District of South Carolina
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
El Departamento de Justicia llega a un acuerdo con las Escuelas Públicas del Condado de Aiken en South Carolina para proteger los derechos civiles de estudiantes que están aprendiendo inglésRead the Press Release
El Departamento de Justicia anunció hoy un acuerdo de conciliación con el Distrito Escolar Público del Condado de Aiken en South Carolina para resolver la investigación del Departamento de las acusaciones de que los estudiantes que están aprendiendo inglés no estaban recibiendo las horas lectivas y los servicios adecuados.
La investigación del Departamento identificó inquietudes de que el Distrito no proporcionó a cientos de estudiantes que están aprendiendo inglés –incluidos estudiantes con discapacidades– la enseñanza lingüística que necesitaban para dominar el inglés. Los estudiantes que están aprendiendo inglés también se enfrentaron a barreras a la plena participación en asignaturas de contenido básico como ciencias, matemáticas y estudios sociales. En virtud del acuerdo, el Distrito se asegurará de que los estudiantes que están aprendiendo inglés reciban suficiente enseñanza de inglés de maestros calificados y que los maestros de asignaturas de contenido básico estén capacitados en estrategias de enseñanza para ayudar a los estudiantes de inglés en sus aulas.
«Los estudiantes que están aprendiendo inglés se merecen el mismo acceso a oportunidades educativas iguales como sus compañeros de clase», afirmó Kristen Clarke, la Fiscal General Auxiliar de la División de Derechos Civiles del Departamento de Justicia. «El Departamento de Justicia se compromete a garantizar que los Distritos escolares cumplan con las leyes federales de derechos civiles diseñadas para proporcionar la igualdad de acceso a la educación para que todos los estudiantes puedan perseguir sus sueños y aspiraciones. Este acuerdo ayudará a apoyar a los estudiantes que están aprendiendo inglés en las Escuelas Públicas del Condado de Aiken para que puedan participar plenamente en los programas académicos de sus escuelas».
«Todos los estudiantes en South Carolina se merecen la oportunidad de aprender y participar en los trabajos de curso. Para aquellos estudiantes que están aprendiendo inglés, esto significa que se debe ayudarles a superar las barreras lingüísticas», declaró Adair F. Boroughs, el Fiscal Federal para el Distrito de South Carolina. «Nos complace ver que el Distrito Escolar del Condado de Aiken esté trabajando para servir las necesidades de sus estudiantes que están aprendiendo inglés para que estos puedan participar plenamente en sus trabajos de curso y convertirse en miembros exitosos de nuestra comunidad».
El Distrito cooperó plenamente durante toda la investigación y ya ha comenzado a realizar mejoras en su programa de aprendizaje de inglés, lo que incluye la contratación de un director a tiempo completo y la provisión de capacitación a los instructores sobre estrategias para servir mejor a los estudiantes. En virtud del acuerdo, el Distrito se asegurará de que sus maestros tengan las cualificaciones, la formación y el apoyo necesarios para ayudar a los estudiantes a aprender inglés y participar plenamente en sus asignaturas de contenido básico. Por otra parte, el Distrito también proporcionará traducción e interpretación de información escolar importante a los padres que no dominen el inglés y creará un consejo consultivo compuesto de padres que están aprendiendo inglés, educadores y miembros de la comunidad.
La División de Derechos Civiles del Departamento llevó a cabo su investigación en virtud de la ley de Igualdad de Oportunidades Educativas de 1974.
La aplicación de la ley de Igualdad de Oportunidades Educativas es una de las principales prioridades de la División de Derechos Civiles. Puede encontrar información adicional sobre la División de Derechos Civiles en su sitio web en www.justice.gov/crt, e información adicional sobre el trabajo de la Sección de Oportunidades Educativas de la División está disponible en www.justice.gov/crt/combating-national-origin-discrimination-schools.
Los miembros del público pueden denunciar posibles infracciones de los derechos civiles en civilrights.justice.gov/report/.
Lexington Men Plead Guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud and Mail FraudRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Kenneth J. Brown, 45, and Nicholas R. Shepard, 45, of Lexington pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and mail fraud for their involvement in a business email compromise and romance scam scheme.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that Brown and Shepard coordinated with others to receive checks from victims of the business email compromises and romance scams through the United States mail to their business, Golden Eagle Precious Metals Exchange, based in Irmo. After receiving the checks, Brown and Shepard deposited them into their business account and then converted the money into cryptocurrency.
Brown and Shepard face a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. They also face a fine of up to $250,000, restitution, and three years of supervision to follow the term of imprisonment. United States District Judge Joseph F. Anderson, Jr. accepted the guilty pleas and will sentence Brown and Shepard after receiving and reviewing a sentencing report prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, and the Richland County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Scott Matthews and Winston Holliday are prosecuting the case.
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Columbia Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. —Lontre Jason Wise, 52, of Columbia was sentenced to 13 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession with the intent to distribute both crack cocaine and marijuana.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that the Columbia Police Department Organized Crime and Narcotics Unit received an anonymous complaint about the sale of illegal narcotics at a residence located on House Street. The complainant stated there was constant foot and vehicle traffic at the residence, which people were only observed being at the residence for minutes at a time. Based on the information provided from the complainant, a confidential informant went to the residence on two different occasions to purchase marijuana. During both occasions, the confidential informant purchased the marijuana from Wise. Based on the complaint and controlled purchases, a search warrant was obtained for the residence and executed by CPD.
During the search, the police located Wise and immediately took him into custody on arrest warrants for the distribution of marijuana. Wise was searched and the police found a clear container containing crack cocaine on him.
During the search of the residence, a black book bag was located and contained a large clear plastic bag of marijuana. The book bag also contained a 9mm caliber handgun and a .38 caliber revolver. The police located a safe underneath the couch with a black pouch that contained pieces of crack cocaine, Wise’s South Carolina driver’s license, social security card, debit card, and money. Wise told the officers that the safe was his. There was multiple hand rolled cigars containing marijuana found throughout the living room of the residence and on a plate on the couch.
United States District Judge Joseph F. Anderson, Jr. sentenced Wise to 156 months imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Columbia Police Department’s Organized Crime and Narcotics Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney William K. Witherspoon is prosecuting the case.
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Columbia Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Assaulting a Deputy U.S. MarshalRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Johnny Mercer Vanover, 49, of Columbia was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to assault on a federal employee.
Evidence presented to the court showed that on June 29, 2023, officers with the South Carolina Department of Corrections transported Vanover to federal court in Columbia to be arraigned on federal charges. When Vanover arrived, a Deputy U.S. Marshal asked him to turn around so his restraints could be removed. Vanover refused to comply, and a deputy placed a hand on Vanover’s shoulder to turn him around and access his restraints. Vanover resisted and began cursing and yelling. He also clinched his fists and told one of the deputies, “I’ll eat you up.” Deputies assisted Vanover to the ground and during the struggle, Vanover bit one deputy on the bicep causing bleeding. The bitten Deputy U.S. Marshal was admitted to the hospital and released with minor injuries.
United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon sentenced Vanover to 30 months imprisonment, to be followed by a two-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lamar J. Fyall is prosecuting the case.
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Columbia Man Sentenced for Firearm Offense After a Call from a Concerned CitizenRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Marquise Edward Carolina, 32, of Columbia was sentenced to more than five years in federal prison after pleading guilty being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Evidence presented to the court showed that on Aug. 11, 2019, the City of Columbia Police Department received a call from a concerned citizen who reported that a man dressed in all black, driving a black vehicle, was waiving a gun around at a local apartment complex in the middle of the day. Officers responded to the scene and observed Carolina wearing all black in the front passenger’s seat of a black sedan. Officers searched Carolina and found a loaded pistol in his pants.
Carolina has prior convictions for attempted armed robbery, kidnapping, burglary, possession of cocaine, and possession of crack cocaine, all of which prevent him from carrying a firearm under federal law. Additionally, Carolina has convictions for assault and battery 3rd degree and domestic violence 3rd degree.
United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon sentenced Carolina to 63 months imprisonment, to be followed by a two-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the City of Columbia Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lamar J. Fyall is prosecuting the case.
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Columbia Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Unlawfully Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Tron Martelle Harrison, 40, of Columbia, was sentenced to more than five years in federal prison after pleading guilty to unlawfully possessing a firearm.
Evidence presented to the court showed that Harrison was stopped by the Columbia Police Department (CPD) for a traffic infraction on Oct. 27, 2023. While speaking to the officer, Harrison ate two multi-colored pills that were sitting on the center console. When the officer asked if he just consumed MDMA, Harrison nodded in agreement before spitting out one of them. Instead of complying with the officer’s order to turn the car off, Harrison put it in gear and sped away. CPD officers chased Harrison’s vehicle for more than nine miles at speeds exceeding 100mph before Harrison finally stopped after almost flipping his vehicle. During the chase, an officer saw Harrison throw an object from his vehicle and notified other officers of the location. Officers eventually recovered a 9mm pistol from the exact location where the officer saw it being thrown.
Harrison is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition due to prior felony convictions. In 2011, Harrison was convicted of criminal conspiracy related to an armed robbery. In 2012, Harrison was convicted of misprision of a felony related to a murder. Most recently, Harrison was convicted of the same federal firearm offense in 2016.
United States District Judge Cameron McGowan Currie sentenced Tron Martelle Harrison to 63 months' imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. This sentence came after the Government made a motion for an upward variance based on the extremely reckless nature of the chase and the number of firearm-related offenses Harrison has been convicted of in recent years. Judge Currie granted this motion in part, which allowed her to sentence Harrison above the sentencing guidelines applicable to his case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Columbia Police Department. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Sanford is prosecuting the case.
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Columbia Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Unlawfully Possessing AmmunitionRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Jamel Lamont Lewis, 35, of Columbia, was sentenced to more than seven years in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of ammunition.
Evidence presented to the court showed that in December 2020, Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a call of gunshots in the Ridgeway area of Fairfield County. Lewis and another man were firing shots as deputies approached. Deputies found 90 rounds of .22 caliber ammunition in Lewis’s pants pocket along with a quantity of crack cocaine. In July 2021, investigators with the Richland County Sheriff’s Department stopped a car that Lewis was riding in. During the stop, Lewis had to be restrained after he reached for a loaded .22 caliber pistol hidden in his waistband. Lewis also had approximately 65 grams of methamphetamine on him. The pistol was equipped with a large-capacity ammunition magazine.
Lewis is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition due to previous felony convictions. In 2007 and 2009, Lewis was convicted of aggravated assault for shooting two different victims. In 2011, Lewis was convicted of assault and battery, first degree, after being involved in a drive-by shooting. In 2018, he was convicted of failure to stop for a blue light and unlawful possession of a firearm after leading police on a vehicle chase and ultimately losing control of the vehicle and tossing a firearm while fleeing on foot.
United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon sentenced Lewis to 85 months in prison, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office, and the Richland County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher D. Taylor is prosecuting the case.
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Drug Traffickers Arrested in Joint InvestigationRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, S.C. — A federal grand jury in Columbia recently returned a one-count indictment against Deangelo Montrel Lamont Simmons, 31, of Moncks Corner and Raynard Dewayne Williams, 36, of North Charleston for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine.
Both face a maximum penalty of 25 years imprisonment and a maximum fine of $20,000,000. Both are currently detained pending trial.
The case was investigated by agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the North Charleston Police Department, the City of Charleston Police Department, the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office, the Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office, the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office, the Goose Creek Police Department, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), the Summerville Police Department, and the Mount Pleasant Police Department.
U.S. Attorney Adair F. Boroughs stated that all charges in the indictment are merely accusations and that defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Lancaster Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Kevin Lamont Clinton, 50, of Lancaster, was sentenced to more than five years in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
Evidence presented to the court showed that in 2019, the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, Department of Homeland Security, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives were investigating unlawful drug activity in the Lancaster County area. In December 2019, agents served a search warrant at Clinton’s residence in Lancaster after making a controlled purchase of heroin from Clinton at the residence. Clinton was found sitting on a bed with a loaded .40 caliber pistol next to him. A further search of the bedroom uncovered plastic baggies containing over 18 grams of a drug mixture containing fentanyl. More ammunition was found scattered throughout the house. In July 2020 and August 2020, Clinton was also found with firearms and illegal drugs at different locations in Lancaster County.
Clinton is prohibited from possessing firearms due to previous felony convictions. Clinton had a 1997 federal conviction for possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine. In 2006, Clinton had convictions for resisting arrest and possession of crack cocaine.
United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis sentenced Clinton to 71 months in prison, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. U.S. Attorney Christopher D. Taylor is prosecuting the case.
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Mullins Man Sentenced to Nearly 10 Years in Federal Prison for Distributing Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
FLORENCE, S.C. — Mark McGarret Lewis, 52, of Mullins, was sentenced to nearly 10 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to five counts of distribution of crack cocaine.
Evidence presented to the court showed that on five separate occasions in April 2019, Lewis distributed a quantity of crack cocaine to a confidential informant. Lewis committed the offense after having two prior federal convictions, one for bank fraud and one for possession with intent to distribute five grams or more of crack cocaine, as well as two other state drug convictions for conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine and distribution of crack cocaine.
United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon sentenced Lewis to 110 months' imprisonment, to be followed by a six-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Marion County Combined Drug Unit, and the Mullins Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Hummel is prosecuting the case.
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Lexington County Man Sentenced to More than 16 Years in Federal Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Reginald Travis Pearson, 40, of West Columbia, was sentenced to more than 1o years in federal prison after pleading guilty to distribution of methamphetamine.
Evidence presented to the court showed that between November 2022 and January 2023, Pearson distributed more than 900 grams of methamphetamine and 28 grams of cocaine to undercover agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Additionally, Pearson sold seven firearms, despite being a convicted felon and legally prohibited from possessing firearms.
Pearson's criminal record includes previous convictions for petty larceny, and multiple drug-related offenses, including possession with intent to distribute marijuana, cocaine, and heroin, as well as heroin distribution. Pearson was sentenced as a career offender based on his six prior drug convictions.
United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon sentenced Pearson to 200 months' imprisonment, to be followed by a five-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), West Columbia Police Department, Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, and Richland County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ariyana Gore prosecuted the case.
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Columbia Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Unlawful Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Leroy Antonio Belin, 31, of Columbia, was sentenced to more than eight years in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.
Evidence presented to the court showed that on July 6, 2023, following a traffic stop, officers with the Columbia Police Department discovered Belin in possession of a loaded firearm, ammunition, marijuana, psilocybin mushrooms, ecstasy, and oxycodone. The firearm in Belin's possession was reported stolen from Charlotte, North Carolina. As a result of prior felony convictions, Belin was prohibited from possessing firearms.
Belin has previous convictions for attempted murder, discharging firearms into a dwelling, common law robbery, strong arm robbery, and two counts possession of a firearm or ammunition by a person convicted of a violent felony.
United States District Judge Mary Geiger-Lewis sentenced Belin to 100 months' imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Columbia Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ariyana Gore prosecuted the case.
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Georgetown Woman Pleads Guilty to Lying to Federal InvestigatorsRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, S.C. —Angel Cooper Vause, 56, of Georgetown, has pleaded guilty to lying to federal investigators about her role in the 2009 kidnapping, rape, and murder of Brittanee Drexel.
After abandoning her previous plea agreement, Vause pleaded guilty to a three-count indictment unsealed in March. The indictment alleged that Vause lied to FBI agents about the events of April 25, 2009. Vause’s previous bond was also revoked, and she was taken into custody.
Vause faces a maximum penalty of 24 years in federal prison. She also faces a fine of up to $250,000, restitution, and three years of supervision to follow the term of imprisonment. United States Magistrate Judge Mary Gordon Baker accepted the guilty plea. United States District Judge Richard M. Gergel will sentence Vause after receiving and reviewing a sentencing report prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
This case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Winston Holliday and Elle E. Klein are prosecuting the case.
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Chester Man Convicted of Tax Evasion, False Statements, and Illegal Gun Possession in Multi-Million Dollar Business SchemeRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Lawrencium Germaine Martin, 47, of Chester, has pleaded guilty to tax evasion, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and making false statements to federal investigators.
At the plea hearing, the Government presented evidence that from at least 2019 through 2021, Martin operated a business known as Lancaster Tactical Supply (LTS) through the website LTacticalSupply.com. LTS appeared to customers to be a legitimate business that sold firearm accessories and parts, including Glock and Sig Sauer build kits, slides, imitation suppressors, optics, and body armor. However, at least 380 customers from 43 states lodged complaints with the Better Business Bureau and the S.C. Department of Consumer Affairs, generally alleging that LTS took their money and failed to ship the products, ultimately leaving the customer without their money or the products they paid for.
Investigators with the FBI, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and IRS Criminal Investigation determined that the revenue LTS was generating was significant. Through one payment processor alone in 2020, LTS generated more than $2,000,000 in revenue. Although those proceeds were deposited into Martin’s personal bank accounts, and LTS was operated out of Martin’s residence and Martin’s business location, the investigation also revealed Martin failed to pay state or federal income tax for any year from 2015 through 2022.
As for tax evasion, Martin admitted that he evaded federal income tax. IRS Criminal Investigation has determined that figure is more than $800,000 for 2020 alone, but Martin did not admit to a specific figure. Martin further admitted that he obtained the personal identifying information of another person through a legitimate employment relationship, and then operated LTS in that person’s name without authorization so that revenue was reported to the IRS as attributable to that person rather than Martin.
As for felon in possession of a firearm, when agents searched Martin’s residence and business in Chester pursuant to a federal search warrant, Martin was found to be in possession of a 9mm handgun despite multiple felony convictions, including for theft by deception, possession of stolen property, obtaining property under false pretenses, fraudulent check, larceny after breaking and entering, possession of implements used in a crime, burglary, and larceny of a motor vehicle. Agents also found shipping labels and material associated with LTS during that search.
Finally, Martin admitted that when the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office interviewed Martin, he claimed to have never heard of LTS, to have never received money from LTS or its customers, and to not know how his name became associated with LTS. Those statements were false and material to the investigation.
Martin faces up to 10 years in federal prison, mandatory restitution, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years of Court-ordered supervision following any term of imprisonment. Martin was placed on bond by United States Magistrate Judge Paige J. Gossett. United States District Judge Joseph F. Anderson accepted the guilty plea and will sentence Martin at a later date.
The case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and IRS Criminal Investigation, with critical assistance from the Chester County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliott B. Daniels is prosecuting the case.
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South African Company Agrees to Pay $617,914 to Resolve False Claims Act AllegationsRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Interactive Research and Development South Africa NPC (IRD SA) has agreed to pay $671,914 to resolve allegations that the company violated the False Claims Act by knowingly submitting to the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) false claims for payment related to employees of IRD SA who were allegedly not working.
In October 2019, USAID awarded a Cooperative Agreement (the Award) to IRD SA to provide healthcare services in South Africa. The Award’s period of performance was between Oct. 15, 2019, and Jan. 30, 2023. Federal funds were used to make payments to IRD SA under the Award. These federal funds were processed through a service center in Charleston, South Carolina. Under the Award, IRD SA agreed to provide a comprehensive package of tuberculosis treatment and prevention services across various provinces or districts in South Africa. Performing such services required a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between IRD SA and certain local South African authorities. Because the execution of the MOU with the local authorities in one of the provinces or districts was delayed for several months, approximately 62 employees of IRD SA were unable to perform Award-related services between January and June 2021. During this time, IRD SA failed to inform USAID that the idled employees weren’t performing such services. Instead, between March and July 2021, IRD SA submitted six vouchers to USAID that falsely certified compliance with the Award, and that improperly sought reimbursement for non-allowable labor costs and other costs associated with the idled workers. As a result, IRD SA received and/or retained approximately $335,957 in federal funds related to the idled workers covering the period of January to June 2021.
“We are committed to protecting federal funds and holding companies accountable that fraudulently obtain federal dollars,” said Adair F. Boroughs, U.S. Attorney for the District of South Carolina. “We are thankful for the great work of the USAID Office of Inspector General agents. Their work helps ensure that foreign companies only receive federal funds for services actually rendered.”
“The USAID Office of Inspector General is committed to pursuing those who defraud USAID programs by submitting false claims for services that were not provided,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Sean Bottary. “This resolution demonstrates our office’s resolve to hold U.S. foreign assistance award recipients accountable.”
The case was investigated by USAID’s Office of Inspector General, along with Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan Ragsdale of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Carolina.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
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Six Plead Guilty to Methamphetamine Trafficking Ring in the UpstateRead the Press Release
SPARTANBURG, S.C —Six individuals in the Upstate have pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute methamphetamine.
The following defendants entered guilty pleas in federal court:
Jonathan Sarratt, 38, of Gaffney
Christopher Biggerstaff, 41, of Chester. Biggerstaff also pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Mikenzi Walker, 25, of Gaffney
Sondra Walker, 66, of Gaffney
Aa’lyah Tukes, 29, of Anderson
Brenda Mincey, 34, of Shelby, N.C.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that since at least early 2023, Jonathan Sarratt, while incarcerated in the South Carolina Department of Corrections, was facilitating supplying the ring with at least 250 kilograms of methamphetamine for distribution in the Upstate. Mikenzi Walker, Christopher Biggerstaff, and Brenda Mincey distributed the methamphetamine. In July of 2023, Mincey was arrested with approximately 390 grams of methamphetamine and approximately 100 blue pills containing fentanyl she obtained from co-defendants. Biggerstaff was arrested in January 2024, with three loaded handguns and ounce quantities of methamphetamine. Both Sondra Walker and Aa’lyah Tukes moved methamphetamine into their residences for distribution during the conspiracy. Law enforcement seized $150,000 in drug proceeds from Tukes during the takedown operation in this case.
Sarratt and Biggerstaff face a maximum of life in federal prison and a $10,000,000 fine. Sondra Walker, Mikenzi Walker, Tukes, and Mincey face up to 20 years in federal prison and a $1,000,000 fine. Biggerstaff faces an additional five years consecutive to any sentence he receives due to his firearms charge. All defendants face a maximum of lifetime supervision.
United States District Judge Donald C. Coggins, Jr., accepted the guilty pleas and will sentence the defendants after receiving and reviewing a sentencing report prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations Border Enforcement Security Task Force (BEST), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office, Greenville County Sheriff’s Office, and Greenville Drug Enforcement Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jamie Lea Schoen is prosecuting the case.
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Columbia Man Sentenced for Role in Fatal Fentanyl Overdose DeathRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. – James Brewer, 36, of Columbia was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to distribution of fentanyl.
Evidence presented to the court showed that on April 22, 2022, Brewer and the victim, R.B., discussed the exchange of drugs and that Brewer sent R.B. a picture with a syringe loaded with the drugs, which Brewer subsequently gave to R.B. When Brewer had not heard back from the victim, he drove down the road where he knew R.B. had planned to use the drugs and found R.B. unresponsive in his vehicle. Paramedics responded, but R.B. later died. The pathology report determined the victim’s cause of death was mixed drug toxicity including toxic levels of fentanyl. The pathologist stated but for the fentanyl in the R.B.’s body, he most likely would not have died.
United States District Judge Mary G. Lewis sentenced Brewer to 120 months in prison to be followed by three years of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Richland County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Major prosecuted the case.
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Camden Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Martrell Johnson-Cooke, 28, and Krishawn Shykeice Allen, 23, both of Camden, were sentenced to 10 years and seven years in federal prison, respectively, after pleading guilty to attempted possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
In 2021, law enforcement received information that Johnson-Cooke was a drug distributor attempting to purchase kilogram quantities of narcotics. An undercover agent, posing as a dealer, contacted Johnson-Cooke, who expressed interest in fentanyl and methamphetamine. Johnson-Cooke inquired about the cost of a kilogram of fentanyl, and the agent told him $30,000. Two months later, Johnson-Cooke contacted the agent to arrange the purchase of one kilogram of fentanyl, five ounces of cocaine, and two pounds of methamphetamine. They agreed to meet on May 20, 2021, in Columbia.
On May 20, Johnson-Cooke arrived at the agreed upon location with $35,000 in cash, two armed associates, and three people to test the drugs he intended to buy. Allen accompanied Johnson-Cooke inside the establishment to meet with the agent, acting as security for Johnson-Cooke and the cash. As Johnson-Cooke gave the money to the agent, Richland County deputies intervened and arrested the two men. Allen tried to run, and a loaded gun fell out of his back pocket. Allen is a convicted felon prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition.
United States District Judge Mary Geiger-Lewis sentenced Johnson-Cooke to 120 months imprisonment, followed by a five-year term of court-ordered supervision. Judge Lewis sentenced Allen to 84 months imprisonment, followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Richland County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ariyana Gore is prosecuting the case.
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Puerto Rican Man Who Manufactured Machine Guns, Trafficked Methamphetamine and Cocaine Sentenced to 23 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Spartanburg, S.C. — Esteban Colon Pacheco, 27, of Ponce, Puerto Rico, was sentenced to more than 23 years in federal prison after he pled guilty to possessing a machine gun in furtherance of drug trafficking, distributing methamphetamine, and conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine.
Evidence presented to the Court showed that in 2022 and 2023, Pacheco was a cocaine and methamphetamine dealer in the Upstate of South Carolina. While dealing drugs, Pacheco also conscripted women to purchase guns for him so that he could modify them into fully automatic weapons. Law enforcement learned that Pacheco sold some of the machine guns that he illicitly manufactured, and he kept at least one of the machine guns with him during his drug deals. On one occasion, Pacheco shot the machine gun within a neighborhood to demonstrate its capabilities.
Noraimi Burgos Torres and Elizabeth Delzo Jaramillo pled guilty to charges related to purchasing firearms for Pacheco. Delzo, who also pled guilty to drug trafficking related charges, was sentenced to 102 months in federal prison. Torres, who pled guilty to a firearms charge on August 21, 2024, is awaiting sentencing.
United States District Judge Donald C. Coggins sentenced Esteban Pacheco to 276 months imprisonment, to be followed by a 5-year term of court-ordered supervision.
“People who sell illegal guns and drugs are a threat to the safety of our communities and must be stopped,” said United States Attorney Adair Boroughs. “I’m proud and grateful for the collaboration of so many law enforcement partners to achieve this significant measure of justice.”
“Putting criminal organizations like this out of business greatly reduces the flow of drugs, violence and crime into our communities, which makes everyone safer,” said Cardell T. Morant, Special Agent in Charge of HSI Charlotte that covers North and South Carolina. “HSI is a proud partner in the fight to identify, arrest and prosecute those responsible for flooding our streets with illicit drugs.”
ATF Special Agent in Charge Bennie Mims said, “Possessing or selling firearms that have been modified to function as fully automatic weapons is a serious threat and an issue law enforcement around the country is currently dealing with. We’re proud to be a part of this collaborative effort to identify and apprehend those that threaten our community.”
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF), U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office, Greenville County Sheriff’s Office, Greenville Police Department, Greenville County Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Enforcement Unit, and Anderson County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jamie Schoen is prosecuting the case.
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Florence Doctor Pleads Guilty to Distributing Oxycodone in “Sex for Scripts” SchemeRead the Press Release
FLORENCE, S.C. —David Carlos Rodriguez, Jr., 50, of Florence, has pleaded guilty to distributing Oxycodone outside the scope of medical practice and without a legitimate medical purpose.
Evidence obtained during the investigation revealed that Rodriguez, who was a doctor practicing in Lake City, prescribed Oxycodone to a patient 15 times between May 2018 and January 2019. The individual had been a patient of Rodriguez in 2013-2014 but had not been his patient between 2014 and 2018. When the patient first returned to see Rodriguez in 2018, purportedly for treatment of pain, Rodriguez did not ask the patient about her current medical history, did not ask her for a pain rating, and did not ask her what controlled substances she might be taking despite clear indicators she was using illicit drugs. The patient requested an Oxycodone prescription at the first appointment, and Rodriguez provided the first of the 15 prescriptions, starting at a very high dosage. Rodriguez also touched the patient at the first appointment in manner not consistent with any medical examination.
Over the following months, Rodriguez provided the patient his Snapchat, and began sending her nude pictures. The patient believed this to be a “sex for scripts” trade, where if she engaged in sexual behavior, Rodriguez would write her prescriptions for Oxycodone.
During the summer of 2018, the patient sought substance abuse treatment from another provider and was given a prescription for Suboxone. A patient should not be taking both Suboxone and Oxycodone. After the patient was prescribed Suboxone, Rodriguez wrote the patient another prescription for Oxycodone. When the patient tried to have this Oxycodone prescription filled, the pharmacist noted the conflict between Suboxone and Oxycodone, and contacted Rodriguez’s office to notify him he could not prescribe Oxycodone because the patient was prescribed Suboxone. Rodriguez responded by sending the patient’s prescription for Oxycodone to another pharmacy the following day. Rodriguez would prescribe Oxycodone for the patient 10 more times, despite being on notice she was prescribed Suboxone.
During the fall of 2018, the patient twice filmed her appointments with Rodriguez. Those videos show Rodriguez entering the exam room, and begin hugging, kissing, and fondling the patient, not in a manner related to any medical exam. On one occasion, the patient performed a sexual act on Rodriguez. Shortly after the sexual activity concluded, Rodriguez wrote the patient a prescription for Oxycodone.
During the time the patient saw Rodriguez, he never asked her for a pain rating, never drug tested her, never sent her for imaging, never sent her to a pain specialist, never discussed alternative pain treatment, and never attempted to wean her off Oxycodone despite the medicine not effectively controlling her pain. Rodriguez also kept only basic records for the patient without details about why she was being seen and what treatment she was receiving. Rodriguez only added the necessary details about the patient’s treatment to her records months after he saw her after repeated legal requests for the records.
United States District Judge Joseph Dawson, III, accepted the guilty plea and will sentence Rodriguez after receiving and reviewing a sentencing report prepared by the U.S. Probation Office. Rodriguez faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. He also faces a fine of up to $1,000,000, and at least three years of supervision to follow the term of imprisonment. As part of his guilty plea, Rodriguez surrendered both his state and federal prescribing privileges.
This case was investigated by the South Carolina Department of Public Health and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Katherine Flynn and Lauren Hummel are prosecuting the case.
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Aiken Man Sentenced in Tax Evasion SchemeRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Dennis Wayne Brite, 72, of Aiken, was sentenced to probation pleading guilty to tax evasion. He also immediately paid more than $669,000 in back taxes and interest.
Evidence presented to the court showed that for nearly a decade, Brite used a complex scheme involving foreign shell companies and overseas banks to hide over $2 million of income from the Internal Revenue Service. IRS criminal investigators learned of the scheme when one of the overseas banks involved in the scheme, Euro Pacific Bank, became a target of a federal investigation.
United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon sentenced Brite to probation after his payment of $669,249.86 for his back taxes and interest. Evidence introduced in court indicated that defendants do not typically repay the entire tax loss amount including the interest and that Brite had made extraordinary efforts to come into compliance with his taxes.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney T. DeWayne Pearson is prosecuting the case.
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Lexington Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Production of Child Sex Abuse MaterialsRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — James Austen Gillespie, 33, of Lexington, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to production of child sex abuse materials. *
Evidence presented to the court showed that on July 11, 2021, Gillespie used his cellphone to edit himself into two compromising images of a nude minor child.
United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon sentenced Mr. Gillespie to 180 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by a lifetime term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. Mr. Gillespie was ordered to pay a total of $25,000 in restitution to his victims and to register as a sex offender.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the U.S. Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals, who sexually exploit children, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office and the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Matthews prosecuted the case.
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NOTE: While the current federal statutes still contain the term “child pornography,” experts in the field now recognize “child sexual abuse materials” as the more accurate terminology.
Jury Finds Calhoun Falls Man Guilty in Threat CaseRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE, S.C. —Johnathan C. McCaslan, 51, of Calhoun Falls, was found guilty by a federal jury of stalking, mailing threatening communications and perpetuating letter hoaxes.
Evidence presented to the jury showed that while McCaslan was in divorce proceedings, he attempted to have his wife arrested by sending threatening letters to a Calhoun Falls police officer and to the Calhoun Falls Police Department. Both letters contained a white powdery substance and were written to appear as if his wife was the author. The State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) twice deployed the bomb squad to investigate the powder, which law enforcement feared was fentanyl, anthrax, or another deadly substance. Fortunately, powder was harmless.
The SLED laboratory examined the letters and found McCaslan’s DNA on the stamps of the letter sent to the police officer. SLED investigators also determined that some of the information contained in the letters was known only by McCaslan and not his wife.
“The letter hoaxes in this case had the potential to have an innocent woman arrested for a crime she did not commit,” said Adair F. Boroughs, U.S. Attorney for this District of South Carolina. “Caslan’s criminal actions were a terrible abuse law enforcement resources, and we are committed to prosecuting such abuse.”
“The United States Postal Inspection Service is always proud to work with our law enforcement partners to bring to justice those who misuse the U.S. Mail, to elicit fear and frame the innocent victims we work so diligently to protect,” said US Postal Inspector in Charge Tommy D. Coke of the Atlanta Division.
“Everyone deserves to feel safe in their community, and targeting law enforcement to frame someone for a crime is appalling,” said SLED Chief Mark Keel. “The hard-working professionals at SLED are subject matter experts committed to conducting thorough investigations. I’m grateful that no one was hurt, and that SLED could help find the facts that led to justice.”
United States District Judge Donald C. Coggins presided over the trial and will sentence McCaslan after the United States Probation Office prepares a presentence report. McCaslan faces a statutory maximum of five years on each of the four counts of the indictment.
This case was investigated by SLED and U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Winston Marosek and Bill Watkins prosecuted the case.
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SCDC Inmate Sentenced to Federal Prison for Trafficking 350 Kilograms of Meth with Contraband PhonesRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Benjamin Johnathan Newman, 38, an inmate in the South Carolina Department of Corrections (SCDC), was sentenced to more than 26 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and heroin.
Newman has been incarcerated in the state prison system since 2012, serving a 25-year sentence for drug trafficking. SCDC has seized 16 illegal contraband cellphones from Newman during his time in SCDC, according to evidence presented in court.
Newman used those contraband phones to lead a large-scale drug distribution operation since at least January 2018. Newman used the phones to order the importation of large quantities of methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, and marijuana, including directly from sources in Mexico. Newman recruited drivers to pick up the drugs in Georgia, Texas, and Florida and to deliver the drugs to stash houses in the Lexington County area, where the conspiracy would then supply drug dealers in South Carolina. The conspiracy also used threats of violence to protect against cooperation with law enforcement and to protect its drug supply.
More than 350 kilograms of methamphetamine, four kilograms of heroin, nearly one kilogram of cocaine, 18 kilograms of marijuana, and 250 grams of crack cocaine were distributed in South Carolina by Newman and the conspiracy.
Newman and each of his seven co-defendants have been convicted in federal court. Four have been sentenced by United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon:
- Benjamin Johnathan Newman, 38, of Lexington, was sentenced to 320 months in federal prison to be followed by five years of court-ordered supervision.
- Chelsea Grace Wynn, 32, of Lexington, was sentenced to 220 months in federal prison to be followed by five years of supervision.
- Nehemiah Jimmy Mayes, III, 29, of Lexington, was sentenced to 170 months to be followed by five years of supervision.
- Josiah Daniel Dailey, 38, of Aynor, was sentenced to 63 months to be followed by five years of supervision.
“Some of our highest volume drug traffickers are working from a prison cell,” said Adair Ford Boroughs, U.S. Attorney for the District of South Carolina. “We thank Director Stirling and the investigators at the South Carolina Department of Corrections for their work to put an end to their continued criminal conduct.”
“This man is a very large-scale drug dealer in South Carolina, and he was able to continue his crimes from behind bars using illegal cellphones,” SCDC Director Bryan Stirling said. “His conviction highlights the urgent need for state prisons to be able to jam illegal contraband cell phones. I am grateful to the U.S. Attorney and everyone involved for helping us bring this criminal to justice.”
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, and the South Carolina Department of Corrections Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elliott B. Daniels and E. Elizabeth Major are prosecuting the case.
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Charleston Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Producing and Possessing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, S.C. — Evan Riley Bucci, 23, of Charleston, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to two counts of production of child pornography* and one count of possession of child pornography.
Evidence presented to the court showed that in 2022 law enforcement was alerted that Bucci had been seeking out minors on social media apps, such as Omegle and Instagram, and was engaging in sexually explicit conversations centering around bondage and sexual servitude. There were multiple female victims ranging in age from 12 to 16 years old. Bucci cultivated relationships with these minors, gained their trust, and then coerced them into sending him sexually explicit images and videos of themselves. Bucci would threaten to harm or kidnap the child’s family members if they did not send the materials.
United States District Judge Richard Gergel sentenced Bucci to 240 months' imprisonment, to be followed by a lifetime of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. Bucci was also ordered to pay restitution to the victims of his crimes.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the U.S. Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals, who sexually exploit children, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the Homeland Security Investigations, with valuable assistance the Steamboat Springs, Colorado Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Katie Orville is prosecuting the case.
HSI’s Know2Protect: Together We Can Stop Online Child Exploitation campaign offers valuable resources to combat the escalating crisis of online child sexual exploitation and abuse. Visit www.dhs.gov/know2protect to learn strategies to stop future victimization.
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NOTE: While the current federal statutes still contain the term “child pornography,” experts in the field now recognize “child sexual abuse material” as the more accurate terminology.
Mexican National Sentenced to 11 years in Federal Prison for Drug Trafficking and Illegal Reentry After DeportationRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Pedro Huerta Ramon, 39, of Mexico, was sentenced to more than 11 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and unlawfully reentering the United States after prior deportation.
Evidence presented in court revealed that the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) became aware of Pedro Huerta Ramon in 2018, after receiving information that Ramon was a high-level cocaine distributor operating in Lexington County. As a result of this investigation, Ramon was arrested and convicted for trafficking cocaine in 2019. Ramon was unlawfully present in the United States and after his conviction, he was deported to Mexico in November 2019.
In 2023, DEA agents received information that Ramon was back in the United States and trafficking kilogram quantities of methamphetamine and cocaine imported from Mexico. The investigation revealed Ramon unlawfully returned to the United States in December 2020. Law enforcement developed and used a confidential informant to conduct a series of controlled purchases from Ramon. Ramon sold over a kilogram of pure methamphetamine to the confidential informant and a search of his residence resulted in the seizure of one kilogram of cocaine.
Senior United States District Judge Joseph F. Anderson sentenced Ramon to 135 months imprisonment, to be followed by a five-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Department of Homeland Security, and the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ariyana Gore is prosecuting the case.
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West Columbia Man Sentenced to Jail and Fined for Blocking Clinic AccessRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Steven Lefemine, 68, of West Columbia was sentenced to 60 days imprisonment and fined $1,000 after being found guilty of a misdemeanor violation of the Freedom of Access to Clinics (FACE) Act.
Evidence presented during his trial showed that Lefemine blocked the entrance to the Columbia Office of Planned Parenthood. Testimony from the trial indicated that Lefemine was a frequent protester of the clinic and, on this occasion, physically sought to bar employees and patients from entering the facility. Lefemine recorded his activities and presented the audio/video recordings during the trial. Lefemine was arrested by the Columbia Police Department for trespassing and removed from the site. During the sentencing hearing, United States District Court Judge Joseph F. Anderson noted that Lefemine has multiple previous convictions for similar behavior.
The FACE Act was signed into law by President Bill Clinton in May 1994 in response to the escalation of violence surrounding abortion clinics in the early 1990s. The Act criminalizes violence toward or obstruction of health care facilities or places of worship.
This case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office and the City of Columbia Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney T. DeWayne Pearson prosecuted the case.
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MEDIA CONTACT: Veronica Hill, Public Affairs Specialist, U.S. Attorney’s Office, [email protected], (803) 929-3000
More than a Dozen Individuals Indicted in Drug Trafficking OperationRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — A federal grand jury in Columbia returned a 21-count indictment against 13 individuals for drug trafficking offenses. The indictment alleges that beginning in January 2016, 13 individuals engaged in a conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute large quantities of cocaine, fentanyl, and methamphetamine.
Ten defendants were arraigned in federal court today:
Quincey Jackson, 40, of Columbia
Timothy Gayton, 32, of Rock Hill
Elijah Rhodes, 42, of Columbia
Desane Washington, 19, of Summerton
Shane Bennett, 32, of Summerton
Byron Canty, 35, of Rowesville
James Croslen, Jr., 48, of Summerton
Kenneth Robinson, 46, of Columbia
Clifton Mickles, 43, of Rock Hill
Richard Ragin, 46, of Columbia
Three defendants remain at large.
This investigation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), FBI Columbia Field Office, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), U.S. Marshals Service, Clarendon County Sheriff’s Office, Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, City of Columbia Police Department, and Richland County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Major is prosecuting the case.
U.S. Attorney Adair F. Boroughs stated that all charges in the indictment are merely accusations and that defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Columbia Woman Sentenced to 15 Months in Federal Prison for Wire FraudRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Kathy Drawdy Stewart, 62, of Columbia, was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to multiple counts of wire fraud.
Evidence presented to the court showed that Stewart embezzled more than $270,000 from at least late 2016 through May 2023 from her longtime employer, LTC Associates, Inc., while she served as the company’s business manager. During this time, Stewart regularly made unauthorized payments from the company’s bank accounts to her personal American Express account. Stewart’s crimes were ultimately uncovered after she attempted to make an unauthorized $20,000 transfer from the company’s bank account to her American Express account in May 2023. A review of her American Express account revealed that Stewart spent over $100,000 on cosmetic procedures, travel, interior decorating, and retail over the course of her criminal conduct.
United States District Judge Joseph F. Anderson sentenced Stewart to 15 months imprisonment, to be followed by a two-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. Judge Anderson also ordered restitution of over $270,000, which Stewart paid prior to her sentencing, and a fine of $10,000.
This case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elle E. Klein and Elliott B. Daniels are prosecuting the case.
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Spartanburg County Man Pleads Guilty in Connection with Missing Woman CaseRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE, S.C. — Da’Ron Jerome Collins, 47, of Boiling Springs, has pleaded guilty to obstruction of justice and witness tampering in connection with an ongoing federal kidnapping investigation.
Evidence obtained during the investigation revealed that 44-year-old Casey Lavonne Young was last seen on May 15, 2023, after she left work and arrived at the residence she shared with Collins in Boiling Springs. Collins initially stated that Young did not come home after work, but later admitted to investigators that he last saw Young when she arrived home at approximately 5:00 p.m. on May 15, 2023. The same day, Collins was captured on security cameras as he wiped surfaces of Young’s car down and hid it in a parking lot away from their residence. Two days before Young disappeared, police responded to the couple’s residence after a 911 caller reported a domestic violence incident where Collins was accused of strangling Young. No arrest was made at that time.
During the guilty plea, prosecutors stated that the evidence showed Collins destroyed and attempted to hide and destroy physical and electronic evidence, including home security video clips, Young’s vehicle and other personal identifying items, material to the federal investigation. Collins also provided investigators with the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office false and misleading information to prevent the communication of information relevant to the investigation to federal law enforcement. To date, Young has not been found.
Collins was denied bond on the federal charges, and he remains in custody. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years imprisonment as to each offense. He also faces a fine of up to $250,000 and up to six years of supervision to follow the term of imprisonment. United States District Judge Timothy M. Cain accepted the guilty plea and will sentence Collins after he reviews a presentence report prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
The case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the FBI Columbia Field Office, and the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leesa Washington is prosecuting the case.
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Man Sentenced to 30 Months in Federal Prison for Transporting a Woman for ProstitutionRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, S.C. — Maco Jacome-Jacome, 30 of Guatemala, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to one count of aiding and abetting the transportation of another for prostitution and one count of illegal reentry of an alien after removal.
Evidence presented to the Court showed that Jacome-Jacome was previously deported on two prior occasions before returning illegally. Upon his return, he recruited another individual, a citizen of Mexico also illegally present in the United States, to travel from Atlanta, Georgia, to North Charleston to engage in prostitution. Evidence established that Jacome-Jacome exploited the individual by controlling her appointments, advertising her to customers and other pimps as “carne,” and transporting her to numerous hotels, motels, and trailer parks for purposes of engaging in commercial sex activity. Jacome-Jacome further exploited the individual by providing her with only 25% of the proceeds.
United States District Judge Richard M. Gergel sentenced Jacome-Jacome to a total sentence of 3o months’ imprisonment, to be followed by a 3-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. Originally, Jacome-Jacome’s advisory Sentencing Guidelines called for a term of imprisonment ranging from 8 to 14 months. However, the Court agreed with the Government’s request that it vary above this range and impose a greater sentence to account for the seriousness of Jacome-Jacome’s offense, adequately deter him from further criminal activity, and ensure the public’s protection.
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office, and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Amy F. Bower and W. Cole Shannon prosecuted the case.
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Upstate Pharmacist Sentenced for Unlawfully Compounding Radioactive DrugsRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE, S.C. —Richard A. Sheriff, 73, of Easley, has pleaded guilty to adulteration of a drug and been sentenced to two years of probation. Sheriff also forfeited $166,000 in revenues.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that Sheriff was the owner and pharmacist-in-charge of Shertech, a pharmacy providing nuclear and radiopharmaceutical drugs to medical facilities in the Greenville area. From January 2018-June 2019, Sheriff and pharmacists under his direction, would “fractionate” or “split” the active ingredient of Technescan MAG3, without ensuring the pieces were equal in size, purity or strength. This compounding was done without proper protective gear, testing, or quality assurance. The resulting diluted product was used in procedures such as renal scans to diagnose various illnesses, such as kidney disease.
Sheriff did not notify his customers when he dispensed radioactive MAG3 that the amount of active ingredient was diluted. As such, Shertech created a risk of poor-quality patient scans and potential repeated scans that would expose patients to additional radiation.
“Patients and healthcare facilities must be able to trust the quality of the pharmaceuticals they receive from providers like Shertech,” said Adair F. Boroughs, U.S. Attorney for the District of South Carolina. “Adhering to sanitary standards when formulating these drugs is not only the lawful thing to do, but also the ethical thing to do.”
“Adulterating a drug under insanitary conditions threatens the health and safety of U.S. consumers. In this case, the adulterated product potentially contained only a portion of the full dosage needed for renal imaging, causing a direct risk to adult and pediatric patients of poor-quality and potential repeat scans with additional radiation exposure,” said Special Agent in Charge Justin Fielder, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations, Miami Field Office. “We will continue to investigate and bring to justice those who threaten the health of consumers by evading FDA requirements.”
United States District Judge Kevin McDonald accepted the guilty plea and sentenced Sheriff to two years of probation and imposed a fine of $2,000. Sheriff previously agreed to forfeit over $166,000 in revenues.
This case was investigated by the Food and Drug Administration’s Office of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Winston Holliday and Amy F. Bower are prosecuting the case.
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Man Sentenced to 19 Years in Federal Prison for Drug Trafficking CrimesRead the Press Release
FLORENCE, S.C. — Raul Perales Guzman, 38, of San Luis, Mexico, was sentenced to more than 19 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and cocaine, and distribution of fentanyl.
Evidence presented to the court showed that in June 2023, agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration observed Guzman and a co-defendant distribute one kilogram of fentanyl. Agents then obtained a search warrant for a residence in Conway, South Carolina, where Guzman was staying. During the execution of the search warrant, agents seized 43 kilograms of fentanyl, 23 kilograms of cocaine, 15 firearms, and approximately $407,000 in cash.
United States District Judge Joseph Dawson, III sentenced Guzman to concurrent sentences of 230 months' imprisonment, to be followed by a five-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Whit Sowards is prosecuting the case.
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Orangeburg Man Sentenced to 7 Years in Federal Prison for Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Chad Lavell Williams, Jr., 30, of Orangeburg, was sentenced to 84 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and dipentylone.
On Feb. 25, 2023, officers with the Orangeburg Department of Public Safety initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle with a defective taillight. Williams provided a fake name when asked for identification. Officers subsequently deployed a drug detection dog in the vicinity of the car and after a positive K9 alert, searched the vehicle. The search resulted in the recovery of a Glock 22 pistol equipped with a machinegun conversion device, and an extended magazine. Machinegun conversion devices, commonly known as “Glock Switches,” allow Glock pistols to function as fully automatic machineguns.
The Glock was found in a bookbag along with Williams’ South Carolina ID, ammunition, brass knuckles, and plastic bags of methamphetamine and dipentylone intended for distribution. Post-Miranda, Williams admitted the gun and drugs belonged to him.
Federal law prohibits Williams from possessing firearms and ammunition based on his prior convictions for strong arm robbery, grand larceny, burglary 3rd degree, and burglary 2nd degree. he also has a pending charge for burglary 1st degree.
United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon sentenced Williams to 84 months imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Orangeburg Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ariyana N. Gore is prosecuting the case.
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Summerville Man Sentenced to 17 Years in Federal Prison for Possession of Child Sex Abuse MaterialsRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, S.C. — Adam Baez, 46, of Summerville, was sentenced to 17 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession of child sexual abuse materials.*
Evidence presented to the court showed that Baez possessed more than 600 images of prepubescent child sexual abuse materials on multiple electronic devices. In addition to the possession of the images, evidence showed that Baez exploited a minor victim over the course of several years and produced images of this minor victim.
United States District Judge David C. Norton sentenced Baez to 210 months' imprisonment, to be followed by a lifetime term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. Baez was also ordered to pay $15,000.00 in restitution to the identified victims of his offense.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the U.S. Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals, who sexually exploit children, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy F. Bower is prosecuting the case.
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* The term “child pornography” is currently used in federal statutes and is defined as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a person less than 18 years old. While this phrase still appears in federal law, “child sexual abuse material” is preferred, as it better reflects the abuse that is depicted in the images and videos and the resulting trauma to the child.
Serial Armed Robber Sentenced to 49 Years in Federal Prison for 7 Midlands Armed RobberiesRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Deveon Antonio Belk, 37, of Irmo, was sentenced to 49 years in prison after being convicted for a 2020 string of Midlands armed robberies.
Belk was convicted following a multi-day trial in November of 2023. He was found guilty on 15 counts: seven counts of Hobbs Act robbery, seven counts of brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, and one count of felon in possession of firearm and ammunition.
Evidence presented to the court showed that in November of 2020, Belk began a spree of armed robberies across Richland and Lexington counties. The targets included gas stations, fast food restaurants, and drug stores. Belk would enter the store and often pretend as if he were going to purchase an item. When the cashier would open the cash register to finish his transaction, instead of paying, Belk would brandish a firearm and demand money. Belk would use physical force, including pressing the end of a handgun into his victims, and he would force them into locked rooms at their businesses. He also cocked the firearm at several victims, held his finger on the trigger during one robbery, and some victims reported believing they were going to be shot.
During trial, 14 of the 22 identified victims testified, including a 16-year-old cashier. Every robbery, as well as Belk’s approach to and flight from many of the crime scenes, was recorded on surveillance video. Numerous people who knew Belk, including Belk’s wife, testified at trial that it was Belk on video committing the robberies. His DNA was found on clothing left near four of the seven robberies, and on the firearm used in every robbery. The Government produced evidence that Belk was responsible for at least 13 armed robberies, and law enforcement believes Belk was responsible for more, according to what was presented in court.
Belk has 13 prior criminal convictions, including strong armed robbery, in a case that involved the theft of a vehicle and money while armed with a firearm; multiple criminal domestic violence convictions, including one involving physical violence against a woman while she was holding a child; grand larceny; failure to stop for police; and drug possession. Belk was also prohibited from possessing firearms by virtue of prior felony convictions.
“Dozens of people at businesses across the Midlands waited in fear wondering if they would be the next target of Belk’s armed robbery spree,” said Adair F. Boroughs, U.S. Attorney for the District of South Carolina. “Thanks to the relentless work of multiple law enforcement agencies, he will spend almost 50 years in federal prison.”
“Belk’s violent crimes profoundly impacted the safety of our communities and caused long-lasting fear for his victims,” said Steve Jensen, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Columbia Field Office. “This outcome underscores the FBI’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and taking violent offenders of the street.”
“This sentencing is the result of law enforcement collaboration that ensures Deveon Belk will face federal consequences and can no longer commit additional crimes,” said Columbia Police Chief W.H. “Skip” Holbrook.
“The resolution of this case is the direct result of strong relationships between multiple law enforcement agencies and prosecutors. This convicted robber is off the streets because we shared information and worked together to investigate at multiple offenses,” Lexington County Sheriff Jay Koon said. “Our community is safer thanks to a spirit cooperation at the local and federal level.”
United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis sentenced Belk to 589 months' imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. He was also ordered to pay $2,723.63 in restitution.The case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office, the Richland County Sheriff’s Department, the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, and the Columbia Police Department, with critical assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED).
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elliott B. Daniels, Lamar J. Fyall and Ariyana N. Gore prosecuted the case.
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Columbia Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Distributing MethRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Michael Wright, 46, of Columbia, was sentenced to 1o years in federal prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine.
Evidence presented to the court showed that Wright contacted an agent of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) over social media about the sale of methamphetamine. The agent and Wright agreed to meet. Wright sold the agent 28 grams of pure methamphetamine. Following this sale, ATF used the same agent and bought methamphetamine from Wright four additional times purchasing more than 700 grams of methamphetamine.
United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon sentenced Wright to 120 months imprisonment, to be followed by a five-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney William K. Witherspoon is prosecuting the case.
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Aiken County Men Indicted for Bank FraudRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — A federal grand jury in Columbia returned a three-count superseding indictment against Thomas Allen Bateman, Jr., 50, and Cody Lee Anderson, 37, both of Aiken for bank fraud and conspiracy to commit bank fraud.
The indictment alleges that Bateman and Anderson enticed an elderly woman to leave all her assets to Bateman through a will that designated Anderson as her personal representative. At the time, she did not have the mental capacity to make a knowing and voluntary decision regarding her assets.
Bateman and Anderson face a maximum penalty of 30 years imprisonment and will make a first appearance and be arraigned by the Honorable Paige J. Gossett on July 31, 2024.
The case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Winston Holliday and Scott Matthews are prosecuting the case.
U.S. Attorney Adair F. Boroughs stated that all charges in the indictment are merely accusations and that defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Chester Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Montell De’Angelo Cousar, 33, of Chester, was sentenced to 33 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
Evidence presented to the Court showed that on May 5, 2023, the Rock Hill Police Department officers responded to reports of a fight at a local restaurant. As officers were clearing the restaurant parking lot, Cousar dropped a loaded 9mm pistol from his clothing as he walked past an RHPD officer. The pistol was reported stolen. Cousar was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition based on his prior convictions. In 2017, Cousar was convicted of assault and battery, first degree. In that case, Cousar shot the victim twice. In 2016, he was convicted for multiple counts of distributing crack cocaine.
United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon sentenced Cousar to 33 months in prison, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Rock Hill Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher D. Taylor is prosecuting the case.
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Repeat Child Sex Offender Sentenced to 25 Years for Attempted Transfer of Obscene MaterialRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, S.C. — Chad Michael Rabon, 34, of Lugoff, was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to two counts of attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor and two corresponding counts of commission of a felony sex offense involving a minor by a registered sex offender.
Evidence presented to the court showed that from May 23 to June 30, 2022, Rabon, a previously convicted and registered sex offender, knowingly had sexually explicitly conversations with an undercover agent who Rabon believed to be a 13-year-old girl. He used the social media platform KIK Messenger for the purpose of persuading the perceived minor to engage in sexual activity. In addition, on May 26 and June 29, 2022, Rabon sent pornographic images and obscene videos to the undercover agent, to entice the person he believed to be a 13-year-old girl to engage in sexual activity.
“Rabon, a registered sex offender, knowingly preyed on who he believed to be a child. This sentence reflects the serious nature of Rabon’s crime, and we will continue to hold such offenders accountable," said Adair F. Boroughs, U.S. Attorney for the District of South Carolina.
“HSI is a global leader in the fight against child predators and their exploitative behavior,” said Cardell T. Morant, special agent in charge of HSI Charlotte that covers North and South Carolina. “HSI and its partners remain steadfast in the fight to protect our most vulnerable population from exploitation.”
Rabon is a registered sex offender having previously been convicted on state charges of criminal solicitation of a minor and criminal sexual conduct with a minor, victim 11 to 14 years of age, second degree.
United States District Judge Richard M. Gergel sentenced Rabon to 300 months' imprisonment, to be followed by a lifetime term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. Rabon will also be required to register as a sex offender upon release from prison.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the U.S. Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals, who sexually exploit children, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, Mount Pleasant Police Department, and South Carolina Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, which is operated through the State of South Carolina Attorney General’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Dean H. Secor is prosecuting the case.
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Winnsboro Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Juawn Robertson, 39, of Winnsboro, was sentenced to more than three years in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession of a firearm by a felon.
Evidence presented to the court showed that on May 30, 2021, an officer with the Cayce Department of Public Safety tried to conduct a traffic stop on Robertson’s vehicle. Robertson did not stop and continued to drive eventually stalling in the parking lot of a local restaurant. Robertson then ran from his vehicle. Officers caught Robertson and took him into custody.
After officers detained Robertson, they reviewed the dash camera footage of the traffic stop which recorded Robertson tossing a bag during his flight from law enforcement. Officers recovered the bag which contained a loaded firearm. Robertson has prior convictions for possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, distribution of crack cocaine, distribution of cocaine, and assault and battery 2nd degree. All of which prohibit him from possessing firearms.
United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon sentenced Robertson to 40 months imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Cayce Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lamar J. Fyall is prosecuting the case.
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Goose Creek Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Producing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialsRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, S.C. — Michele Mancino a/k/a “Mike Mancino,” 41, of Goose Creek, was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to production of child pornography.*
Evidence presented to the court showed that in late 2022, Mancino was engaging other pedophiles on the Scruff and Telegram apps in sexually explicit discussions about his grooming and sexual abuse of a 4-year-old. A search of Mancino’s accounts and devices revealed images and videos of child sexual abuse materials depicting Mancino and the 4-year-old discussed in the chats. Mancino also possessed and traded images and videos of child sexual abuse materials of other prepubescent minors as young as infants. During the investigation, Mancino confessed to creating child sexual abuse material by documenting his abuse of the 4-year-old and he also confessed to trading child sexual abuse materials with other pedophiles.
“This sentencing reflects our unwavering commitment to protecting the most vulnerable among us,” said Adair F. Boroughs, U.S. Attorney for the District of South Carolina. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to relentlessly pursue those who exploit the innocence of children.”
“Protecting children from exploitation is one of HSI’s top investigative priorities and this sentence is a testament to our commitment to stopping these horrific offenses,” said Cardell T. Morant, special agent in charge of HSI Charlotte that covers North and South Carolina. “HSI along with its partners will use every resource available to find, arrest and hold accountable predators, like Mancino, that seek to victimize our most vulnerable population.”
United States District Judge Richard Gergel sentenced Mancino to 360 months imprisonment, to be followed by a lifetime of court-ordered supervision. This is the maximum sentence allowed under the statute. There is no parole in the federal system. Mancino was also ordered to pay restitution to the victims of his crimes and to pay an assessment into the Trafficking Victims’ Fund.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the U.S. Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals, who sexually exploit children, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the Homeland Security Investigations, the Charleston Police Department, and the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Katie Orville is prosecuting the case.
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NOTE: While the current federal statutes still contain the term “child pornography,” experts in the field now recognize “child sexual abuse materials” as the more accurate terminology.
N.C. Man Sentenced to over 13 Years in Federal Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Rico Green, 48, of Waxhaw, N.C. was sentenced to more than 13 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to a drug trafficking offense.
Evidence presented to the court showed that on Jan. 5, 2022, Green sold fentanyl to members of the Lancaster County Drug Task Force during an undercover operation. The undercover buy was part of a larger investigation which revealed Green’s drug trafficking activity in Lancaster County, S.C. and Union County, N.C. In March 2022, Green was found with a large quantity of fentanyl after he attempted to run from Lancaster County deputies during a traffic stop. The court also heard evidence that months after his March 2022 arrest and subsequent bond, Green attempted to sell a firearm to another undercover officer during a drug deal in Waxhaw, N.C.
Green pleaded guilty to drug trafficking on March 27, 2024. Green has two prior convictions for distribution of cocaine, two prior convictions for distribution of crack cocaine, and two prior convictions for trafficking cocaine.
United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis sentenced Green to 160 months imprisonment, to be followed by a six-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, the Lancaster Police Department, and the Union County, N.C. Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lamar J. Fyall is prosecuting the case.
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Georgia Man Sentenced to Federal Prison in South Carolina Staged Bank Truck Robbery of $1.9 MillionRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, S.C. — Terry Tyrone Pollard, 28, of Cedartown, Georgia was sentenced to more than five years in federal prison after being convicted of conspiracy to commit bank larceny and bank larceny.
Evidence presented to the court at trial established that in early January 2021, a Garda employee recruited Pollard and three others to pretend to rob him at which point he would claim to be a victim of an armed robbery. After formulating the plan over Snapchat, Pollard and the co-defendants traveled from Cedartown, Georgia to the Garda employee’s apartment in North Charleston on Jan. 15, 2021. Later that day, they drove around North Charleston scouting potential locations. On Jan. 16, 2021, the Garda employee parked his truck outside a Bank of America ATM located at 5600 Core Road. Pollard and the co-defendants approached the driver and pretended to restrain him at gunpoint. Pollard and the co-defendants then loaded $1.9 million in cash into black trash bags and immediately fled the area back to Georgia. During the investigation, North Charleston Police Department investigators became skeptical of the driver’s statements and alerted the FBI of the potential inside job. Several hours after the bank larceny, Pollard was back in Cedartown and a co-defendant posted a Snapchat video of Pollard holding a large stack of stolen cash in front of his face. He was arrested shortly after. Five days after his arrest, Pollard called an associate from jail over a recorded line and asked him to delete his phone records.
The five individuals involved were indicted in federal court. Four of those individuals pled guilty. Pollard went to trial and was found guilty of conspiracy to commit bank larceny and bank larceny in March 2023. Pollard has a prior armed robbery conviction on his record.
United States District Judge Bruce Hendricks sentenced Pollard to 63 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release.
This case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office and the North Charleston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Emily Limehouse and Chris Lietzow prosecuted the case.
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Columbia Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Gun and Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Kenneth Archie, 44, of Columbia, was sentenced to more than five years in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession of a firearm by a felon and possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, methamphetamine, and marijuana.
Evidence presented to the court showed that on June 14, 2021, the Richland County Sheriff’s Department responded to an apartment complex on Old Manor Rd. in Columbia because a caller stated that Archie was trying to enter the front gate of the complex without permission. When the deputies spoke to Archie at his front window, they could smell marijuana coming from his vehicle and searched his car for further drug evidence. Deputies found a backpack containing methamphetamine, cocaine, crack cocaine, marijuana, and a firearm. Archie admitted to possession of the drugs and the firearm.
Archie is prohibited from having a firearm due to prior convictions for armed robbery, domestic violence 2nd degree, and failure to stop for a blue light.
United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon sentenced Archie to 70 months imprisonment, to be followed by a six-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Richland County Sheriff’s Department, and the Columbia Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lamar J. Fyall is prosecuting the case.
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Former Nonprofit Finance Director Pleads Guilty to Theft of Government FundsRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. —Ashley Clark Ingram, 34, of Columbia, has pleaded guilty to one count of theft of government funds for misappropriating funds from Habitat for Humanity of Central South Carolina.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that while employed as the director of finance and operations for Habitat for Humanity, Ingram applied for an employee retention tax credit for retaining employees during the COVID-19 pandemic from the IRS on behalf of Habitat for Humanity, but without the knowledge of the nonprofit. Ingram then received checks totaling $388,550.75 from the United States Treasury and deposited the funds into a Habitat for Humanity account that she controlled. Ingram transferred the money from the Habitat for Humanity account into multiple personal bank accounts and appropriated it to her own use. In total, Ingram misappropriated approximately $514,672.37 from Habitat for Humanity and the United States Government.
Ingram faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. She also faces a fine of up to $250,000, restitution, and a total of three years of supervision to follow the term of imprisonment. United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis accepted the guilty plea and will sentence Ingram at a future date after receiving and reviewing a sentencing report prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
This case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Matthews is prosecuting the case.
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Serial Bank Robber Sentenced to Ten Years in Federal Prison for 2023 Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
FLORENCE, S.C. — John Henry Stack, 76, of Myrtle Beach, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison after being convicted of committing a 2023 bank robbery. At the time of the 2023 robbery, Stack was on supervised release from previous federal bank robbery convictions.
Evidence presented by the Government at a two-day jury trial in March established that around midday on March 10, 2023, Stack entered the Anderson Brothers Bank in Aynor wearing a blue medical scrub shirt over a black jacket, a winter hat, sunglasses, and a medical-style mask. Stack placed a pillowcase on the teller’s counter, and pulled a long-handled lighter from his pocket. Stack concealed the lighter under his hand to look like a gun, pointed it at the teller, and demanded money. The teller placed $2,130 in cash in the pillowcase, and Stack took the money and left the bank.
Following the robbery, local, state, and federal law enforcement worked together to identify and apprehend the suspect. Law enforcement identified the vehicle the robber drove to and from the robbery as a Ford Focus with significant passenger side damage; Stack had recently purchased the Focus. About 10 p.m. on March 10, an officer with Myrtle Beach Police Department stopped the Focus driven by Stack. On the rearview mirror of the Focus was hang tag for a nearby hotel. Hotel records showed Stack had rented a room that afternoon and paid in cash.
Law enforcement searched the Focus and the hotel room and found clothing consistent with that worn by Stack during the robbery, including a blue medical scrub shirt, pillowcases like the one Stack placed on the teller’s counter, a bag that contained Stack’s medications and $765 in cash, and a red long-handled lighter.
Following the traffic stop, Stack confessed to law enforcement that he robbed the bank. He detailed for them how he robbed the bank, what he wore while robbing the bank, and explained that he concealed the lighter under his hand to make it look like a gun and “fake out” the teller, so that she would hand over the money.
Stack previously served time in federal prison for multiple bank robberies in South Carolina and North Carolina. He was released in 2022.
“Even after a significant sentence for the same crime, Mr. Stack continued to threaten the safety of the community by committing another bank robbery,” said Adair F. Boroughs, U.S. Attorney for the District of South Carolina. “We commend the work of Aynor and Myrtle Beach Police Departments in responding to this incident and the assistance of SLED and the FBI Columbia Field Office to bring this defendant to justice.”
“Stack’s actions put innocent lives in harm’s way,” said Steve Jensen, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Columbia Field Office. “This sentence reflects the weight of the crime and should serve as a reminder that such criminal behavior will be met by swift justice. The FBI, along with our local, state, and federal partners, reaffirm our commitment to maintaining public safety and upholding the rule of law.”
“South Carolina local and state law enforcement agencies and our federal team members continuously show how we work together to make a difference within our communities,” Chief Prock said. “From start to finish this is what we do to help. We care, we are focused, and we will continue to work to ensure that those that endanger the lives and take advantage of our community members, will be held accountable. This case is a perfect example of how communication and partnerships work hand and hand.”
Senior United States District Judge Cameron McGowan Currie presided over the trial and sentenced Stack to 120 months in prison, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. As part of the sentence, the Court also ordered Stack to pay $2,130 in restitution – the amount he stole from the bank. In imposing the sentence, the Court noted that Stack violated the Court’s trust by committing a new bank robbery while on supervised release.
The case was investigated by Aynor Police Department, Myrtle Beach Police Department, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, and the FBI Columbia Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Katherine Flynn and Lauren Hummel prosecuted the case.
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Columbia Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Deandre Lamar Davis, 35, of Columbia, was sentenced to more than eight years in federal prison after pleading guilty to felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
Evidence presented to the court showed that on May 5, 2021, Columbia Police Department officers arrested Davis on outstanding state arrest warrants for kidnapping and domestic violence. A loaded 9mm pistol was found tucked into Davis’s waistband along with approximately 2.8 grams of crack cocaine in his pants pocket. This was the third time Davis was arrested while in unlawful possession of a firearm or illegal drugs since 2020. Davis had prior convictions for aggravated assault and battery, burglary, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, domestic violence, second degree and assault and battery, second degree. At the time of the May 2021 incident, Davis was on state probation for his most recent assault and battery conviction.
United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon sentenced Davis to 100 months in prison, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Columbia Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher D. Taylor is prosecuting the case.
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Lexington County Woman Sentenced to 14 Months in Federal Prison for Wire FraudRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Keisha Carroll Banks, 52, of Lexington, was sentenced to 14 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to wire fraud.
Evidence presented to the court showed that Banks was an employee of Ridgeway Manor Health Care in Ridgeway. In her role, she was able to access money in an account of Ridgeway Manor that included funds held for the residents of the facility. The defendant diverted some of those funds and used some of the money for her own benefit. Some of the residents of Ridgeway Manor are considered vulnerable adults.
United States District Judge Cameron McGowan Currie sentenced Banks to 14 months imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. The court also ordered the defendant to pay $58,544.61 in restitution.
This case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office and the South Carolina Attorney General's Office Vulnerable Adult Medicaid Provider Fraud Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney John C. Potterfield is prosecuting the case.
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South Carolina Man Sentenced to over 30 Years for Sex TraffickingRead the Press Release
Aaron T. Simmons, 26, of Greenville, South Carolina, was sentenced today to 365 months in prison and a lifetime of supervised release after he pleaded guilty in November 2023 to one count of sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion and one count of sex trafficking of a minor.
“This significant prison sentence reflects the seriousness of the defendant’s brutal conduct inflicted on victims, including a minor, for many months” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The sexual exploitation of victims in this manner robs them of their freedom, dignity and sense of security, and stands to scar them for life. Such venal, rapacious conduct is unacceptable in our society. The Justice Department will use all the tools at its disposal to prosecute sex traffickers and to seek justice for the survivors of human trafficking.”
“Our office will continue to bring every resource we have to bear to stop human trafficking in South Carolina,” said U.S. Attorney Adair F. Boroughs for the District of South Carolina. “Those who victimize human beings, especially children, in this heinous manner will be held accountable.”
According to court documents, the defendant used physical beatings, threats, intimidation, control and psychological manipulation to coerce three adult victims to engage in repeated commercial sex acts in the Greenville area between August 2019 and August 2020. The defendant also provided a 17-year-old minor victim for commercial sex acts in the Greenville area between August 2019 and November 2019.
The FBI Columbia Field Office and Greenville Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Carrie Fisher Sherard for the District of South Carolina and Trial Attorney Francisco Zornosa of the Civil Rights Division’s Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit prosecuted the case.
Anyone who has information about human trafficking should report that information to the National Human Trafficking Hotline toll-free at 1-888-373-7888, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For more information about human trafficking please visit www.humantraffickinghotline.org. Information on the Justice Department’s efforts to combat human trafficking can be found at www.justice.gov/humantrafficking.