Attorney General Loretta E. Lynch announced on December 3, 2015 that the Justice Department collected $23.1 billion in civil and criminal actions in the fiscal year ending Sept. 30, 2015. The more than $23.1 billion in collections in FY 2015 represents more than seven and a half times the approximately $2.93 billion of the Justice Department’s combined appropriations of the 94 U.S. Attorneys’ offices and the main litigating divisions in that same period.
"The Department of Justice is committed to upholding the rule of law, safeguarding taxpayer resources, and protecting the American people from exploitation and abuse,” said Attorney General Loretta Lynch. “The collections we are announcing today demonstrate not only the strength of that commitment, but also the significant return on public investment that our actions deliver. I want to thank the prosecutors and trial attorneys who made this achievement possible, and to reiterate our dedication to this ongoing work.”
United States Attorney Bill Nettles said, “Our office has made a substantial commitment to combatting fraud and collecting funds improperly procured. Our commitment, including 10 full time lawyers and investigators, has made this district one of the leaders in combatting government fraud. We hope that businesses and individuals who commit fraud recognize that the consequences of fraud are more than just the cost of doing business.”
An example of one of these cases, is a prime contractor at the Savannah River Site who paid the government $3.8 million to settle claims that it overcharged taxpayers for a project on the nuclear weapons complex near Aiken, South Carolina. The government contended Parsons Government Services committed a number of False Claims Act violations in its administration of per diem and relocation costs at the Savanah River Site. The allegations included knowingly allowing employees that were going to be relocated to collect per diem rather than relocate them immediately. This practice greatly increased the cost of per diem to the Government and the settlement will hopefully serve as a deterrent to other Department of Energy contractors.
A few weeks ago, the District of South Carolina recovered another $2,000,000 in the settlement of a whistleblower case brought against HCA, a large hospital chain. The whistleblower and United States contended that four hospitals, all located in Florida, submitted claims for lab tests that were not ordered and/or not medically necessary and also billed for fetal biophysical profiles with non-stress tests and also billed for standalone non-stress tests thereby double billing the non-stress tests.
The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the U.S. and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims. The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss. While restitution is paid to the victim, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the department’s Crime Victims’ Fund, which distributes the funds to state victim compensation and victim assistance programs.
The largest civil collections were from affirmative civil enforcement cases, in which the United States recovered government money lost to fraud or other misconduct or collected fines imposed on individuals and/or corporations for violations of federal health, safety, civil rights or environmental laws. In addition, civil debts were collected on behalf of several federal agencies, including the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Health and Human Services, Internal Revenue Service, Small Business Administration and Department of Education.
Additionally, the U.S. Attorney's Office in the District of South Carolina, working with partner agencies and divisions, collected $24,776,354.00 in asset forfeiture actions in FY 2015. Forfeited assets deposited into the Department of Justice Assets Forfeiture Fund are used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes.
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Steroid Dealer SentencedRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Bill Day (803) 929-3000
Columbia, South Carolina---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles stated that Christopher Brit Beebe, has been sentenced in federal court in Columbia, South Carolina, for, Conspiracy to Distribute Steroids and Possession of a Firearm in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime, a violation of 21 U.S.C. § 846 and 18 U.S.C. 924. United States District Judge Cameron McGowan Currie sentenced Beebe to 97 months imprisonment; 5 years supervised release and a $200.00 special assessment.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that Beebe and others manufactured and then distributed steroids from 2004 to 2015 throughout the United States using the internet. The conspiracy was discovered when Kershaw County Sheriff Deputies responded to a report that Beebe’s girlfriend, Candace Altman, had been killed by a gunshot to the head at Beebe’s residence in Bethune, S.C. On arrival, officers discovered a large amount of steroids. The case was investigated by the Kershaw County Sheriff’s Office and agents of DEA Diversion. Assistant United States Attorney William E. Day, II, of the Columbia office prosecuted the case.
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Spartanburg Man Sentenced to 60 Months on Child Porn ChargesRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Bill Watkins (864) 282-2100
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles stated today that Robert L. Bullard IIII, age 61, of Spartanburg, was sentenced today in federal court in Anderson, for possession of child pornography, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2255A. United States District Judge Timothy M. Cain of Anderson sentenced Bullard to 60 months imprisonment and ordered that he be on supervised release for life.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that in late 2012, an undercover law enforcement officer was conducting an investigation into individuals using file sharing software to trade child porn. The officer downloaded 39 child pornography files from an account that was later traced to Bullard.
Federal agents obtained a search warrant for Bullard’s home. When confronted with the search warrant, Defendant told agents they would find child pornography on this computer. He admitted that he downloaded child porn to his computer and that he searched for incest and hardcore pre-teen images and videos.
A forensic exam of the computers seized revealed 1035 videos and 4058 still images of children under the age of 18, some of whom were prepubescent minors, engaged in sexual acts and the lascivious display of the genitals.
The case was investigated by agents of the Department of Homeland Security, Office of 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.
####Leader of Mail Theft Conspiracy Sentenced to 60 MonthsRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Bill Watkins (864) 282-2100
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles stated today that Tonya M. Reid, age 38, of Anderson, was sentenced today in federal court in Anderson, for conspiracy to commit fraud, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371. United States District Judge Timothy M. Cain of Anderson sentenced Reid to 60 months imprisonment, ordered that she pay $21,272.97 in restitution, and placed her on three years of supervised release.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office, the Anderson City Police Department, and other local agencies had undertaken a long-term investigation into the theft of mail in and around Anderson County. It was discovered that an organization existed that regularly stole mail from residential boxes, sorted the stolen mail for checks and person identifying information, created altered or counterfeit checks, and created false identification documents. Multiple counterfeit and altered checks were passed throughout the upstate. Most of the fraud was conducted in an effort to obtain funds to purchase methamphetamine.
Reid was a leader of an organization of more than 20 individuals. She served as a clearing house for stolen mail and aided other co-conspirators in creating and cashing counterfeit checks. Her co-conspirators are awaiting sentencing or trial.
The case was investigated by agents of United States Postal Inspection Service, the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office, the Anderson City Police Department, and other local law enforcement agencies. Assistant United States Attorney Bill Watkins of the Greenville office handled the case.
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Atlanta Drug Trafficker Pleads Guilty to Importing Kilograms of Cocaine into SumterRead the Press Release
Contact Person: JD Rowell (803) 929-3000
Columbia, South Carolina---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles stated today that Bryant C. Ford, age 39, of Mableton, Georgia, pled guilty today in federal court in Columbia, South Carolina, to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute cocaine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841 and 846. Chief United States District Court Judge Terry L. Wooten presided over the guilty plea hearing and will sentence Ford after the United States Probation Office prepares a presentence report.
Evidence gathered as part of months-long investigation into drug trafficking in and around Sumter, established that Ford brought more than forty kilograms of cocaine into South Carolina from September of 2014 through June of 2015. The investigation concluded when, on June 16, 2015, Ford brought 5 kilograms of cocaine to supply his codefendant Harold McFadden in exchange for cash. After Ford and McFadden met outside of Augusta, Georgia, Troopers with the South Carolina Highway Patrol, working in conjunction with the FBI and Sumter Police Department, conducted a traffic stop of McFadden near Aiken, South Carolina. Troopers found the 5 kilograms of powder cocaine hidden in a secret compartment in the dashboard of a Chrysler van, which Ford had previously provided to McFadden. After Ford returned to his home in Mableton, Georgia, FBI Atlanta executed a search warrant at his home and found over $300,000 in cash, cocaine, and various drug and money laundering paraphernalia.
The case was investigated by the FBI and Sumter Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys JD Rowell and Jay Richardson prosecuted the case.
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Former Director at USC Sentenced to Prison for Grant FraudRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Jim May (803) 929-3000
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles stated today that Gail Shurling (62) was sentenced in federal court in Columbia, South Carolina, for wire fraud, a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1343. United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis of Columbia sentenced her to 27 months, 3 years supervised release and over $335,000 of restitution.
Shurling, as the Director of the Center for Manufacturing and Technology (CMAT) at the University of South Carolina, committed grant fraud. In her role with CMAT, Shurling submitted fraudulent documentation to obtain federal grant money. As part of the scheme, Shurling approved contracts and payments to shell corporations that were controlled by friends, family members, and herself for work that was not completed. In total, Shurling submitted approximately $336,000 worth of fraudulent documentation to the University, the Government, and to the entity responsible for administrating grant funds.
United States Attorney Bill Nettles stated: “The United States Attorney’s Office, in conjunction with our law enforcement partners, is dedicated to curbing fraud of public funds. We will continue to pursue those who lie, cheat and steal from the public.”
“Today’s sentencing of Ms. Shurling is another instance of those who commit fraud against the government will be ferreted out and prosecuted to the fullest extent of law to protect the taxpayers interest,” said Duane Townsend, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Department of Commerce, Office of Inspector General.
The case was investigated by agents of the Department of Commerce Office of the Inspector General and FBI. Assistant United States Attorney Jim May of the Columbia office prosecuted the case.
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Piedmont Pathology Associates, Inc., and Piedmont Pathology, P.C. Settle False Claims Act Cases for $500,000Read the Press Release
Contact Person: Beth Warren (803) 929-3000
COLUMBIA, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney for the District of South Carolina Bill Nettles announced today that Piedmont Pathology Associates, Inc. and Piedmont Pathology, P.C., a diagnostic anatomic pathology group located in Hickory, North Carolina, has agreed to pay the United States $500,000 to settle allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by engaging in improper financial relationships with referring physicians.
Mr. Nettles said, “Combatting fraud against the government is a priority in this office; and importantly, holding accountable health care providers who have improper financial relationships with referral sources has been a focus. Financial relationships between physicians for referrals can alter a physicians’ judgment as to what’s necessary and appropriate for a patient. Our goal in this settlement was not only to recover money for improper healthcare claims, but to deter similar conduct and, in turn, promote health care affordability.”
The investigation of Piedmont Pathology was prompted by a whistleblower who filed a lawsuit under the qui tam provision of the False Claims Act. The whistleblower was a former contract salesperson for the practice who witnessed a program where the practice would provide Electronic Medical Record (EMR) software licenses to various physicians’ practices in exchange for referrals. The government found that Piedmont Pathology provided EMR software licenses at little to no cost to nine physicians’ practices close in time to when those practices entered contracts to refer specimens to their pathology lab. This conduct violated the Anti-Kickback Statute. Claims submitted in violation of the Anti-Kickback Statute are considered tainted and are per se violations of the False Claims Act. The False Claim Act allows the government to recover three times the actual damages caused by the improper claims and up to $11,000 in penalties per false claim.
The False Claims Act allows individuals to file lawsuits on behalf of the government with allegations that fraud has been committed against the federal government. Whistleblowers, referred to as “relators” in the False Claims Act, are entitled to share in any recovery received by the government. In this case, the relator will receive 15% of the funds of the settlement, or $75,000. She is also entitled to her costs and attorney fees.
This case was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Beth Warren. The case was investigated by the Office of the Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services.
“Paying for referrals, as the government alleged, is little more than a thinly veiled bribe,” said Derrick Jackson, Special Agent in Charge with the Office of Inspector General, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “Patients and taxpayers deserve better, and those who would defraud the system should expect to pay for their schemes.”
If you suspect Medicare or Medicaid fraud please report it by phone at 1-800-447-8477 (1-800-HHS-TIPS), or E-Mail at [email protected].
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Greg Leon Pleads Guilty to Engaging in Pattern of Hiring Illegal AliensRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Jim May (803) 929-3000
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles stated today that Greg Leon, age 49, of Lexington, South Carolina, pleaded guilty to engaging in a pattern and practice of hiring illegal aliens, a violation of 8 U.S.C. §§ 1324a(a)(2) and 1324a(f)(1). Senior United States District Judge Joseph F. Anderson Jr. of Columbia accepted the guilty plea today in federal court in Columbia and will sentence Leon after he has reviewed the presentence report to be prepared by the U.S. Probation Office. As part of the plea agreement, Leon previously pleaded guilty in South Carolina General Sessions Court to paying a public official for assistance in violation of South Carolina Code Section 8-13-720.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that Leon operated eight restaurants in the Midlands of South Carolina. Leading up to May of 2013, Leon engaged in a pattern of hiring and employing individuals that he knew were in the country illegally and not eligible to work. Leon was involved in hiring approximately sixty illegal aliens. In addition to the hiring of those illegal aliens, Leon paid former Lexington County Sheriff James Metts for his assistance on several occasions when Metts helped or attempted to help one of the illegal alien employees that had been arrested.
Over the last two years, Leon has cooperated extensively and provided substantial assistance in the investigation and prosecution of Metts. Based on that cooperation, the Government agreed that a sentence of one year of probation and a fine of $180,000 – in addition to the five years of probation and 200 hours of community service imposed by the state court – was an appropriate resolution for Leon’s criminal charges.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigation, State Law Enforcement Division (SLED), the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office, and the United States Attorney’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Jay N. Richardson and Jim H. May are prosecuting the case.
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HCA Settles Allegations of Billing for Unnecessary Lab Tests and Double Billing for Fetal Testing for $2,000,000Read the Press Release
Contact Person: Jennifer Aldrich (803) 929-3000
COLUMBIA, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles announced today that the United States Attorney's Office for the District of South Carolina with the State of Florida, settled claims of health care fraud with HCA Holdings, Inc. f/d/b/a HCA, Inc. f/d/b/a HCA – Hospital Corporation of America f/d/b/a Hospital Corporation of America and Parallon Business Solutions, LLC, West Florida Regional Medical Center, Inc. d/b/a West Florida Hospital; HCA Health Services of Florida, Inc. d/b/a Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point; HCA Health Services of Florida, Inc. d/b/a Oak Hill Hospital; and New Port Richey Hospital, Inc. d/b/a Medical Center of Trinity (“HCA”).
The United States and the State of Florida contended that HCA submitted laboratory claims for direct count low density lipids (LDL) when the tests were not ordered and/or not medically necessary at four hospitals in Florida: West Florida Hospital; Oak Hill Hospital; Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point; and Community Hospital of New Port Richie (Trinity Hospital). The United States and the State of Florida also contended that HCA submitted claims for fetal biophysical profiles with non-stress tests (CPT code 76818) and additionally submitted another claim for a standalone non-stress test (CPT code 59025) at Community Hospital of New Port Richie (Trinity Hospital) during the period from January 1, 2007 through September 26, 2014.
The investigation began with the filing of a whistleblower lawsuit called a qui tams lawsuit under the False Claims Act. The suit was filed by an employee of HCA and was captioned United States, the District of Columbia, the States of Florida, California, Colorado, Georgia, Indiana, Louisiana, Nevada, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia ex rel. Kelly Oxendine v. HCA Holdings, Inc. f/d/b/a HCA, Inc. f/d/b/a HCA-Hospital Corporation of America f/d/b/a Hospital Corporation of America, and Parallon Business Solutions, LLC. The False Claims Act allows the government to recover actual damages and penalties of three times the actual damages and up to $11,000 per false claim. This settlement includes repayment of actual damages and penalties.
The False Claims Act allows individuals to file lawsuits with allegations that fraud has been committed against the federal government on behalf of the government. Whistleblowers, referred to as Relators in the False Claims Act, are entitled to share in any recovery received by the government. In this case, the relator will receive 20% of the funds of the settlement or $400,000 plus she is entitled to her costs and attorney fees.
Mr. Nettles said “This office has made a substantial commitment to combating fraud. Our commitment has made this district one of the leaders on behalf of the whistleblowers. We hope that those who commit fraud will recognize that it is our goal to make the consequences more than just the cost of doing business.”
This case was investigated by agents from U.S. Health and Human Resources Office of the Inspector General and the Defense Criminal Investigative Service.
If you suspect Medicare or Medicaid fraud please report it by phone at 1-800-447-8477 (1-800-HHS-TIPS), or E-Mail at [email protected].
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HCA Settles Allegations of Billing for Unnecessary Lab Tests and Double Billing for Fetal Testing for $2,000,000Read the Press Release
Contact Person: Jennifer Aldrich (803) 929-3000
COLUMBIA, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles announced today that the United States Attorney's Office for the District of South Carolina with the State of Florida, settled claims of health care fraud with HCA Holdings, Inc. f/d/b/a HCA, Inc. f/d/b/a HCA – Hospital Corporation of America f/d/b/a Hospital Corporation of America and Parallon Business Solutions, LLC, West Florida Regional Medical Center, Inc. d/b/a West Florida Hospital; HCA Health Services of Florida, Inc. d/b/a Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point; HCA Health Services of Florida, Inc. d/b/a Oak Hill Hospital; and New Port Richey Hospital, Inc. d/b/a Medical Center of Trinity (“HCA”).
The United States and the State of Florida contended that HCA submitted laboratory claims for direct count low density lipids (LDL) when the tests were not ordered and/or not medically necessary at four hospitals in Florida: West Florida Hospital; Oak Hill Hospital; Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point; and Community Hospital of New Port Richie (Trinity Hospital). The United States and the State of Florida also contended that HCA submitted claims for fetal biophysical profiles with non-stress tests (CPT code 76818) and additionally submitted another claim for a standalone non-stress test (CPT code 59025) at Community Hospital of New Port Richie (Trinity Hospital) during the period from January 1, 2007 through September 26, 2014.
The investigation began with the filing of a whistleblower lawsuit called a qui tams lawsuit under the False Claims Act. The suit was filed by an employee of HCA and was captioned United States, the District of Columbia, the States of Florida, California, Colorado, Georgia, Indiana, Louisiana, Nevada, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia ex rel. Kelly Oxendine v. HCA Holdings, Inc. f/d/b/a HCA, Inc. f/d/b/a HCA-Hospital Corporation of America f/d/b/a Hospital Corporation of America, and Parallon Business Solutions, LLC. The False Claims Act allows the government to recover actual damages and penalties of three times the actual damages and up to $11,000 per false claim. This settlement includes repayment of actual damages and penalties.
The False Claims Act allows individuals to file lawsuits with allegations that fraud has been committed against the federal government on behalf of the government. Whistleblowers, referred to as Relators in the False Claims Act, are entitled to share in any recovery received by the government. In this case, the relator will receive 20% of the funds of the settlement or $400,000 plus she is entitled to her costs and attorney fees.
Mr. Nettles said “This office has made a substantial commitment to combating fraud. Our commitment has made this district one of the leaders on behalf of the whistleblowers. We hope that those who commit fraud will recognize that it is our goal to make the consequences more than just the cost of doing business.”
This case was investigated by agents from U.S. Health and Human Resources Office of the Inspector General and the Defense Criminal Investigative Service.
If you suspect Medicare or Medicaid fraud please report it by phone at 1-800-447-8477 (1-800-HHS-TIPS), or E-Mail at [email protected].
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Hilton Head Man and Walterboro Woman Charged with Wire Fraud and Misprision of a FelonyRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Beth Drake (803) 929-3000
Donald Christy, age 72, of Hilton Head, and Lisa Arnold, age 48, of Walterboro, were charged in a 6-count Information with Wire Fraud and Misprision of a Felony, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1343 and 4. The maximum penalty that Christy and Arnold could receive is 20 years imprisonment. The case was investigated by agents of the FBI and is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Rhett DeHart of the Charleston office for prosecution.
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Richland County Man Sentenced to 30 years Following TrialRead the Press Release
Contact Person: William Witherspoon (803) 929-3000
Columbia, South Carolina---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles stated today that Harold Hall, Jr., age 34, of Richland County, South Carolina was sentenced today in federal court in Columbia, South Carolina, for being a felon in possession of a firearm, a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1), possession with the intent to distribute marijuana, a violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1), and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c). United States District Judge Joseph F. Anderson, Jr. of Columbia sentenced Hall to a total of 360 months (30 years) on all three counts. In addition, Hall must serve 3 years of supervised release following his incarceration.
Evidence presented at the trial established that on June 25, 2012, the Richland County Sheriff’s Department with the use of a confidential informant made a purchase of marijuana from the home where Hall lived. Following this purchase, the police obtained a search warrant for the home. During the execution of the warrant, the police found more than 10 pounds of marijuana, 3 firearms and over $1,000.00. The police also found documentation that tied Hall to the residence. Hall and a relative were arrested a short distance from the home. During the trial, Hall’s relative testified that all of the marijuana, firearms and cash belonged to him and that Hall had nothing to do with the marijuana and firearms. The jury found the testimony of the relative incredible and convicted Hall on all counts. The case was investigated by agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigations and Richland County Sheriff's Department Narcotics Unit. Assistant United States Attorney William K. Witherspoon and Benjamin Garner of the Columbia office prosecuted the case. #####Federal Grand Jury Returns Indictment Against Convicted Felon for Drugs and Firearms ViolationsRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Beth Drake (803) 929-3000
United States Attorney Bill Nettles stated today that a Federal Grand Jury in Greenville, South Carolina, returned Indictment(s) against the following:
Robert Samuel Hollingsworth, age 37, was charged in a multi-count indictment. The indictment alleges that Hollingsworth violated federal law on two dates. First, it alleges that on November 15, 2014, Hollingsworth possessed with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, hydrocodone, marijuana, diazepam, and carisoprodol. Also on November 15, 2014, the indictment alleges that Hollingsworth possessed a firearm, a Smith & Wesson .40 caliber pistol, in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and did possess the firearm and ammunition associated with the firearm after having been convicted of a felony.
Second, the indictment alleges that on June 18, 2015, Hollingsworth possessed ammunition after having been convicted of a felony.
If convicted on the charges in the indictment, Hollingsworth faces up to 30 years imprisonment on the drug charge plus an additional 5 years to life imprisonment on the firearms charges. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Department of Homeland Security/Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Marshals Service, the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office, Greenville County Department of Public Safety, and the Greer Police Department investigated the case. Andy Moorman with the U.S. Attorney?s Office will be prosecuting.
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.
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North Charleston Automobile Dealer Sentenced to Prison for Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Eric Klumb (843) 727-4381
Columbia, South Carolina---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles today announced that Huger resident John Nick, age 60, was sentenced to a year and a day in prison for Money Laundering in violation of 18 U.S.C. §1956 . The sentence was imposed by United States District Court Judge Patrick Michael Duffy. Nick owned and operated Nick’s Auto Sales located at 4154 Rivers Avenue, North Charleston. From 2008 to 2010, Nick took payments of approximately $97,000 in cash from five individuals who were drug dealers or claimed to be drug dealers, all to purchase cars. Nick then covered up the transaction by titling the cars in the name of a nominees or creating false liens to protect the cars from forfeiture for violations of drug laws.
The case was investigated by Special Agents with the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Eric Klumb prosecuted the case.
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Columbia Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Stacey Haynes (803) 929-3000
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles stated today that Wade Andrew Albright, age 43, of Columbia, South Carolina pled guilty today in federal court. Albright plead guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1), 924(a)(2), and 924(e). Senior United States District Court Judge Cameron McGowan Currie accepted the plea and Senior United States District Court Judge Margaret B. Seymour will impose a sentence after she 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 the early morning hours of November 29, 2013, officers with the Lexington County Narcotics Enforcement Team (“NET”) set up surveillance in order to arrest Albright on outstanding state warrants for distribution of narcotics. Officers observed Albright drive into the employee parking lot of the a local chicken processing plant in West Columbia, where he was employed at the time. As officers approached his truck, Albright got back into the truck and fled. Officers observed Albright drive across Highway 378/Sunset Boulevard and drive into a neighborhood. Shortly thereafter, officers observed Albright’s truck in the parking lot of an apartment complex in the area, the driver’s door was open and the truck was still running. Other officers then observed Albright along a wood line. After a brief chase, Albright was arrested. A search incident to arrest revealed numerous pill bottles containing individually bagged pills, cocaine, and marijuana both on Albright’s person and in a book bag he discarded while running. Officers also located a Smith & Wesson .38 caliber revolver and additional rounds of ammunition on Albright. A check of the firearm revealed that it had previously been reported stolen in Richland County. Albright is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms and/or ammunition based upon his prior state convictions in Fairfield, Richland, and Marlboro counties for burglary 2nd degree (3 separate convictions), strong arm robbery (3 separate convictions), and manslaughter.
Mr. Nettles stated that Albright faces a maximum of 10 years imprisonment and/or a fine of $250,000 on the felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition charge unless he is deemed an armed career criminal by the court based upon his extensive prior convictions and then he would face a mandatory minimum of 15 years imprisonment with a maximum of life.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Lexington County Narcotics Enforcement Team 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.
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“Ceasefire Columbia” – Offender notification meeting set for Thursday, October 29, 2015Read the Press Release
Contact Person: Bill Nettles (803) 929-3000
Columbia, SC-------United States Attorney Bill Nettles, in collaboration with other federal, state and local law enforcement agencies announce the launch of initiative “Ceasefire Columbia!” This initiative is aimed at reducing gun violence in the 29203 neighborhoods of North Columbia.
Columbia Police Chief Skip Holbrook stated, “Last year the Columbia Police Department received over 1400 calls of shots fired of which there were 118 confirmed victims shot. A high and disproportionate number of these calls were located in the 29203 neighborhoods of North Columbia. Therefore, our focused goal is to address individuals most prone to commit violent crimes or be victim to violent crime, all while improving the quality of life in our neighborhoods.”
Operation “Ceasefire” was first introduced in Boston in the mid 90’s. This strategy has proven successful in reducing gun violence, reducing arrests and imprisonment, and strengthening disadvantaged communities. Similar focused deterrent strategies have proven successful around the state in cities such as Greenville, Aiken, North Charleston and Conway.
On Thursday, October 29, 2015 at 6:30 p.m., approximately 50 individuals who are currently on probation or parole will convene at the Eau Claire Print Building, 3907 Ensor Avenue, Columbia, SC 29203, where they will face law enforcement representatives, as well as members of their own community, who will let them know that “enough is enough.” The message will be clear: If any of these individuals are caught with a firearm or ammunition, they will immediately be taken into custody and charged in federal and/or state court, where they will face substantial prison sentences.
In addition to law enforcement, service providers will be present to discuss services which will help make it less likely for the attendees to reoffend. They will be offered assistance with issues they face, such as drug and alcohol dependency, housing issues, anger management, and employment.
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Central Man Pleads Guilty to Child Porn PossessionRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Bill Watkins (864) 282-2100
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles stated today that Joel Estrada-Secundino, age 49, of Central, pled guilty today in federal court in Greenville, to possession of child pornography, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2252A(a)(5)(B). United States District Judge J. Michelle Childs, of Greenville accepted the plea and will impose sentence after she 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 in April 2015 agents investigating crimes against children downloaded two files from the Ares computer network that appeared to be child pornography. The files were being shared by the computer’s owner. The IP address was traced to Estrada-Secundino’s apartment in Central, South Carolina.
After further investigation, on August 19, 2015, a federal search warrant was executed at the apartment. Once inside the residence, law enforcement located Estrada-Secundino in an upstairs bedroom with a HP laptop computer in his possession. During a post-Miranda interview, Estrada-Secundino confirmed his laptop did contain pornography with children engaged in sexual activity. A forensic examination of the computer revealed multiple images and videos of children engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
Mr. Nettles stated the maximum penalty Estrada-Secundino can receive is a fine of $250,000 and/or imprisonment for 20 years, supervised release for life, plus a special assessment of $100.
The case was investigated by agents of the Department of Homeland Security, Office of Investigations and the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Bill Watkins of the Greenville office handled the case.
#####Cartel Connected Kidnappers Found Guilty on All CountsRead the Press Release
Contact Person: JD Rowell (803) 929-3000
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles stated today that a federal jury in Columbia South Carolina needed only 45 minutes on Friday, October 23, 2015, to convict Juan Fuentes-Morales and Ruben Ceja-Rangel on 8 charges related to the armed abduction of a St. Mathews man that occurred in July of 2014. Evidence presented during the trial established that Ruben Ceja-Rangel (age 58) traveled from his home in Groveland, Florida in early June or July of 2014, for the purpose of conspiring with Juan Fuentes-Morales (age 27) to kidnap the victim from St. Mathews, South Carolina. During the trial evidence was presented that the victim was forcibly taken from his truck in the early morning hours of July 14, 2014 at gunpoint by Ceja-Rangel. Ceja-Rangel and another co-defendant then blindfolded and transported the victim to a residence near Garland, NC, where the victim was held for several hours at gunpoint. The victim testified that at one point, he attempted to escape and Juan Fuentes-Morales struck him and pointed a .25 caliber gun at the victim's head. Evidence presented proved that around 8:00 pm, the victim was moved from Garland to a residence located near Rosoboro, NC on Highway 210.
While held at the second location, the victim was blindfolded and chained to a workout bench, where he was made to lay on the floor from July 9, 2015, until his rescue by the FBI on July 15, 2014. In the early morning hours of July 15, 2014, a compliment of the Charlotte, NC FBI SWAT Team executed a search warrant at the Highway 210 residence near Roseboro. When the SWAT team made entry, they located the victim chained up and blindfolded on the floor. Ruben Ceja-Rangel attempted to run out of the back of the residence but he was quickly detained by FBI Charlotte SWAT operators.
Prior to locating the victim, Operators with the FBI's Hostage Rescue Team (HRT) executed a search warrant at 5363 Old Fayetteville Road, Garland NC. During the execution of this search warrant, agents located a cellular phone that Juan Fuentes-Morales used during the kidnapping to communicate with individuals in Mexico who were demanding a ransom for the victim's return. Agents also located a .25 caliber pistol that Fuentes-Morales had used to hold the victim during his initial abduction on July 9, 2014.
Evidence presented at trial proved that the victim's father owed a drug debt to members of a Mexican Drug Trafficking organization, or cartel, related to the father's inability to sell over 200 pounds of marijuana. Jurors heard multiple phone calls that were recorded by FBI hostage negotiators, wherein the Mexican drug traffickers threatened to gouge out the victim's eyes and ultimately kill him if the father did not pay the ransom.
Ceja-Rangel and Fuentes-Morales were convicted of conspiracy to commit kidnapping, kidnapping, hostage taking, brandishing firearms in furtherance of crimes of violence and lying to the FBI. Ceja-Rangel was also convicted of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The defendants face a statutory mandatory minimum 32 years on the firearms charges alone, and could face potential life sentences on the kidnapping and hostage taking charges. A sentencing hearing will be held after a presentencing report is prepared by the United States Probation Office. Judge Michelle Childs of Columbia presided over the trial and will sentence the defendants.
Mr. Nettles stated that drug trafficking begets violent crime, and the conduct of the two convicted defendants exemplifies the violence associated with international drug trafficking organizations that are operating here in the United States. Mr. Nettles added that the FBI did extraordinary work in executing a difficult operational plan to ensure that lives were not lost as a result of the kidnapping that grew out of drug trafficking here in South Carolina.
FBI Special Agent in Charge Dave Thomas added, “The jury's verdict in this matter validates the work of the dedicated professionals who worked quickly and tirelessly to recover the victim, bring justice to the accused and ultimately make South Carolina a safer place.”
The case was initiated by the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Department and was investigated by agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation from Columbia Field Division and the Charlotte Field Division. Assistant United States Attorneys JD Rowell and Kelly Wilson Hall of the Columbia are prosecuting the case.
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Sovereign Citizens Sentenced to Prison for Debt Elimination SchemeRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Bill Watkins (864) 282-2100
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles stated today that Jeffrey Scott Green, age 53, and Lisa Flaugher-Green, age 52, both of Easley, were sentenced today in federal court in Greenville, for a conspiracy to defraud, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1349. Senior United States District Judge Henry M. Herlong, Jr., of Greenville sentenced Jeffrey Scott Green to 30 months in prison and Lisa Flaugher-Green to 27 months in prison.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that this was an Electronic Funds Transfer (“EFT”) debt elimination case. Various branches of the Sovereign Citizen movement, which denies the jurisdiction and authority of the federal government, teach that they can discharge debts by presenting a check written off a closed account. The debtor writes on the check “EFT only for discharge of debt.” On the back he writes “authorized representative without recourse.” Sovereign-Citizen groups falsely teach that if the creditor accepts the instrument then the debt is discharged even though no money ever changes hands. The Defendants were part of a group that endorsed the use of EFT instruments.
It was a part of the scheme and artifice to defraud that Jeffrey Scott Green and Lisa Flaugher-Green wrote checks on closed accounts and noted on the checks “EFT only for discharge of debt.” They then would mail these bogus “EFT instruments” and accompanying documents to creditors in an effort to trick the creditors into issuing documents noting that the debt was paid in full. Once the creditor discovered the scam, Defendants would refuse further payment on the grounds of a discharge procured by “EFT instruments.” Agents estimate that the Defendants attempted to eliminate over half a million dollars in debt using the scheme.
The case was investigated by agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office, and the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Bill Watkins of the Greenville office handled the case.
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Florence Woman Pleads Guilty to Federal Identity TheftRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Brad Parham (843) 665-6688
Florence, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles stated today that Lauren E. Blackwell, age 29, of Bishopville, South Carolina has entered a guilty plea in federal court in Florence, to identity theft, a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1028(a)(7). United States District Judge Bruce Howe Hendricks of Florence accepted the guilty plea and will impose sentence after she has reviewed the presentence report which will be prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
Evidence presented at the guilty plea hearing established that while working as a nursing assistant at a health care facility, Blackwell gained access to personal identifying information, including dates of birth and social security numbers, of co-workers and patients at the hospital. She then used this information to apply for unauthorized credit card accounts associated with the stolen identities. Additionally, while a student, she was able to obtain similar personal identifying information of other students which she used to open other credit card accounts. She was successful in opening 15 such unauthorized accounts, several of which she used to charge thousands of dollars’ worth of merchandise.
Mr. Nettles stated the maximum penalty for identity theft is imprisonment for 15 years and/or a fine of $250,000.
The case was investigated by agents of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Assistant United States Attorney A Bradley Parham of the Florence office is prosecuting the case.
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Couple Stages Wife's Disappearance to Avoid North Carolina Criminal ChargesRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Brad Parham (843) 665-6688
Florence, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles stated today that Paul David Arrington, age 46, of Lowell, North Carolina and Amy Lynette Arrington, age 44, of Lowell, North Carolina each pled guilty in federal court in Florence, to conspiracy to communicate a false distress message, a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 371. United States District Judge Bruce Howe Hendricks of Florence accepted the guilty plea today of Paul Arrington and will impose his sentence after she has reviewed the presentence reports which will be prepared by the U.S. Probation Office. Judge Hendricks accepted Amy Arrington’s guilty plea on June 17, 2015, and on October 20, 2015 imposed a sentence of 30 months imprisonment and ordered restitution in the amount of $47,597.80.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearings established that Paul and Amy Arrington conspired to fake the disappearance of Amy in order for her to avoid having to face charges pending against her in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina. On July 5, 2014, the couple drove from Gastonia, North Carolina to North Myrtle Beach where Amy went into the water for a short period of time, then, as planned, left the beach and made her way to Florida. Paul then falsely reported to a life guard on the beach that Amy was missing. As a result of the false report, multiple agencies, including the United States Coast Guard, responded in a futile search for Amy. Law enforcement agencies eventually detected the fraud and Amy turned herself in to authorities in North Carolina.
Mr. Nettles stated the maximum penalty for conspiracy to communicate a false distress message is imprisonment for 5 years and/or a fine of $250,000.
The case was investigated by agents of the Coast Guard Investigative Service, the North Myrtle Beach Department of Public Safety, the Department of Natural Resources, and the Horry County Fire/Rescue. Assistant United States Attorney A. Bradley Parham of the Florence office is prosecuting the case.
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Cocaine Conspirators Arrested for Importing Hundreds of Kilograms of Cocaine into South CarolinaRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Beth Drake (803) 929-3000
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles and Special Agent in Charge David A. Thomas of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Special Agent in Charge Dan Salter of the Drug Enforcement Administration stated that 19 individuals have been recently indicted and arrested for conspiring to distribute cocaine across Aiken, Lexington, Saluda, Sumter, Richland, and Lee Counties in violation of Section 846 of Title 21, United States Code. Those recently indicted and arrested as part of this coordinated local, state and federal investigation were Juan Pablo Contreras, a/k/a “Juan David Montoya” (Sumter); Eduardo Esaid Contreras-Reyes (Sumter); Marco Antonio Castro, a/k/a “Chino” (West Columbia); Javier Toscano-Serrano (West Columbia); Andre LeWayne Brooks (Sumter); Jimmy Tony McDowell, a/k/a “Jimmy Fingers” (Sumter); Jermaine Terrell Hilton, a/k/a “Fifty” (Sumter); Michael Antonio Floyd, a/k/a “Tony,” “Tone,” and “Fat Tony” (Sumter); Rayshon Jamaal Foster, a/k/a “Shan” and “Terry Brown” (Sumter); Donald Antwon Dingle, a/k/a “Red” and “Flash” (Sumter); Corey Emanuel White, a/k/a “Chopper,” “Choppa,” and “El Chop” (Sumter); Damonion Mckinzie Bing (Aiken); Alvaro Valencia-Gonzalez, a/k/a “Shorty” (Aiken); Alejandro Quinones Leyva, a/k/a “Guero” (North Carolina); Travis Jermaine Pough (Aiken); Andre Maurice Hightower (Lexington); Antonio Terrill Sweat, a/k/a “Tony” (Aiken); Harold Matthew McFadden (Sumter); and Bryant Christopher Ford (Atlanta, Georgia).
The arrest warrants were served along with the execution of seventeen search warrants in the midlands of South Carolina. During the arrests and search warrants as part of this coordinated effort, law enforcement seized approximately ten kilograms of cocaine, more than three-quarters of a million dollars in cash, numerous vehicles, a bulletproof vest, ammunition, and more than forty firearms (including eleven assault rifles) used as part of this drug trafficking network.
These arrests follow months of intense investigation by local, state and federal law enforcement partners that began with concerns raised by local law enforcement in Aiken, Lexington, Saluda, Sumter, Richland, and Lee Counties about violence, gangs, and substantial drug trafficking. As a result, federal agencies joined with our state and local counterparts to target both the street gangs and the sources of this cocaine supply. That investigation resulted in the identification of 22 individuals responsible for importing hundreds of kilograms of cocaine from Atlanta into South Carolina and then distributing across the Midlands. Assisting in the investigation and today?s operation included the FBI, DEA, Homeland Security Investigations, US Postal Inspectors, SLED, SC DPPPS, Sumter Police Department, Sumter County Sheriff’s Office, Aiken County Sheriff’s Office, Aiken Police Department, Lexington County Sheriff’s Office, Richland County Sheriff’s Office, Columbia Police Department, Lee County Sherriff’s Office, Chester County Sheriff’s Office, Kershaw County Sheriff’s Office, Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office, Orangeburg Department of Public Safety, and the Fifth Circuit Solicitor’s Office.
United States Attorney Bill Nettles explained: “If we are going to effectively fight violent crime and gangs, we must seek to curtail illegal drugs, the fuel that powers these gangs. In order to do this, the law enforcement community must stand together and present a unified front, seamlessly sharing information and each department undertaking the tasks that they are best prepared to address. This case is a sterling example of that type of teamwork.”
The case will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys J.D. Rowell and Kelly Hall. 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.
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Notice of Press ConferenceRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Beth Drake (803) 929-3000
COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA -- United States Attorney Bill Nettles, Special Agent in Charge David A. Thomas of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Special Agent in Charge Dan Salters of the Drug Enforcement Administration will hold a press conference Wednesday, October 21, 2015, at the United States Attorney’s Office to announce the coordinated indictment and arrest of multiple drug trafficking organizations operating in and around Aiken, Lexington, Saluda, Sumter, Lee, Orangeburg, Chester, and Richland Counties.
WHEN: Wednesday, October 21, 2015 TIME: 2:00 p.m. WHERE:United States Attorney's Office
1441 Main Street, Suite 500
Columbia, SC
NOTE: All media must present government-issued photo id (such as driver’s license). Press inquiries regarding logistics should be directed to Beth Drake, 803-929-3061. All media should be in place 20 minutes prior to start. Please be aware that the U.S. Attorney’s Office does not have the ability to validate parking. Paid parking is available in the lot behind the Wells Fargo Building located at 1441 Main Street.# # # #
Myrtle Beach Attorney Sentenced for Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Bill Day (803) 929-3000
Columbia, South Carolina---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles stated today that Larkin Thaddeus Viers, age 37, of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina sentenced today in federal court in Florence, South Carolina, for money laundering, a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1957. United States District Judge Bruce Howe Hendricks of Florence sentenced Viers to 37 months imprisonment followed by 3 years supervised release and payment of $875,000.00 in restitution.
Evidence presented at the guilty plea hearing established that Marlon Weaver was the president and owner of Weaver Company, Inc., a construction company which was located in Conway, SC. In 2008, the company was awarded a contract with the South Carolina Department of Transportation [SCDOT], to perform paving and asphalt operations on a road construction project on Interstate 95. Weaver Co. was required to supply a performance and payment bond and general indemnity agreement in order to work on the project. SafeCo Insurance Company of America sold, wrote and acted as a surety on the bond. SafeCo required that Marlon Weaver agree to reimburse them if SafeCo suffered any losses as a result of issuing bonds to the company. Weaver provided a financial statement reflecting assets that SafeCo would be entitled to if Weaver Co. caused losses to SafeCo. Reflected on this financial statement were Weaver’s investment in a company, Gold & Silver, LLC, and his one-fifth interest in Bucks Port Marina held by Weaver Five, LLC.
On November 20, 2009, the contractor for the SCDOT informed Weaver and SafeCo that it declared Weaver Co. in default of the contract under the bond resulting in SafeCo being required to pay approximately $6,000,000.00 to SCDOT. Weaver back-dated documents to make it appear that he had transferred his interest in the Gold and Silver, LLC and Bucks Port Marina to his daughters on September 1, 2009, prior to defaulting on the project. In fact, Weaver retained control of the assets at all times. Weaver mailed these back-dated, fraudulent documents to SafeCo’s attorney, who was representing the insurance company in a civil suit against Marlon Weaver and others. These documents were received by SafeCo on or about December 18, 2009.
Gold & Silver, LLC, was an investment business owned and operated by Archie Evans, which invested in the futures market. To make it appear that Weaver had transferred his investment in Gold & Silver to his daughter prior to SafeCo incurring losses, Evans agreed to back-date documents to reflect that Weaver’s investment was transferred to the daughter on September 1, 2009. These documents were also mailed to SafeCo’s attorney on April 26, 2010.
Weaver hired Thad Viers to represent him in the civil case filed against him by SafeCo. Weaver informed Viers that he was trying to hide his assets from SafeCo. On December 1, 2009, Weaver and Viers entered into a written legal fee/service contract which reflects a nonrefundable retainer fee of $500,000. Weaver gave Viers $500,000 in the form of two cashier’s checks, one in the amount of $490,000 and the other in the amount of $10,000. Only the $10,000 check was payment for the retainer fee. The $490,000 was money that Weaver was attempting to conceal from SafeCo. The source of the $500,000 was funds that Weaver had pulled out of Weaver Company to prevent SafeCo from getting it. Viers deposited the $490,000 cashier’s check into his operating account at Anderson Brothers Bank on December 4, 2009, then immediately wrote a check to Archie Evans Ministries for $400,000. The $400,000 was additional money that Weaver was secretly investing with Evans’ company, Gold & Silver. The difference of $90,000, Viers was to deposit into his campaign account. After earning approximately $30,000 in legal fees, Viers returned the remainder of the funds to Weaver.
On January 21, 2010, BEJ, LLC, was created by Viers to conceal the proceeds from the sale of Weaver’s interest in the marina he had previously pledged as collateral to SafeCo. The marina was sold in February 2010 and Weaver received approximately $501,000. Weaver laundered these funds through several bank accounts to include a First Citizens bank account set up in the name BEJ, LLC. Between May 18, 2010 and July 22, 2010, Weaver withdrew $400,000 from the BEJ, LLC. account of which approximately $375,000 was converted to cashier’s checks and cashed. This cash was given to Archie Evans in increments which Evans structured into his bank accounts in increments of less than $10,000.00, to avoid bank filings.
In January 2011, Viers set up a trust account at the First Citizens Bank, at Weaver’s request, and agreed to have funds wired or deposited into the account by Evans. Once the funds were credited to the account, Viers contacted the bank to authorize withdrawal of the funds by Weaver. Each withdrawal authorized by Viers was for $10,000 or more. Weaver withdrew the funds purchasing numerous cashier’s checks just under the $10,001 bank reporting requirement, ranging from $7,500 to $9,500. Weaver would then cash these cashier’s checks at various branches and give the currency back to Archie Evans, in increments of $25,000 to $50,000, so that Evans could structure deposits into his bank accounts. This cycle of banking activity was repeated numerous times. Between 1/21/2011 and 10/3/2011, $692,000 was credited to Vier’s First Citizen’s Trust account on behalf of Weaver which was sourced by Evans’ bank account. Of the amount credited, 375,000 was proceeds from the sale of the marina.
During the course of this conspiracy, Viers either knew the funds involved were proceeds of some criminal activity, or he was aware of a high probability the funds were the proceeds of some criminal activity and he deliberately avoided learning of the activity, i.e. he deliberately made himself blind to that fact. The funds involved were proceeds of criminal activity as Weaver committed mail fraud when he mailed SafeCo’s attorney back-dated documents concerning the sale of the marina and his investments with Gold & Silver.
Evans previously pled guilty for his involvement in the Ponzi scheme related to this case and was sentenced to 7 years imprisonment. Weaver pled guilty to conspiracy to launder money and was sentenced to 1 year imprisonment.
The case was investigated by agents of the Internal Revenue Service and the United States Secret Service. Assistant United States Attorney William E. Day, II of the Columbia office is prosecuting the case.
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Former Augusta Moving Company Manager Found Guilty of FraudRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Winston Holliday (803) 929-3000
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles stated today that former Covan World Wide Moving, Inc., manager Ronald James Niemi, Jr., age 45, of Wesley Chapel, Florida, has been convicted of Mail Fraud, a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1341, after a five-day trial in Columbia that concluded Monday. Senior United States District Judge Joseph F. Anderson, Jr., of Columbia presided over the trial and will sentence Niemi at a later date.
Evidence presented at the trial established that Ronald James Niemi was the manager of Covan’s Augusta facility from 2009 through 2011. Covan packs and moves soldiers when they are transferred from one base to another. Covan is paid according to the weight of the household goods moved. Niemi falsified certificates indicating the net weight of the household goods was higher than it actually was, causing the United States to pay more to move soldiers than it should have. At trial, the Government demonstrated forty instances when this took place.
Mr. Nettles stated the maximum penalty for Mail Fraud is imprisonment for 20 years and/or a fine of $250,000.
The case was investigated by agents of the Army Criminal Investigation Command and the Defense Criminal Investigative Service. Assistant United States Attorneys Winston Holliday and Ben Garner of the Columbia office are prosecuting the case.
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Over 27,000 Students to Pledge Against Gun ViolenceRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Lance Crick (864) 282-2100
COLUMBIA, SC----United States Attorney Bill Nettles announced that on Wednesday, October 21, 2015, members of the United States Attorney’s Office and their local, state, and federal law enforcement partners will meet with students from across South Carolina, as part of South Carolina’s 14th annual Student Pledge Against Gun Violence.
With a focus on keeping their schools and communities safe, students in middle school and high school will sign a voluntary pledge promising that they will never take a gun to school, will never resolve a dispute with a gun, and will use their influence to prevent friends from using guns to resolve disputes. Elementary school children will make a simpler commitment, pledging that if they see a gun they will not touch it, they will assume that any gun they see might be loaded, and they will tell a teacher or a trusted adult.
The effort is part of South Carolina’s Project CeaseFire, which is South Carolina’s implementation of the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods program, which is aimed at reducing gun violence. The Student Pledge Against Gun Violence is a national program that recognizes the role that young people, through their own decisions, can play in reducing gun violence. This campaign against youth gun violence culminates each October in a “Day of National Concern about Young People and Gun Violence.” The program provides a means for beginning the conversation with young people about gun violence. Students from around the country will join together in pledging to do their part to end gun violence. Over the years, millions of students nationwide have signed the pledge.
Mr. Nettles said that, just as in years past, the response to the pledge campaign has been outstanding, with approximately 27, 832 students from 60 schools across the state agreeing to take part. "Our office is pleased to take this opportunity to reach out to South Carolina students with an effort to engage students, teachers, and administrators to facilitate a dialogue with students about gun violence and the importance of making good decisions," stated Mr. Nettles.
The U.S. Attorney's Office worked with schools, student resource officers, and law enforcement agencies throughout the state to make the pledges available, providing the pledges to participating schools as well as scheduling presentations for some 28 of the schools that requested speakers. Below is a list of South Carolina schools that are participating in this year's pledge. For information on any events scheduled for a particular school, please contact the school. For additional information concerning the pledge, visit the national Student Pledge website at www.pledge.org
Participating Schools:
Airport High School James Island High School
West Columbia, SC Charleston, SC
Arden Elementary School Joseph Keels Elementary School
Columbia, SC Columbia, SC
Augusta Circle Elementary School La France Elementary School
Greenville, SC Pendleton, SC
Allendale-Fairfax Middle School Lakeview Middle School
Fairfax, SC Greenville, SC
Allendale-Fairfax High School Lamar Elementary School
Fairfax, SC Darlington, SC
Baptist Hills Middle High School Lamar High School
Charleston, SC Darlington, SC
Barnwell 45 Elementary School Lincoln Middle-High School
Barnwell, SC McClellanville, SC
Bridge Creek Elementary School Luther Vaughn Elementary School
Elgin, SC Gaffney, SC
Brockington Elementary School Macedonia Middle School
Darlington, SC Moncks Corner, SC
Brookdale Elementary School Malcolm C. Hursey Elementary School
Orangeburg, SC North Charleston, SC
Carolina School for Inquiry Manning Elementary School
Columbia, SC Manning, SC
Carvers Bay Middle School Mary Bramlett Elementary School
Hemingway, SC Gaffney, SC
Central Elementary School Mayewood Middle School
Central, SC Sumter, SC
Clay Hill Elementary School Myrtle Beach High School
Ridgeville, SC Myrtle Beach, SC
Croswell Drive Elementary School Mitchell Math and Science Elementary School
Sumter, SC Charleston, SC
Dent Middle School Mullins High School
Columbia, SC Mullins, SC
Douglas Elementary School Northwest Elementary School
Trenton, SC Gaffney, SC
East Elementary School Northwest Middle School
Dillon, SC Travelers Rest, SC
Fairfax Elementary School Ocean Drive Elementary School
Fairfax, SC North Myrtle Beach, SC
Forestbrook Middle School Orange Grove Elementary Charter School
Myrtle Beach, SC Charleston,SC
Goucher Elementary School Orange Grove Middle Charter School
Gaffney, SC Charleston, SC
Greenville Tech Charter High School Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School
Greenville, SC Orangeburg, SC
Hampton Elementary School Petersburg Primary School
Hampton, SC Pageland, SC
Hand Middle School Pine Grove Elementary School
Columbia, SC Columbia, SC
Hemingway M.B. Lee Middle School Powdersville Middle School
Hemingway, SC Powdersville, SC
High Hills Elementary School Rollings Middle School
Shaw AFB, SC Summerville, SC
Holly Hill Elementary School South Elementary School
Holly Hill, SC Dillon, SC
Hopkins Middle School Spaulding Middle School
Columbia, SC Dillon, SC
Horrell Hill Elementary School Summerville Elementary School
Hopkins, SC Summerville, SC
J. K. Gourdin Elementary School Travelers Rest High School
Pineville, SC Travelers Rest, SC
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"P.A.C.E.—Police and Community Engagement: Conference to be hosted in Aiken in November to bring together law enforcement and the community"Read the Press Release
Contact Person: Lance Crick (864) 282-2100
COLUMBIA, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles, announced today that the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of South Carolina is proud to join the Aiken Department of Public Safety and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Officers’ Association (SCLEOA) as a host for the P.A.C.E. (Police and Community Engagement) Conference in Aiken on November 5-6, 2015. The goal of this conference, which includes a plenary session with both law enforcement and members of the community, is to provide both the community and law enforcement with an understanding of their roles in 21st Century policing.
Topics will include verbal communications skills to help de-escalate volatile situations, strengthening community partnerships, the power of partnerships, and successful joint efforts between the community and law enforcement to keep communities in South Carolina safe, to include the Aiken Safe Communities program.
Launched in early 2013, the Aiken Safe Communities Initiative is a unified, proactive community approach to engage, educate, and encourage recurring offenders to change their behavior and make healthy life choices. The initiative also bands together local, state, and federal law enforcement to expedite the investigation and prosecution of individuals who reoffend in lieu of accepting opportunities and assistance offered by the community during public notification meetings held at Aiken City Hall several times a year.
From 2012-2013, the City of Aiken experienced an 86% reduction in murders. Earlier this year, the South Carolina Community Development Association presented the City of Aiken with its 2014 Award of Excellence, recognizing community development efforts that have significantly improved the quality of life in the community.
All participants must register on-line with SCLEOA at www.scleoa.org/lecc.
P.A.C.E. Training announcement attached below:
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Georgia Man Sentenced to 135 Months for Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Bill Watkins (864) 282-2100
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Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles stated today that Stedman J. Bates, age 26, of Atlanta, Georgia, was sentenced to 135 months for conspiracy to distribute cocaine and marijuana, a violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 846. United States District Timothy M. Cain of Anderson sentenced Bates.
The evidence at the change of plea hearing established that Bates owned and operated marijuana grow houses in California. He arranged for large quantities of marijuana to be transported to Georgia for redistribution in South Carolina. In addition, Bates also sold kilogram quantities of powder cocaine and used a stash house in Fountain Inn, South Carolina. Bates used various drug couriers to bring his product from Atlanta to Fountain Inn. Once the couriers had delivered the drugs, they would return to Georgia and turn over the money for the drugs to Bates. Law enforcement estimates that Bates arranged for upwards of 50 kilograms of cocaine to be sold in South Carolina.
The case was investigated by agents the federal Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant United States Attorney Bill Watkins of the Greenville office handled the case.Two Plead Guilty to Credit Card ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Bill Watkins (864) 282-2100
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles stated today that Chernoh A. Jalloh, age 28, and Abraham B. Freeman, age 30, both of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, pled guilty today in federal court in Greenville, to a conspiracy to defraud, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1029(b)(2). United States District Judge Bruce Howe Hendricks, of Greenville accepted the pleas and will impose sentence after she 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 August 24, 2015, Jalloh and Freeman’s vehicle was stopped on Interstate 85 for a traffic infraction. Upon approaching the vehicle, law enforcement observed the smell of marijuana emanating from the vehicle and conducted a search.
During the search of the vehicle, officers located more than 90 credit and debit/gift cards secreted in various locations throughout the vehicle. Of these cards, at least twenty-three (23) were embossed with Jalloh’s name. Eight (8) of the cards were located in a wallet which was in the vehicle seat which Freeman had occupied. Of these eight (8) cards, five (5) were embossed with Freeman’s name.
In the vehicle, officers also discovered a laptop computer and a device capable of encoding the magnetic stripe data on credit, debit, and similar magnetic-striped cards.
All of the twenty-three (23) cards embossed with Jalloh’s name were found to be encoded with magnetic stripe data that did not match the number embossed on the cards. All of the eight (8) cards found in Freeman’s wallet, including the five (5) cards embossed with Freeman’s name, were also found to be encoded with magnetic stripe data that did not match the number embossed on the cards. Law enforcement estimates that over $40,000 in fraudulent transactions are connected to the counterfeit and altered cards found in the vehicle.
Mr. Nettles stated the maximum penalty the 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 Department of Homeland Security, Office of Investigations, and the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Bill Watkins of the Greenville office handled the case.
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Federal Grand Jury IndictmentsRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Beth Drake (803) 929-3000
United States Attorney Bill Nettles stated today that a Federal Grand Jury in Greenville, South Carolina, returned Indictment(s) against the following:
Georgia Resident Indicted for Possession of Counterfeit Access Devices
Daniel Sampah Aryertey, age 25, of Union City, Georgia, was charged in a 1-count indictment with possession of at least fifteen counterfeit access devices, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1029(a)(3). The maximum penalty Aryertey could receive is ten years imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000.00. The case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agents and is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney William J. Watkins, Jr., of the Greenville office for prosecution.Two New York Men Indicted for Counterfeit Access Device Conspiracy
Jamal J. Wint, age 26, of Rosedale, New York, and Stephen S. Wint, age 25, of Far Rockaway, New York, were charged in a 1-count indictment with conspiracy to possess fifteen or more counterfeit access devices, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1029(b)(2). The maximum penalty the defendants could receive is five years imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000. The case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agents and is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney William J. Watkins, Jr., of the Greenville office for prosecution.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.
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Columbia Man Charged with Sexual Exploitation of ChildrenRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Bill Day (803) 929-3000
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles stated today that Roberto Luis Molinary, Jr, age 49, of Columbia, South Carolina has been indicted by the Grand Jury, in Columbia, with a three-count indictment for inducing a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of the conduct, receiving and possessing child pornography in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2251, 2252A and 2256. Mr. Nettles stated the penalty for sexual exploitation of children is imprisonment of not less than 15 to 30 years. The penalty for receiving child pornography is imprisonment of 5 to 20 years. The maximum penalty for possession of child pornography is 20 years. The case was investigated by the University of South Carolina Police Department, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney William E. Day, II of the Columbia office is prosecuting the case.
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Columbia Investment Fraudster Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Jim May (803) 929-3000
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles stated today that Robert S. Leben, of Columbia, South Carolina has entered a guilty plea in federal court in Columbia, to Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud, a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 371. United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis of Columbia accepted the guilty plea and will impose sentence after she 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 defendant concocted a scheme that defrauded 11 investors of over three million dollars. The defendant’s scheme promised high rates of returns (8-16 percent) based on a combination of AAA rated U.S. Treasury debt obligations and the commodities markets. Despite these assurances, the defendant stole the money, converted the funds to cash, purchased and furnished a $500,000 house, installed an elaborate backyard pool and landscape costing about $180,000, gave over $100,000 to his sons, went on numerous ski vacations around the country, paid for surgical procedures for his wife, all while also paying for his daily expenses.
Mr. Nettles stated the maximum penalty for Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud is imprisonment for 5 years and/or a fine of $250,000.
The case was investigated by agents of the FBI. Assistant United States Attorneys Winston Holliday and Jim May of the Columbia office are prosecuting the case.
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DEA's Tenth Pill Take Back Event Yields Fruitful Results in South CarolinaRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Chuvalo Truesdell (404) 893-7124
COLUMBIA, SC. – South Carolinians participating in the United States Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA’s) tenth National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day Initiative (NTBI) held on Saturday, September 26, 2015, turned in 5,320 pounds of unwanted or expired medications for safe and proper disposal at sites set up throughout the state. This amount exceeded the previous statewide total during the last event, which yielded 4,776 pounds.
“Daniel R. Salter, the Special Agent in Charge (SAC) of the DEA Atlanta Field Division commented, “DEA’s tenth Prescription Drug Take-Back campaign was a huge success both locally and nationally. While South Carolinians turned in 5,320 pounds of unwanted or expired medications, nationally, more than 720,365 pounds of expired and unwanted prescription medications were collected in more than 5,000 sites that were available across the United States. The local amount collected was the third highest total collected out of the ten previous Take-Back events. I would like to thank the multitude of partners (both law enforcement and non-law enforcement) who worked tirelessly to make this event another great success.”
The NTBI addresses a crucial public safety and public health issue. According to the 2014 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 6.5 million Americans abused controlled prescription drugs. That same study showed that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. The DEA’s NTBI events are also a significant piece of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy’s prescription drug abuse prevention strategy.
SAC Salter encourages parents, along with their children, to educate themselves about the dangers of legal and illegal drugs by visiting DEA’s interactive websites at www.justhinktwice.com, www.GetSmartAboutDrugs.com and www.dea.gov.
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Lancaster County Man Pleads Guilty in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
Contact Person: William Witherspoon (803) 929-3000
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles stated today that Mitchell Narada Kelly, a/k/a “Duncey,” age 36, of Lancaster County, South Carolina has entered a guilty plea in federal court in Columbia, to possession with the intent to distribute cocaine, a violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1). United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis of Columbia accepted the guilty plea and will impose sentence after she 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 members of the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics’ Unit and the Federal Bureau of Investigations developed a cooperating witness that made controlled purchases of cocaine from Kelly on April 9, 2015, June 3, 2015 and June 24, 2015. The cooperating witness was followed by the police to and from Kelly’s home where they purchased cocaine directly from him. The cocaine purchased in each controlled purchase weighed between one and three ounces. During the guilty plea hearing, Kelly admitted to having five (5) prior felony drug convictions before these purchases.
Mr. Nettles stated the maximum penalty for this charge is imprisonment for 30 years and/or a fine of $2,000,000 plus a special assessment of $100.
The case was investigated by agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigations and the Lancaster County Sheriff's Office Narcotics’ Unit. Assistant United States Attorney William K. Witherspoon of the Columbia is prosecuting the case.
#####DEA 10th National Drug Take Back Day, Saturday 26Read the Press Release
Contact Person: Chuvalo Truesdell (404) 893-7124
Event will take place from 10am to 2pm on Saturday, September 26.
Columbia, SC - The Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) South Carolina District Office is partnering with national, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officials, as well as community coalition groups, to hold its 10th state-wide Prescription Drug Take-Back Day on Saturday, September 26, 2015 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. local time. This one-day event will make it convenient for the public to rid their homes of potentially dangerous prescription drugs. At the event, South Carolinians will be able to drop off their expired, unused, and unwanted pills at sites across the state free of charge, no questions asked. By doing so, they will help prevent prescription drug abuse and theft. South Carolinians participating in DEA’s last take-back, held on September 27, 2014, yielded 4,776 pounds of unwanted or expired medications for safe and proper disposal at sites set up throughout the state. Collection can be found by going to www.dea.gov or calling 800-882-9539.
The National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day addresses vital public safety and health issues. Many Americans are not aware that medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs.
Studies show that many abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. In addition, many Americans do not know how to properly dispose of their unused medications, often flushing them down the toilet or throwing them away – posing safety and environmental hazards.
Daniel R. Salter, the Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division said, “DEA is committed to making our communities safer by raising public awareness about the dangers of prescription drug abuse. The Prescription Drug Take-Back program will allow Americans to properly and safely dispose of their prescription medication which could otherwise be abused for non-medical purposes. This event is free and anonymous. Simply turn in your unused, unwanted, unneeded medication, no questions asked. This is just one of example of how DEA is working hand-in-hand with its law enforcement and community partners in an effort to stem the tide of prescription drug abuse.”
The DEA encourages parents, along with their children, to educate themselves about the dangers of legal and illegal drugs by visiting DEA’s interactive websites at www.justhinktwice.com, www.GetSmartAboutDrugs.com and www.dea.gov.
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***Corrected*** U.S. Attorney's Office Resolves Complaint Against Restaurant for Refusing Service to Customer with Service AnimalRead the Press Release
Contact Person: John Douglas (843) 727-4381
Columbia, SC– United States Attorney Bill Nettles today announced an agreement with Cook Out – Conway, Inc., which operates a Cook Out restaurant in Conway, South Carolina. The agreement resolves allegations that the restaurant violated the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by refusing service to an individual on the basis of his disability. The Settlement Agreement concludes an investigation which began in August of 2014, when a complaint was filed with the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The complaint alleged that a man attempted to obtain service at the Cook Out, but was refused because he was accompanied by his service animal.
Pursuant to the terms of the Settlement Agreement, Cook Out – Conway, Inc. agreed not to discriminate against any individual on the basis of disability and to provide service to all persons with disabilities, including those accompanied by a service animal. Cook Out – Conway, Inc. also agreed to adopt an ADA compliant service animal policy.
The Settlement Agreement is part of a broader effort by the Department of Justice to enforce the ADA and to educate the public about the ADA’s requirements. “This settlement exemplifies the U.S. Attorney’s Office commitment to protecting the civil rights of all citizens of South Carolina, including those with disabilities,” United States Attorney Nettles said.
The ADA prohibits public and private entities from discriminating against persons with disabilities. Under the ADA, state and local governments, businesses, and nonprofit organizations that serve the public generally must allow service animals to accompany people with disabilities in all areas of the facility where the public is normally allowed, including restaurants, movie theaters, stores, hospitals, doctor’s offices, and fairs.
The Department of Justice has a number of publications available to assist entities to comply with the ADA, including guidance on service animals. Those publications can be found online at www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm. For more information about the Americans with Disabilities Act, go to www.ada.gov or call the toll-free ADA Information Line at (800) 514-0301 or (800) 514-0383 (TTY). ADA complaints may be filed with the U.S. Attorney’s Office or online at www.ada.gov/filing_complaint.htm.
This case was handled by Assistant United States Attorney John Douglas.
** The restaurant name was misidentified in the previous press release that was issued on 23 September 2015. It should have read “Cook Out.”
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Turtle Traders Sentenced for Wildlife TraffickingRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Dean Secor (843) 727-4381
Columbia, South Carolina---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles stated today that Steven Baker, age 35, of Holly Hill, and Ray Roberson, age 68, of Cottageville, have been sentenced in federal court in Charleston, South Carolina, for Wildlife Trafficking (Lacey Act violations) under 16 U.S.C. ?? 3372(a)(2)(A) and 3373(d)(2).
Baker was sentenced on September 22, 2015 by United States District Judge David C. Norton of Charleston to Probation for 3 years for the Wildlife Trafficking offense. He was also sentenced for Possession of Weapons and Ammunition by a Convicted Felon under 18 U.S.C. 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2), and received a sentence of Probation for 3 years to run concurrently with the Wildlife Trafficking offense.
Roberson was sentenced on August 13, 2015, 2015 by United States District Judge Richard M. Gergel of Charleston to Time Served for Wildlife Trafficking.
The southeastern United States is recognized as a “Turtle Priority Area” for conservation due to its rich turtle biodiversity. However, the turtle population of the region is susceptible to decline due to commercial over-exploitation of turtles for consumption, high nest mortality, and delayed maturity. The Spotted Turtle (Clemmys Guttata) are classified in the Emydidae family. The Spotted Turtle, in particular, has suffered from these effects so much so that it was recently listed for protection under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The Spotted Turtle was accepted for listing under Appendix II of CITES, meaning that it is recognized as a species not necessarily in immediate threat of extinction, but which may become so unless trade of the species is subject to strict regulation in order to avoid utilization incompatible with their survival.
South Carolina state law makes it unlawful for any person to take, possess, transport, import, export, process, sell, offer for sale, ship or receive for shipment any Spotted Turtle without a state permit.
Section 3372(a)(2)(A) of The Lacey Act (16 U.S.C. § 3371, et seq.) makes it unlawful to import, export, transport, sell, receive, acquire, or purchase in interstate or foreign commerce any wildlife taken, possessed, transported or sold in violation of any law or regulation of any State or in violation of any foreign law. Section 3373(d)(2) specifies the criminal penalty for any person who knowingly engages in conduct prohibited in Section 3372(a)(2)(A) and in the exercise of due care should know the wildlife was taken, possessed, transported, or sold in violation of law.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services agents received information that Baker was engaged in the unlawful sale and possession of turtles. Agents established that Baker d/b/a Southeastern Reptile Locators operated his business from his home in Holly Hill, South Carolina. The agents also determined that Baker did not hold a permit to possess Spotted Turtles. The agents then conducted an undercover investigation of Baker for unlawfully possessing and selling turtles.
On August 18, 2012, Baker drove to the Daytona Beach (Florida) Reptile Breeders Exposition and sold an undercover agent seventeen (17) spotted turtles for $1,200. The amount paid represented the wholesale pricing for the wildlife.
On May 21, 2013, Baker sent a UPS shipment to the same undercover agent in Orlando, Florida, which contained eighteen (18) spotted turtles and some other species of turtles. The undercover agent paid Baker $1,710 for the shipment via PayPal. The amount paid represented the wholesale pricing for the wildlife.
On August 1, 2013, a search warrant was executed at Baker’s home. In addition to turtle-related evidence, wildlife agents found firearms and ammunition in Baker’s home. Baker was a convicted felon and was not allowed to possess those items. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) agents subsequently determined that the weapons and ammunition were manufactured outside of South Carolina and therefore had traveled in interstate commerce.
In Roberson’s case, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services agents received information that Roberson was engaged in the unlawful sale and possession of turtles. The agents determined that Roberson d/b/a Apostle Reptiles was issued a permit on May 15, 2008 to possess up to nine (9) wild-caught Spotted Turtles for personal use as pets or for research and/or educational purposes. Roberson's permit expired on May 15, 2013. The agents then conducted an undercover investigation of Roberson for unlawfully possessing and selling turtles.
On July 14, 2012, an undercover agent contacted Roberson at his sales table in the Columbia, South Carolina Repticon Reptile Exposition. Roberson told the undercover agent that he was in possession of 119 Spotted Turtles for sale.
On March 21, 2013, Roberson shipped 24 Spotted Turtles to the undercover agent in Orlando, Florida. The agent paid $2,400 for the Spotted Turtles. The amount represented the wholesale pricing for the wildlife.
On July 1, 2013, Roberson shipped 23 Spotted Turtles to the undercover agent in Orlando, Florida. The agent paid $2,520.00 for the 23 Spotted Turtles. The amount paid represented the wholesale pricing for the wildlife.
The cases against Baker and Roberson were investigated by agents of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) assisted in the investigation of Baker. Assistant United States Attorney Dean H. Secor of the Charleston office prosecuted the cases. ####DEA 10th National Drug Take Back Day, Saturday, September 26Read the Press Release
Contact Person: Chuvalo Truesdell (404) 893-7124
Event will take place from 10 am-2 pm on Saturday, September 26
COLUMBIA, SC. - The Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) South Carolina District Office is partnering with national, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officials, as well as community coalition groups, to hold its 10thstate-wide Prescription Drug Take-Back Day on Saturday, September 26, 2015 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. local time. This one-day event will make it convenient for the public to rid their homes of potentially dangerous prescription drugs. At the event, South Carolinians will be able to drop off their expired, unused, and unwanted pills at sites across the state free of charge, no questions asked. By doing so, they will help prevent prescription drug abuse and theft. South Carolinians participating in DEA’s last take-back, held on September 27, 2014, yielded 4,776 pounds of unwanted or expired medications for safe and proper disposal at sites set up throughout the state. Collection can be found by going to www.dea.gov or calling 800-882-9539. The National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day addresses vital public safety and health issues. Many Americans are not aware that medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that many abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. In addition, many Americans do not know how to properly dispose of their unused medications, often flushing them down the toilet or throwing them away – posing safety and environmental hazards. Daniel R. Salter, the Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division said, “DEA is committed to making our communities safer by raising public awareness about the dangers of prescription drug abuse. The Prescription Drug Take-Back program will allow Americans to properly and safely dispose of their prescription medication which could otherwise be abused for non-medical purposes. This event is free and anonymous. Simply turn in your unused, unwanted, unneeded medication, no questions asked. This is just one of example of how DEA is working hand-in-hand with its law enforcement and community partners in an effort to stem the tide of prescription drug abuse.” The DEA encourages parents, along with their children, to educate themselves about the dangers of legal and illegal drugs by visiting DEA’s interactive websites at www.justhinktwice.com, www.GetSmartAboutDrugs.comand www.dea.gov. #####Columbia Prisoner Sentenced for Threatening PresidentRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Winston Holliday (803) 929-3000
Columbia, South Carolina---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles stated that ERIC ANTHONY ROME, age 26, formerly of Mauldin, South Carolina, currently incarcerated at the Kirkland Correctional Institution in Columbia, was sentenced in federal court in Columbia, South Carolina, for Making Threats Against the President of the United States, a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 871. United States District Judge Joseph F. Anderson, Jr., of Columbia sentenced Rome to 41 months of incarceration.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that on May 16, 2014, Eric Anthony Rome left a message with the Inspector General of the South Carolina Department of Corrections stating that he planned to kill President Obama upon his release from prison on August 22, 2015. When interviewed by Agents, Rome admitted to calling the Inspector General’s office and leaving the voicemail. He claimed he had been a member of the Aryan nation since he was seventeen-years-old and that he would obtain money from them. He also claimed he was offered money previously by the Aryan Nation to assassinate President Obama. Further, Rome claimed his plan is to use the money from the Aryan nation to purchase a rifle and for traveling to Washington, D.C., and “lay and wait” for an accurate shot. The case was investigated by the United States Secret Service. Assistant United States Attorney Winston Holliday of the Columbia office prosecuted the case. #####Johns Island Man Sentenced to Ten Years for Viewing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Dean Secor (843) 727-4381
Columbia, South Carolina---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles stated that Horace Leon Crosby, Jr., age 43, of Johns Island, South Carolina was sentenced in federal court in Charleston, South Carolina, for Accessing with Intent to View Child Pornography, a violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 2252A(a)(5)(B) and 2252A(b)(2). United States District Judge Richard M. Gergel of Charleston sentenced Crosby to 120 months and Lifetime Supervised Release.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI), Charleston, South Carolina initiated an investigation into a Peer to Peer (P2P) internet software user utilizing an internet protocol (IP) address located in Johns Island. In April 2013, undercover ICE-HSI agents were able to determine that the P2P user’s shared folder had listed multiple files with titles indicative of child pornography. Further investigation revealed that Crosby was the internet subscriber and P2P user for the IP address.On June 20, 2013, ICE-HSI agents and the Charleston County Sheriff's Office executed a search warrant at Crosby’s residence and his computer was seized. During the execution of the search warrant, Crosby was interviewed and convicted in state court in South Carolina in 1990 and 1996 for Committing Lewd Acts on Minors. Those prior convictions increased the penalties faced by Crosby in this child pornography case. The case was investigated by agents of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI) with the assistance of the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Dean H. Secor of the Charleston office prosecuted the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov. #####Mauldin Man Sentenced to 77 Months on Conspiracy and Weapons ChargesRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Bill Watkins 864-282-2100
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles stated today that Denis B.L. Kearney, age 32, of Mauldin, South Carolina, was sentenced to 77 months for conspiracy to steal mail, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, and for making a false statement to purchase a firearm, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(a)(6). United States District J. Michelle Childs of Greenville sentenced Kearney to 77 months in the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
The evidence at the change of plea hearing established that Kearney was part of a conspiracy to steal mail, make fraudulent identification documents, create counterfeit checks, and create fraudulent prescriptions. On January 25, 2014, law enforcement recovered fraudulent prescriptions, multiple false identification documents, and genuine means of identification, from a vehicle driven by Kearney and his associates. The materials seized were used by Kearney to aid in the commission of fraud.
Further investigation revealed that four days prior to the search of the automobile, Kearney used a false identification document when purchasing a firearm from a licensed dealer in Anderson, South Carolina. Multiple prior felony convictions barred Kearney from owning or possessing any firearm.
The case was investigated by agents the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Greer Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Bill Watkins of the Greenville office handled the case.
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Justice Department Awards over $23 Million in Funding for Body Worn Camera Pilot Program to Support Law Enforcement Agencies in 32 StatesRead the Press Release
Contact: Public Affairs (202) 514-2007
WASHINGTON – As part of President Obama’s commitment to building trust and transparency between law enforcement and the communities they serve, Attorney General Loretta E. Lynch today announced that the Justice Department has awarded grants totaling more than $23.2 million to 73 local and tribal agencies in 32 states to expand the use of body-worn cameras and explore their impact. The body-worn camera pilot program announced in May 2015 includes $19.3 million to purchase body-worn cameras, $2 million for training and technical assistance and $1.9 million to examine the impact of their use. The grants, awarded by the department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), build on President Obama’s proposal to purchase 50,000 body-worn cameras for law enforcement agencies within three years.
“This vital pilot program is designed to assist local jurisdictions that are interested in exploring and expanding the use of body-worn cameras in order to enhance transparency, accountability and credibility,” said Attorney General Lynch. “The impact of body-worn cameras touches on a range of outcomes that build upon efforts to mend the fabric of trust, respect and common purpose that all communities need to thrive.”
The grants, which require a 50/50 in-kind or cash match, can be used to purchase equipment and require that applicants establish a strong implementation plan and a robust training policy before purchasing cameras. Each agency awarded a grant is responsible for developing a plan for long-term storage, including the cost of storing data.
In addition to funds to help purchase body-worn cameras and train officers in their use, grants under the Bureau of Justice Assistance’s (BJA’s) Smart Policing Initiative will support police departments in Miami, Milwaukee and Phoenix as they examine the impact of body-worn cameras on citizen complaints, internal investigations, privacy, community relationships and cost effectiveness. Each of these three departments will partner with a research institution to gain insight on the merits of deploying body-worn camera programs.
Lynch announced the award today during a White House Champions of Change event co-hosted by OJP and the Community Oriented Policing Services Office (COPS Office). The event honored law enforcement officers and young people who are leading efforts to improve relationships between law enforcement and youth in their communities.
BJA has launched a comprehensive online toolkit that consolidates research, promising practices, model policies and other tools that address issues surrounding body-worn cameras, including implementation requirements; image retention; concerns of policy makers, prosecutors, victim and privacy advocates; and community engagement and funding considerations. The toolkit is available at https://www.bja.gov/bwc/.
OJP’s Bureau of Justice Statistics is collecting data on body-worn camera usage through surveys of law enforcement agencies. It is also designing data collection forms for future surveys of prosecutors and public defenders to measure how body-worn camera footage is being used by the courts in criminal cases.
For additional information about the BWC Pilot Implementation Program, visit
http://www.bja.gov/bwc/pdfs/BWCPIP-Award-Fact-Sheet.pdf.
About the Office of Justice Programs (OJP)
OJP, headed by Assistant Attorney General Karol V. Mason, provides federal leadership in developing the nation’s capacity to prevent and control crime, administer justice and assist victims. OJP has six components: BJA; the Bureau of Justice Statistics; the National Institute of Justice; the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention; the Office for Victims of Crime and the Office of Sex Offender Sentencing, Monitoring, Apprehending, Registering and Tracking. More information about OJP can be found at www.ojp.gov
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Attorney General Loretta E. Lynch Delivers Remarks at the White House Champions of Change Event on Building Bridges Between Youth and Law EnforcementRead the Press Release
Contact: Public Affairs (202) 514-2007
Remarks as prepared for delivery
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Thank you, Roy [Austin], for that kind introduction – and for the extraordinary work that you and so many of your colleagues at the White House do to lift up our communities, to inspire our young people and to mobilize change agents like those we’re here to honor today. It’s a pleasure – and an immense privilege – to join so many passionate advocates, dedicated public servants and devoted law enforcement officers as we recognize 14 truly remarkable civic leaders: our Champions of Change.
These outstanding individuals exemplify the selfless men and women across the United States who are asking what they can do to improve the lives of others – and then doing it. They are working to ensure that our youth have the chance to fulfill their potential; that cycles of poverty, criminality and incarceration are dismantled; and that those grappling with homelessness, violence and addiction obtain a second chance at a better life. And by devoting their precious time and wide-ranging talents to the causes they champion, they are helping to mend the fabric of trust, respect and common purpose that all communities need to thrive. They exemplify what we have come to know: that change that can galvanize a nation often begins with a single human connection.
Actions like theirs are needed now more than ever. Over the course of the last year, we have seen all too frequently how relationships between communities and law enforcement can grow strained; how trust can be broken or lost; and how simmering tensions can erupt into unrest. The consequences are real – for sincere public safety officers, the guardians, who seek to ensure that all are sheltered under their umbrella of protection and for residents, particularly residents of color, who feel a sense of disconnection and despair that is all too familiar from a long and painful history of discrimination – and who often feel like they’re not being heard; like they’re not being believed; and like they’re not being protected. This is an intensely challenging issue and I could not be more proud of these Champions of Change and those like them throughout the nation, who believe that – despite the magnitude of the challenges we face – all of us can play a part in working together to ensure that every American is treated with fairness, with dignity and with respect; to maintain safe neighborhoods and supportive environments; and to establish a sense of community – of common aims and common efforts – in cities and towns across America. We are here today to honor those who exemplify nothing less than the essentially American belief that no matter the odds or the problem, change is possible and that it can begin with them.
The Department of Justice is committed to doing our part to help. Last September, we launched the National Initiative for Building Community Trust and Justice, a comprehensive effort to modernize training; develop evidence-based strategies; and advance research that will bolster law enforcement credibility, enhance procedural justice, reduce implicit bias and drive racial reconciliation. Our Civil Rights Division continues to work with police departments around the country to ensure constitutional policing in their jurisdictions. And our Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention is leading and supporting a variety of community-centered efforts to reduce youth and gang violence.
Of course, real change is spearheaded by those who are grappling with real problems every day. Our goal is to also tap into the innovative programs and exciting ideas that are emerging from communities across the country. That is why I’ve convened a series of community policing roundtables that have allowed me to see the extraordinary work that’s underway in diverse neighborhoods from coast to coast. In Birmingham, Alabama, I learned about the Citizen’s Police Academy, which allows local young people to form positive relationships with law enforcement officers and to understand the difficult jobs they do every day. In Cincinnati, Ohio, I observed an innovative mentoring program that puts police in the classroom as tutors, helping the children they work with see them as helpers, friends and peacemakers. In East Haven, Connecticut, I saw community leaders and public officials speak with pride about the strides they had made together just three years after a Justice Department investigation uncovered discriminatory tactics and the use of excessive force. And in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, I saw a police department newly committed to operating with accountability and to pursuing excellence. Later this week, I will complete the first phase of my tour with roundtables in Seattle, Washington and Richmond, California and I am excited to keep these important conversations going as more communities undertake the difficult but necessary work of growing more cohesive, more unified and more empowered. all of these cities have come back from the brink of profoundly challenged police community relationships to build a working relationship that recognizes that our communities are large enough to encompass those who protect them, that our guardians are strengthened when they truly know their charges and their needs and that all voices must be at the table to create and sustain meaningful change.
All of us at the Justice Department strongly support and encourage that work and those goals. That’s why I’m proud to announce today that the Justice Department’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services – more commonly known as the COPS Office – is providing more than $107 million in new grants to support the hiring and retention of approximately 870 officers at roughly 200 agencies and municipalities throughout the United States. These awards will not only keep more officers on the beat – they will address specific issue areas like violent crime, school safety, homeland security and that which underlies it all: community trust. They will help local agencies deliver on the recommendations for community policing developed by the President’s Task Force on 21st Century Policing. And they will extend the remarkable record of support, leadership and results that the COPS Office has earned over the last two decades.
I am also pleased to give you a major update on the Body-Worn Camera Pilot Partnership Program that we kicked off in May. Our Bureau of Justice Assistance designed the program to assist local jurisdictions that are interested in exploring and expanding the use of body-worn cameras in order to enhance transparency, accountability and credibility. Initial expectations were that we would be able to support approximately 50 agencies. But today, I am happy to report that we intend to fund 73 local and tribal agencies across the country with more than $19.3 million for their body-worn camera programs. An additional $2 million will go toward training and technical assistance for agencies looking to develop or expand their programs. And another $1.9 million will support research in three police departments – Miami, Milwaukee and Phoenix – on the impact of body-worn cameras on a range of outcomes, including community relations. That kind of evaluation is crucial as we continue to weigh the advantages of more widespread use of cameras in policing.
A third and final piece of news comes from our Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, which is launching a new initiative to bring young people together with the police officers in their communities. OJJDP is awarding $500,000 to a joint effort of the International Association of Chiefs of Police and the Coalition for Juvenile Justice to convene a youth and law enforcement roundtable and to develop an institute for disseminating best practices and sharing new approaches on issues of juvenile justice. Their unique partnership will go a long way toward fostering strong, collaborative relationships among young people, their families and those charged with their protection. And it unites a wealth of experience and expertise that will be an asset to law enforcement agencies developing strategic plans for their long-term improvement.
Each of these new efforts gives me hope that we can help to address these vital and complicated issues through sustained attention, honest conversation and thoughtful public policy. Each of the leaders here this afternoon gives me confidence that our commitment will yield progress. And each of the Champions we’re here to celebrate reminds me that our ultimate success depends on the goodwill, imagination and determination of motivated men, women and children across this country. I want to thank each of you for your exceptional work. I want to applaud each of you for your inspiring example. And I want you to know that I am honored to stand beside you and proud to count you as partners in our common pursuit of equality, opportunity and justice for all.
And now, I invite everyone to join me in saluting our Champions of Change, whom it’s my privilege to introduce at this time:
- Sergeant Alex Bielawski from Grand Prairie, Texas – a 30-year veteran of the Grand Prairie Police Department and founder of a youth boxing program that brings together police officers, young athletes, parents and school officials.
- Indeya Smith from Grand Prairie, Texas – a student at Tarrant County Community College, an intern with the Grand Prairie Police Department and a nationally ranked boxer who has trained with the Grand Prairie Police Youth Boxing Program.
- Anthony Davis from Bonner Springs, Kansas – a School Resource Officer for the Bonner Springs/Edwardsville School District and a criminal justice teacher at Bonner Springs High School.
- Blake McMahan from Bonner Springs, Kansas – the President of the Criminal Justice Club at Bonner Springs High School and a volunteer for the Bonner Springs Police Department.
- Ric DeLand from Portland, Oregon – a 25-year veteran of the Portland Police Bureau and the leader of an innovative, relationship-based foot patrol pilot project that reduced crime by 25 percent and strengthened community cooperation.
- Celia Luce from Portland, Oregon – a Peer Mentor with Outside In, an organization helping to connect homeless youth with the resources and the support they need.
- Captain Jacques Gilbert from Apex, North Carolina – a 25-year veteran of the Apex Police Department for over 25 years who worked with young people to build a public skate park for local youth.
- Tracy Stallworth from Apex, North Carolina – an aspiring professional skate boarder who worked with Captain Gilbert to make the Rodgers Family Skate Plaza a reality.
- Hiram Otero from Hartford, Connecticut – a Faith Based Initiative Community Service Officer for the South District of Hartford and organizer of the Charter Oak Cultural Center’s Good Vibrations youth mentoring program.
- Kayke Lopes from Hartford, Connecticut – a seventh-grader at Hartford Magnet Trinity College Academy and a participant in the Good Vibrations program.
- Laurie Reyes from Montgomery County, Maryland – a 17-year veteran of the Montgomery County Police Department and founder of the Department’s Autism and Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities Outreach Program.
- Jake Edwards from Germantown, Maryland – a seventh-grader at Kennedy Krieger School and an advocate for enhanced understanding between law enforcement and those with autism.
- Bill Singleton from Milwaukee, Wisconsin – an officer in the Milwaukee Police Department’s Office of Community Outreach & Education and a National Advisor for the Center for Court Innovation’s Police-Youth Dialogue Project.
- And finally, Erica Lofton from Milwaukee, Wisconsin – a 14-year-old violence-prevention advocate and founder of Girls in Action, Inc., an organization that promotes leadership among young girls.
Ladies and gentlemen – our Champions of Change.
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Lexington, South Carolina, Man Indicted for Misprision of a Felony and Making False Statements Relating to Mother Emanuel AME Church ShootingRead the Press Release
Contact: The Office of Public Affairs (202) 514-2007
WASHINGTON – Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Vanita Gupta, head of the Civil Rights Division, and U. S. Attorney Bill Nettles of the District of South Carolina announced today an indictment charging Joseph Carlton Meek, 21, of Lexington, South Carolina, with misprision of a felony and making false statements.
Meek is alleged to have taken steps to conceal his knowledge of the crimes committed by Dylann Storm Roof, and to have made materially false statements when Meek told a Special Agent of the FBI that he did not know specifics of Roof’s plan to shoot individuals on a Wednesday, during Bible Study, at an AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina, prior to Roof’s attack on June 17, 2015. The misprision count carries up to three years in prison and the false statement charge carries up to five years in prison.
The indictment is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, Charleston Police Department and South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jay N. Richardson and Nathan Williams of the District of South Carolina are prosecuting the case with the assistance of the Civil Rights Division.
An indictment is merely an accusation, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Lexington, South Carolina, Man Indicted for Misprision of a Felony and Making False Statements Relating to Mother Emanuel AME Church ShootingRead the Press Release
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Vanita Gupta, head of the Civil Rights Division, and U. S. Attorney Bill Nettles of the District of South Carolina announced today an indictment charging Joseph Carlton Meek, 21, of Lexington, South Carolina, with misprision of a felony and making false statements.
Meek is alleged to have taken steps to conceal his knowledge of the crimes committed by Dylann Storm Roof, and to have made materially false statements when Meek told a Special Agent of the FBI that he did not know specifics of Roof’s plan to shoot individuals on a Wednesday, during Bible Study, at an AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina, prior to Roof’s attack on June 17, 2015. The misprision count carries up to three years in prison and the false statement charge carries up to five years in prison.
The indictment is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, Charleston Police Department and South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jay N. Richardson and Nathan Williams of the District of South Carolina are prosecuting the case with the assistance of the Civil Rights Division.
An indictment is merely an accusation, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.